Fort Niobrara Valentine,

Annual Narrative Report

Calendar Year 2003-2005 -Valentine NWR Complex Valentine, Nebraska

Annual Narrative Report Calendar Year 2003-2005

Refuge Manager Date Refuge Supervisor Review Date

Regional Office Approval Date 2

Introduction

Fort Niobrara-Valentine National Wildlife Refuge Complex is compiled of three refuges and a satellite unit within a 100 mile radius of each other. The refuges are Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Valentine NWR and John W. & Louise Seier NWR. The satellite unit is Yellowthroat Wildlife Management Area.

Fort Niobrara NWR is located five miles east of Valentine, Nebraska in Cherry County. The refuge consists of 19,131 acres of high and rolling prairie traversed by the .

The Fort Niobrara NWR was created by Executive Order 1461, January 11, 1912, (with a designated acreage of 13,279 acres) " ... reserved and set apart for the use of the Department of Agriculture as a preserve anp breeding ground for native birds." Shortly after the Refuge's establishment, J.W. Gilbert, owner of a private game park at Friend, Nebraska, "offered his buffalo, elk, and deer to the Federal Government for preservation on a national reservation, with the understanding that they would remain in Nebraska. The acceptance of this offer was delayed through lack of a suitable range in the State. On November 14, 1912, however, an Executive Order was issued enlarging the Fort Niobrara Game Preserve (then known as the Niobrara Reservation) by" adding thereto the area formerly used as the parade grounds and headquarters for the old military post. This made the total area of the preserve about 14,200 acres. Mr. Gilbert's offer was then formally accepted by the Secretary of Agriculture, and arrangements were made to transfer the animals to Fort Niobrara." (Ruth 1938) As a result, the Refuge is to be managed (1) as a preserve and breeding ground for native birds, and (2) for the preservation of bison and elk herds representative of those that once roamed the . 3 Furthermore, the of 1964 calls for designated wilderness areas within a National Wildlife Refuge to receive equal consideration in management decisions and become a supplemental purpose of the Refuge. Section 4. (a) of this Act reads: "The purposes of this Act are hereby declared to be within and supplemental to the purposes for which national forests and units of the national park and national wildlife refuge systems are established and administered." Thus, the purpose of tbe designated wilderness area within this Refuge is to be supplemental and not subservient to the other purposes of the Refuge. 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS

B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS ...... 6 C. Land Acquisition ...... 7 C.2 Easements ...... 7 D. Planning ...... 7 D.5 Research ...... 8 E. ADMINISTRATION ...... 8 E.1 Personnel...... 8 E.1 Personnel ...... 8 E.4. Volunteers ...... 9 E.6. Safefy ...... •...... •...... 9 E.8. Other ...... 10 E.8.b Training ...... 11 F. HABITAT MANAGE"MENT ...... 11 F.1. General ...... 11 F.2 Wetlands ..•...... •...... •....•...... ••..•...••.•...•...... 12 F.3. Woodlands ...... •••...... •...... •...... •...... •...•...... 12 F.5. GrassJan.ds ...... •...... •...... 13 F.8. Haying ...... •..... 13 F.9. Fire Management ...•..•.•••••••••••••••..••••••..•••..••....•..••.••..•••...••....•••••..•.•••..•.••...•..•...... • 13 F.10. Pest Control ...... 17 F.12. Wilderness and Special Areas...... 17 F.12.a. ...... 17 F.12.b. Niobrara National Scenic River...... l7 G. WILDLIFE ...... 18 G.1. Wildlife Diversity ...... •...... •...••.... 18 G.2. Endangered Species ...... •...... 18 G.2.a. ...... 18 G.2.b. Whooping Crane, Piping Plover and Tern ...... 18 G.2.c. American Burying Beetle ...... 18 G.3. Waterfowl ...... •.....•.. 18 G.3.a. Ducks ...... 18 G.4. Marsh & Waterbirds ..•...... •...... •...... •....•...... 19 G.4.a. Sandhill Cranes ...... 19 G.7. Other Migratory Birds ...... •....••...... •...... •...... •... 19 G.8. Game Mammals ...... •...... •.•...... •...••...... , ...... •... 19 G.8.a. Elk ...... 19 G.8.b. Deer ...... 20 G.8.d. Other ...... 20 G.10. Other Resident Wildlife...... •...... ••.....••...... 20 G.10.a. Bison ...... 20 G.10.b. Black-Tailed Prairie Dog ...... 22 G.10.c. Turkey ...... 22 5 G.10.d. Sharp-Tailed grouse and Greater Northern Prairie Chicken ...... 22 G.10.f. Bobwhite quail ...... 23 G.10.g. Other ...... 23 G.13. Surplus Animal Disposal ...... 23 G.13.a. Bison ...... 23 G.17. Disease prevention and Control ...... 24 H. PUBLIC USE ...... 26 H.1. General ...... 26 H.2 Environmental Education - Stu.dents ...... 27 H.4. Interpretive Foot Trails ...... , ...... 27 H.5. Interpretive Tour Route ...... 27 H.6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations ...... 28 H.8. ...... 29 H.9. Fishing ...... 29 H.11. Wildlife Observation ...... 29 H.12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation ...... 29 H.17. Law Enforcement ...... 30 H.18. Cooperating Associations ...... 34 I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES ...... 35 1.2. Rehabilitation ...... 35 1.2.c. Structures and Facilities...... 35 H.4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement ...... 36 H.4.a. Repairs and Improvements ...... 36 H.4.c. Replacement ...... 36 J. OTHER ITEMS ...... 37 J.3. Items of Interest ...... 37

Table 1. 2003 Clunatic Conditions ...... 6 Table 2. 2004 Climatic Conditions ...... 6 Table 3. 2005 Climatic Conctitions ...... 7 Table 5. Fire Activity 2003-2005 ...... 16 Table 6 ...... 31 Table 7 •...... 32 Table 8•...... 33

Figure 1. Prescribe burning at Fort Niobrara complex...... 15 Figure 2. Bull Bison mount at Visitor Center ...... 28 Figure 3. Addition to Visitor Center in 2003 ...... 29 Figure 4. Corral Rehab project completed in 2004 ...... 35 Figure 5. Water Control Structure Rehab Project of 2004 ...... 36 6

B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS

Table 1. 2003 Climatic Conditions Temnerature (de2: F) Precinitation (inches) High Low Average Dptr from Snow, Total for Dptr from normal Ice, Hail month normal Jan 64 -23 24.2 3.4 5.7 0.31 0.01 Feb 61 -17 21.8 -4.8 5.1 0.27 -0.21 Mar 78 7 40.5 2.5 1 1.28 0.04 Apr 89 9 48.5 2.4 8 2.27 0.3 May 94 24 56.7 -0.8 3.14 -0.06 June 90 42 65.5 -2.1 4.18 1.17 July 111 51 75.7 2 1.69 -1.68 Aug 103 52 76.6 4.5 .87 -1.33 Sep 97 27 60.6 -0.9 .59 -1.02 Oct 90 18 52.5 42 T 0.43 -0.79 Nov 70 -13 31.4 -1.6 6.40 0.3 -0.42 Dec 66 -4 28.9 5.3 8.5 0.41 0.08 Total 34.70 15.74 -3.91

Table 2. 2004 Climatic Conditions Temoerature deir F) Precinitation (inches) High Low Average Dptr from Snow, Total for Dptr from normal Ice, Hail month normal Jan 61 -23 23.9 0.7 5.3 0.26 -0.13 Feb 71 -9 27.1 -2.3 5.2 0.77 0.26 Mar 85 15 41.4 6.1 1.5 1.08 -0.03 Apr 87 16 49.4 3.3 0.1 0.91 -1.06 May 98 26 58.8 1.3 0 3.71 0.51 June 91 36 62.4 -5.2 0 3.33 0.32 July 104 46 73.4 -0.3 0 1.67 -1.70 Aug 101 36 68.8 -3.3 0 1.15 -1.05 Sep 98 32 65.6 4.1 0 3. 11 1.50 Oct 79 25 50.3 2.0 T 0.85 -0.37 Nov 75 3 37.4 4.4 1.0 0.48 -0.24 Dec 63 -8 30.6 7.0 T 0.01 -0.32 Total 13.1 17.33 -2.31 7

Table 3. 2005 Climatic Conditions Temoerature 'deQ F) Precipitation (inches) High Low Average Dptr from Snow, Total for Dptr from normal Jee, Hail month normal Jan 68 -22 21.1 0.3 6.8 0.56 0.26 Feb 69 8 33.0 6.4 2.2 0.20 -0.28 Mar 74 7 36.8 1.5 10.3 1.29 0.18 Apr 83 19 48.4 2.3 5.6 4.57 2.60 May 90 18 55.8 -1.7 T 2.63 -0.57 June 98 46 69.6 2.0 0 7.71 4.70 July 106 43 75.3 1.6 0 3.31 -0.06 Aug 105 47 73.0 0.9 0 2.40 0.20 Sep 97 35 67.2 5.7 0 2.39 0.78 Oct 91 16 49.6 1.3 0 0.61 -0.61 Nov 82 0 39.0 6.0 2.7 0.35 -.37 Dec 59 -20 23.0 -.06 5.4 0.23 -0.10 Total 33.0 26.25 6.73

C. Land Acquisition

C.2. Easements

The new owner of the Wagner FmHA easement called and wanted to know if the easement could be removed. He recently purchased the land and was aware that the easement existed but was unfamiliar with the terms. He wants to build on the land and derive income from the property.

