Cache River National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas 2

MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C.

PROGRAM FOR CONSIDERATION ON

June 21 , 2005

A. National Wildlife Refuge Proposals

I. Cache River National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas 2. Rappahannock River National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia 3. San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge, Texas 4. Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge, Texas . 5. Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, New Jersey 6. Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge, Tennessee

B. North American Wetland Conservation Fund Proposals

Canadian Proposals United States Proposals Small Grants

MEMORANDUM

A. Approval of Minutes of Meeting

March 16, 2005

MEMORANDUM "A"

MINUTES OF MEETING March 16, 2005

The Minutes of the meeting of the Migratory

Bird Conservation Commission held on

March 16, 2005, have been prepared for reading by

the Commission.

It is respectfully recommended that these

minutes be formally approved. I I MINUTES OF THE

MEETING OF THE MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION COMMISSION

HELD IN WASHINGTON ON March 16, 2005

The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission met on Wednesday, March 16, 2005, in the Main Interior Building, Secretary's Conference Room 5160. The meeting was called to order at 8 :44 a.m., by Assistant Secretary Craig Manson, acting as Chairman.

The following Commission members were present:

HON. CRAIG MANSON, Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks, Department of the Interior

HON. THAD COCHRAN, Senator from Mississippi

HON. BLANCHE L. LINCOLN, Senator from Arkansas

HON. JOHN D. DINGELL, Representative from Michigan

HON. CURT WELDON, Representative from Pennsylvania

MR. DAVE GAGNER, Special Assistant to the Chief, NRCS, Department of Agriculture

MS. DIANE REGAS, Director, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds, Office of Water, Environmental Protection Agency

Ex Officio members

MR. ADAM TERRY, Representative Alexander's Washington D. C. Office

MR VERNON BEVILL, Director, Game Bird Program, Texas Parks and Wildlife

MR. STEVEN J. WEBER, Chief, Wildlife Division, New Hampshire Fish and Game Department

Secretary to the Commission:

MR. A. ERIC ALVAREZ, Chief, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service

Persons from the Congress of the United States, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies who attended the meeting are listed below.

MS. KATHY HURLD, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds, Office of Water, Environmental Protection Agency

MS. SITENA GREGURY, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds, Office of Water, Environmental Protection Agency

MR. ROBERT HOLIFIELD, Professional Staff Member, Senator Lincoln's Office

MR. WEST HIGGINBUTHON, Professional Staff Member, Senator Cochran's Office

MS. KA TIE MURTHA, Legislative Director, Congressman Dingell's Office

MS. AMY LEEDECKE, Legislative Assistant, Congressman Weldon's Office

MR. CARLOS A. de la PARRA, Minister, SEMARNAT, Embassy of Mexico

MR. ALPHONSO ZEGBE, First Secretary and Deputy Representative, SEMARNA T, Embassy of Mexico

MS. SHEILA TOOZE, Environmental Affairs Officer, Embassy of Canada, Washington, D. C.

MR. MA TT HOGAN, Acting Director, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. WILLIAM F. HARTWIG, Assistant Director, National Wildlife Refuge System, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. PAUL SCHMIDT, Assistant Director, Migratory Birds and State Programs, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. ROBERT GRAYES, Migratory Bird Conservation Commission Coordinator, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service

MS. CHRISTIAN LEE CHRISTOFFERS, Realty Specialist, Division of Realty, RS, Fish and Wildlife Service, Hadley, Massachusetts

MS. BRENDA JOHNSON-TURNER, Realty Specialist, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. DOUG VANDEGRAFT, Chief Cartographer, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. CARLTON CHEA THAM, Illustrator, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service

MS. ANN GREEN, Secretary, Division of Realty, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. RIESLEY R. JONES, Regional Realty Chief, Division of Realty, R2, Fish and Wildlife Service, Albuquerque, New Mexico

MS. SUE OLIVEIRA, Regional Realty Chief, Division of Realty, R4, Fish and Wildlife Service, Atlanta, Georgia

MR. WALT QUIST, Regional Realty Chief, Division of Realty, R5 Fish and Wildlife Service, Hadley, Massachusetts

MS. CHEREE PETERSON, Budget Analyst, Division of Budget, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. NICHOLAS THROCKMORTON, Public Affairs, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. DAVID SMITH, Council Coordinator, North American Wetlands Conservation Council, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. MICHAEL JOHNSON, Deputy Chief, Division of Bird Habitat Conservation, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. CLINT RILEY, Division of Bird Habitat Conservation, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. DAVID BUIE, Division of Bird Habitat Conservation, Fish and Wildlife Service

MS. ELLEN MURPHY, Division of Bird Habitat Conservation, Fish and Wildlife Service

MS. RODECIA MCKNIGHT, Division of Bird Habitat Conservation, Fish and Wildlife Service

MR. TOM CASSIDY, The Nature Conservancy

MR. SCOTT SUTHERLAND, Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

MR. LEN UGARENKO, International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Representatives who attended the meeting on behalf of the North American Wetlands Conservation Council portion of the program are listed below. I

I I COUNCIL EX OFFICIO MEMBERS

MR. JOHN BERRY, Executive Director, The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Washington, D. C.

MR. MARY POPE HUTSON, Land Trust Alliance, Washington D. C.

MEETING PROCEEDINGS

Assistant Secretary Manson called the meeting to order at 8:44 a.m. He mentioned that Secretary Norton was a keynote speaker at the North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference and she was sorry she could not be present at the meeting. Then he welcomed the commission members, new representative from the Environmental Protection Agency, state ex officio members, and others attending the meeting. Judge Manson then stated that since 1920, the Commission has overseen the establishment of 3 57 refuges in 49 States- over 12 million acres of marshes, prairie potholes, hardwood bottoms, and other havens for waterfowl, scattered from Maine to California and from Washington to Florida. He stated that the projects before the Commission for approval today reflect the continued growth in protecting and restoring wetland habitats under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act as well as through the Migratory Bird Conservation Act. Judge Manson recognized the 15 th anniversary of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act and reflected on both where we have been and where we are going. He stated that in the 15 years since its signing, the North American Wetlands Conservation Act has invested over $640 million dollars in protecting and restoring wetland habitats across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. He acknowledged the representatives from the Canadian and Mexican Embassies. He noted that this is the last week for Service Director Steve Williams and the Secretary has announced that Matt Hogan will be Acting Director. He proceeded to introduce the ex officio members for the North American Wetlands Conservation Council. Judge Manson then proceeded to Agenda Item A.

AGENDA ITEM A

Assistant Secretary Manson called for approval of the September 8, 2004, meeting minutes which were unanimously approved. He then called on Mr. Eric Alvarez, Secretary to the Commission, to present the three Migratory Bird Conservation Act proposals for consideration. With the aid of maps and video projections, Mr. Alvarez presented the acquisitions proposed in the program. Mr. Alvarez and Regional Senior Realty Officers responded to questions about the individual proposals. Each state ex officio provided affirmative comments about the proposals within their representative states. The Commission's action for each proposal is given below.

NEW MBCC REFUGE AND PRICE APPROVAL

BLACK BA YOU LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, Ouachita Parish, Louisiana Boundary approval was granted for a 5,854-acre area. Price approval was granted for the fee title acquisition of 615 acres in one ownership for the recommended price of $150,000 or $244 per acre.

Mr. Alvarez commented that $891,000 is currently available from LWCF and will be combined with $150,000 from the MBCF to purchase this 615 acre tract. The MBCF contribution to the purchase price equates to $244 per acre.

Rep. John Dingell asked about the term of a lease depicted on the refuge may. Sue Oliveira, Senior Realty Officer, Southeast Region, stated that this was a 99-year lease no-cost lease from the State which aids the Service in allowing recreation on the refuge.

ADDITION AND PRICE APPROVAL

SILVIO 0. CONTE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, Pondicherry Division Coos County, New Hampshire-Addition of 825 acres in two ownerships was approved to expand the refuge and price approval was granted for the fee title acquisition of 516 acres in one ownership for the appraised value and recommended price of $304,000 or $589 per acre.

Mr. Steven J. Webber, ex officio, stated that the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is working closely with refuge manager and participated in completion of hunting plan.

Judge Manson asked about the donut holes shown on the map and asked Secretary Alvarez to discuss. Mr. Alvarez stated that we are seeking to acquire land in future or obtain management agreement from the current landowners.

Rep. John Dingell asked about the status of acreage managed through an easement and owner of the easement. Walt Quist, Senior Realty Officer, Northeast Region, stated that the Audubon Society is the owner and we have begun the appraisal process and hope to bring before the Commission for approval at the June Migratory Bird Conservation Commission meeting.

TRINITY RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, Liberty County, Texas- Addition and price approval was granted for the fee title acquisition of 98 acres in two ownerships for the appraised value and recommended price of $81,200 or $829 per acre.

Mr.Vernon Bevill, ex officio, stated that the proposal was carefully reviewed and the Governor endorsed this acquisition. Mr. Bevill also stated that this acquisition should be made available for hunting purposes.

AGENDA ITEM B

NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS

In his opening remarks, Assistant Secretary Craig Manson noted the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the signing of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NA WCA), and commented on the tremendous record of partnerships, financial leveraging, and conservation that has occurred during the last 15 years. I Prior to the introduction of the Council Ex Officio members, Representative Weldon asked how much was currently being spent on the Small Grants program. Ex Officio member and North American Wetlands Conservation Council (Council) member Mr. John Berry (National Fish and Wildlife Foundation) noted that $2M was authorized for FY 2005 with $1.6M actually allocated. The remaining $0.4M will remain in the North American Wetlands Conservation Fund (NA WCF) until spent. Mr. Berry also noted that Council would recommend the $2M funding level for FY 2006. Representative Dingell asked if all available NA WCA funds were being spent and if any NA WCA funds had ever been returned to the treasury. Council Coordinator David A. Smith indicated that if allocation levels are not met for any reason, the remaining funds are retained in the NA WCF until spent and not returned to the treasury.

Assistant Secretary Manson formally introduced Ex Officio Commission member and Council member Mr. John Berry. Mr. Berry commented on the 15 year totals for NA WCA projects approved by the Commission: $649M in grant funds coupled with $ l .9B in partner funds to protect and restore 13 .SM acres of wetland systems. He noted the President's FY 2006 appropriation request of almost $SOM and the positive impact this amount of funding will have. Finally, Mr. Berry commented on the current slate and the high quality of the proposals from the U.S. and Mexico. Mr. Berry then introduced Ex Officio Commission member and Council member Ms. Mary Pope Hutson (Land Trust Alliance). Ms. Hutson reiterated the importance of high funding levels for NA WCA and expressed the hope that the Commission members would support the FY 2006 President's request. Ms. Huston noted the number of partners involved with NA WCA projects to date number over 2,500 in 1,300 projects. She noted that 195 partners are involved in the current slate of U.S. proposals, affecting over 130,000 acres of wetlands in 14 states and contributing over $83M in contributions. Ms. Hutson then introduced Council Coordinator Smith.

Coordinator Smith presented a brief overview of the status of the NA WCF. He noted that a portion of the FY 2005 NA WCF ($7M) is the result of a fine under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) for an oil spill that occurred in April 2003 in Buzzards Bay, MA. The November, 2004 Federal Court sentence stipulated that the $7M be spent on conservation projects within the "Buzzards Bay Watershed Area." Coordinator Smith noted that $2.3M of this fine was allocated in FY 2005 for three projects on the current Commission slate and that the remaining funds will be carried over to FY 2006. Representative Weldon asked if the court action established a precedent by directing the funds to be used only in the Buzzards Bay area. Coordinator Smith indicated that of the two prior court actions involving major fines directed to the NA WCF, one (AK) did not stipulate an area while the second (RI) did. Representative Weldon asked if the Commission should take an interest in how the courts allocate these fines. He also noted that activist groups could begin to lobby the courts to direct funds to specific areas. Assistant Secretary Manson noted that the courts have the power to direct where fine amounts are spent and that while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) works with the Justice Department to determine the proper allocation plan, the courts have the final determination. Representative Weldon noted that since he represents the Delaware Bay area, he could become more active in directing future fine amounts to that area. He then asked if this type of action is fair to the overall process and should the Council become more actively involved in the determination process. Senator Lincoln then asked if the large carryover noted for FY 2006 was due to the Buzzards Bay allocation. Coordinator Smith affirmed this and noted the carryover was being I reserved for high quality proposals that will be submitteq. for the Buzzards Bay watershed in FY 2005. Ex Officio member Hutson indicated that the there had been little time to prepare the Buzzards Bay proposals in FY 2005. Commission Ex Officio member Bevill noted the potential problems associated with earmarking funds to a certain area, including time to develop high quality projects that can best use these funds and the possibility of not having enough projects in a very limited project area while other projects in other areas that could help recover migratory birds damaged in a spill go unfunded. He reiterated the value of a well developed policy in these matters. Representative Dingell asked if there was a mechanism in place that assures that wrongdoers are identified and proper fines levied in such cases. Assistant Secretary Manson indicated such mechanisms are in place and that specific information concerning these matters can be obtained from the Justice Department. Representative Dingell noted that the Commission should be sure it is getting the maximum conservation benefits from these situations. Representative Weldon indicated his preference that fines under the MBTA should go into the NA WCF for Council's determination of use without a court mandate. He asked that this subject be discussed by Council in order to develop a recommendation for future cases. Assistant Secretary Manson requested that the Justice Department be consulted as the Council addresses these matters.

Coordinator Smith presented the Council's recommended slate of 16 U.S. standard grant proposals (NAWCA funds= $13,112,662; partner contributions= $55,002,323) and 15 Mexican proposals (NA WCA funds= $2,385,148; partner contributions= $3,518,588). Coordinator Smith noted that the U.S. totals differ from the information provided in the meeting booklet. Three U.S. proposals (Conservation of Priority Wetland Bird Focus Areas, Teton River Basin; San Juan Islands; San Pablo Bay II) were removed from the current slate due to incomplete National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation. These proposals will be presented for approval at the June 2005 Commission meeting.

Coordinator Smith then noted that this is the 15 th anniversary of NA WCA and thanked the Commission for its support. Assistant Secretary Manson then asked if the Representative from Mexico would like to make a comment. Carlos de la Parra, Mexico's Environmental Attache, Embassy of Mexico, stated that Mexico continues to support the NA WCA program and appreciates the value that NA WCA projects bring to conservation efforts throughout the country. Representative Dingell asked how serious the NEPA problems were for the three U.S. projects that were to be held until the next Commission meeting. Coordinator Smith indicated there were no known project related problems, only problems in getting the required documentation in on time. Representative Dingell asked if the NEPA process was inhibiting the NA WCA process. Coordinator Smith noted that NEPA may inhibit some project timetables, but that the process was important and should be maintained. Senator Lincoln then moved to approve the slate of projects. Representative Weldon seconded. The entire slate of projects presented (with the exception of the three U.S. proposals noted), having sufficient non-Federal partner dollars to match the NAWCF request, was approved by unanimous vote.

Coordinator Smith then noted the I 5th anniversary visual aid on display, showing all of the NA WCA partners arranged by year, and the NA WCA information pamphlets provided to each Commission member. Representative Weldon recommended that the pamphlets, including a list of partners, be sent to all members of Congress in order to highlight the program and build a I I stronger support base. Ex Officio Berry suggested that a cover letter for this mailing be signed by the Commission members. Representative Weldon suggested that the Service (Division of Bird Habitat Conservation) brief the Congressional freshman class on NA WCA. Representative Dingell commented in support of the Commission cover letter suggestion.

OTHER BUSINESS

Matt Hogan mentioned that Director Williams is also at the North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference. Mr. Hogan stated that Director Williams extended thanks to the Commission and he wished he was able to attend the meeting today. Mr. Hogan affirmed that he will continue to be a strong advocate for Service priorities as Acting Director.