D. Planning

The Refuge Complex took part in an Environmental management planning session conducted by the Regional Office in May 2004. The purpose of this session was to help the Complex become more environmentally friendly in how we conduct business. Additionally an environmental review was conducted with a few minor elements to be corrected.

A great deal of time was spent in 2004 in preparation of River Recreation Plan. The DRAFT plan was sent to the Regional office for internal review on May 28, 2004. Upon final completion a press release regarding the completion of the Fort Niobrara NWR Draft Niobrara River Recreation Management Plan and Environment Assessment was released to 231 newspapers and radio stations in Nebraska and South Dakota. Eighty-nine copies of the Draft were sent out to the , mailing list. The Draft Plan was made available for public review and comment for sixty days, 8 ending on October 25, 2004. An Open House for the public on the Draft Fort Niobrara NWR River Recreation Management Plan and Environmental Assessment was held at the Holiday Inn on October 5, 2004. Approximately 17 people were in attendance, including area outfitters, businessmen and representatives from U.S. Congressional Officials. Public review and comment th period for the Draft closed on October 25 . Comments in support and opposition to the various components of the document were received. Refuge staff reviewed comments and consulted with the Regional Office and Solicitor's Office prior to preparing the final document. The final Fort Niobrara NWR River Recreation Management Plan was submitted to the Regional Office for review in January 2005. The final Plan was released to the public on February 3, 2005.

The Fort Niobrara/Valentine Complex NWR chronic wasting disease (CWD) contingency plans were written and submitted for approval. The plans detail how the refuge staff will work with state officials to monitor the deer herd in the vicinity of the refuge to provide for early detection of the disease.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) project proposals for the Fort Niobrara/Valentine/Seier NWR Complex were submitted. Three projects were identified for funding and included barrier risk assessment on Fort Niobrara; deer population density and distribution on Fort Niobrara and Valentine; and CWD surveillance of deer harvested on and/or adjacent to the Complex.

The 2004 habitat management summary for Fort Niobrara NWR was completed and the 2005 annual habitat work plan developed. Continuing drought conditions were considered in formulation of the 2005 plan and a reduction in the bison herd was considered. In March, 2005 the Annual Habitat Management Work Plan for Fort Niobrara was developed and submitted to Denver.

D.S. Research

K. McPeak attended a Paper Birch Research Meeting at the Niobrara Valley Preserve on April 12, 2005. The research project will be done within the Niobrara River corridor and is a cooperative project between the FWS, NPS, NGPC, and TNC.

On May 19, 2005, South Dakota State University, under cooperative agreement/funding with the National Park Service, began the second year of data collection assessing aquatic resources of the Niobrara National Scenic River including the stretch of river that traverses Fort Niobrara NWR.

E. ADMINISTRATION

E.1. Personnel

September 2004 was a very busy month for the biological program on Fort Niobrara which emphasized the need for, at a minimum, a career seasonal biological technician position at this station. Funding assistance provided by CWD monies enabled the hiring of a temporary biological technician this summer. We were very fortunate to have Peg House accept the 9 position -- she is very hard working, competent, and pleasant to work with. She would be a tremendous asset to this Refuge if we could hire her as a career seasonal or permanent full-time employee. Biological program projects worked on duiing September included locating and conducting grassland transects; gathering background information for and beginning to write chronic wasting disease contingency plans for the complex; prepare and conduct bison roundup including sample collection for genetics and disease surveillance projects~ prepare for surplus bison auction; and prepare for public open house on river recreation management plan.

One of the seasonal fire fighters ran into some problems with the local NGPC officer regarding spotlighting and poaching. After interviewing this individual two times there was no doubt that the individual was guilty of the incidents be was being accused of. Signed statements of admission were obtained by the NGPC officer and charges will be filed. Due to the severity of these incidents we had no choice but to fire this individual. To not have done so would have done irreparable damage to the reputation of this Complex.

Deputy Project Leader, Bernie Petersen accepted a position with the Regional Office in Georgia. His final day at Fort Niobrara was February 25, 2005. Maintenance Worker Bill Turner retired from the USFWS on May 9, 2005 after 30 years of service. This position will be filled with two career seasonal wage grade positions.

Several staff members went to SAMMS training at NCTC in 2004 and 2005. The complex began entering their maintenance work orders into the SAMMS system.

Friends of the Niobrara, an organization that supports wise use of the natural resources in the Niobrara River corridor, requested a Refuge update on the River Management Plan and other Complex activities. Huber presented a program to the Lincoln Chapter on March 6, 2005.

E.4. Volunteers

Len McDaniel, former refuge biologist, volunteered many hours of work organizing and labeling slides of photo points taken on vegetation transects at Valentine National Wildlife Refuge.

E.6. Safety

Monthly Staff & Safety meetings were held during the years 2003-2005. For example the following is a list of specific topics for the year 2003:

January Pro-Active Safety Attitudes February Winter Driving Safety March ATV Safety April West Nile Virus May Surviving Fire Entrapments June July Poison Ivy 10 August September Communication October Positive Mental Health November Firearm Safety December Emergency Management in Cherry County

No major injuries occuned in 2003. Accident reports for the following individuals during the month of September 2004 were prepared; Mark Purdy, twisted ankle, Gordon Suhr, pulled muscle in back, Mel Nenneman, injured knee and tibia on left leg. All these incidents were job related and were unavoidable accidents. Biologist Mel Nenneman had surgery done on his knee. The injury was a result of an A TV accident while working.

Refuge Staff received training on Hanta Virus and West Nile Virus in 2004 and was educated on what signs to watch for and the methods to minimize exposure. After this training was completed several staff members received respirator training concluding with a fit test of the respirator.

The Complex was notified in July of 2004 by the Regional Safety office that vermiculite, used as insulation in some or all of the Complex houses, was to be treated as if it contains asbestos. The Complex is assessing the extent of vermiculite in Refuge homes and will be asking the Regional Office for guidance. Samples of the vermiculite used as insulation -in the two residences on Fort Niobrara were taken for analysis. The analysis was being done to ensure that there was not a problem with asbestos in the vermiculite. Samples taken were checked and found not to contain asbestos.

E.8. Other

Judgment and memo opinion was issued on August 20, 2003 on lawsuit between Niobrara River Ranch and Lee Simmons vs. Royce Huber, et al. The lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice. An appeal on the decision was filed to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals and in July, 2004 the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original ruling of August 20, 2003 in favor of the federal government.

The Refuge staff took part in the monthly Emergency Management meeting with Cheny County in July 2005. This monthly meeting helps the various agencies and the County Emergency Management Officer coordinate their effort in the event we have a major emergency in the County. There will be a mock disaster set up for January 2005 to test preparedness, the Refuge will take part in this drill.

The Refuge hosted Senator Chuck Hagel in July 2005 on a tour. The Senator was interested in the Rivet Recreation Plan, Bison herd, and what the needs of the Complex were. A good discussion was held with the Senator and his aid Mary Crawford dmfog his visit.