Acting Chairman Manson adjourned the meeting at 9:45 a.m. I MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION FUND Fiscal Year 2005

STA TUS AS OF: April 30, 2005 Estimated RECEIPTS Received as Projected Receipts Total Receipts of04/30/05 Remainder of FY Available in FY FY 2004 Carryover 6,943 ,085 0 6,943 ,085 Postal Service 11 ,089,440 459,810 11 ,549,250 Import Duties 8,008,129 11,482,867 19,490,996 Misc. Duck Stamp Sales 12,257,958 57,042 12,315,000 Refuge Entrance Fees 85,723 164,277 250,000 Prior Year Recoveries 69,918 645,924 715,842 Refuge Rights-Of-Way & Application Fees 54,185 130,815 185,000 TOTALS 38,508,438 12,940,735 51,449,173 Estimated Estimated OBLIGATIONS Obligations as of Projected Expenditures Total 4/30/2005 Remainder of FY Obligations in FY ALLI GA TOR RIVER 0 200,000 200,000 BACK BAY 0 136,128 136,128 BA YOU COCODRIE 0 1,000,000 1,000,000 BLACK BA YOU LAKE 0 150,000 150,000 BLACKWATER 0 42,235 42,235 CACHE RIVER 0 1,480,000 1,480,000 CAPE MAY 0 25,000 25 ,000 CEDAR ISLAND 0 200,000 200,000 CHICKASAW 0 750,000 750,000 EDWIN B. FORSYTHE 0 1,022,300 1,022,300 ERIE 0 15,000 15 ,000 GRASSLANDS WMA 1,533,400 466,600 2,000,000 LOWER KLAMATH 0 255,000 255,000 LAKE UMBAGOG I 19,000 393,075 512,075 NORTH CENTRAL VALLEY WMA 440,625 1,859,375 2,300,000 PANTHER SWAMP 0 100,000 100,000 PETITMANAN 0 25,000 25 ,000 RACHEL CARSON 26,000 0 26,000 RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER 0 585,000 585,000 SAN BERNARD 0 2,773,600 2,773,600 SILVIO CONTE 0 511,500 511 ,500 TALLAHATCHIE 0 1,540,200 1,540,200 TRINITY RIVER 0 1,142,200 1,142,200 W ALKILL RIVER 157,845 250 158,095 WATERFOWL PRODUCTION AREAS 9,069,196 9,827,254 18,896,450 MISCELLANEOUS LEASES 18,524 108,217 126,741 TOT AL LAND PURCHASE 11,364,590 24,271,806 35,972,524

UNALLOCATED 0 3,464,947 3,464,947 POSTAL SERVICE 467,056 282,944 750,000 CAM 0 1,354,202 1,354,202 DIRECT SUPPORT COSTS 4,521 ,078 5,378,922 9,900,000 MIGR.BIRD CON.COMM. EXPENSES 1,483 6,017 7,500 TOTALS 16,354,207 34,758,838 51,449,173 I MEMORANDUM NUMBER 1

CACHE RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

TUCKER COUNTY, ARKANSAS

SUMMARY TYPE OF PROPOSAL Addition

LOCATION Northeast Arkansas in the lower and middle Cache river basin, approximately 60 miles east of Little Rock PROPOSED ADDITION ACRES 9,864 OWNERSHIPS 41 ESTIMATED COST $15,150,000 PER ACRE: $1,750

PURPOSE OF ADDITION To preserve and protect wintering areas vital to the long-term conservation of migratory waterfowl

STA TE APPROVAL June, 2005 by Governor Mike Huckabee

REFUGE STA TUS Acres Cost Per Acre ACQUIRED WITH MBCC APPROVAL 44,335 $ 38,778,027 $ 875 ACQUIRED WITH L WCF 8,066 $ 5,659,357 $ 702 ACQUIRED WITH NA wee GRANT 1,563 $ 800,000 $ 512 ACQUIRED BY DONATION 945 ACQUIRED BY EXCHANGE 456 ACQUIRED BY TRANSFER(COE) 6,091 ACQUIRED BY STA TE AGENCY 13,863 REMAINING TO BE ACQUIRED 110,255 TOTAL 185,574

Cache River NWR June 21, 2005

Cache River NWR Land Acquisition Status (in acres)

~Acquired w/ NA WCC Grant Acquired by Transfer (COE) 1,563 6,091 Acquired by Donation Acquired w/ LWCF Funds I 945 8,066 I 1 Acquired by Exchange Acquired by State Agency 456 13,863

Acquired w/ MBCC Approval 44,335

Remaining To Be Acquired 110,255

Total: 185,574 - CACHE RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE JACKSON, PRAIRIE, WOODRUFF AND MONROE COUNTIES, ARKANSAS

Cache River National Wildlife Refuge was established on June 16, 1986, under the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, the Migratory Bird Conservation Act, and the Emergency Wetlands Resources Act of 1986. The original refuge proposal covered 35,000 acres. By 1998, two major expansions increased the acquisition boundary to 175,300 acres, which represents the 10 year floodplain of the Cache River. Two minor expansions since that time have brought the total approved acquisition boundary to 185,574 acres. Within that boundary the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission owns and manages two Wildlife Management Areas (WMA): Black Swamp WMA (5,967 acres), and Dagmar WMA (7,896 acres). The State's management of the WMAs complements the Service's management of the refuge; therefore there are no plans for federal acquisition or management of the state lands. To date, 61,456 acres have been acquired using the Land and Water Conservation Fund, Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, NA WCC grants, donation and transfer of primary jurisdiction from another Federal agency.

Cache River NWR encompasses some of the largest remaining contiguous blocks of bottomland hardwood forest in the Lower Mississippi Valley, and some of the largest remaining expanses of forested wetlands on any tributary within the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. With at least twenty-four species of waterfowl utilizing the Lower Mississippi Valley during winter migration, this area supports one of the largest concentrations of mallards anywhere in North America during this time period. It is considered by most to be the single most important wintering area for mallards in North America, and some of the most important for pintails, teal, Canada geese, and other migratory waterfowl. The wetland and aquatic habitats of the Cache/Lower White Rivers ecosystem support 52 species of mammals, 232 species of birds, and 48 species of reptiles and amphibians. Approximately 95 species of freshwater fish are known to occur in the vast aquatic habitats of the Cache/Lower White Rivers ecosystem. The recent rediscovery on the refuge of the Ivory-billed woodpecker, a bird long thought extinct, highlights the benefits that these crucial waterfowl habitats provide to other species as well.

On June 12, 2002, the Commission gave blanket approval for acquisitions at the Cache River NWR at appraised value up to $1,900 per acre. Prices have been relatively stable since that time and the Service anticipates that most, if not all, acquisitions for the foreseeable future will continue to fall below that price approval threshold. We therefore have no individual projects for which we are currently seeking Commission approval, however, any individual purchases above the blanket approval will be brought before the Commission as needed. The purpose of this proposal is to align the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission's approved boundary with the existing refuge boundary.

Cache River NWR June 21, 2005

CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION: U.S. Senator Blanche L. Lincoln (D) U.S. Senator Mark Pryor (D) Representative Marion Berry (D) 1st District

Cache River NWR June 21 , 2005

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Conservation Commission 1 of 1 -wNATIONAL Sheet WILDLIFE Cache River Nationa l Wildlife Refuge R'EFUGE .SYSTEM Jackson, Monroe, Prairie and Woodruff Counties, Arkansas 91 ' 40'0'W 91 ' 30'0'W 91 ' 20'0'W 91'10'0'W 91 ' 0'0"W 90'50'0'W

35' 40'0"N

MBCC Approved Boundary Approved Acquisition Boundary

MBCC Boundary to be Approved

FWS Lands - Previously Acquired

35' 30'0"N 35' 30'0"N

35' 20'0"N 35' 20'0"N

35'10'0"N 35' 10'0"N

35'0'0"N 35' 0'0"N

34'50'0"N

Cache River NWR

34'40'0"N

91 ' 40' 0'W 91'30'0'W 91'20'0'W 91'1 0'0'W 91'0'0"W 90'50'0'W Produced in the Division of Realty 0 2.5 5 10 15 Atlanta, GA Miles land Status Cooent to: 6/1/2005 Kilometers Base Map Sotrce: USGS DRG 1999 0 2.5 5 10 15 20 25

MEMORANDUM NUMBER 2 RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE ESSEX AND RICHMOND COUNTIES, VIRGINIA

SUMMARY

TYPE OF PROPOSAL Addition and Price Approval

LOCATION Southeast of Fredericksburg, Virginia.

PROPOSED ADDITION AND PRICE APPROVAL ACRES 355 (Easement) OWNERSHIPS One APPRAISED VALUE $1,631 ,790 PER ACRE: $4,597 RECOMMENDED PRICE $ 585,000 PER ACRE: $1,648

PURPOSE OF ACQUISITION To protect and enhance waterfowl and migratory bird populations and wetlands

ST A TE APPROVAL 2005 by, Colonel. Gerald Massengill, Director, Department of Game and Inland Fisheries REFUGE STA TUS Acres Per Acre

ACQUIRED WITH MBCC APPROVAL 1,109 $ 1,539,200 $ 1,388

ACQUIRED WITH LWCF FUNDS 4,885 $ 9,362,538 $ 1,9 17 ACQUIRED BY DONATION 1,388

THIS PROPOSAL 355 $ 1,631,790 $ 4,597

REMAINING TO BE ACQUIRED 12,263

TOTAL 20,000

Rappahannock River Valley NWR June 21, 2005

Rappahannock River NWR Land Acquisition Status (in acres)

Acquired w/ MBCC Approval 1,109 1 This Proposal Acquired by Donation 1,388 355

Acquired w/ LWCF Funds 4,885

Remaining To Be Acquired 12,263

Total: 20,000

RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE CAROLINE, ESSEX, KING GEORGE, LANCASTER, MIDDLESEX, RICHMOND AND WESTMORELAND COUNTIES, VIRGINIA

HISTORY - Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1996 to assist in meeting waterfowl population, endangered species, and wetland goals of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the Service's Chesapeake Bay/Susquehanna River Watershed Program, and other national and regional resource priorities. With land purchases using both Land and Water Conservation Act Funds, Migratory Bird Conservation Act funds and donations, its current area consists of 7,382 acres.

JUSTIFICATION - Rappahannock River and its adjacent marshes and waters are one of the Chesapeake Bay's most importantand productive estuarine assets, supporting a wide diversity of subaquatic and emergent wetland plant communities. These lands and waters, in turn, provide optimum habitat for large concentrations of waterfowl and other migratory birds. As the fourth largest river system entering the Chesapeake Bay, the Rappahannock River provides essential habitat for a great diversity of migratory birds, and for endangered and threatened wildlife and plant species. The River has long been recognized as one of the most important waterfowl migration and wintering areas in Virginia. The marshes along the River and its tributaries have been identified as important black duck habitat in the Service's Category Plan for the Preservation of black duck wintering habitat on the Atlantic Coast. Besides black ducks, the River supports populations of mallards, ruddy ducks, ring-necked ducks, canvasbacks, Canada geese and tundra swans.

PRESENT USE AND OWNERSHIP - The subject parcel has 5,250 feet of frontage on Cat Point Creek. The marshes and adjoining uplands of Cat Point Creek have been recognized for their importance to fish and wildlife by conservation entities ranging from international to local, including the following: U.S. Ramsar Committee, Fish and Wildlife Service, Environmental Protection Agency, The Nature Conservancy, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Tidewater Resource Conservation and Development Council, and Cat Point Creek Citizen Advisory Committee. This area is listed as the highest priority for conservation in the refuge Land Protection Plan. High priority waterfowl that use the creek include mallard, black duck, blue-winged teal, wood duck, and Canada goose.

Acquisition of this parcel through a perpetual easement will permanently protect the important waterfowl and other wildlife values of the parcel. The easement does not allow development or timber removal on the parcel, while also protecting native vegetation in all wetlands and buffers.

Rappahannock River Valley NWR June 21, 2005

ACQUISITION PROPOSAL- Boundary and price approval is requested for Tract (40C), containing 355 acres of land in one ownership for the appraised value and recommended price of $1,631,790 or $4,597 per acre. The Service plans to fund the acquisition using $1 ,146,790, currently available from the Land and Water Conservation Fund appropriation at Rappahannock River Valley NWR to purchase a portion of Tract (40C). The remaining $585,000 necessary to complete the purchase of tract (40C) will be allocated from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund as funds become available.

TRACT SUMMARY

Appraised Value Recommended Price Tract Number Acres Land Per Acre Land Per Acre (40C) 355 $ 1,631,790 $4,597 $585,000 $ 1,648

CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION: U.S. Senator, John Warner (R) U.S. Senator, George Allen (R) U.S. Representative, Joanne Davis (R) District 1

Rappahannock River Valley NWR June 21, 2005

RappahannockRiver Valley National Wildlife Refuge Caroline,Essex , KingGeorge , Lancaster, Middlesex, Richmond, and WestmorelandCounties , Virginia 77°30'0"W 77°20'0"W 77°10'0"W 77°0'0"W 76°50'0"W 76°40'0"W 76°30'0"W

_., MBCCApproved Boundary J' _ •• Boundaryto be Approved -..4' •• Approved AcquisitionBoundary ••#7 ~ PreviouslyAcquired - Fee D PreviouslyAcquired - Easement tF~~ ~ ~ For Approval- Easement - ~, 0 / , Ill State InterestLands r, %,."> P,. ,t,, ~ 6/21/2005 Dateof MBCCMeetin -ii,1/~ ;;;,"r'/,<,,

' / +'/ '~-- ~~$ ..-e: ,I / --, . ~ ' \,. '<'' ·f'= "e,.,,. 1, r- 38°10'0"N / .-,.{ ~ ' ·o✓--1:/ ~ ~·,, \ i ~ ~~, .. / \ -., -~~ )• . I / ·-· • -~ _,. - iY,V/G~'CY- ~.a ., .,.-\ ...... VIRGINIA ·'-<... ~-~~~ J)(~ r;:t,.o~◊ -rt/ ' -~ ~~.!•, ~ ,•-.,,_.. • - r 4 \ ( - : .:. 200 - '·,., -:-' ------.~ ,,,,-; ' ,_ \ [ ? " . -= ~( , , ,--~ / Miles ,-_ -~,. . ''- J. ~,,- '\ > \ .:. 0 J\,\_ I J , ', -,....., ' \..... { ~·, ~~~ ~ ~•~ I ' ,. --;- '-, ~ . A (o \>< c- ,..__ ,'t>K: J ~., ,., ' 40q \ ', J-0 i.<1~ ' ' -( ,,"' · i. ) \ ·-- 0 '.<:17 ' ' '•'f ~1 • .· ~ "' './' " "

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c: ~. .,... ~- r' ' J ~~· -< \ i - ' \ '---, )., • ' , I T' ~ I \ I / I " ) "' .!If I 37°50'0"N \ ',u--\, ,t- ~"\ I ~ ( / \ "'"'i 37°50'0"N - 7 / ", .. c-✓ I \\ ,_ · l ~ ' ' ~ ~ '- ~ \ .,,' ', I _., ~ ' I -✓--"'\.re/------,~, --: • Y ~ ~ . \_-~- ,Y --;-, I \ ~ • \_, - - ~ I •~ - -' t' " ~~ i- '. ,,- ,,,_ -~..0 ,i.l \ _'> ~L, '\ ~lv' > i - : .f :-' ;·• /, i -1---... ·'\ , • 1-- ~ I '-. V· I , 1 · ~ ~ I ;, , -1 -,,,l I '\i,, # __,. .,.,_ ':::> ,nes\~ll • \ . I ~<2_ ••~:o / \ \.>.,.-\ / Y~- ' / \¾.1 \\ 1Z! ' -, - \3,1 / \ ~

77°30'0"W 77°20'0"W 77°10'0"W 77°0'0"W 76°so·o-w 76°40'0"W 76°30'0"W Producedin the Divisionof Really 10 15 20 ~:i~•Sia~ Currentto 7/2004 Miles W E BaseMap Sources : USGS DLG, ESAI Data 10 15 20 25 30 ♦ Datum and Projection: UTMZone 18 , NAO198 3, Meters Kilometers s MapComp ilation Date: 5/17/2005

MEMORANDUM NUMBER 3

SAN BERNARD NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

BRAZORIA COUNTY, TEXAS

SUMMARY

TYPE OF PROPOSAL Addition and Price Approval

LOCATION Located 50 miles south of Houston, Texas

PROPOSED ADDITION AND PRICE APPROVAL ACRES 197 (Fee) OWNERSHIPS One APPRAISED VALUE AND RECOMMENDED PRICE $147,750 PER ACRE: $750

PURPOSE OF ACQUISITION To provide habitat for waterfowl.

STA TE APPROVAL 2005 by Governor Rick Perry

REFUGE STATUS Acres Per Acre

ACQUIRED WITH MBCC APPROVAL 31,499 $ 11,960,736 $ 380

ACQUIRED WITH L WCF FUNDS 2,448 $ 1,402,800 $ 573

OTHER 2,392

ACQUIRED BY DONATION 2,174

THIS PROPOSAL 197 $ 147,750 $ 750

REMAINING TO BE ACQUIRED 17,736

TOTAL 56,446

San Bernard NWR June 21, 2005 I I S1 an B,ernard NWR Land Acquisition Status (in acres)

Other _ Acquired by Donation I 2,174 2,392 I Acquired w/ LWCF Funds This Proposal 2,448 197

Remaining To Be Acquired 17,736

Acquired w/ MBCC Approval 31,499

Total: 56,446

SAN BERNARD NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

BRAZORIA COUNTY, TEXAS

HISTORY The San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge was approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission on February 27, 1968. To date, 38,513 acres have been acquired. In 1997, the Austin's Woods Conservation Plan authorizing the acquisition of up to 28,000 acres of satellite units to San Bernard was approved. To date, 10,402 acres have been acquired through transfer from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or through donations from various entities, or with funds approved by North American Wetlands Council Act, with funds obtained from mitigation, and by Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approval for the Austin's Woods Unit.

JUSTIFICATION The proposed area is part of a productive and valuable wetland complex providing wintering, migration, and resident habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, neotropical migratory birds, and other wetland-dependent wildlife species. Thousands of waterfowl winter in the area. Mottled ducks, a species of concern, use the area, as well as green-winged teal, gadwalls, and black-bellied whistling ducks. This proposed acquisition is within the Mid-Coast Initiative of the Gulf Coast Joint Venture of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

PRESENT USE The tract at the Austin's Woods Unit of San Bernard AND OWNERSHIP NWR (Tract 74), contains 197 acres, more or less. The tract has been used primarily for recreational photography and wildlife recreation.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Tract will be administered as part of the Austin's AND MANAGEMENT Woods unit of the existing Refuge. Management of the area would be directed toward habitat preservation and enhancement for waterfowl, wading birds, neotropical migrants, and other wildlife that depend on the gulf coastal zone. This proposal supports the objectives of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan in assuring the future of the Nation's waterfowl resource.

ADDITION PROPOSAL Boundary and price approvals are requested for the acquisition of the 197 acres of wetland habitat.

San Bernard NWR June 21, 2005

TRACT SUMMARY

Appraised Value and Recommended Price

Tract Number Land Total Per Acre (74) 197 $147,750 $147,750 $750

U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson (R) U.S. Senator John Corn (R) U. S. Representative Tom Delay (R-22nd)

San Bernard NWR June 21 , 2005 I U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Migratory Bird Co11servatio11 Commission

NAnONAL -wWILDLI,11 San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge - Austin's Woods Units •n~- Brazoria, Fort Bend , Matagorda & Wharton Counties, Texas 3,100,000

29 °45'

29• 45'

13,800,000 13,800,000

/ c,O· ,/ R-~""o.,,,./ <:>'-

~~28 °45' 28 °45'~~

~~13,400,000 13,400,000~~

DETAILED VIEW OF TRACT 74 MBCC Approved Boundary Boundary to be Approved Approved Acquisition Boundary S:TON ca Focus Area Boundary ~ - ~ ,:,!Ii - __ Historical Occurrence of Coastal ~ Bottomlands Hardwood Area N ~ Previously Acquired - Fee 74 W-$-E For Approval - Fee s -06/21/05 Date of MBCC Meeting 96 °30 ' 2,800 ,000 95 ' 35' 3,100,000 Produced in the Division of Realty Albuquerque , NM 14 21 28 MILES Land Status Current to 05/13/2005 Base Map: USGS DRGs and other official information 0 10 20 30 40 KILOMETERS Map Projectio n: NAD, 1983, TX State Plane, S-C Zone, U.S. Feet I Map Date 05/13/2005 111 • 111 I MEMORANDUM NUMBER 4

~~TRINITY RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE~~

~~LIBERTY COUNTY, TEXAS~~

~~SUMMARY~~

~~TYPE OF PROPOSAL Addition and Price Approval~~

~~LOCATION Located in Liberty County 45 miles northeast of Houston, Texas.~~

~~PROPOSED ADDITION AND PRICE APPROVAL ACRES 330 (Fee) OWNERSHIPS One APPRAISED VALUE AND RECOMMENDED PRICE $171,600 PER ACRE: $520~~

~~PURPOSE OF ACQUISITION To preserve important wetland habitats for the benefit of migrating, wintering and breeding waterfowl.~~

~~STA TE APPROVAL 2005 by Governor Rick Perry~~

~~REFUGE ST A TUS Acres Cost Per Acre~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH MBCC APPROVAL 9,868 $ 6,165,246 $ 625~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH L WCF 8,595 $ 5,211,500 $ 606~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH OTHER FUNDS 167 $ 123,900 $ 742~~

~~THIS PROPOSAL 330 $ 171,600 $ 520~~

~~REMAINING TO BE ACQUIRED 60,640~~

~~TOTAL 79,600~~

~~Trinity River NWR June 21, 2005~~

~~Trinity River NWR. Land Acquisition Status (in acres)~~

~~This Proposal 330 Acquired w/ LWCF Funds Acquired with Other Funds 8,595 167 Acquired w/ MBCC Approval 9,868~~

~~Remaining To Be Acquired 60,640 Total: 79,600~~

~~TRINITY RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE LIBERTY COUNTY, TEXAS~~

HISTORY - The Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) was established on January 3, 1994, with the purchase of 4,400 acres of bottomland hardwood and associated habitats in Liberty County, Texas. These lands were purchased with Land and Water Conservation Fund dollars totaling $3,270,000. Since 1994, an additional 4,195 acres have been purchased with L WCF dollars totaling $1,941,500. On June 14, 1994, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approved the initial MBCC boundary for the Refuge, encompassing 19,220 acres. Since 1994, the MBCC boundary has been expanded to include another 10,498 acres. To date, 9,868 acres have been purchased with Migratory Bird Conservation Funds totaling $6,165,246.

JUSTIFICATION - The Trinity River NWR protects remnant bottomland hardwood and associated wetland habitats for migrating, wintering and breeding waterfowl. Additionally, it represents one of the few remaining high quality areas for waterfowl in East Texas. It provides essential foraging and/or roosting habitat for the wood duck, mallard, gadwall, widgeon, green and blue-winged teal, lesser scaup and mottled duck. Mature cavity trees dispersed throughout the area and provide important nesting habitat for wood ducks and black-bellied whistling ducks. Numerous colonial waterbird rookeries are found in swamps throughout the project area.

Trinity River NWR has been identified as a priority project for the East Texas Bottomland Hardwood Initiative, a component of the Lower Mississippi Valley Joint Venture and the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. The proposed acquisition would assist in meeting the established habitat protection goals for the Initiative.

~~PRESENT USE AND - Tract (56) is located on the East side of the Trinity OWNERSHIP River about 7 ½ miles South of Liberty near the Moss Bluff Community. Current use is for personal recreational use.~~

~~ACQUISITION PROPOSAL - Addition and Price approval is requested for the fee title purchase of (Tract 56) at the recommended price of $520 per acre.~~

~~Trinity River NWR June 21, 2005~~

~~TRACT SUMMARY~~

~~Appraised Value and Recommended Price~~

~~Tract Number Acres Land Total Per Acre (56) 330 $171,600 $171,600 $520~~

~~CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION: U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R) U.S. Senator John Comyn (R) U.S. Representative Ted Poe (D-2nd)~~

~~Trinity River NWR June 21, 2005~~

~~-:::-:-.::.':... - U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Migratory Bini Conservation Commission~~

~~-wNATIONAL w,u,u,...... o. Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge •vaTWM Liberty County, Texas~~

~~3980000' 94 ' 55' 4100000'~~

~~TRINITY RIVER NWR I ACQUISITION I- BOUNDARY I I I I~~

~~VICINITY MAP " .. SCALEINMLES 10120000'~~

~~30 ' 15'~~

~~30 ° 15 '~~

~~\ ~ -°-'~ co. LIBERTY CO .~~

~~30 °05' 30 °05'~~

~~10000000' 10000000' MBCC Approved Boundary Boundary to be Approved Approved Acquisiton Boundary Previously Acquired - Fee 29 °55' For Approval - Fee 29 °55 ' 06/21 /05 Date of MBCC Meeting~~

~~LIBERTY COUNTY - C HAMBERS C-OUNTY~~

4980000' 94 °55' 4100000' Produced in the Division of Realty Albuquerque , New Mexico 11000 22000 33000 44000 FEET Land Status Current to 05/13/05 0 Base Map: U.S.G.S. DRGs and other official information Map Projection: NAD, 1983, TX State Plane , C- Zone, U.S. Feet 0 3000 6000 9000 12000 METERS Map Date 05/13/2005

~~MEMORANDUM NUMBER 5~~

~~CAPE MAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE~~

~~CAPE MAY COUNTY, NEW JERSEY~~

~~SUMMARY~~

~~TYPE OF PROPOSAL Price Approval~~

~~LOCATION Located 30 miles southwest of Atlantic City New Jersey~~

~~PROPOSED ADDITION AND PRICE APPROVAL ACRES 19.1 (Fee) OWNERSHIPS One APPRAISED VALUE AND RECOMMENDED PRICE $12,400 PER ACRE: $649~~

~~PURPOSE OF ACQUISITION To preserve Spartina salt marsh for migratory waterfowl~~

~~STA TE APPROVAL February I 8, 2004 by Martin J. McHugh Director of Fish, Game and Wildlife~~

~~REFUGE STATUS Acres Cost Per Acre~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH MBCC APPROVAL 4,488 $ 4,969,520 $ 1,107~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH L WCF FUNDS 6,158 $ 21,088,492 $ 3,425~~

~~TRANSFER FROM COAST GUARD 491~~

~~THIS PROPOSAL 19 $ 12,400 $ 649 REMAINING TO BE ACQUIRED 8,961~~

~~TOTAL 20,117~~

~~Cape MayNWR June 21 , 2005 I CapeMayNWR Land Acquisition Status (in acres)~~

~~Transfer from Coast Guard 491 This Proposal Acquired w/ MBCC Approval 19 4,488~~

~~Remaining To Be Acquired 8,961~~

~~Acquired w/ LWCF Funds 1 6,158~~

~~Total: 20,117~~

~~CAPE MAY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE CAPE MAY COUNTY, NEW JERSEY~~

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge was originally approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission on May 9, 1989. To date, 4,488 acres have been acquired with monies from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund and an additional 6,158 acres have been acquired using the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Three years ago the Coast Guard transferred 491 acres at no cost to the Refuge. The Refuge is located in Cape May County, New Jersey, and is made up of two divisions. The Delaware Bay Division includes approximately 9,627 acres along a five-mile stretch of Delaware Bay, lands of the former Coast Guard station and adjacent lands locally known as (Two Mile Beach just north of the Cape May Canal on the Atlantic Ocean. The Great Cedar Swamp Division consists of approximately 10,490 acres that include the headwaters of two tidal rivers.

The coastal wetlands of New Jersey, especially the Delaware Bay marshes, annually winter 30 to 40 percent of the Atlantic Flyway black duck population. The black duck relies heavily on tidal and fresh water creeks within these areas because they remain ice-free during most of the winter season. This area also provides migration habitat for millions of other birds that are funneled through the Cape May peninsula during migration periods.

This unimproved 19 .1 acre tract, consists entirely of forested wetlands located along a tributary of Great Cedar Swamp Creek. Red maple and gums are the primary species cover for this tract. Tract (930) is completely surrounded by Service ownership. Acquisition of this inholding will continue to fill in the remaining small gaps in this section of the Refuge. The parcel is currently vacant.

Tract (930) is an important component of this coastal wetland complex. The primary management objective in this area of the refuge is to protect forested wetland habitat. The protection of this parcel will provide important stopover, resting and feeding areas for migratory waterfowl and other migratory bird species.

~~Price approval is requested to purchase one ownership of 19.1 acres in fee title for the recommended price of $12,400 or $650 per acre. TRACT SUMMARY~~

~~Appraised Value and Recommended Price~~

~~Tract Number Acres Land Total Per Acre (930) 19 $12,400 $ 12,400 $ 653~~

Delegation: U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg (D) U.S. Senator Jon S. Corzine (D) U.S. Representative Frank A. LoBiondo (R) (District 2) Cape MayNWR June 21, 2005 I U.S. Fish& WildlifeService Migratory Bini Conservation Commission CapeMay National Wildlife Refuge - GreatCedar Swamp Division , , .w CapeMay County , NewJersey 74 50 0 74' 45'0"W 74' 40'0"W

~~39'1 5'0"N 39'15'0"N~~

~~GreatCedar SwampDiv.~~

~~_., MBCCApproved Boundary •• Approved AcquisitionBoundary ~ PreviouslyAcquired - Fee - For Approval - Fee~~