' Biologist Mc.Peak and Project Leader Huber drafted responses to allegations listed in Mu1ligan 11 vs. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lawsuit in June 2005. Refuge staff began compiling documents and correspondence used in developing the River Recreation Management Plan. The U.S. Attorney and D.0.1. Solicitor's Office decided the first week of August which documents would be included in the administrative record. The administrative record for the Mulligan vs. Huber et al. (USFWS), consisting of 6456 pages, was compiled and submitted to the Cowt on September 20, 2005. K.McPeak signed the accompanying declaration. On October 11, the plaintiff filed motions to amend the complaint and expand the administrative record. McPeak worked with the Assistant U.S. Attorney in development of the legal brief opposing plaintiffs motion to expand the administrative record (filed on October 31 , 2005). On December 9: 2005, Magistrate Judge Piester denied the plaintiffs motion to expand the administrative record for litigation (Mulligan vs. Huber et al.) involving the Fort Niobrara NWR River Recreation Management Plan.

Numerous meetings and discussions by the staff were held regarding the updating of the RPI database records in 2005. Process began of updating all records and the RPI records for Fort Niobrara/Valentine NWR were completed. The new road and parking lots at the Valentine Refuge for the east end access were added and the four buildings removed by bid sale were removed. Two windmills that we have removed were also taken off RPI. The new requirement to add operations and maintenance costs to RPI was time consuming. Fort NiobraraNalentine/Seier has 413 items on real property and assigning costs to items was tedious and time consuming.

E.8.b Training

In 2005 Mark Purdy made time in his schedule to provide A TV rider safety training for the bird crew and several fire crew members. Rainy weather in the morning made it a good day to conduct the training, and the afternoon cleared off so that class participants had the opportunity to operate A TV's.

F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT

F.1. General

Fort Niobrara NWR and the surrounding area is recognized by ecologists for its biogeographic significance due to the co-occurrence of six major vegetation communities. Distributional limits of vegetation types along the Niobrara River include Rocky Mountain coniferous forest (eastern limit), northern boreal forest (southern limit), eastern deciduous forest (western limit), tallgrass prairie (western limit). The area north of the Niobrara River valley is classified as mixed prairie and to the south is prairie. The highly variable climate of this area along with diverse refuge habitats and objectives provide for management challenges and opportunities.

Data was collected from 2000-2002 to study the impact of river recreation on birds at Fort Niobrara NWR. Dr. C. Dustin Baker notified the Refuge Manager of his need for an additional 12 $1,500 to fund graduate research student C. Anderson as he completed his final report and thesis covering field research at Fort Niobrara. The KSU Avian/River Recreation Research Project was scheduled to be completed May of 2003. The project was originally budgeted at $75,000 for three years, however, funding shortfalls for the third year required KSU to try and complete the project under budget at $65,000. Chris Anderson, graduate research student at KSU, notified Fort Niobrara of his progress in analyzing last set of data on effects of river recreation on avian wildlife. Weekly updates were expected as he finished his analysis, developed models, and wrote/defended bis thesis. Summary report of the Impact of River Recreation on Birds at Fort Niobrara NWR 2000-2002, followed by his thesis was received from KSU and Chris Anderson in January, 2004.

Laurie Stepanak with the Nebraska Forest Service collected insects and ponderosa pine samples from habitat units ¾ and 32 on Fort Niobrara in conjunction with preliminary studies looking at pine wilt disease in Nebraska. The disease and its insect vectors were not found on the refuge. Other research projects and studies being conducted on Fort Niobrara during the summer of 2003 included "Distribution of Flowerflies in Nebraska", Dr. Wouter van Steenis, University of Nebraska, Lincoln; "Isotopic Values of Modem Plains Bison'', Dr. Kathryn Hoppe, Stanford University, California; and "Geometry of Waterfalls Along the Niobrara River", Dr. Darryll Pederson, University of Nebraska, Lincoln.

A survey of blowouts on Fort Niobrara NWR was accomplished by the bison research crew during the month of July 2004 to address the CCP objective relating to suitable habitat for blowout penstemon. Eighteen blowouts were found. Information on vegetation, % bare ground, aspect, and slope was recorded for each blowout.

Mel Nenneman and Kathy McPeak traveled to Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center in Jamestown, ND in March 2005 to meet with a statistician about the vegetation monitoring data being collected on the two refuges. The meeting was productive in helping us to determine what objectives we can meet with our current data, and what we need to do to meet more specific monitoring objectives. Nenneman also used the time to work with Pam Pietz on the grassland bird/grazing project.

F .2 Wetlands

Approximately 375 acres of the Refuge are classified as wetland which includes - nine miles of the Niobrara River and adjacent riparian habitat, numerous intermittent streams and ponds. The river flows from west to east across the Refuge with the channel upstream of Cornell Dam braided and shallow with the downstream portion confined to a single, narrow channel.

F.3. Woodlands

Approximately 3022 acres of the Refuge is classified as ponderosa pine savanna and forest, 1296 acres as eastern deciduous forest intermixed with small pockets of northern boreal forest, and 59 acres tree plantations. Woodland management on the Refuge was limited in 2002 and included 13 selective thinning of live trees using a tree spade, removal of dead or down timber presenting a hazard or threatening fences, and planting of 125 cottonwood trees (existing u·ee plantation) in June as a screen by the new storage building. Fire. as a management tool was used for the first time in Refuge woodlands in 1999.

F.5. Grasslands

Most of the - 14,264 acres of Refuge grasslands are classified as mixed prairie or sand.hills prairie with small pockets oftallgrass prairie found on river lowlands. Plant distribution and abundance varies in relation to subsurface moisture, soils, competition between species, topography, aspect~ fire, and grazing by bison, elk, and prairie dogs.

Grassland communities are maintained in early through late successional stages through the combined use of large ungulate grazing, rest, and prescribed fire.

Kathy McPeak, biologist collected vegetation monitoring data on Fort Niobrara and completed the transects in October. Of note is the affect of grasshoppers on vegetation. Forage consumption is at a high enough level on some plots that a utilization rank could be assigned. Patches of dead plant and leafless plum were noted during vegetation monitoring. Drought conditions are believed to be responsible for lead plant mortality and a hard frost this spring along with bag worms impacted isolated plum patches.

F.8. Haying

Haying on Fort Niobrara was terminated in 1973. Since that time, prairie hay harvested under cooperative agreement on Valentine NWR has been used as winter supplement for government horses and exhibition herds of bison and elk.

F.9. Fire Management

The Fort Niobrara/Valentine NWRC Fire Management Program has had several major events take place primarily in the personnel changes in 2003. Other significant highlights will be reviewed below to document the major program activities for that year.

Personnel: Si,-x. seasonals were hired to support the fue program in 2003. These individuals were Ted Miller, Jim Uthe~ Chad Nelson, Kirk Jess, Leonard Jakubowski and Billy Cumbow. Billy Cumbow was promoted to Career Seasonal status on April 20th 2003. Jeff Dion was in the position of acting District FMO at this time until the first part of May when he accepted a position as FMO in North Dakota. Troy Davis accepted the position of District FMO in mid Jw1e of 2003. Troy transferred from the U.S. Forest Service with 19 years of experience. Kirk Jess accepted a position ofFPT in North Dakota in the first week of July. Jess Register accepted the position of FPT in August. He transferred here from Browns Park NWR. The complex finished the season with three permanent and four seasonal employees. 14 Administration: The FMO position here at the complex is for the Sandhills Fire Management District. The District includes Crescent Lake / North Platte NWR, Lacreek NWR and Fort Niobrara/ Valentine NWRC. All aspects of fire management for the Sandhills District are the duties of the FMO. The FMO with the aid of his District staff developed and submitted for approval 18 prescribed frre management bum plans. Most of these plans are a revision of out dated/expired plans.

Numerous planning meetings were attended by the FMO for the development of the N iobrara River Corridor Fire Management Plan. This fire management plan is currently watershed based to encompass the land between State Highway 20 and 12 from the city of Valentine to Newport. Partners of this plan include the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Park Service, State of Nebraska, The Nature Conservancy, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and Niobrara Council, Private land owners, Sandhills Task Force and rural fire departments.

The FMO attended planning meetings with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Weather Service to establish fire weather forecasting zones to provide frre weather forecasts for suppression planning and monitoring activities.

Meetings were attended with Federal Emergency Management Administration FEMA, Nebraska Emergency Management Administration NEMA and the U.S. Forest Service by the FMO. These meetings were to discuss the possible opportunities of federal agency assistance in the event of an emergency in the state of Nebraska.