~~6/21/2005 Dateof MBCCMeeting~~

~~i 0. ~ 39'10'0"N ~ + 39'10'0"N~~

~~74'50'0"W 74"45'0"W 74' 40'0"W Producedin the Divsion of Realty~~

~~~i~eSia~ Currentt o: 312003 Miles BaseMap Sources: USGSDLG, E SRI Data W.E Datum and Projection: UTMZone18 , NAD1983 , Meters Kilometef'S MapComp ilation Date: 5117/2005 s~~

~~MEMORANDUM NUMBER 6~~

~~CHICKASAW NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE~~

~~LAUDERDALE COUNTY, TENNESSEE~~

~~SUMMARY TYPE OF PROPOSAL Price Approval~~

~~LOCATION Lauderdale County, Tennessee about 4 miles West of Ripley, and 50 miles north of Memphis, Tennessee~~

~~ACRES 56 (Fee) OWNERSHIPS One APPRAISED VALUE & RECOMMENDED PRICE $110,000 PER ACRE: $1,964~~

~~PURPOSE OF REFUGE To preserve and protect habitat for wintering waterfowl and other migratory birds~~

~~ST A TE APPROVAL August 18, 2000 by Milton H. Hamilton Jr., Governor Sundquist's Designee~~

~~REFUGE ST A TUS~~

~~Acres Cost Per Acre~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH MBCC APPROVAL 15,299 $ 17,686,888 $ 1,156~~

~~ACQUIRED WITH L WCF FUNDS 4,202 $ 3,685,694 $ 877~~

~~ACQUIRED BY LEASE FROM STA TE 5,388~~

~~THIS PROPOSAL 56 $ 110,000 $ 1,964~~

~~REMAINING TO BE ACQUIRED 35,652~~

~~TOTAL 60,597~~

~~Chickasaw NWR June 21, 2005 I~~

~~I Chickasaw NWR Land Acquisition Status (in acres)~~

~~Acquired w/ LWCF Funds 4,202 7 Acquired by Lease from State This Proposal 5,388 56~~

~~Acquired w/ MBCC Approval 15,299~~

~~1 Remaining To Be Acquired 35,652~~

~~Total: 60,597~~

~~CHICKASAW NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE LAUDERDALE COUNTY, TENNESSEE~~

Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge was approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission on May 14, 1985. Several expansion areas have been approved thus far, the most recent in September 2000, for 31,480 acres which brought the Refuge to its current boundary of 60,597 acres. These expansion efforts will continue to complement and improve the overall diversity of this project area. To date, 19,501 have been purchased using both the Land and Water Conservation Fund and Migratory Bird Conservation Fund. Another 5,388 acres are currently under a no-cost lease from the State of Tennessee.

The proposed acquisition will preserve wintering habitat for mallards, wood ducks, pintails, widgeon, gadwall, black ducks, green-winged teal, and also provide production habitat for wood ducks to help meet the habitat protection goals set forth in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Along with other State, Federal, and non-profit partners, Chickasaw NWR stands in the heart of the West Tennessee focus area and is recognized for its natural resource values.

~~Price approval is requested to acquire 56 acres of fee title land at the appraised value and recommended price of $110,000.~~

~~TRACT SUMMARY~~

~~Appraised Value and Recommended Price~~

~~Tract Number Total Per Acre (13) 56 $110,000 $110,000 $1,964~~

~~CONGRESSIONAL: U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R) U.S. Senator Bill Frist (R) Representative John S. Tanner (D) 8th District~~

~~Chickasaw NWR June, 21 2005 I~~

~~I U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service \l~~mtory Birt! Comermtiou Co111111i" io11 Sheet I of2 3WILDLIFE Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge REFUGE SY-ST•• Lauderdale County, Tennessee 89"48'0'W 89"42'30'W~~

~~MBCC Approved Boundary Previously Acquired - Fee~~

~~Previously Acquired - Lease~~

~~For Approval - Fee~~

~~35"51 '30"N 35"51 '30''N~~

~~Missouri~~

~~Arkansas~~

~~Alabama~~

~~35"46'0''N 35"46'0''N~~

~~Produced in the Division of Realty 4 Milos Atlanta. GA Land Status Current ID: 4126105 Base Map Sourre: USGS DOQQ 1999 -- 4 Kilometers I I I~~

~~I I~~

~~I U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service \ligrutorr Bir,! Comermtio11 Ct1111111i,,io11 ~ :~!.\ Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge Sheet 2of2 ~ ...... Lauderdale County, Tennessee 89"37'30'W 89"30'0'W~~

~~35"55'0''N~~

~~35"52'30"N 35"52'30"N~~

~~Previously Acquired - Fee~~

~~Previously Acquired - Lease 35"50'0''N For Approval - Fee 35"50'0''N~~

~~Missouri~~

~~Tennesee~~

~~35"47'30"N 35"47'30"N~~

~~Alabama~~

~~Produced in the Division of Realty 4 Miles Allanta,GA Land Status Current to: 4126105 Base Map Source: USGS DOQQ 1999 -- 4 Kilometers~~

~~MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION COMMISSION~~

~~NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION FUND PROPOSALS~~

~~June 21 , 2005~~

~~CANADIAN PROPOSALS (TITLE, LOCATION): 1. Alberta Critical Wetland and Upland Habitat Alberta~~

~~2. Alberta Habitat Program Albe11a~~

~~3. Atlantic Canada Wetlands Conservation New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island~~

~~4. Conservation of Critical Wetlands and Associated Upland Habitats British Columbia~~

~~5. Conserving Migratory Bird Habitats in Coastal and British Columbia Interrnountain British Columbia~~

~~6. Great Lakes Wetland Habitat Conservation Program Ontario~~

~~7. Manitoba Prairie Parkland Program Manitoba~~

~~8. Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island New Brunswick, Wetland and Coastal Habitat Securernent Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island~~

~~9. Ontario Project Ontario~~

~~10. Potholes Plus Project Manitoba~~

~~11. Quebec - Protecting Wetland and Upland Habitat Quebec~~

~~12. Quebec I St. Lawrence Watershed Quebec~~

~~13 . Saskatchewan Habitat Program Saskatchewan~~

~~14. Western Boreal Forest Project Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Northwest Territory, Saskatchewan, Yukon Ten-itory~~

~~U.S. PROPOSALS (TITLE, LOCATION): 1. Conservation of Priority Wetland Bird Focus Areas in the Idaho, Wyoming Teton River Basin~~

~~2. San Juan Islands Washington~~

~~3. San Pablo Bay Tidal Wetland Restoration Project ll California~~

~~4. Yuma East Wetlands Restoration Project Arizona I I I~~

~~I 14 - multiple sites within six provinces (AB,BC,MB,NT,SK,YT) .::;;:) North American Wetlands Conservation Fund a:(3t D June 21, 2005 "'~, Canadian Proposals (numbers correspond to table)~~

~~;3J7 ~ • 10~~

~~NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY~~

~~June 21, 2005~~

~~Canadian Proposals (numbers correspond to map)~~

~~MAP NAWCA PARTNER NUMBER TITLE {Rank1 PROVINCE REQUEST FUNDS ACRES ALBERTA CRITICAL WETLAND AND UPLAND HABITAT (9) Alberta $220,880 $815,880 3,790~~

~~2 ALBERT A HABITAT PROGRAM (I) Alberta $3,701,015 $6,381,320 14,277~~

~~3 ATLANTIC CANADA WETLANDS CONSERVATION (6) New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, $535,500 $1,042,100 1,370 Prince Edward Island~~

~~4 CONSERVATION OF CRITICAL WETLANDS AND ASSOCIATED UPLAND HABITATS (7) British Columbia $842,959 $3,244,209 1,495~~

~~5 CONSERVING MIGRATORY BIRD HABITATS IN COASTAL AND INTERMOUNTAIN BRITISH COLUMBIA (l 1: British Columbia $674,722 $1,473,722 1,096~~

~~6 GREAT LAKES WETLAND HABITAT CONSERVATION PROGRAM ( l 0) Ontario $180,720 $342,220 265~~

~~7 MANITOBA PRAIRIE PARKLAND PROGRAM (5) Manitoba $1,650,966 $2,818,866 18,323~~

~~8 NOYA SCOTIA, NEW BRUNSWICK AND PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND WETLAND AND COASTAL HABITAT New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, $297,184 $496,934 760 SECUREMENT (14) Prince Edward Island~~

~~9 ONTARIO PROJECT (2) Ontario $ I ,021 ,700 $1 ,742,500 2,510~~

~~10 POTHOLES PLUS PROJECT (8) Manitoba $523,438 $1,985,438 5,870~~

~~II QUEBEC- PROTECTING WETLAND AND UPLAND HABITAT (13) Quebec $361 ,440 $1,355,940 2,248~~

~~12 QUEBEC / ST. LAWRENCE WATERSHED (4) Quebec $510,850 $1,139,850 1,172~~

~~13 SASKATCHEWAN HABITAT PROGRAM (3) Saskatchewan $3,701,432 $6,383,182 21 ,114~~

~~14 WESTERN BOREAL FOREST PROJECT (12) Alberta, British Columbia, $272,165 $613,525 300,000 Manitoba, Northwest Territory, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory~~

~~$14,494,971 $29,835,686 374,290~~

~~NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY ALBERT A CRITICAL WETLAND AND UPLAND HABITAT~~

LOCATION: This project focuses on Grassland and Central Parkland Ecoregions of the Canadian Prairie Pothole Region of Alberta. These landscapes form part of the current Alberta NA WMP program areas, and encompasses part of NAB CI Bird Conservation Region #11. Specifically, the project includes key grassland landscapes such as the Cypress Uplands, Milk River Ridge, and the Eastern Plains, and three major complexes of the Central Parkland, the Pine Lake Moraine, Cooking Lake Moraine and the Rumsey Block.

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S.$; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $220,880 U.S. Partners Friends of The Nature Conservancy of Canada, Inc.** 220,880 Canadian Partners Nature Conservancy of Canada 340,000 Environment Canada 212,500 Alliance Pipeline 42,500 Total $1,036,760 * Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB circular Al 22. **May include funds from other organizations.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: This program will secure, enhance and manage environmentally significant lands such as critical wetland, native grassland and parkland habitat. These habitats are in current NAWMP program delivery areas and the wetlands in these habitats provide important breeding and migration habitat for northern pintail, mallard, northern shoveler, gadwall, green-winged teal, bufflehead, American widgeon, blue-winged teal, lesser scaup, ruddy duck, redhead and canvasback. The program also provides important migration staging areas for Arctic-nesting shorebirds and crucial breeding habitat for several species of shorebirds. Other wetland-associated birds such the western grebe, eared grebe, black-crowned night heron and American white pelican will also benefit. Species at risk such as the burrowing owl and piping plover will also benefit through the incorporation of the Species at Risk Recovery Plans and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Prairie Wings Program.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: This program contributes to the goal of expanding the NA WMP vision by being part of a multi-agency NA WMP/NABCI initiative that will integrate bird conservation at a landscape scale, within the context of wetland and associated upland conservation. This program is linked to traditional NA WMP program delivery agencies such as Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Government of Alberta and is a partner with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Friends of The Nature Conservancy of Canada, Inc., of the United States, Environment Canada's Habitat Stewardship Program and with Canadian corporations and foundations. In addition, the program contributes to the Prairie Habitat Joint Venture - Prairie Pothole Region Native Grasslands Initiative. The program is also linked to other Canadian NABCI bird conservation plans, including the Canadian Shorebird Conservation Plan and the Prairie Canada Shorebird Conservation Plan; Partners in Flight Canada-Land Bird Conservation and Wings Over Water, Canada's Colonial Water Bird Plan. Species at Risk Recovery Plans for species like the Burrowing Owl and Piping Plover will also be used to guide the delivery of this program. Internationally the program is linked to The Nature Conservancy (United States) Prairie Wings Program which focuses on the conservation of grassland birds of the Western Great Plains. WORK PLAN DETAILS: Securement will involve the legal protection of acres through land purchase, conservation easements and land donation whenever possible. Land purchase will involve the securement of a total 315 acres of important wetland and upland habitat in the Central Parklands and Grassland Ecoregions. Donation of land will be pursued with landowners wishing to donate their lands to conservation organizations in return for receiving a tax credit. Conservation easements with private landowners will secure 3,475 acres of valuable bird conservation habitats. Conservation easements will be acquired through donation and payment based on a maximum of 20% of appraised land value. Enhancement activities will include fencing, restoration, site clean-up and other activities that will improve habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. It will involve working with private landowners and PHN partners on newly conserved projects. Activities such as forage enhancement and conversion, wetland development and enhancement and conversion of cropland to permanent cover will be done in cooperation with PHN partners. Enhancement activities will occur on 600 acres of new conservation projects. Management activities will be implemented on 29,000 acres of existing NA WCA projects and will consist of the development of individual project management plans, grazing management plans, project monitoring, property taxes and maintaining landowner contact. Project management plans for purchased, donated and private land will address various land use activities including access, oil and gas activities, upland, riparian and wetland management, habitat enhancement activities and permitted recreational activities. Support activities will consist of reconnaissance and design and coordination.

PUBLIC ACCESS: All purchased properties are open to the public but restricted to foot access only. Access to all private lands under conservation easement agreements is under the discretion of the landowner. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY ALBERT A HABITAT PROGRAM

LOCATION: Aspen Parkland, Prairie, and Peace Parkland Key Program Areas (KPA) in Alberta, and the Peace Parkland KP A in northeastern British Columbia (BCR.s l l and 6) and important large marshes throughout Alberta.

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $3,701,015 U.S. Partners Ducks Unlimited Inc.** 3,701,015 Canadian Partners*** Ducks Unlimited Canada 68,000 Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service 605,200 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada 773,500 Alberta Sustainable Resource Development 385,050 Alberta Conservation Association 90,950 Alberta Agriculture, Food & Rural Development 396,355 Other Canadian Contributors 361,250 Total $10,082,335 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular Al 22 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited Inc. •••A total of $1,009,800 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $1,670,505.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: The Alberta Habitat Program will achieve the greatest possible benefit for breeding waterfowl and other wetland-dependent species with available resources. Securement acti vities will accomplish this by remaining focused on the highest waterfowl breeding pair density areas and targeting the most critical, least costly land parcels within those areas. Critical lands are those of extremely high ecological value due to their native and wetland-dominant character and are also those at highest risk of loss in the absence of securement measures. Recently developed DUC habitat models will further refine targeting of securement actions and allow population-based predictions of resulting waterfowl benefits. Alberta NAWMP partners have determined the overlap between waterfowl priority areas and those for other bird groups. During 2005, planning models will be developed that allow DUC biologists to predict the benefits of the waterfowl habitat programs to these other bird groups.

A range of Extension and Government Relations activities will compliment habitat securement efforts. Extension outcomes are consistently aimed at retention of wetlands and native uplands, restoring wetlands and increasing annual or perennial nesting cover. These are most efficiently and cost-effectively achieved through influencing existing groups with overlapping interests. Outcomes often precipitate securement options. Examples include: Watershed Planning, Alberta Woodlot program, Winter Cereals core grower program, Environmental Farm Planning, and federal agriculture's Greencover program. Government Relations efforts are those aimed at the same outcomes but tend to be more preliminary. A promising development is the increasing acceptance of habitat and biodiversity within agriculture's mandate. Other new opportunities include effort to improve protection and management of Crown Lands and enhancing municipal environmental planning processes. CONTEXT OF TIDS PROPOSAL: This proposal is the second NAWCA funding request for fiscal year 2005/06 for NAWMP activities by DUC in Alberta and northeastern B.C. DUC has received NAWCA funding for the Alberta/BC NAWMP every year since 1991 and has delivered this program under the PHN. The program is ongoing and fulfils the actions outlined in the Alberta NAWMP lmplementation Plan. DUC is committed to supporting and strengthening the Alberta NAWMP partnership, and will expand this partnership as its needs and potential benefits are identified. DUC coordinates the NAWMP in Alberta.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Acquisition through fee title purchase and land donation of private land of approximately 679 acres (218 wetland and 461 upland). Securement of paid and donated conservation easements, management agreements, conservation agreements, leases and Crown agreements to protect a total of approximately 13,598 acres (10,920 wetland and 2,678 upland). Enhancements, including wetland restoration, nesting structures, water control structures, seeding cropland to perennial cover, winter wheat seed, fencing, signage, grazing system improvements, of approximately 13,282 acres of previously secured habitat (10,894 wetland and 2,388 upland). Management, including nesting structure maintenance, water control operation and maintenance, weed control, fence and sign maintenance, annual project inspection and land taxes, on approximately 1,368,889 acres (previously secured). Stewardship activities will relate to the Ducks and Trees Program, watershed planning, winter wheat promotion, environmental farm plans, trumpeter swan stewardship program and managed grazing systems. Other Functions include coordination, plus regional communications, evaluation and government relations, which not funded by NAWCA .

PUBLIC ACCESS: Lands purchased with NA WCA funds are open to the public, subject to regulations to protect the ecological integrity of the site. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY ATLANTIC CANADA WETLANDS CONSERVATION

~~LOCATION: Elements of both coastal and inland key program areas in the Provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Locations are found within BCR 14.~~

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $535,500 U.S. Partners Ducks Unlimited Inc.** 510,000 Lafarge North America 25,500 Canadian Partners*** Canadian Wildlife Service 128,350 Wildlife Habitat Canada 47,600 NB Dept. of Natural Resources 29,750 NB Dept. of Environment& Local Government 29,750 NB Dept. of Agriculture, Fisheries & Aquaculture 34,850 Nature Trust of New Brunswick 10,200 PEI Dept. of Environment, Energy and Forestry 96,050 PEI Dept. of Transportation and Public Works 10,200 NS Dept. of Natural Resources 34,850 NS Dept. of Agriculture and Fisheries 38,250 Private Land-owners 46,750 Total $1,577,600 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular Al 22 . ..May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited Inc . ... A total of $55,250 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $451,350.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Critical breeding, staging and wintering habitat for American black duck, mallards, ring-necked duck, green-winged teal, American wigeon, northern pintail, Canada goose, common eider, colonial birds, shorebirds and other wetland associated species in Atlantic Canada will be secured and enhanced.

Wetlands secured through this proposal will provide important habitat for provincially rare or uncommon species such as the yellow rail, black tern, marsh wren, Wilson's phalarope, greater scaup and the endangered Maritime ringlet butterfly. Wetland and associated upland habitats within the agricultural landscape will be secured, enhanced and protected through the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. New partnerships with agriculture will be formed through the implementation of the Agricultural Policy Framework (APF) as the agricultural community strives to meet environmental and industry objectives. The benefits arising from this proposal will contribute to achieving the goals established under the 1998 NAWMP Update as well as being supportive of integrated bird conservation.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: This proposal draws upon the expertise of federal, provincial and non-government wildlife and land managers and scientists, and will contribute to achieving the goals established for the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NA WMP). The activities in this proposal also fundamentally embrace the visions of the Canadian Shorebird Conservation Plan, Atlantic Canada Shorebird Conservation Plan, North American Waterbird Conservation Plan, Wings Over Water - Canada's Conservation Plan for Seabirds and Colonial Waterbirds, Partners in Flight Bird Conservation Plan (Physiographic Area Plan #28), North American Bird Conservation Initiative (Bird Conservation Region# 14) and the Canadian Biodiversity Strategy. The goals of this proposal are also closely linked with those of the Black Duck Joint Venture, Sea Duck Joint Venture and the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture. New partnerships were created that will strengthen the delivery of habitat conservation projects. For example, Agricultural partnerships will be fostered through the delivery of the Agricultural Policy Framework (APF) to address biodiversity issues on farm. A new partnership with Lafarge North America will also strengthen the delivery of Beneficial Management Practices projects in central Nova Scotia.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: An estimated 1,370 acres in wetlands (858 acres) and associated upland habitats (512 acres) will be secured through fee simple acquisition, donations and conservation agreements in the agricultural and coastal landscape. Enhancement activities on approximately 1,353 acres (l,226 wetland acres and 127 upland acres) will include water level improvement on existing impoundments, agricultural landscape wetland and riparian enhancement, beaver pond enhancement, vegetation management, and wetland and coastal restoration. Ongoing management activities will be carried out on 57,890 acres of existing projects. Stewardship activities will forge new partnerships and address issues of wetland and associated upland habitat conservation within the agricultural and coastal landscape. Coordination activities include administration, planning, communications, program development and implementation and tracking. Scientific evaluation and policy activities will be implemented. None of these activities use NAWCA funds.