Numerous mral fire department mutual aid meetings were attended by the FMO and fire staff to discuss fire business in the Sandhills with all cooperators. FMO is exploring the opportunities to expand and enhance MOU' s with other departments in the area for fire suppression support.

The FMO was -invited and presented fire ecology presentations to the Valentine Elementary third grade and the Valentine Middle School seventh grade science classes. Four presentations were given.

The fire crew including the FMO assisted the refuge in numerous projects during times of no fire activity. Some of the projects included herding buffalo, upgrading wind mills and corrals, and the buffalo round-up and sale.

Prescribed fir,e activity: Fire crew and staff assisted other refuges in their implementation of several prescribed fire projects. Due to a continuous drought and scheduling conflicts the complex attempted only one prescribed fire. The test fire was ignited however the observed smoke conditions were out of prescription parameters and the fire was extinguished. Burning conditions remained outside of prescription parameters the rest of the year. The objectives of the attempted prescribed fire are for the reduction of invasive cheat grass. 15

Figure 1. Prescribe burning at Fort Niobrara complex

Wildfire Activity: In 2003 there were no wildfires that ignited on the refuge system lands. There were six fires that ignited off refuge and fire personnel from the complex responded by request from the volunteer fire department per mutual aid agreements. A list of fires responded to and prescribed fires for the period of 2003-2005 is listed below in Table 5.

Five engine crews were sent out in 2003 to respond to fires nationally. Crews were sent to Colorado, Montana and North Dakota on two week suppression details. The FMO remained on the District for fire suppression management purposes for the great plains area. 16

Table 5. Fire Activi 2003-2005 Fire# Fire Name

0.1 7/13/2003 Stans Landing Human 0.5 8/13.03 179 Fire 12 8/13/2003 Vau hn 2 9/10/2003 Mclarin Car 400 9/20/2003 200 10/21/2003

F774 West River Stri 4/17/2004 F775 Willow Lake 350 4/19/2004 A13G Willow Lake Spot Fire 249 4/19/2004 AOVX Rahm Bale Feeder 791 3/19/2004 A7WF Conservanc 0.1 7/14/2004 A9PC Reece Bale Pile 0.3 7/29/2004 BB7Z Time Line 0.3 8/15/2004 BD4L Sub Station Power Line 0.1 8/31/2004 BD8P Simmons Semi Truck 5 9/2/2004 BESS Vine ard 85.7 9/10/2004 BFR1 Okie 15 9/18/2004 BGSB 1 9/15/2004

BKG1 Simmons Pile Human 0.2 2/16/2005 6286 Unit 16a1 RX 28 5/15/2005 6287 Un it 16a2 RX 15 5/15/2005 BTZO Connet 0.25 6/7/2005 B1G4 TNC 1 7/19/2005 B1R7 REA 0.5 7/23/2005 JI B6NT Maintaner 6 9/17/2005 17

F.10. Pest Control

Several plant related threats were identified along with the need to bolster the Biological staffing to better address these threats. The largest threat was the continued mining of the Ogallala aquifer and the possibility of pumping to supply water to Colorado. Impacts from this pumping could be devastating to the Complex and the Sandhills.

Purple loosestrife surveys were conducted on Fort Niobrara in mid-July, 2003 by the National Park Service and in mid-August, 2003 by Fort Niobrara staff. Plants weren't in full bloom until mid-August necessitating a follow-up survey by refuge staff. Purple loosestrife survey on Fort Niobrara was completed in early August of 2004.

Deputy Project Leader Petersen and Biologist McPeak attended a Cherry County Weed Management meeting held in Valentine, NE. Attendees at this meeting included local concerned citizens, National Park Service personnel, Nature Conservancy personnel, Natural Resource District personnel and members of the Niobrara Council.

Canada thistle patches totaling - 20 acres on Fort Niobrara were sprayed with 2,4-D Amine and/or mowed.

F.12. Wilderness and Special Areas

F.12.a. Fort Niobrara Wilderness

A 4,635 acre area on Fort Niobrara was designated as Wildemess on October 19, 1976. The south end of the wilderness area is bordered by the Niobrara River (designated Wild and Scenic, 1991). High benchland capped by sandy soil rises abruptly front the narrow river valley an average of 200 feet on both sides. Five of the six deep canyons that divide the tableland to t11e north carry springwater to the river continually. All of the major vegetation communities present on Fort Niobrara are found within the wilderness area. Seventeen distinct fossil sites have been excavated in the wilderness area Two fossil beds of the lower Pliocene and upper Miocene epochs provided non·articulated skeletons and bone fragments of more than 20 extinct animal species. Most of the sites have reverted back to a natural state and exhibit little or no evidence of an unnatural disturbance.

F.12.b. Niobrara National Scenic River

Seventy-six miles of the Niobrara River which includes the nine-mile portion on the Refuge was included in the Wild and Scenic River System in 1991. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the stretch on the refuge with the remainder managed by the National Park Service. The Niobrara Council, a State recognized organization consisting of representatives from local, state, and federal governments, local landowners, county commissioners, area industries, and the environmental community, assists the NPS in managing and protecting rjver resources. 18

G. WILDLIFE

G.1. Wildlife Diversity

A rich and unusual diversity of wildlife with eastern, western, northern, and southern affinities as well as niches specific to the northern Great Plains inhabit Fort Niobrara NWR seasonally or year-round. In addition to bison and elk, 49 mammal species, 233 bird species, and 25 species of reptiles and amphibians have been recorded.

G.2. Endangered Species

G.2.a. Bald Eagle

The portion of the refuge traversed by the Niobrara River is a traditional wintering area for bald eagles. Seven adult and three immature bald eagles and one golden eagle (immature) were sighted on Fort Niobrara during 2003. Canada goose, snow goose, and white-fronted goose migrations were noted the end of October, 2003.

A minimum of 6 bald eagles (3 adult, 3 immature) were observed on Fort Niobrara during the month of December 2005.

G.2.b. Whooping Crane, Piping Plover and Tern

The shallow, braided river habitat above Cornell Darn receives rare migration use by whooping cranes, piping plovers, and least tern. National Park Service was unable to repeat least tern and piping plover surveys on refuge stretch of Niobrara river above Cornell Dam in July of 2003 due to lack of staff. During nesting surveys in June, 2003~ no birds were found on the refuge. Sandbars on Fort Niobrara are not exposed enough during the nesting season for tern and plover use and appear to be used only during the post-breeding/summer migration period.

G.2.c. American Burying Beetle

American burying beetles have not been documented on Fort Niobrara, however, they are present on Valentine NWR and have been reported at other locations in this area

G.3. Waterfowl

The Niobrara River, beaver ponds along several feeder streams, and man-made ponds provide migration, wintering and nesting habitat for ducks and geese.

G.3.a. Ducks

A band reported to the refuge in May 2004 was from a blue-winged teal banded in Saskatchewan 19 in 1999. The duck was found dead after hitting a fence on a ranch just north of the refuge.

G.4. Marsh & Waterbirds

G.4.a. Sandhill Cranes

Large flocks of Sandhill Cranes are observed flying over the refuge each year during their spring and fall migrations. No cranes were observed on Fort Niobrara and Valentine Refuges during the Coordinated Spring Sandhill Crane Survey conducted on March 25, 2003 in cooperation with the Nebraska Grune and Parks Commission. Cranes usually don't migrate through this area until April.

G.7. Other Migratory Birds

The breeding bird survey on Fort Niobrara was conducted at the end of June, 2004 with 39 species and 621 individuals com1ted. The number of species observed was down slightly from last year, most likely due to poor weather conditions during the last 10 stops of the survey. The number of lark buntings and dickcissels were up significantly from prior years, likely due to drought conditions in the area and the nomadic nature of these birds.

On September 26, 2005 approximately 1300 migrating Swainson' s Hawks were observed on Fort Niobrara NWR.

G.8. Game Mammals

G.8.a. Elk

Some of the elk herd were darted and relocated on Fort Niobrara into the wilderness area. Bulls of various ages were moved from the main herd to the wilderness area. The animal moves were for genetic purposes. With fewer bulls the competition for breeding will decrease enabling the herd bull to do a better job of servicing the cows. Biologist McPeak was overseeing the selection of the animals to be moved. Tagging of the yearling continued in 2003 as it was made possible. The button tags are not readily visible to the general public and will enable better management of the herds for genetics and health.

The first elk calf in 2003 was observed on May 23.

Six elk (5 female, 1 male) were relocated to the wilderness area in April, 2005.

Project Leader Huber and Refuge Supervisor Wiseman met with NGPC officials in Lincoln, NE on December 7, 2005 regarding future management of elk on and off Fort Niobrara NWR and a possible hunting season for deer and elk.

On December 21 and 22, 2005 four yearling elk (2 male, 2 female) were relocated from the wildlife exhibition unit to the main herd in habitat unit 16. Animals were immobilized with Rompum (Xylazine) and reversed with Tolazine. 20

G.8.b. Deer

The 2004 deer harvest information was received from NGPC. The deer harvest was down considerably from the average over the past 15 years, with only 60 deer harvested off of the refuge. Forty-five white-tailed deer were taken, along with 14 mule deer and one unknown species. The number of mule deer harvested each year has been somewhat consistent since 1968, and the 14 this year is right at the long-tenn average. The white-tail numbers from 2004 are down from the long-te1m average of 69 deer, and way down from the 15 year average of 82. It is possible that the presumed EHD mortality observed in 2003 reduced the number of white-tails on the refuge for the 2004 season. It also seemed that the hunting pressure was lighter in 2004.

An aerial deer and elk survey was conducted on Fort Niobrara on March 22, 2005 following 8" of snow. A total of 44 white~tailed deer, 6 mule deer, 4 unknown deer, and 74 elk were counted on the refuge and 1 bull elk off refuge. Some of the cervids within the river corridor were likely missed due to the tetTain and vegetation. K. McPeak and C. Melvin were the observers and F. Mueller (Cody, NE) was the OAS certified pilot/aircraft.

An injured white-tailed deer (male) in the wildlife exhibition unit on Fort Niobrara NWR was put down on May 14, 2005 and its brain stem was collected for CWD testing. The sample was submitted through USDA-APHIS (Dr. Coyle) in conjunction with routine surveillance procedures.

Results for surveillance work in September and October of2005 are as follows: a sick mule deer doe that was put down on September 20 was positive for West Nile virus but negative for CWD andEHD.

G.8.d. Other

A bull moose inhabited the Niobrara river corridor in 2003 in a section adjacent to habitat unit 16a from early December 2002. Scat had been found in several locations on the refuge stretch of the river corridor.

G.10. Other Resident Wildlife

G.10.a. Bison

Dr. Michael S. Mooring, Associate Professor of Biology at Point Loma Nazarene University in California, contacted the refuge regarding bison research. Possible topics include determining potential effective population size based on reproductive success, social structure, social demography, and spatial distribution of different age/sex classes (e.g. sexual segregation) which would contribute to the overall understanding of the genetic structure of the herd and what management actions are appropriate for preserving genetic variability. The agreement was that he would obtain funding and conduct the research in return for housing, transportation and access to the herd. Dr. Mooring began the long term research project on the behavioral ecology of bison on Fo1t Niobrara in 2003. The research will continue over the next three years. In addition he and his team conducted several smaller projects assisting the biology program while they were 21 here such as prairie dog survey, grassland bird point counts, documentation of bison habitat utilization patterns and bison parasite sampling. Dr. Michael Mooring was granted a sabbatical to conduct additional research of the bison herd on Fort Niobrara through the fall, winter and spring of 2003 and 2004. Several grants were sought to help fund his effort. The first paper of many, titled Fecal Androgens of Bison Bulls during the Rut, was submitted for publication. Dr. Mike Mooring's bison research project on Fort Niobrara was expanded in the fall 2004 to include parentage analysis using genetic material collected from the herd in 2002 and September, 2005. Dr. Jim Den, Texas A&M University, collaborated on the project. Dr. Tom Roffe was consulted on the project and provided valuable insight and technical assistance on the study design. Data will be used to verify or refute past assumptions of behavior studies of bison reproductive biology. Project results should provide additional insight and guidelines for future management of the F01t Niobrara bison herd and other public herds. In June 2005 Dr. Mooring, Point Loma University, was awarded a National Science Foundation grant to study fitness consequences of sexually selected acoustical signaling in bison on Fort Niobrara NWR. Dr. Mooring, 2-4 undergraduate research students, 1 PhD student, and collaborators at Texas A&M University and University of California - Davis will collect and analyze data on bison behavior, genetic parentage, acoustics, and endocrinology. In preparation for the genetic component, McPeak: has been compiling records on genetic samples collected from Fort Niobrara bison and raw data results. Dr. Tom Roffe, Region 6 Chief of Wildlife Health, will continue to provide technical guidance and coordinate genetic sample archiving. Genetic samples collected in cooperation with Dr. Mooring's bison research project (funded by National Science Foundation) were processed and submitted to the FWS repository in Bozeman in October 2005. Samples were then transferred to the Veterinary Genetics Lab at University of California-Davis. Many hours have been spent doing record keeping and correspondence associated with this project and getting Fort Niobrara genetic samples from Texas A&M.

Texas A&M Bison Genetics Research Project's final report was released in January, 2004. Fort Niobrara NWR' s bison population tested with no evidence of domestic cattle mitochondrial introgression. However, one marker identified evidence of nuclear domestic cattle introgression with a frequency of 16.34%.

March 19, 2003 the gates to the north pasture were opened to allow bison to come back across the river to summer grazing units. The first day there were close to 100 animals that came back across and were turned out to the summer units. As animals come across they are turned into the south or summer grazing units. One red calf was noted in the herd which had been born a few months ago while in the north pasture. This calf was caught and tagged for identification in the fall roundup. The biologist met with the range management specialist at the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Valentine regarding grassland/drought management strategies for the bison grazing program. Approximately eight bison were not accounted for therefore, on April 1 and 2, 2003 nine staff and volunteers on horseback conducted a bison roundup in the wilderness area. In 2003 the first bison calf was born on April 18 which was about one week later than usual.

In 2003 the majority of the bison herd from exhibition pasture was moved on April 25, 2003. Due to continuing drought and lack of available forage all but three bison were moved into unit 16A. Exhibition herd remained at this level until suitable forage was available in the exhibition pasture. 22

In 2005 gates out of the wilderness area (H.U. 1) were opened up on March 28 allowing the main herd of bison to come out on their own. Most of the bison were across the river and in their spring/summer grazing rotation by April 4, 2005. Approximately 5 animals were still in H.U. l when the gates were closed on April 21. The first bison calf was born on April 7 and approximately 65 live calves were counted at the end of April.

Due to continuing drought conditions, the bison herd was reduced by 31 animals on April 7, 2005. Twenty-two yearlings and nine 2-year olds were sold through a sealed bid process. Seventeen individuals/businesses submitted bids with 6 successful in purchasing animals. A total of $14,218 was paid for the bison.

G.10.b. Black-Tailed Prairie Dog

The black-tailed prairie dog town continued to expand in 2003 and exceeded 100 acres. In 2001 the town was approximately 30 acres, more than tripling in size. Three sampling grids within the 100+ acre black-tailed prairie dog town were counted in June of 2003. Prairie dog densities ranged from 15/acre in low density habitat to 46/acre in high density areas for a mean estimate of 3000 prairie dogs on Fort Niobrara. The prairie dog town was again surveyed in 2004 by the bison research crew. The original town located in the wildlife exhibition area had grown from - 45 acres measured in March, 2002 to - 165 acres in June, 2004. Prairie dogs within transect / grids were counted in the main dog town with the prairie dog population estimated at ,..., 3916 prai1ie dogs. Two new prairie dog towns totaling less than 5 acres were discovered - one across the liver in the wilderness area and the other in habitat unit 16a. Prairie dog and burrowing owl surveys were completed during the month of Jm1e, 2005 on Fort Niobrara by the bison research crew.

G.10.c. Turkey

Nineteen turkeys were reported wintering in the headquarters area on Fort Niobrara in 2003. In cooperation with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission winter census of turkey flocks along the Niobrara River drainage were conducted. Although the Fort Niobrara number is similar to previous years, NGPC brood data from 2002 age ratios in the area suggest a decrease in the turkey population due to the drought.

Turkey production appears to be down for 2003. Females with young were not observed m1til late August which is several weeks later than normal. Also, brood size was smaller and fewer broods were observed.