PUBLIC ACCESS: All Crown lands and any lands purchased open to the public subject to regulations to protect the ecological integrity of the area. Access to private land is by arrangement with the owner. Public access by foot is encouraged on lands held under title by DUC. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY CONSERVATION OF CRITICAL WETLANDS AND ASSOCIATED UPLAND HABIT ATS, BRITISH COLUMBIA

~~LOCATION: High priority wetlands and associated uplands BCR 5, 9 & 10.~~

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $842,959 U.S. Partners Ducks Unlimited Inc. ** 842,959 Canadian Partners*** Ducks Unlimited Canada 216,750 Canadian Wildlife Service 807,500 Fisheries and Oceans Canada l 70,000 Other Canadian Federal 170,000 BC Min Water, Land, Air 297,500 BC Habitat Conservation Trust 127,500 Other Provincial Government 102,000 Municipal Governments l 70,000 Other Non-governments 340,000 Total $4,087,168 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular Al 22 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited Inc . ... A total of $896,750 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $1,504,500.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: The Pacific Flyway population of waterfowl in BC will benefit from the diversified program employed by conservation partners in the Pacific Coast Joint Venture (PCN) and the Canadian Intermountain Joint Venture (CIN). Between the coastal and intennountain areas, over 10 million waterfowl migrate through and utilize the habitats found within these regions, in addition to the over 1 million wintering waterfowl and another 1.5 million breeding waterfowl. High priority species that will benefit from the habitat program include trumpeter swans, lesser snow geese, brant, mallard, northern pintail, green-winged and blue-winged teal, American wigeon and many seaducks such as scoters (surf, black and white-winged), harlequin duck, Barrow's and common goldeneye. Continentally important populations of migrating western sandpipers and dunlin as well as significant breeding populations of Wilson's snipe, greater yellowlegs and American avocet will utilize those habitats secured by conservation partners. Whether it is the salmon using the estuaries along the coast or the lakes in the intermountain region, mammals small and large or the hundreds of thousands of passerines and other wetland associated organisms, the conservation program will provide a diversity of direct benefits to wildlife. Key socioeconomic benefits to people will also be provided by the PCN and CIN conservation program and include stabilizing water flows, providing recreational and education opportunities, erosion control and sediment retention. These ecological goods and services will become valued at a higher level each year as land use changes continue to occur on the landscape.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: For over 12 years, partners within the PCN and CIN have secured over 164,277 acres that protects wintering, breeding and migrating habitats in BC as well as supplements the activities of the surrounding Joint Ventures. This proposal will complement a second proposal in this funding window that will be submitted to the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) by The Nature Conservancy of Canada. Activities will continue be focused on target areas within the regions that have the largest benefits to waterfowl and other wetland associated species. Landscape delivery through partnership will remain a cornerstone of conservation programs. The majority of resources will be securing habitat using a diverse set of tools with the remaining funding allocated to enhancement and management. A total of 1,495 acres will be secured in both regions, while 653 acres will be improved.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Acquisition of 143 acres (63 wetland and 80 upland) through fee simple purchase of crown or private lands or through land donations. Securement of 1,352 acres ( 442 wetland, 910 upland) through conservation agreement, conservation covenant (easement), On-Farm Planning, Crown designations, Crown land transfer and donated easements. Enhancement of 653 acres (181 wetland, 472 upland), including habitat improvements, water level improvements, restoration of native cover and intertidal habitats, and stream flow management. Management of 164,277 acres secured in this and/or a previous project, including vegetation cutting, grazing/haying, and water level manipulation. Stewardship activities including planting of winter cover crops and development of riparian buffers. Evaluation, communication, policy development, and coordination activities are not funded by NAWCA.

PUBLIC ACCESS: Public access will be provided on Crown lands. On private lands, educational opportunities and foot access will be provided subject to regulations to protect the ecological integrity. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY CONSERVING MIGRATORY BIRD HABITATS IN COASTAL AND INTERMOUNTAIN BRITISH COLUMBIA

LOCATION: The Canadian Intermountain Joint Venture (CIN) and the Pacific Coast Joint Venture (PCN) within British Columbia and western Alberta. The Canadian portion of the CIN includes the Canadian portions of BCR's 9 and 10, and the PCN's borders are consistent with BCR 5.

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $674,722 U.S. Partners Friends of The Nature Conservancy of Canada** 674,722 Canadian Partners Nature Conservancy of Canada** 382,500 Tula Foundation 382,500 Provincial Government 17,000 Federal Government 17,000 Total $2,148,444 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB circular A 122. **May contain contributions from other agencies.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: NCC's conservation mission under this proposal is the long term protection of wetlands and associated uplands habitat for waterfowl and wetland-associated birds such as trumpeter swan, harlequin duck, Barrow's goldeneye, common goldeneye, bufflehead, red-necked grebe, American bittern, surf scoter, black scoter, white-winged scoter, greater scaup, and long-billed curlew. The proposal will also benefit other seabirds and shorebirds such as pigeon guillemot, black oystercatcher, rhinoceros auklet, marbled murrelet, mew gull, and Thayer's gull. Endangered migratory birds such as bobolink, yellow-breasted chat, sandhill crane, flammulated owl, purple martin, Lewis' woodpecker, and white throated swift will also benefit from habitat protection under proposal. Associated benefits include the support of many other bird, mammal, reptilian, fish, invertebrate, plant and vegetative communities. Additional benefits that will result from this proposal include flood abatement, water purification, erosion control, groundwater protection, enhanced opportunities for fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing, cleaner air, the recharge of ground water, increased research opportunities, ecotourism, and public awareness and education.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: Approximately 24% of the world's remaining wetland habitats lie within Canadian borders, but more than 70% of the wetlands that are near major Canadian cities and towns have been lost. Uplands bordering these life-sustaining wetlands are also under ever-increasing threat from human development, habitat fragmentation, pollution, and inappropriate management regimes. Although British Columbia's estuaries make up less than 3% of the entire province, they are used by 80% of all coastal migratory waterfowl as well as other migratory species. Within this context NCC and its conservation partners in the CIN and the PCN are aware of the urgent need to conserve remaining waterfowl habitat. Canada's Species at Risk Act (SARA) and related provincial regulations will provide good government partnerships for the activities under this proposal. The requirements and ensuing partnerships resulting from this legislation will help to positively impact habitats for endangered migratory bird species within BC, and thereby, on an international scale. This proposal will provide the necessary continuity for NCC to maintain its program of permanently conserving the necessary habitats to halt and reverse the pattern of loss. WORK PLAN DETAILS: Approximately 686 acres (136 acres of wetlands and 550 acres of associated upland habitat) will be acquired through land donations, fee simple purchases, and Crown land transfers. An estimated 410 acres (80 acres of wetlands and 330 acres of uplands) will be secured through conservation covenant (easement) donations and purchases, purchased long-term leases, Crown agreements, and habitat management agreements. In partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada and other N partners, local wetland conservation groups, and partner corporate and government agencies, enhancement activities will be implemented on 216 acres (28 wetland, 188 upland), including stream-flow maintenance and improvement, seeding cultivation and irrigation, enhancement of food supplies for wintering and migrating waterfowl, and improvements to soil organic. Management on approximately 2,220 acres previously secured will include design of appropriate site management plans in collaboration with local and provincial partners, restoration of native vegetation, livestock fencing away from sensitive wetlands and riparian habitats, reduction of livestock grazing intensity as required for wetland and adjacent upland conservation, improvement of organic nutrient soil organics, aimed at benefiting the quality and quantity of waterfowl migration and foraging habitats. Other activities include coordination through Joint Venture Program, planning and evaluation, reconnaissance and design ( conservation planning) to support prioritization of project sites under this and future proposals, communications to promote wetland conservation awareness and future partnerships, and a continued strategic governments relations program designed to enhance partnerships on NABCI, NAWCA and IBA target habitats. No NAWCA funds are used for communications, government relations or evaluation work.

PUBLIC ACCESS: Lands purchased with NAWCA funds are open to the public, subject to regulations to protect the fragile and/or endangered ecological integrity of each site. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY GREAT LAKES WETLAND HABITAT CONSERVATION PROGRAM

LOCATION: The Great Lakes Wetland Habitat Conservation Program will be implemented within 3 landscapes within the Great Lakes St. Lawrence (GLSL) Key Program Area of the Ontario EHN Implementation Plan, specifically the north shore of Lake Erie, the Bruce Peninsula and Manitoulin Island (BCR 13) and Rainy Lake/Lake of the Woods area of north-western Ontario (BCR 12).

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $180,720 Friends of the Nature Conservancy of Canada Inc.** 180,720 Canadian Partners Nature Conservancy of Canada** 34,000 Province of Ontario (Ministry of Natural Resources) 85,000 Government of Canada (Canadian Wildlife Service) 42,500 Total $522,940 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB circular Al22. **May include funds from other organizations.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: As a key partner in the implementation of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) and North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI), NCC protects ecologically sensitive lands including those Great Lakes St. Lawrence Key Program Area (KP A) wetland and associated upland habitats important for wetland-associated migratory bird conservation at a landscape and single site level. By securing, enhancing and managing critical habitat, breeding and migration habitat is protected for waterfowl, shorebirds, colonial water birds and wetland-associated land birds, as well as other endemic fauna and flora.

In addition to waterfowl benefits, NCC habitat securement projects will benefit other bird species, with an emphasis on at risk species (vulnerable, threatened and endangered species), such as bald eagle, black crowned night-heron, canvasback, black tern, piping plover and red-shouldered hawk. Additional benefi ts of this proposal will include improved water quality, sustainable agricultural practices, and biodiversity conservation. The primary goal of this proposal is to benefit wetland habitat and associated uplands with identified integrated bird values. Implementation of the proposal will provide increased waterfowl production leading to greater potential for recreational hunting of a broad group of migratory birds and for increased wildlife viewing opportunities. Habitat protection for at risk species will be increased.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: This proposal continues to emphasize the securement and enhancement of key, unique and threatened habitats in the context of continental waterfowl population recovery. Through direct acquisition and restoration the Great Lakes Wetland Habitat Conservation Program will protect key wetlands within the Great Lakes St. Lawrence key priority area of the EHN. NCC will implement wetland restoration and enhancement on properties currently owned by NCC, or properties acquired through this proposal. Wetland restoration will be implemented directly by NCC, in consultation with EHN partners. Due to overlapping migration corridors and common goals, this proposal will complement initiatives of several other Joint Ventures. WORK PLAN DETAILS: This proposal will secure a total of 265 acres of critical wetland and associated upland habitat through fee simple purchase. A total of 25 acres of wetland and associated upland habitat will be created or enhanced through this proposal. Enhancement will focus on wetland creation and/or restoration activities that restore lost and degraded wetland functions. Invasive species removal and select plantings of native species will be conducted in existing wetland habitats. Management plans will be developed for all properties secured under this proposal. NCC will assist in the development and review of such plans, and where appropriate, will assist with the implementation of management/ enhancement activities primarily through the use of volunteers. Management planning will review historic vegetation communities and assess the feasibility of restoration of habitat to these historic conditions. Management activities will be undertaken on lands secured under this as well as previous proposals. Other Functions will include reconnaissance and design, communications and education, coordination and government relations. Communications/education and government relation activities will not use NA WCA funds.

~~LOCATION: The southern Manitoba Key Program Area (BCR 11) and key large marshes throughout Manitoba including the Saskatchewan River Delta.~~

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $1,650,966 U.S. Partners Ducks Unlimited Inc.** 1,650,966 Canadian Partners*** Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation 11,900 Ducks Unlimited Canada 34,000 Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service 357,000 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada 365,500 Government of Manitoba 255,000 Other Canadian Contributors 144,500 Total $4,469,832 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular Al22 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited Inc . ... A total of $190,400 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $977,500.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Upland and wetland habitat will be secured, enhanced and managed to provide benefits at different life cycle stages for at least 16 species of ducks and many other migratory and resident birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles. This includes important staging and moulting marshes, such as the Saskatchewan River Delta, that provide migration and breeding habitat for waterfowl and for other wildlife as well. To address the loss of important wetlands, native grasslands and forested areas securement techniques including fee simple purchases, conservation easements, leases, management agreements, and land use exchanges will be implemented. Through extension programs, agricultural producers will be encouraged to adopt more wildlife-friendly farming practices, which will slow habitat degradation and provide alternative habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife. Featured in this proposal is the work being done in the Saskatchewan River Delta marshes, North America's largest inland delta. Our landscape approach to habitat conservation and watershed planning will ensure a broad base of support from the agriculture- and resource-based communities, and the general public. The ecosystem goods and services provided will ensure a diverse, vibrant landscape, improve surface and drinking water quality, and reduce soil erosion.

CONTEXT OF TIDS PROPOSAL: This proposal is the second NAWCA funding request for fiscal year 2005/06 for NAWMP activities by DUC in Manitoba. DUC in Manitoba has received NAWCA funding for the NA WMP every year since 1991 . This is the major habitat delivery program for the Prairie Habitat Joint Venture (PHJV) in Manitoba, and as such, it is key to the accomplishment of overall PHN goals and objectives as directed by the NA WMP Updates and the PHN. Habitat programs and activities will be developed around the four goals established by DUC to achieve its vision for the Prairie Pothole Region. These are: 1) no loss of wetlands; 2) restoration of wetland complexes; 3) no loss of native or naturalized cover and; 4) increased perennial cover in areas of high wetland densities and increased annual cover suitable for nesting waterfowl. Activities are ongoing, guided by the Manitoba NAWMP Implementation Plan. DUC works cooperatively with the Delta Waterfowl Foundation and the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the other recipients of NA WCA funding in Manitoba, to deliver a coordinated NAWMP program in priority landscapes in Manitoba. DUC is also extensively involved in the planning stages of the shorebird, waterbird and landbird plans in the PHN.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Acquisition, through fee title purchase and donation of private land, of approximately 383 acres (96 wetland and 287 upland). Securement of paid and donated conservation easements, management agreements, conservation agreements, leases and Crown agreements to protect a total of approximately 17,940 acres (8,985 wetland and 8,955 upland). Enhancements, including wetland restoration, nesting structures, water control structures, seeding cropland to perennial cover, winter wheat seed, fencing, signage, grazing system improvements, of approximately 10,325 acres of previously secured habitat (2,263 wetland and 8,062 upland). Management, including nesting structure maintenance, water control operation and maintenance, weed control, fence and sign maintenance, annual project inspection and land taxes, on approximately 946,300 acres (previously secured). Stewardship activities will relate to the Rangeland Stewardship Program; Farm Agribusiness & Resource Management Program; First Nations Land Management Program; winter cereals promotion; forage establishment and management and Saskatchewan Birding Trail Program. Other Functions include coordination, regional communications, evaluation, and government relations, activities that are not funded by NA WCA.

PUBLIC ACCESS: Public access by foot is encouraged on lands held under title by DUC. Access to private land under lease, conservation easement or management agreement remains under control of the landowner. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY NOVA SCOTIA, NEW BRUNSWICK, AND PRINCE EDWARDS ISLAND WETLAND AND COAST AL HABITAT SECUREMENT PROJECT

LOCATION: This proposal focuses on securing and managing priority wetland and associated upland habitat at selected sites in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island (the Maritime provinces), with emphasis on the Northumberland Strait, and the Bay of Fundy.

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request• $297,184 Friends of The Nature Conservancy of Canada, Inc. (FNCc)*• 297,184 Canadian Partners Government Canada - Environment Canada (CWS) 12,750 Government of NS 12,750 Government of NB 12,750 Government of PEI 12,750 The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC)••• 148,750 Total $794,118 • Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB circular Al 22 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through FNCC . ... A total of$148,750 was committed from Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $51,000. •••May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: The proposed acquisition and management of wetland and associated upland habitats, including coastal and island habitat, along the Northumberland Strait, the Bay of Fundy and other Maritime coastal priority areas, will benefit waterfowl such as American black duck and common eider, and other wetland dependant bird species including piping plover and great blue heron by maintaining their habitat in perpetuity. There is an increasing level of development and recreational use in these coastal areas and land securement through acquisition of private properties will prohibit further habitat degradation. A landscape approach will ensure securement of habitat (especially extensive salt marshes, estuaries and freshwater wetlands) that is essential for wintering, molting, breeding, and staging for many bird species, including tens of thousands of waterfowl such as Canada geese and American black ducks. The target areas in the Maritimes contain numerous at risk species, including avifauna, rare flora and marine wildlife species that will directly benefit from habitat conservation. This proposal will have social impacts such as the promotion of sustainable land use activities, and scientific opportunities will be encouraged. This proposal will significantly contribute to achieving goals established for the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) . While focused on wetlands, it will also contribute to integrated bird con~ervation through the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI) particularly for the goals under the Atlantic Canada Shorebird Conservation Plan.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: This inter-provincial proposal emphasizes the securement and management of coastal habitats that are critical to maintaining and ,increasing waterfowl populations and other wetland dependant wildlife. The areas of focus are recognized as biologically significant by the EHN partners in all three provinces, by the three provincial governments and by national and international agencies. The Bay of Fundy contains four Ramsar Sites, a Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve site and 11 Important Bird Areas (IBAs). The Northumberland Strait contains nine IBAs. The other proposed project areas also contain sites recognized for their importance to avifauna. Prince Edward Island's North Shore has a wetland of international importance and Nova Scotia's Coastal Plain and Eastern Shore have eight IBAs and a Ramsar site. All of these areas have protected areas and this proposal will build on these established areas. NCC has helped protect in excess of 10,500 acres of wetland and coastal habitat and 3,500 acres of island habitat in the Maritimes, both individually and in concert with EHN partners. Ducks Unlimited Canada, Wildlife Habitat Canada, Environment Canada and the local provincial governments also have conservation lands in these areas.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Seven hundred sixty acres of wetland and associated upland habitats, including coastal and island habitats, over three provinces will be secured through fee simple acquisition. Management includes all costs and activities aimed at maintaining the inventory of habitat secured under the NA WMP. Management plans will also be developed for all properties secured under this proposal. Support activities will include reconnaissance and design, communications, and coordination. Communications activities will be continued that promote NA WCA and NABCI activities and raise awareness of the needs and opportunities for waterfowl, wetland and other wildlife conservation. No NA WCA funds will be used for communications activities.

LOCATION: This proposal will focus on the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence (GLSL) Key Program Area (KPA), an area synonymous with Bird Conservation Regions (BCR) 12 and 13. Secondary areas of interest are the Claybelt and Boreal Forest KP A (BCR 8) and Hudson Bay Lowland KP A (BCR 7). GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $1,021,700 U.S. Partners Ducks Unlimited Inc.** 1,021 ,700 Canadian Partners*** Canadian Wildlife Service 182,750 Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources 538,050 Total $2,764,200 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular Al 22 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited Inc. ••• A total of $317,050 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $403,750.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Continental waterfowl populations will be the principal beneficiary of the habitat securement and enhancement activities contained in this proposal. The habitat outcomes will also improve overall ecological health and biodiversity, enhance hydrological systems in watersheds, and encourage landowners and land managers to enact conservation activities. Ontario waterfowl populations that use the Atlantic and Mississippi Flyways will benefit from enhanced availability of quality breeding habitat. Waterfowl migrating to and from other continental breeding areas will benefit from increased security of critical staging habitat. Populations of numerous species of wetland associated water birds, shorebirds and land birds, as well as other fish and wildlife, including species at risk, will utilize habitats secured and enhanced under this proposal. The activities proposed under the Ontario Project will enhance numerous other wetland functional roles, including ecosystem health, source water protection, water conservation, and water quantity management. Human communities are also the beneficiaries of properly functioning wetland landscapes, and extension and management activities directed towards agricultural, forested, and urban settings will foster an environmental ethic and encourage uptake of wetland conservation activities that will compound the positive impacts of this proposal.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: This proposal will implement strategic habitat conservation programs in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence KP A, where historic NAWCA contributions in Ontario have been principally focused and where North American Waterfowl Management Plan and DUC wetland conservation priorities are highest. Activities in agricultural, Great Lakes coastal and mixed hardwood forested landscapes will continue to focus on enhancing the life cycle needs of continental waterfowl populations. Funding of this project will secure wetland and upland acres through acquisitions, easements and donated conservation agreements. The project will also involve restoration and enhancement of wetland and adjacent upland habitat. The management of existing NAWMP projects in the GLSL and Claybelt (CLAY) Key Program Area will also be covered. Additional activities such as land stewardship, communication and monitoring will enable the achievement of conservation objectives. DUC will use this proposal to engage its partners in biologically-based landscape conservation in order to achieve stated EHN goals. Proposal activities will also complement initiatives of the Black Duck, Arctic Goose, Atlantic Coast and Prairie Habitat Joint Ventures, the Western Boreal Program, the bi national program for Lakes Erie, Ontario and Superior Lake-wide Management Plans (LaMPs), Partners in Flight (PIF), Ontario Shorebird Conservation Plan, Waterbird planning in the Upper Mississippi/great Lakes region, and the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, as well as ongoing BCR planning under the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI).

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Acquisition through fee title purchase (title holder: DUC, Provincial or Federal Crown, other Conservation Agency) of approximately 205 acres (120 wetland and 85 upland). Securement of paid and donated conservation easements with private landowners to protect approximately 2,305 acres (1,995 wetland and 310 upland). Enhancements, including wetland restoration, nesting structures, water control structures, seeding cropland to perennial cover, winter wheat seed, fencing, signage, grazing system improvements, of approximately 1,300 acres of previously secured habitat (970 wetland and 330 upland). Management, including nesting structure maintenance, water control operation and maintenance, weed control, fence and sign maintenance, annual project inspection and land taxes, on approximately 410,370 acres (previously secured). Stewardship activities will relate to demonstration wetlands, providing technical expertise, and promoting beneficial management practices to private landowners and land managers. Other Functions include coordination, plus regional communication and education, activities which not funded by NAWCA.

PUBLIC ACCESS: All purchased properties will be open to public access in accordance with approved management plans. Access to all private lands under agreement or easement will be at the discretion of the landowner. Foot access to DUC owned properties by the public is encouraged. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY POTHOLES PLUS PROJECT

~~LOCATION: This project is active in the NAWMP target area of southwestern Manitoba as well as other priority NAWMP landscapes of the Prairie Habitat Joint Venture.~~

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Delta Waterfowl Foundation (DWF).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $523,438 U.S. Partners Delta Waterfowl Foundation** 523,438 Canadian Partners*** Manitoba Habitat Heritage 93,500 Environment Canada 127,500 Environment Canada Habitat Stewardship 255,000 Other Canadian Contributions 986,000 Total $2,508,876 • Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB circular A 122 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through DWF. ••• A total of $476,000 was committed from Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $986,000.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Potholes Plus emphasizes long-term securement of wetland and associated habitats that support NAWMP Joint Venture priorities and directly benefit at least 16 species of waterfowl. The objectives of other bird conservation pillars are also supported by the mix of secured habitats, which are used by over 200 species of waterbirds, shorebirds and landbirds during nesting and/or migration. That list includes grebes, rails, shorebirds, birds of prey, gulls, terns, grouse, doves, woodpeckers, and scores of passerine species including declining grassland birds. Overall, Potholes Plus conservation activities provide landscape-level conservation benefits to soil, water, fish and wildlife.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: DWF has been delivering a unique suite of habitat programs through NAWCA proposals since 1992. DWF originally secured habitat with long-term leases. In 1998 its proposal was based on a new partnership with The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC) and focused on delivery of perpetual conservation easements (CEs), which had just become available in Manitoba. Since then, NAWCA funds have directly secured 102 perpetual CEs for 14,626 acres of wetland and associated habitats in NAWMP priority landscapes (to December 1/04). NAWCA funding from 2003-3 and 2005-1 proposals will add another 8,850 CE acres (23,196 acres total). The CEs contribute to core objectives of the NAWMP partnership in the Prairie Habitat Joint Venture (PHN). As well, DWF's 11 directed studies have added new information that has helped NAWMP partners to make adjustments to program activities. Potholes Plus and other Manitoba NAWMP partners collaborate to ensure complementary program delivery in the NAWMP target area.

Since 2001 , Canadian funding from the Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk has also allowed Potholes Plus partners to secure riparian and grassland CEs in the NAWMP target areas. MHHC has delivered 72 Canadian-funded CEs, totaling 13,370 acres, for habitats for species at risk (to Dec. l/04). An additional 4,045 acres of habitat lands or CEs have been donated to MHHC. Potholes Plus partners have consistently met or exceeded objectives outlined in previous proposals. This proposal will add 1,760 wetland acres and 4,110 upland acres (5,870 acres total) secured by CEs in the NAWMP target area. As well, 200 new waterfowl nest tunnels will be established. A new activity will be to develop linkages between Potholes Plus activities and an emerging environmental farm planning process that will be delivered by other partners. Partners will manage 200 acres of existing project sites and directed studies will add to the science base that supports NAWMP programs.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Priority habitats will be secured with 5,870 acres of perpetual conservation easements. A total of 200 new waterfowl nesting tunnels will be placed in wetlands protected by CEs. One structure can enhance nesting on approximately one acre of wetland. Management of approximately 28,200 acres of previously secured lands will include site inventory and monitoring, nest structure maintenance, agreement administration, and landowner liaison. Other functions include communications, coordination, common activities that support program delivery and evaluation activities that assess NAWMP delivery options and the development of programs and policies that lead to conservation and enhancement of wetland and associated habitats. No NAWCA funds will be used for evaluation activities.

PUBLIC ACCESS: Lands purchased with NA WCA funds are open to the public, subject to regulations to protect ecological integrity of the site. CE lands remain the property of private landowners. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY QUEBEC-PROTECTING WETLAND AND UPLAND HABITAT

LOCATION: Within the St. Lawrence Valley region of Quebec's Eastern Habitat Joint Venture and the Northern Appalachian Ecoregion. The focal landscapes include the St. Lawrence River, the Saint Lawrence Valley, the Quebec Appalachian Range and the Gaspe Peninsula. These landscapes are also part of NABCI Bird Conservation Region 13, Lower Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Plain, and BCR 14, the Atlantic Northern Forest.

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S. $; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $36 1,440 U.S. Partners** Friends of The Nature Conservancy of Canada, Inc. 361,440 Canadian Partners Government of Quebec 403,750 Environment Canada 144,500 The Nature Conservancy of Canada 446,250 Total $1,717,380 *Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB circular Al22. **May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through FNCC.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Quebec's 'Protecting Wetland and Upland Habitat' proposal will adhere to the mandate of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the North American Bird Conservation Initiative, as well as the objectives set by the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture. Activities will complement existing designated Important Bird Areas, World Biosphere Reserves and National Migratory Bird Sanctuaries. Securement, enhancement and management activities will ensure the preservation of significant wetland and associated upland breeding and migratory habitat for BCR 13 and 14 priority species such as the American black duck, yellow rail, red-shouldered hawk, Bicknell's thrush and the eastern loggerhead shrike. Other wetland-associated species at risk to be protected through this proposal include the nationally threatened spiny soft-shell turtle, the Blanding's turtle and the spring salamander, a national species of special concern.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: The program will build upon NCC Quebec's Critical Wetland and Upland Habitat 2004-3 NA WCA proposal with the same target landscapes. All activities described in thi s proposal will ensure the continued protection of wetland and associated upland habitat within the St. Lawrence Valley as well as encompassing work in the Northern Appalachian Ecoregion. All landscapes encompass integrated bird conservation planning, within the context of wetland conservation, thus expanding partnerships with Canadian and US government and non-government conservation partners including the Appalachian Corridor Appalachien, the Gaspe Ornithology Club, Arnold Fish and Game Preserve and the Quebec Ministry of the Environment. The activities under this proposal will be complementary to the activities of the EHN and other program partners, to ensure the effective use of conservation dollars.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: This proposal will involve the protection of2248 acres comprising 748 wetland acres and 1500 associated upland acres. Securement goals will be attained through 1280 acres of land purchase and 968 acres of purchased easements. Enhancement activities will address 200 acres, and will include fencing, habitat (wetland) restoration and site clean-up as they relate to the improvement of the habitat for migratory species, at risk species and other species of concern. Management activities will address the entire 2248 acres and consist of the development and implementation of a management plan for individual projects protected. The management plans will adhere to The Nature Conservancy of Canada's management and stewardship policies and standards, designed to maintain the conservation values of the protected properties. Support activities will include coordination on all levels. In addition, communications activities related to the promotion of the projects will be undertaken. No NA WCA funds will be used for communications.

PUBLIC ACCESS: All purchased properties are open to the public but subject to regulations to protect the ecological integrity of the site. Access to lands under agreements will be at the discretion of the landowner. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY QUEBEC/ ST. LA WREN CE WATERSHED

LOCATION: This proposal focuses on the conservation of wetlands and adjacent uplands located in the Saint-Lawrence watershed and identified as bird conservation regions BCR 13 (St-Lawrence lowlands) and BCR 14 (Appalachians).

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S.$; Exchange Rate = 0.85)~~

Grant Request* $510,850 U.S. Partners Ducks Unlimited Inc.** 510,850 Canadian Partners*** Quebec Wildlife and Parks 170,000 Canadian Wildlife Service 344,250 Wildlife Habitat Canada 34,000 Quebec Wildlife Foundation 80,750 Total $1,650,700 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular Al 22 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited Inc . ... A total of $255,000 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $374,000.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Natural habitats, particularly wetlands, remain threatened in the Saint Lawrence lowlands, where most of the Quebec population lives. This landscape remains our main area of concern because unique and irreplaceable wetlands are threatened and may be lost without direct intervention. It is imperative to counter direct habitat losses and to reduce indirect detrimental impacts on the ecological integrity of wetland and associated upland for breeding and staging waterfowl. The presence of waterfowl is a key indicator of the health of our wetlands and this also benefits other bird species sharing the same habitats. DU Canada and its partners are continuously updating our science based program with ecological and biological data that supports our conservation premise: wetlands positively impact biodiversity and water quality for the benefit of society. Expanded partnerships will foster public recognition of the importance of wetlands.