G.10.d. Sharp-Tailed grouse and Greater Northern Prairie Chicken

Prairie grouse lek counts were conducted on Fort Niobrara the last two weeks of April, 2003. Weather conditions (high wind, rain) negatively impacted counts. Ninety-two male sharp-tailed • grouse were counted on nine grounds which is an increase of ten birds from last year. Thirty­ three male prairie chickens were counted on seven grounds which is a decrease of four birds from last year. Regression analysis of the data show the five-year trends for both species to be 23 generally stable, with the ten-year trend for sharp-tailed grouse increasing and prairie chicken stable.

In 2004 prairie grouse counts were conducted by K. McPeak, during the month of April on Fort Niobrara. A total of 38 male prairie chickens and 115 male sharp-tailed grouse were counted in comparison to 33 prairfo chickens and 92 sharp-tailed grouse in 2003. Reduced residual vegetation due to drought conditions resulted in increased visibility/detection of birds. Grouse data have been collected since 1956.

A special use permit was issued to the Colorado Division of Wildlife in March 2005 for capture and transfer of 25 sharp-tailed grouse. The grouse are part of a reintroduction effort Colorado is undertaking in the south-east part of the state. They will be up this spring to catch the grouse on leks.

G.10.f. Bobwhite quail

On May 27, 2003 a rare sighting of a scissor-tailed fly catcher was made and two bobwhite quail were seen in habitat unit 36B. Both are unusual for this area.

G.10.g. Other

On January 09, 2004 the staff assisted the NGPC with a search for signs of a mountain lion in the area. Tracks were found entering the Refuge along the north east boundary and following the Niobrara River through the Refuge to the west. This lion was again spotted on the Refuge a couple of weeks later in the area of the main elk herd.

G.13. Surplus Animal Disposal

G.13.a. Bison

A total of 473 bison were processed during the 2003 fall roundup held at the end of September on Fort Niobrara. A minimum of 129 calves were born to 145 cows for an 89% calving rate which is above the 10-year (84%), 20-year (83%), and 30-year (78%) averages. Weights were collected on calves and yearlings with this year' s averages 6-10% above the long-term averages.

In 2003 there were no requests made for surplus bison from Native American Tribes. The surplus animal list was prepared and sale bill done up for the October surplus bison auction. The 2003 Annual Bison sale took place on October 8, 2003. Approximately 150 people attended the sale, on a beautiful fall day. The sale started off with the first heifer calf bringing only $50.00, the second $75.00, we thought things were going to be ugly. Prices picked up and we ended up with an average price paid of $309.00 per head. There were 62 registered buyers from Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, Montana and Colorado. A total of 113 animals were sold that year. Thirteen lots of antlers and bison skulls sold for a total of $1 ,150.00 for the Ft. Niobrara Natural History Association. One yearling heifer was injured while loading her into a trailer and was donated to the local high school for their school lunch program. The bison roundup and auction attracted many visitors that year and received good media coverage (television, radio and newspaper). 24

Fort Niobrara NWR Station made the decision to reduce bison herd by 50 head due to drought in the spring of 2004. Staff made the selection for animals to be reduced based on genetic and normal animals to be surplussed. Animals were donated to the Winnebago Tribe in Nebraska.

All Staff from the Complex assisted in the annual fa11 2004 roundup. All animals were brought into the handling facility, sorted, and surplus animals identified. Blood was drawn from all the calves for parentage testing by Dr. Mike Mooring. Two animals were lost during the roundup that year, one was a cow that snapped her neck on the way into the handling facility and the other was a bull that died from injuries received earlier that summer. A total of 69 surplus bison were sold at public auction on October 13th for a total of $29,740.00. Average prices paid were up for all age classes.

A total of 432 bison were processed through the corrals during roundup conducted September 26- October 3, 2005. Weights and blood were collected on a sub-sample of adults and all calves in cooperation with Dr. Mooring's bison genetics research project. Fifty-three bison had blood collected as part of an ongoing disease surveillance program. Three bison died during the roundup of which one was donated to the Valentine Rural Fire Department for meat. One hundred and two bison were selected for surplus. USDA-APHIS veterinarians conducted brucellosis and tuberculosis health tests on surplus bison.

The surplus bison auction was conducted on October 12, 2005 with 50 buyers ftom 4 states registered. One hundred and two bison sold for a total of$ 42,720. The average price paid per animal was$ 419 which was down from the previous year's average of$ 43 l. All staff assisted with the annual sale.

G.16. Marking and Branding

Bison yearlings retained in the herd were branded on the top left hip with a four-digit brand in September. The first two digits of the brand signify year of birth and the last two digits signify the order in which the animal came through the chute (i.e. 0029). Calves are usually not marked (i.e. branded) to reduce handling, however, all keeper calves were ear tagged in conjunction with the bison genetics research project.

G.17. Disease prevention and Control

The complexity and number of wildlife diseases that the refuge must consider in management actions and decisions have increased tremendously. The refuge has a long history of closely cooperating and coordinating work with state and federal wildlife and agricultural agencies, however, the complexity of disease issues has challenged staff. The knowledge and expertise of local, state, and federal veterinarians and their willingness to consult and advise on refuge management decisions has been greatly appreciated.

An adult bald eagle carcass found by the buffalo bridge on March 21 was sent to Madison Health Lab to determine cause of death. In the late 1980's and early 1990's, several eagles died in this 25 area due to Warbex poisoning (active ingredient fa.mphur). Necropsy results (National Wildlife Health Center in Madison, WI) for the adult bald eagle indicate cause of death as lead poisoning. Necropsy also found that the bird had old, healed injuries from two embedded steel shotgun pellets, one in the leg and the other in the neck.

Fecal samples were collected from male bison the week of September 15, 2003 in cooperation with the bison research project being conducted by Dr. Mike Moodng, Point Loma Nazarene University. In addition thirty four bison in the 5-7 year old age classes had blood and fecal samples collected for Johne' s and BVD surveillance (baseline data) during the fall roundup. Fort Niobrara is working with Dr. Thomas Roffe, USFWS wildlife veterinarian, to improve disease/health monitoring of refuge bison, elk and deer herds.

A 13+ year old elk cow with injured/defonned back feet was euthanized in January 2003 and its brain stem and cerebellum were collected for CWD testing. In May of 2003 an adult cow elk was euthanized as a part of the CWD surveillance and testing program. Fecal analysis indicated the presence of 4 nematode species. The elk was also heavily infested with sucking lice, had little body fat and neck glands were swollen. The brain stem was collected in June 2003 from mule deer buck. All tests for CWD were negative. The refuge continued to work with Tom Roffe, FWS wildlife veterinarian on protocol for disease surveillance of bison, elk, mule and white­ tailed deer on Fort Niobrara. CWD was found in a deer shot during the hunting season in December 2004 in the Grand Island area. Further sampling by Game and Parks found no more infected animals in this area. We now have CWD to the east and west of the refuges. A CWD Risk Assessment project began on Fort Niobrara in June 2005 and includes identification and documentation of wildlife movement along and across 20+ miles of big game fence.

Fort Niobrara hosted a CWD workshop in April 2004. Logistics and sample collection for a CWD workshop, was completed during the month of April. 12 Elk and 20 deer were collected for testing, all taken from Fort Niobrara. Procedures for taking tissue samples and clinical signs were taught to participants. The roles of the States and Tribal entities as well as the federal responsibilities were presented by various speakers. Full necropsies were conducted on the elk by Dr. Rom Rolfe. Five white-tailed deer carcasses were used for a ballistic study and 14 white­ tailed deer carcasses were salvaged for possible meat donation pending CWD test results. CWD results were in for our deer and elk herds on Fort Niobrara in May 2004. There were no signs of CWD present in the animals tested.

Five deer in varying stages of decay found along the Niobrara River on Fort Niobrara in mid October, 2003 were believed to have died from EHD. A major deer die-off during the same time period in South Dakota was being attributed to EHD.