CONTEXT OF TIDS PROPOSAL: The integrated approach is in line with the NAWMP 2004 update vision and NAWCA reauthorization by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002. This proposal is a multi-year, multi-species endeavor and projects are carried out in partnership with key environmental and conservation organizations. Linkages with the Black Duck Joint Venture, the Arctic Goose Joint Venture and the Sea Duck Joint Venture have been established for these species as well as NABCI other bird initiatives when and where appropriate. This proposal concentrates on securement and enhancement in the Saint-Lawrence lowlands and a small investment in the Appalachians.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Securement, through fee-title purchase and donation, of 376 acres (136 acres wetlands and 240 acres upland). An additional 796 acres, of which 43 7 acres are wetland and 359 acres are upland habitat, will be obtained through conservation easements. Enhancement of three projects totalling approximately 117 acres (3 l acres wetland and 86 acres upland) of nesting cover. Nesting boxes may be used where appropriate. Management on 888 acres of previously secured and enhanced habitat to ensure long-term viability of the program. Stewardship, funded by the Canadian Wildlife Service, Quebec Wildlife Foundation and Wildlife Habitat Canada, is implemented by the Quebec Wildlife Foundation and other NGO's. Activities revolve around voluntary conservation agreements with private landowners. Ducks Unlimited Canada delivers a component of municipal stewardship as well as an agricultural stewardship program. Working with agricultural stakeholders, such as individual farmers and farm clubs, Ducks Unlimited Canada will implement the small wetland and associated upland cover conservation guide previously developed. Other functions include communications and education to reinforce the message of the importance of wetlands conservation and evaluation and coordination which ensure the best use of our resources and align our priorities to maximize synergy among partners. No NAWCA funds are used for other functions in the present proposal.

PUBLIC ACCESS: Lands purchased with NAWCA funds are open to the public, subject to regulations to protect the ecological integrity of the site. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY SASKATCHEWAN HABITAT PROGRAM

~~LOCATION: Aspen Parkland and Prairie Key Program Areas of Saskatchewan (BCR l l) and important large marshes throughout Saskatchewan.~~

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S.$; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request* U.S. Partners $3,701,432 Ducks Unlimited Inc.** 3,701,432 Canadian Partners*** Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service 714,000 Agriculture and Agri-food Canada 1,423,750 University of Saskatchewan 187,000 Saskatchewan Environment 25,500 Ducks Unlimited Canada 68,000 Other Canadian Contributors 263,500 Total $10,084,614 •Act funds will only be used to pay for activities eligible under 0MB Circular A 122 . .. May contain contributions from other agencies, channelled through Ducks Unlimited lnc. ••• A total of $433,500 was committed from all Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $2,248,250.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Priority landscapes have been clearly delineated within the prairie/parkland pothole region of Saskatchewan. Through sustainable agriculture extension programs, direct habitat programs, expanded partnerships and scientifically based monitoring programs, the work plan outl ined in this proposal will provide crucial breeding habitat for waterfowl. In addition to shorebirds, waterbirds and landbirds, many species at risk will specifically benefit from long-term Saskatchewan habitat conservation. Benefits extend to the agricultural community through soil and water conservation, which reduce long-term farming costs and contribute to landscape sustainability. Societal benefits are realized through an integrated watershed management approach to habitat delivery.

CONTEXT OF THIS PROPOSAL: This proposal is the second NAWCA funding request for DUC fiscal year 2005/06 for NAWMP activities by DUC in Saskatchewan. DUC in Saskatchewan has received NAWCA funding for the NAWMP every year since 1991 and has delivered this program under the PHN. The program is ongoing and fulfils the actions outlined in the Saskatchewan NAWMP implementation Plan. DUC cooperates with the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority and the Nature Conservancy of Canada, Environment Canada, Agriculture and Agri-food Canada and the Province of Saskatchewan to deliver a coordinated NAWMP program in priority landscapes. DUC is intricately connected to the planning efforts of the shorebird, waterbird and landbird plans in the PHN. New programs for 2004, which will be ongoing in 2005 include the small wetland restoration program, conservation easements, modified forage conversion program, rangeland stewardship program and the Crown lands program. increased effort will be given to the wetland restoration program to restore wetlands < 2 acres in size. Restoration of small wetlands will increase pair space for waterfowl breeding activities as well as provide habitat for wetland dependent birds and wildlife. Conservation easements (CEs) will continue to be pursued based on a 2003 price discovery pilot. Most CEs will allow agricultural use but protect natural uplands and wetlands through a "no break, no drain" agreement. The forage conversion program will focus on more partnerships with federal and provincial governments and will encourage key producers to convert their land to grass. The rangeland stewardship program centers on core producers who will influence others on the landscape to seed perennial grasses and improve the quality of existing habitat. The Crown lands program involves influencing the provincial government to keep existing crown lands native/natural and to ensure that if sold they have their habitat values protected in perpetuity.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Acquisition, through fee title purchase and donation of private land, of approximately 762 acres (577 wetland and 185 upland). Securement of paid and donated conservation easements, management agreements, conservation agreements, leases and Crown agreements to protect a total of approximately 20,352 acres (2,514 wetland and 17,838 upland). Enhancements, including wetland restoration, nesting structures, water control structures, seeding cropland to perennial cover, winter wheat seed, fencing, signage, grazing system improvements, of approximately 10,728 acres of previously secured habitat (2,964 wetland and 7,764 upland). Management, including nesting structure maintenance, water control operation and maintenance, weed control, fence and sign maintenance, annual project inspection and land taxes, on approximately l, 133,023 acres (previously secured). Stewardship activities will relate to the Rangeland Stewardship Program; Farm Agribusiness & Resource Management Program; First Nations Land Management Program; winter cereals promotion; forage establishment and management and Saskatchewan Birding Trail Program. Other Functions include coordination, regional communications, evaluation, and government relations, activities which are not funded by NA WCA.

LOCATION: Various sites across the Western Boreal Forest Ecological Region of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon Territory and Northwest Territories with emphasis on Bird Conservation Region# 6 (Taiga Plains and Boreal Plains Ecozones).

~~GRANTEE ORGANIZATION: Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).~~

~~PARTNERS AND FUNDING: (U.S.$; Exchange Rate= 0.85)~~

Grant Request1 $272,165 U.S. Partners2 DU Inc3 & Pew Charitable Trusts 272,165 Canadian Partners4 Canadian Federal Government 20,080 Provinces, Territories 5 40,160 Other Contributors 281,120 Total $885,690 1 Act funds will only be used to pay for eligible activities under 0MB circular Al 22. 2 May contain contributions from other agencies, channeled through Ducks Unlimited Inc. 3A total of $230,240 was committed from Canadian partners at the time the proposal was submitted. It is anticipated that these partners will contribute, at a minimum, an additional $111,120. 4 Initial list of Canadian partners: DU Canada, Institute for Wetland and Waterfowl Research, Canadian Federal Government, Governments of Northwest Territories, Yukon Territory, Aurora College, Sahtu First Nation, Gwich'in First Nation, Inuvialuit Game Council, Deh Cho First Nation, Dog Rib First Nation, Kaska Dene First Nation, Champagne/Aishihik First Nation, Carcrossffagiash First Nation, Yukon Development Corporation, Canadian Boreal Initiative, Pew Charitable Trusts. It is expected that contributions by these partners will make up at least 25% of the total dollars proposed. 5 NWT, Alberta, Saskatchewan.

EXPECTED BENEFITS: Securement of specific wetland complexes and associated upland habitat within the western boreal forest (WBF) presently known to be important for migratory birds including waterfowl, other water related birds, forest passerines, shorebirds and rare, threatened or endangered species. The WBF is a vast and diverse region, annually supporting populations of 12 to 14 million breeding ducks, and providing critical breeding, staging and molting habitats for these and millions of other migratory water related birds. Scaup and scoter populations, which are dependant on WBF wetlands, are at record lows. Based on breeding pair surveys by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) and breeding, brood and staging surveys conducted by DUC, the WBF is second only to the prairie pothole region in terms of its importance to migratory waterfowl. Securement efforts will be conducted in concert with resource extraction industries, Aboriginal peoples, and government agencies to conserve watershed-based wetland complexes and associated upland habitat. Reconnaissance, modelling, 2 planning and securement of large, watershed-based areas (e.g. Hume-Ramparts NT is 4500km / l, 111,974 acres) in the WBF will benefit a wide array of migratory birds and people. Bo real uplands are important areas for a variety of birds including bohemian waxwings, blackpoll warblers and great grey owls. Oil and gas production, forestry, mining, deforestation for agriculture, climate change and other pressures are increasingly affecting the resources of the region. A Canadian Senate Sub-Committee on the Boreal Forest recently recommended that 20% of the land base be set aside as protected. Our knowledge of the resources and habitats of the boreal forest is scant which impairs our ability to protect and conserve this region. Key habitat areas already known to be important for migratory birds must be protected, and other important wetland and associated upland areas over the vast boreal forest reg10n must be identified and secured. The area north of the 60th parallel is experiencing increased development from a variety of industries. Much of the habitat in this region is currently undisturbed but is threatened by diamond mining, oil and gas exploration and extraction and pipeline development as the Territorial governments attempt to establish economic opportunities for their communities. Resources in this area are limited, large distances exist between communities and securement can only advance through the involvement of local communities. These communities lack the internal resources to conduct the securement process on their own. Considerable cost must be expended for travel, negotiations and obtaining the necessary information for conservation plan development. This project will provide resources to help alleviate this problem.

CONTEXT OF TIDS PROPOSAL: This Grant builds on the momentum provided by the previous four WBF NA WCA Grants (200 l-3, 2002-3, 2003-3, 2004-3) and allows expansion of active program planning areas and acceleration of securement activities. This proposal differs from previous proposals in that the focus will be primarily the securement of habitat in the Yukon Territory and the Northwest Territories but will also include activities in the commercial boreal forest south of the 60th parallel and the boreal forest-agriculture fringe north of the prairies. Past proposals have resulted in 6.6 million acres secured through the cooperation of various partners. This proposal will add another 300,000 acres secured. This project focuses on all wetland related birds.

WORK PLAN DETAILS: Priority habitats will be secured with 300,000 acres designated and conserved using a variety of federal, territorial and Aboriginal conservation agreements, which includes protective designations such as national wildlife areas, protected areas and representative area networks; these are focused on large wetland areas and associated uplands, including watersheds, known to be of importance. The proportion of wetland to upland acres is an average but will vary from 30% to 70% wetland component depending upon the geographic location. Other activities include recon and design, communications, coordination, and evaluation activities that support program delivery. No NA WCA funds will be used for communications, coordination or evaluation activities.

PUBLIC ACCESS: Open, although some areas may be subject to native land claim or forest management agreements. Public access by foot is encouraged on lands held under title by DUC. U 8. ..,_ .. Wil..DUYK SElrV1CJ< United States Department of the Interior FISH AN D WILDLIFE SER VICE Washington, D. C. 20240 ~

~~In Reply Refer To: JAN 1 2 2C C5 FWS/ AMBS/DBHC/019893~~

~~Memorandum~~

To : Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Attention: Secretary, Migratory Bird Conservation Commission Acting\ ;1, From: Directo'; YU.~~iC;?(: ·!wAA>\1--- Subject: Real Propel Interests That ~uld ~e Included in the National Wildlife Refuge System per North American Wetlands Conservation Act

The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission will meet on March 16, 2005, at which time the North American Wetlands Conservation Council will recommend 20 projects for funding under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. Section 6(a)(3) of the Act requires that Act funds should be used for conservation projects within the National Wildlife Refuge System unless the Secretary ( or delegated authority), with the concurrence of the Commission, finds that real property interests, either partially or in total, should not be included in the Refuge System. Of the 20 projects to be recommended, 14 will be acquiring property partially or completely outside the Refuge System.

We have determined that the proposed managers are committed to undertake management of the property in accordance with the objectives of the Act. The Service has longstanding, cooperative working relationships with, trust in, and similar and complementary goals and objectives with, partners in these projects. If approved by the Commission, the grants conveying funds will include alternatives for redress if the grantees fail to manage the property in accordance with the grant agreement. These alternatives include, but are not limited to: (a) repaying the Service in cash for that percentage of the fair-market value attributable to Federal participation in the project; (b) transfer of title to the interest in real property to the Federal Government or to an eligible third party; or ( c) providing the Service with an interest in real property that is of equal financial and/or habitat value. The Service may select one or more of the redress options available.

Since the Federal Government does not have the resources to do the job alone, public/private partnerships are essential to restoring our Nation's declining migratory bird and wetland resources. It is in the spirit of the partnership purpose of the Act that we recommend that all real property interests not held by the Service be excluded from the System for the following proposals: 2

Buzzards Bay Watershed: Chapin White, Massachusetts Buzzards Bay Watershed: Nasketucket Bay Field and Marsh, Massachusetts Buzzards Bay Watershed: Nasketucket Bay Vivieros, Massachusetts Clayhole Swamp, Georgia Conservation of Priority Wetland Bird Focus Areas in the Teton River Basin, Idaho, Wyoming Middle Rio Grande Wetlands Project II, New Mexico North Carolina Riparian Corridors, North Carolina Northern Accomack Habitat Protection Initiative, Virginia San Juan Islands, Washington Southern Tip Ecological Partnership, Virginia Southwest Indiana Habitat Expansion Project, Indiana West Bay Conservation Corridor Wetlands Restoration and Acquisition, Texas White Oak River/Quaternary Tract, North Carolina Yuma East Wetlands Restoration Project, Arizona

Non-inclusion rationale and Executive Summaries for each of these 14 projects are attached, thus providing the necessary background for approving these projects as real property interests that should not be included in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

~~Attachments North American Wetlands Conservation Fund June 21, 2005 U.S. Proposals (numbers correspond to table)~~

~~. ,. \~~

~~North American Wetlands Conservation Act Standard Grant Proposal Summary~~

~~June 21, 2005~~

~~U.S. Proposals~~

Map NAWCA Partner Grant Funds Coastal Federal Number Title (rank) State Reguest Funds Acres forNWR Project Partners* 1 Conservation Of Priority Wetland Bird Focus Areas, Teton River Basin (3) ID,WY $1 ,000,000 $14,005,452 2,040 no no NRCS; USFS 2 San Juan Islands (2) WA $1 ,000,000 $2,242,120 668 no yes 3 San Pablo Bay Tidal Wetland Restoration Project II (1) CA $999,790 $12,602,345 2,434 no yes 4 Yuma East Wetlands Restoration Project (4) AZ $481 ,726 $3,108,467 304 no no USBR; EPA Totals: $3,481,516 $31,958,384 5,446

*NRCS - Natural Resources Conservation Service USFS - U.S. Forest Service USBR - U.S. Bureau of Reclamation EPA - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

~~NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY CONSERVATION OF PRJORITY WETLAND BIRD FOCUS AREAS IN THE TETON RJVER BASIN, IDAHO AND WYOMING~~

~~COUNTY(IES), STATE(S), CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT(S): Teton County, Idaho and Teton County, Wyoming; Idaho Congressional District 2, Wyoming Congressional District 1.~~

~~GRANT AMOUNT $1,000,000~~

MATCHING PARTNERS $13,671 ,151 Grantee: The Teton Regional Land Trust, Inc. $419,356 The Conservation Fund, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation $100,000 Gary Hill $330,000 Elliott Creek Ranch LLC $1,750,000 Mark Harrington $200,000 Blaine and Nancy Huntsman $440,000 David and Susan Work $625,000 Gary and Sherry Zohner $214,500 Stuart and Deborah Tenney $840,000 Sundown Ranch LLC $4,000,000 Gary and Sandra Lundquist $180,000 David and Deborah Fosdick $500,000 Duck-Bell Creek Ranch LLC $1,750,000 Cushman Two Forks Teton River Ranch $2,000,000 Idaho Department of Fish and Game $100,000 Teton County Soil Conservation District, Idaho $222,295

~~NON-MATCHING PARTNERS $334,301 Natural Resources Conservation Service, Idaho $295,001 Natural Resources Conservation Service, Wyoming $34,300 Targhee National Forest $5,000~~

ACTIVITIES, COSTS, AND ACRES $ ! 5,005,452/2,040 (2,040) acres Easements Acquired - $1,694,000/513 acres Easements Donated - $1 1,880,000/1 ,527 acres Easements General - $335,856 Restored - $454,087/(2 ,040) acres Other - $64 1, 509

FINAL TITLE HOLDERS/MANAGERS AND ACREAGE: Teton Regional Land Trust (TRLT) as grantee for conservation easements: 2,040 acres. Landowners for all 13 tracts will retain title to their residual fee ownership: 2,040 acres.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The overarching objective of this proposal is to advance the conservation of the most important focal !)_abitats for priority wetland birds in the Teton River Basin. Project focal areas are selected to protect critical habitats for priority wetland birds. The project strategy tracks completely with the lntermountain West Waterbird Conservation Planning Region's goal of"conserving a network of high quality wetland habitats with secure water sources ... ". The Teton River Basin is identified as a priority wetlands complex within the Southeast Idaho Wetland Focus Area of the Intem1ountain West Joint Venture Implementation Plan, the regional plan tied into the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, Partners in Flight, U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan, and North American Waterbird Conservation Plan. The project area and conservation strategies fit within identified objectives for these international plans. This project is also part of major ecosystem level conservation effort within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The Teton Regional Land Trust is partnering with national, regional, and local land trusts, other conservation organizations, and the three state wildlife agencies (Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming) to focus conservation effort on the most critical landscapes of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). According to an assessment of ecological hotspots in the 26 million-acre GYE, Teton River Basin is rated as the number one conservation priority landscape based on relative vulnerability and irreplaceablility of wetland resources.

HABIT AT TYPES AND WILDLIFE BENEFITTING: The project tracts will protect and restore palustrine emergent wetlands (decreasing), palustrine forested wetlands (decreasing), shrub-scrub wetlands (increasing), productive riparian habitats on river corridors and spring creeks, and uplands that provide valuable nesting, migration, and wintering habitat for priority wetland birds. The Teton River Basin provides habitat of continental significance to three primary species: long-billed curlew, sandhill crane, and trumpeter swan; and is a waterfowl production area of regional significance, particularly for the priority species mallard and wigeon._Teton Basin features very high curlew nesting densities in two of the focus areas for this proposal. Most of the northern Rocky Mountain sandhill crane breeding population stages in Teton Basin. Large numbers of trumpeter swans winter here, with strong potential for recovery of swan nesting. The following species occur on both the Bird Conservation Region and Partners in Flight lists and breed or otherwise occur in the Teton River Basin: Barrow's goldeneye, long billed curlew, calliope hummingbird, short-eared owl, Swainson's hawk, willow flycatcher, American dipper, MacGillivray' s warbler, American white pelican, white-faced ibis, trumpeter swan, cinnamon teal, redhead, sandhill crane and American avocet. The Project focuses on habitat protection and restoration for long-billed curlew, which is listed in the U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan as a Category 5 - Highly Imperiled Species; and Wilson' s phalarope, which is listed as a Category 4 - Species of High Concern. Shorebird species of Moderate Concern (Category- 3) that will directly benefit are killdeer, American avocet, willet and Wilson's snipe. Among wildlife species with special status, Teton Basin is a stronghold for Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, bald eagles, and Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