Refuge Biologist prepared initial planning effort for the CWD funding received by the Complex. Approximately 21 K was received with the planning effort centering around how to best expend the funds. Approximately 4k will be turned over to Nebraska game and Parks for assistance with surveys and population estimates. The remainder of the funds was used for supplies and for preparing a CWD Plan for the Complex.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) became a more important issue for the Complex once again as a deer harvested south of Crookston tested positive for CWD in February 2005. This disease has 26 become a national and international issue as state, federal, and national governments try to decide how to best limit the spread of this disease. The implications of a CWD positive this close to Ft. Niobrara NWR could have an impact on management of the captive elk herd. It may also lead to a reduction of wild deer populations throughout the area, either through disease mortality or culling. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reported all 47 deer killed south of Crookston, NE in February, 2005 were negative for CWD. A work contract with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission was developed to conduct CWD surveillance in the fall of 2005 during the rifle deer season. A second cooperative project will be completed in 2006 to survey cervid populations (density and distribution) on the Fort Niobrara-Valentine-Seier NWRS Complex. Data collection for the CWD risk assessment project on Fort Niobrara continued in July 2005. Over 80% of the big game boundary fence was visually inspected with potential points of cross-fence movement of cervids recorded (GPS). Three motion/heat sensor cameras were placed at likely sites of ingress/egress to docwnent species, frequency, and timing of movement during a 7-day period. Deer were documented going under the fence at several locations; however, no cross-fonce movement of elk was detected. Other wildlife captured on film included bobcat, turkey, and rabbit. Two of three projects funded by FY05 CWD funding were completed in November, 2005. Risk assessment of big game boundary fence on Fort Niobrara documented extensive trans-boundary movement of deer. Management alternatives that minimize, rather than eliminate, CWD risk to cervid resomces on Fort Niobrara are being explored in partnership with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The second project funded the NGPC to man a hunter-check station on Valentine NWR for 5 days of the rifle-deer season to collect CWD samples. The third project, which is to conduct aerial deer and elk smveys on the Fort Niobrara-Valentine-Seier NWRS Complex, will be completed when snow conditions are adequate.

CWD surveillance and health monitoring of deer and elk on Fort Niobrara NWR was accomplished December 5-7, 2005. Twelve elk, 6 white-tailed deer, and 4 mule deer were collected and ful l necropsies performed. Retropharyngeal lymph nodes, brain stern, obex, blood, fecal, abomasum, kidney, and liver samples were collected. Dr. Thomas Roffe and Mike Borgreen, R6 Wildlife Health in Bozeman, worked on-site with Refuge staff and other partners (USDA-APHIS, NGPC, and NPS) to follow required protocol.

Project proposals for FY '06 CWD funding were submitted to Dr. Thomas Roffe on December 15, 2005 and include Deer Movement on and Adjacent to Fort Niobrara NWR, CWD Surveillance/Health Monitoring of Fort Niobrara NWR Cervid Populations, CWD Surveillance of Deer Harvested on and/or Adjacent to the Fort Niobrara-Valentine-Seier NWRS Complex, and Deer / Elk Population Density and Distribution on the Complex.

Bison tested for various diseases in association with the roundup or sale were negative for brucellosis, tuberculosis, Johnes, and/or BVD.

H. PUBLIC USE

H.1. General

Fort Niobrara receives over 100,000 visitors a year. The main public use activities for the Refuge includes canoeing the Niobrara Scenic River and the auto tom loop which goes through 27 the bison and elk exhibition pasture and the Fort Falls Nature Trail. Other public use activities occurring on the Refuge include fishing, wildlife observation and photography. The greatest number of people visiting the Refuge are those involved in wildlife observation in the exhibition area, environmental education and canoeing the Niobrara Scenic River. In 2003 13,993 people floated the river; in 2004 11,980 floated the river and in 2005 11.515 were recorded as floating the Fort Niobrara NWR portion of the Niobrara River.

During 2003-2005 our guest register recorded visitors from many foreign countries. Most of the continental states were represented. Visitation continues to increase as the popularity of the Scenic River grows.

In the spring of 2003 Ft. Niobrara received new brochures for the general public. The new brochures offer the public a better chance to learn about Ft. Niobrara.

H.2 Environmental Education - Students

Fort Niobrara is a popular spot for field trips from the local and surrounding community schools. During the year, hundreds of students visit the Refuge as school groups. The usual tour for these school groups includes a trip thru the visitor center, the exhibition pasture and Fort Falls Nature Trail. During the tour, Refuge staff talks with the students about the things they see and how the various animals and plants are cormected in the web of life. Refuge staff also did off-site refuge talks. During these opportunities, approximately 15 groups were entertained with approximately 450 students being reached.

H.4. Interpretive Foot Trails

There are two foot trails on the Refuge, Fort Falls Natw·e Trail and a Wilderness Access Trail. The most popular of the trails at the Refuge, the Fort Falls trail, is approximately one mile long and takes the visitor through the six different ecosystems that converge on the Refuge. The Fort Falls trail goes through a portion of the Designated Wilderness Area and shows off the Fo1t Falls and the National Scenic Niobrara River. During the year 2003 many praises were received by the public on the newly constructed trail steps. Staff is continuing to work on trying to receive funds to include interpretive signs along the trail.

The second foot trail on the Refuge is the Wilderness Access Trail. This trail starts at the Buffalo Bridge and meanders through the Designated Wilderness Area. While this trail is not used as heavily as the Fort Falls Trail those who venture into the Wilderness are rewarded with spectacular views of the Niobrara River, possible sightings of elk and Bison and the beauty of the prairie. The trail and big game fence crossing is in great need of major repairs.

H.5. Interpretive Tour Route

The Auto Tour, being one of the more popular attractions in the area, brings thousands of people to dtive among bison, elk. mule deer, white-tailed deer and the multitude of prairie dogs. The Auto Tour route winds around the display pasture. The system does give the visitor some close up viewing opportunities of the big game animals and the large and very active prairie dog town. 28 In 2003 a much needed improved road was completed. The auto tour was converted from a sand two track, to a gravel road. The improvements on the auto tour allow the public to view animals during all types of weather conditions and provide a safer visit. With the changing of the auto tour, a revised auto tour brochure was created and new interpretive signs were posted.

H.6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations

During the year 2003 an addition of 1500 sq/ft was added to the visitor center. The much needed space will allow the refuge the opportunity to show case the refuge's unique blend of ecosystem that are found in Nebraska. Currently funds are not available to update outdated interpretive displays. The staff has created displays that reflect the refuges goals and objectives. Refuge was able to purchase a surround sound theater system and big screen television which will show a slide presentation of the refuge. A bull bison to be mounted for the Visitor Center was taken to the taxidermist on January 24, 2004 and was placed in the visitor center display room in April 2005.

Figure 2. Bull Bison mount at Visitor Center

In 2004 Melvie Uhland from regional office visited Fort Niobrara to review the development of kiosks and interpretative panels for auto tour route for Ft. Niobrara. Staff from Fort Niobrara and Mel vie discussed locations of new panels and upgrade of mounting structures. This is an MMS project which will greatly enhance the auto tour route and our ability to reach the public with information. 29

Figure 3. Addition to Visitor Center in 2003

H.8. Hunting

Hunting is not permitted on the Fort Niobrara Refuge at this time. The possibility of having hunts was discussed in the CCP process and was dependent on a variety of things, for example quality of the experience, population of elk and big horn sheep. At this time the option to allow hunting is not seen as viable.

H.9. Fishing

Fishing is permitted on the Niobrara River; however few people take advantage of this opportunity.

H.11. Wildlife Observation

Next to canoeing the Niobrara River this is the most popular activity on the Refuge. Thousands of people annually drive thru the exhibition pasture to see the bison, elk, deer and prairie dogs. The auto tour route, which is through the exhibition pasture, is especially busy during the bison and elk rut, and the calving season.

H.12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation 30 The Refuge is starting to see an increase in the number of people coming to bird watch. The spting season seems to be the most popular time for this activity due to the return of the nee-tropical migrants. The Refuges unique location, with six distinct ecosystems converging here, makes for truly spectacular birding opportunities. This activity is really becoming popular with out visitors.

River floating was determined to be a compatible pubHc use on Fort Niobrara because it enables visitors the opportunity to learn more about and appreciate refuge wildlife and habitats. Outfitters that have special use permits for the refuge are required to submit monthly reports summarizing number of people and vessels launched by vessel type and date/day of week (Sunday, Monday-Friday, Saturday). This information along with iron ranger receipts (user fee envelopes) is used to determine river use on the lower stretch of the Niobrara River through the refuge (upper stretch on refuge is closed to public use). Permits were issued to nine outfitting agencies for the summer of2003 and 2004 river season. During the 2005 season 11 permits were issued to outfitters. Memorial day marks the beginning of the floating season.

Based on outfitter reports, the high river recreation use period in 2003-2005 was during the months of June, July, and August. Low to moderate use occurred during all other months of the year. In comparing information to previous year reports, Saturdays still account for most of the use, however, weekday recreation has increased.

H.17. Law Enforcement

The law enforcement (LE) program stayed strong during the 2003 year. In 2003- 2005 the complex consisted of three dual function officers and one full time officer.

Refuge law enforcement personnel provided law enforcement coverage of all roads and public use areas throughout the year. Officers were involved in search and rescue, vehicle accident investigatiQns, river patrol, and as collateral duty firefighters. Countless hours were spent monitoring visitor use on the complex.

The Refuge continued excellent working relationship with the U.S. Magistrate court in Lincoln, NE. The conviction rate of citations is almost I 00%. Refuge officers worked closely throughout the year with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Special Agents, Nebraska Game and Fish, Cherry County Sheriff Deputies, and Nebraska Highway Patrol. Working agreements with the Cherry County Sheriff's Office allows the Service to deal with LE situations that wo-uld normally become complex due to the lack of a federal holding facility in close proximity to the Refuge Complex.

During the fall of 2003 Ft. Niobrara/Valentine NWR complex was asked by Lacreek NWR, in South Dakota to assist them with law enforcement. During the year, Lacreek NWR, lost their only personnel with law enforcement credentials. 31 Refuge staff spent numerous hours commuting and assisting Lacreek NWR with their needs.

Numerous citations and warnings were issued in the field from the result of infractions against the laws. See the following tables for a summary of all violations and warnings for 2003. A total of 50 citations and 138 warnings were issued in 2003. Full time LEO made 1,473 contacts in 2003.

Table 6. Ft. NiobraraNalentine NWR Complex Violation/Warning Tally Jan. 1 - Dec. 31, 2003

Violations Valentine Ft. Niobrara NWR NWR

Possession of Alcoholic 15 13 Beverage

Possession of Narcotics 7 3

Fishing Violations 3

Hunting Violations 2

Boating Violations 2

Littering ] Traffic Violations 3 1

Total 32 18

Total of 50 Notice of Violations were issued for year 2003

Warnings Valentine/Ft. Niobrara Complex

Possession of Alcoholic Beverage 69

Boating Violation I

Camping Violation I

Trespass l

Fishing Violation 2

Hunting Violation 23

Littering l r Off road travel 2 32 Traffic Violation 3

Weapons Violation 1

Permit Violation 15

Life Jacket Violation 8

Water Cannon Violation 10

Abandon Property 1 I Total Warnings for Year 2003 I 138 I 1,473 Law Enforcement contacts made by Officer Melvin in the Year 2003

l Law Enforcement an-est

Table 7. Ft. NiobraraNalentine NWR Complex v·10 I a fIOD /W arnme: TallIV J an. 1 - D ec. 31 • 2004 Violations Valentine/Ft. Niobrara Complex

Possession of Alcoholic Beverage 22

Drugs - 9

DUS (Driving under Suspension I

Fishing Violation 5

Hunting Violation 3

Littering l

Traffic Violation 3

Life Jacket Violation 2

Total Violations for 2004 46

Warnings Valentine/Ft. Niobrara Complex

Possession of Alcoholic Beverage 49

Boating Violation 23

Trespass 5

Drugs I

Fishing Violation 4

Hunting Violation 3 33 ... Littering .)

Off road travel 1

Traffic Violation 3

Permit Violation 3

Life Jacket Violation 9

Water Cannon Violation 6

Special Use Violation 5

Total Warnings for 2004 115

Table 8. Ft. NiobraraNalentine NWR Complex v 10· I at10 . n/W arnmg T a 11IV J an. 1 D ec. 31 2005 - ' Violations Valentine Ft. Niobrara NWR NWR

Possession of Alcoholic 5 14 Beverage ... Possession ofNarcotics .) 11

Fishing Violations 6

Hunting Violations 14

Boating Violations

Littering 1

Traffic Violation 9 1

Permit Violation 1

Weapon Violation l I Total I 38 28 Total of 66 Notice of Violations were issued for year 2005

Warnings Valentine/Ft. Niobrara Complex

Possession of Alcoholic Beverage 113

Boating Violation 19

Camping Violation 1 34 Trespass 8

Fishing Violation s

Hunting Violation 15

Littering l

Indecent Exposure 1

Traffic Violation 4

Special Use Violation 35

Permit Violation 16

Harassing, Disturbing, or Injuring Wildlife 6 I Total Warnings for Year 2005 I 224 I 1,207 Law Enforcement contacts made by Officer Melvin in the Year 2005.

Law Enforcement Officer, Melvin accomplished several actions in the implementation of the RMP during March and April of 2005 including conducted outfitter meeting on March 23, 2005, modification of iron ranger/fee collection station; preparation of outfitter packets (monthly report forms, SUP, launch passes) etc.

During 2003-2005 ten officer trainees in Phase I, Phase 11 or Phase Ill continued their training with Officer Melvin of Fort Niobrara/Val entine NWR.

H.18. Cooperating Associations

The Fort Niobrara Natural History Association was formed in t 982 and took over the sale of books and other items from the Badlands Natw·al History Association. During the year of 2003 sales of $5,888.00 were made and donations of $197.00 received. In 2004 sales were $7,479.57 with donations of $414.58. In 2005 total sales were $10,493.05, with a total of $451.89 donations received.

The Association provided a horse drawn wagon to transport visitors during the annual bison sale each year. In addition, the Association sponsored the Nebraska Junior Duck Stamp Contest. Membership in the Association has inclined between 2003 and 2005.

The Fort Niobrara Natural History Association purchased Project Bluestem environmental education curriculum which were presented to 4 schools including the 2 country schools nearest to Valentine National Wildlife Refuge.

The Board of the Fort Niobrara Natural History Association met in April, 2005. Some exciting changes came about. The name was changed to Sandhills Prairie Refuge Association. Many 35 new items pertaining to environmental education were made available in the visitor center, such as a photo and text guide to "Shorebirds of North America", Peterson Field Guide to the North American Prairie, and an Audubon Guide to the National Wildlife Refuges. The friend's organization sent out letters to 31 area schools encouraging them to bring their students to the refuge for a field trip. The schools were informed that the friend's group would supply each student with a packet of environmental education material upon their arrival to Fort Niobrara NWR. Many schools called and made reservations. I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

1.2. Rehabilitation

1.2.c. Structures and Facilities

Corral rehabilitation began in April 2004 with Wage Grade employee, Casey McPeak inspecting the project. The corral project had the fencing portion of the project completed in July 2005. This rehab increased the number of available pens and added catwalk to areas needing it. The remainder of the wood fencing was also replaced in this project. The second half of this project is the construction of the sales area, which includes the sales arena, grandstand portion, sales office and concession area which was completed by September 2004 for the buffalo roundup.

Figure 4. Corral Rehab project completed in 2004 36

Water control structure rehab project began in October 2004. The project replaced all the structures in the exhibition pasture. The Fort Niobrara MMS project to replace six water control structures in Habitat Unit #27 was completed in December 2004.

Figure 5. Water Control Structure Rehab Pro·ect of2004 ' .

..... ,

H.4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement

H.4.a. Repairs and Improvements

Construction began on the new handicap accessible canoe launch at the Burr Oak Picnic area in October 2005. In addition in October 2005 the MMS project to replace the main water lines around the office at Fort Niobrara NWR began.

H.4.c. Replacement

Specs for the new bi-directional tractor were about completed in December 2005. The MMS project was funded for $80,000 which was less than the amount needed to get the tractor with the options that were necessary. By trading in two old tractors we may have the funds to get the tractor we need. 37 J. OTHER ITEMS

J.3. Items of Interest

An American burying beetle sw·vey was conducted on Fort Niobrara NWR in July 2005 by biological technician Peg House and the bison research crew. No burying beetles were found.

An earthquake occurred with the epicenter Jocated on Fort Niobrara National WildJife Refuge December 20, 2005 at 12:11 UTC with a magnitude of2.9. It was felt in the Valentine area and also Todd County, South Dakota.