PUBLIC BENEFITS: Public benefits of the Conservation ofPriority Wetland Bird Focus Areas in th e Teton River Basin, Idaho and Wyoming include conservation of critical habitats for species of continental concern as described above. Many of the properties protected are along waterways used for public recreational access, and one borders public land. Public access on the properties will be governed by the private landowners- many grant access to the public for fishing and hunting, although access may be discouraged in sensitive nesting and staging seasons.

NEW PARTNERS: New partners for this NA WCA project include the following Teton River Basin Landowners: Gary Hill, Cushman Family Trust, Stuart and Deborah Tenney, Blaine and Nancy Huntsman, David and Susan Work, David and Deborah Fosdick; and three landowning businesses: Sundown Ranch LLC, Elliott Creek Ranch LLC, and Duck Bell Creek Ranch LLC. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY SAN JUAN ISLANDS, PHASE I

~~COUNTY(IES), ST ATE(S), CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT(S): San Juan County, WA, District 2.~~

~~GRANT AMOUNT $1 ,000,000~~

MATCHING PARTNERS $2 ,215,120 Grantee: Ducks Unlimited, Inc. $125,520 San Juan Preservation Trust $475,000 San Juan County Land Bank $1,545,000 Scott Meyers $30,000 San Juan County Conservation District $ I 0,000 Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife $5 ,000 San Juan Islands School District $5,600 Friends of the San Juans $19,000

~~NON-MATCHING PARTNERS $27,000 Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife $27,000~~

ACTIVITIES, COSTS, AND ACRES $3,242, 120/668 ( 150) acres Fee Acquired - $1,475,000/30 acres Easements Acquired - $1,031 ,000/211 acres Restored - $599,880/337 (150) acres Enhanced - $67,000/90 acres Indirect Costs - $69,240

FINAL TITLE HOLDERS/MANAGERS AND ACREAGE: Private landowners Meyers/Sheehan 175 acres; private landowners Pressenda/Harris 25 acres; private landowners at Po11 Stanley 12 acres; private landowner at Mosquito Pass 21 acres; San Juan Preservation Trust 21 acres; private landowners Odegard/Grove 30 acres; private landowner Taylor 150 acres; San Juan County Land Bank 89 acres; private landowners Kiraly/Roberts 100 acres; private landowner to be determined later 40 acres; private landowners marine riparian project (several existing and several to be determined) 5 acres.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This proposal represents Phase I of a long-term effort to protect, restore and enhance approximately 2,000 acres of unique, diverse and important wetland habitats and associated upland buffers in the San Juan Islands. Located in the heart of the ecologically significant Puget Sound, and within I 00 miles of the Seattle, Washington metropolitan area, the San Juan Islands have seen tremendous development pressures. The wetland habitats in the Puget Sound support a rich and diverse group of fish and wildlife species. The estuarine and freshwater wetlands in the region provide migration and wintering habitat for millions of migratory birds, including vast numbers of waterfowl and shorebirds. The rivers and wetlands in the region are famous for their salmon populations. The Puget Sound is home to a large number of marine mammals, including resident pods of orcas.

This project wil l allow partners to restore, enhance and protect approximately 668 acres of wetlands and associated uplands. The partnership includes combining the land protection expertise of two local land conservation organizations with the wetland restoration expertise of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU). The San Juan Preservation Trust (SJPT), a private, not-for-profit land trust, and the San Juan County Land Bank (SJCLB), a county government agency, have invested millions of dollars in the protection of the unique natural resources found in the San Juan Islands. Lands conserved by the SJPT and the SJ CLB are protected from future development and subdivision. However, many of these properties contain degraded wetland habitats, altered years ago by previous landowners for the purposes of agricultural production.

Under this proposal, many of these properties will be pennanently restored, providing significant benefits to a wide and diverse mix of fish and wildlife species. Approximately 487 acres of freshwater and saltwater wetlands will be restored and enhanced. Included in this total are 290 acres of wetlands that are located on property already protected by conservation easements or fee ownership through SJPT or SJCLB. Also included in this proposal, approximately 241 acres of wetlands and associated habitats will be protected through purchase in fee or through conservation easements, including 150 acres that are also being restored. Finally, 90 acres of forested uplands will be restored on property that surrounds a wetland and is already protected by a conservation easement held by SJPT. The ecologically diverse wetland habitats conserved through this proposal include: palustrine emergent marsh, scrub-shrub communities, forested wetlands, estuaries and marine nearshore wetlands. Fish and wildlife species that will benefit by this project include: marine mammals, sea birds, waterfowl, salmon, and forage fish species that support the complex food web of the Puget Sound.

HABIT AT TYPES AND WILDUFE BENEFITTING: A wide variety of habitat types will be conserved through this proposal, including diverse types of both freshwater and saltwater wetlands. Freshwater habitats include palustrine emergent marsh and forested wetlands (both decreasing wetland types), and palustrine scrub-shrub wetlands. Saltwater wetlands conserved through this proposal include estuarine intertidal emergent marsh (decreasing type) and marine intertidal unconsolidated bottom. Some of the wetlands to be restored are former peat bogs, and will once again support a unique group of flora and fauna after restoration is completed. Restored emergent marsh will be used by large numbers of waterfowl, including sea ducks, which use Puget Sound wetlands as wintering and migration habitat.

PUBLIC BENEFITS: The public will enjoy several significant benefits as a result of this project. The community of Friday Harbor, on San Juan Island, is by far the most significant destination for the tens of thousands of tourists that vacation in the islands each year. Alongside each of the three main roads leaving town, a large wetland will be restored as part of this project. These wetlands will offer outstanding opportunities for bird watching and environmental education. This project will also provide critical benefits to groundwater. Surrounded by saltwater, potable water is a severely limited resource in the Islands, particularly on Lopez Island. Groundwater is the only available source of freshwater on Lopez Island. Extensive groundwater withdrawals, combined with wetland drainage and land uses that have increased runoff rates, have drastically lowered the water table. Many wells have become tainted with saltwater. The restoration and enhancement of wetlands on Lopez Island will serve to recharge groundwater levels, alleviating many of the problems being experienced by local residents. Many of these projects, particularly the nearshore marine and estuarine habitat projects, will benefit salmon populations, a world famous commercial and recreational fishery in the Puget Sound. Tourism is one of the leading industries in the San Juan Islands, primarily for the opportunities to enjoy natural resources. Recreational activities include: bird watching, bicycling, kayaking, hiking, whale watching, sailing, fishing, and crabbing. The restoration of wetlands and associated habitats will provide additional opportunities to enjoy these activities.

NEW PARTNERS: This project brings together many partners new to wetland restoration and the NA WCA process. The SJCLB is a significant, new partner. Ln 1990, San Juan County voters approved a I% real estate transfer tax to fund purchase of conservation easements and to acquire conservation lands outright. The conservation of properties with non-Federal dollars is a perfect match with Federal grant dollars to further wetland restoration activities on protected lands. The Friends of the San Juans, San Juan Islands School District, San Juan County Conservation District and the numerous landowners involved with this project are all new to the NA WCA process. The SJPT has been involved with a small NA WCA grant, but this is the first time this non-profit conservation group has been involved with a large NA WCA proposal. NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY SAN PABLO BAY TIDAL WETLAND RESTORATION PROJECT II

~~COUNTY(IES), ST A TE(S), CONGRESSIONAL DISTRJCT(S): Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma Counties - California. Congressional Districts: I, 6 and 7.~~

~~GRANT AMOUNT $999,790~~

MATCHING PARTNERS $12,602,345 Grantee: Wildlife Conservation Board $3,826,967 CA Coastal Conservancy $2,838,186 Napa County Flood Control District $3, l 02 ,440 California Bay-Delta Authority $1,000,000 The Dow Chemical Company $750,000 Marin Baylands Advocates $368,000 Marin Community Foundation $300,000 Shell Oil Spill Litigation Settlement Trust $2 19,785 Ducks Unlimited, Inc. $100,000 Sonoma Land Trust $96,967

ACTIVITlES, COSTS, AND ACRES $13,602, 135/2,434 (2,246) acres Fee Acquired - $12,502,345/2,138 (1,710) acres Restoration - $462,000/77 (26) acres Enhanced - $506,900/219 (510) acres Other - $40,000 Indirect Cost - $90,890

FINAL TITLE HOLDERS/MANAGERS AND ACREAGE: Bel Marin Keys - State Coastal Conservancy (1 ,576 acres); Bahia - California Department of Fish and Game, Marin County Open Space District, and Marin Audubon Society (632 acres); Stanley Ranch North - Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (77 acres); Stanley Ranch South - California Department of Fish and Game (242 acres); Little Island Farms - California Department of Fish and Game (305 acres); Nord Vineyard - Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (15 acres); Napa-Sonoma Marshes State Wildlife Area Camp 2 - California Department offish and Game (608 acres); Leonard Ranch - Sonoma Land Trust (470 acres); Napa-Sonoma Marshes State Wildlife Area Huichica Creek Ponds - Califo rnia Department offish and Game (219 acres); and Napa-Sonoma Marshes State Wildlife Area Wingo Unit - California Department of Fish and Game (277 acres).

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The projects identified in this proposal have or will acquire, restore, and enhance 2,434 " new" and 2,246 "duplicate" acres of habitat including tidal and brackish estuarine wetlands, as well as seasonal, semi-pennanent, and pern1anent palustrine wetlands and their associated upland habitats. Specifically, improvements are proposed for 1,243 acres of estuarine wetlands and 1,371 acres of palustrine wetlands, both of which have been recognized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a nationally deceasing wetland types. The San Francisco Bay Estuary is the nation's second largest, and perhaps the most biologically significant estuary on the Pacific Coast, yet it has suffered the most extensive degradation of any estuary in the nation. Many years of impacts, such as dredging, filling, pollution, and invasive species establishment, have taken a toll on the health of this estuary. These impacts have resulted in the San Francisco Bay region becoming a major focus of habitat protection and restoration efforts. The San Pablo Baylands Region, also referred to as the "North Bay,'· is located west of the Carquinez Strait and north of the Central Bay Region, whose common boundary is an imagi nary line joining Point San Pedro and the East Bay Hills. The San Pablo Baylands region consists of approximately 40,000 acres of tidally submerged lands, wetlands, riparian zones, and uplands. Historically, this region was characterized by broad expanses of shallow bays and brackish tidal marshes that received substantial amounts of freshwater runoff from several watersheds including Napa River, Petaluma River, Sonoma Creek, Tolay Creek, and Novato Creek. The uplands and relatively flat lands near the Bay waters have suitable soil and hydrology conditions to support grasslands, wet meadows, and oak savannas.

The projects identified in this proposal will help to reverse the impacts that this Region has experienced in the previous 150 years by restoring natural habitats in areas that were converted to agricultural lands and salt production ponds. The proposed activities will restore hydrology to reestablish healthy tidal marshes; will recontour converted agricultural lands to historically representative topographies that will provide seasonal and semi-permanent wetlands for migrating and wintering birds; will establish permanent freshwater sources for brooding waterfowl; and will establish perennial grassland habitats for nesting waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors. Funding this proposal will help meet the coordinated goals of many conservation plans and agencies, including the No11h American Waterfowl Management Plan, by acquiring, restoring or enhancing wetland and associated upland habitats on 4,144 acres in one of the most biologically significant areas of the Pacific Flyway.

HABIT AT TYPES AND WILDLIFE BENEFITING: The projects identified in this proposal have or will acquire, restore, and enhance 2,434 " new" and 2,246 "duplicate" acres of habitat including tidal and brackish estuarine wetlands, as well as seasonal, semi-pennanent, and pennanent palustrine wetlands and their associated upland habitats. Specifically, habitat improvements are proposed for 1,243 acres of estuarine wetlands and 1,371 acres ofpalustrine wetlands, both of which have been recognized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a nationally deceasing wetland types.

Proposed restoration and enhancement activities will benefit numerous waterfowl, shorebird, and waterbird species that use this Region during breeding, mi grating, and wintering periods including High Priority waterfowl species such as: Tule Greater White-fronted Goose, Northern Pintail, Mallard, Lesser Scaup, and Greater Scaup. In addition, noteworthy species benefited are: Redhead, Canvasback, American Wigeon, Ring-necked Duck, Gadwall, Cinnamon Teal, Ruddy Duck, Bufflehead, American Avocet, Black-bellied Plover, Marbled Godwit, Long-billed Curlew, and Willet. These projects will also benefit various state and/or federally listed species including California Clapper Rail, Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse, California Brown Pelican, Western Snowy Plover, Chinook Salmon, and California Black Rail.

PUBLIC BENEFITS: The projects listed in this proposal will enhance natural resource values and improve wildlife habitat in an area with a human population of more than IO million. Improved water quality for the area, as well as the Estuary, is expected. The property owners will allow public use on all of the projects sites in accordance with their overall ordinances and regulations. In addition, these projects will contribute to educating the public on the importance of wetlands, particularly in such highly urbanized regions like the San Francisco Bay region.

NEW PARTNERS: The proposed project includes many partners that have not previously participated in a NA WCA grant. New partners include California Bay-Delta Authority, Marin Community Foundation, Marin Baylands Advocates, Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, and The Dow Chemical Company. NORTH AMERICAN \VETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT PROPOSAL SUMMARY YUMA EAST WETLANDS RESTORATION PROJECT

~~COUNTY, STATE, CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT: Yuma County, AZ, District 7.~~

~~GRANT AMOUNT $481 ,726~~

~~MATCHING PARTNERS $963,452 City of Yuma $686,452 Arizona Water Protection Fund $277,000~~

NON-MATCHING PARTNERS $2,145,015 Grantee: Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area $28,500 United States Bureau of Reclamation $1 ,385,000 Environmental Protection Agency $230,000 City of Yuma $50 I ,5 I 5

ACTIVITIES, COSTS, AND ACRES $3,590, 193/304 (22) acres Fee Acquired - $68,625/22 acres Other Acquisition Costs - $6,375 Restored - $2,727,676/ 162 acres (22 acres) Enhanced - $162,500/120 acres Other - $625,017

FINAL TITLE HOLDERS/MANAGERS AND ACREAGE: The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area (YCNHA) will hold fee-simple title on 22 acres in the Yuma East Wetlands Restoration Project area. This land will be converted to a mixture of wetland/marsh, native cottonwood, wi llow, aquatic, and upland habitat with matching funds. It will have a perpetual conservation easement placed on it after purchase and will be managed for wildlife habitat.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This proposal represents Phase 2 of an innovative, 6-year project that will ultimately restore, enhance, and conserve (in perpetuity) 1,418 acres of mixed wetland and riparian habitat along the Lower Colorado River within the Pacific Flyway. This Project will provide much needed habitat for 18 of the 22 priority NA WCA species in Bird Conservation Region 33 as well as for migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, neo-tropical birds, marsh birds, and threatened/endangered bird and wildlife species. In the arid southwest, wetland and riparian areas are extremely rare and thus comprise disproportionately valuable habitat for avian species. Less than 1% of Arizona' s wetlands remain and over 90% of the state' s native riparian habitat has been destroyed. Dams, water pumping and diversion, river channel modifications, pollutants, wildfire, and invasive species threaten the remaining marsh and riparian habitat. Riparian woodland habitats are among the most severely threatened in Arizona -- non native salt cedar and giant cane have invaded most of these wetlands, replacing cattail and bul rush marshes, cottonwood-willow gallery forests, and mesquite bosques. This Project proposes to remove non native plant species, replant with native vegetation, and provide water to wetlands-measures that will restore critical habitat in 184 acres and enhance habitat in 120 acres. When all Project phases are implemented, 1,418 acres will be restored on fee-acquired lands, public lands, tribal lands, privately held fonner agricultural fields, which will be converted to sheet-irrigated cottonwood and willow habitat.

This Project has garnered broad, exceptionall y strong suppo11: Three years of planning and other work led by the YCNHA have united a diverse group of 28 stakeholders and 8 funding partners who are committed to sharing the high costs of restoration and to ensu,ing the Project' s long-tenn success. The City of Yuma (COY) and YCNHA have combined forces to dedicate staff and support for Project implementation, maintenance, monitoring, and management for conservation goals. The City has contracted with YCNHA to annually provide $400,000 in staffing and operational funds for IO years. YCNHA has provided $28,500 of their current federal appropriation for additional contingency expenses and pledged future federal appropriations toward project implementation. The City of Yuma has allocated $796,950 to construct a line to daily deliver 250,000 gallons of filter decant water to restore and enhance the wetlands; it will also pay for a variety of professional services related to the Project. The Arizona Water Protection Fund has granted $277,000 to restore 25 acres of cottonwood/willow and cattail/bulrush habitat. NA WCA funding would be used to restore 40 acres of palustrine forest and to purchase land that will be restored by matching partners and is the discharge point for the filter decant water. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) will provide $940,000 in non-matching funds to restore flow to the historic backwaters, construct water-control structures, and install a pipeline for supplemental irrigation. This agency has also provided $430,000 to clear, prepare, and replant 25 acres of cottonwood/willow palustrine forest and upland restoration and $15,000 to assist in overall planning and design. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has funded-along with matching contributions from COY-the planning, coordination, compliance, and permitting for the entire Project. The Sonoran Joint Venture supports this Project, which conforms to its conservation priorities and goals and has committed $10,000 to future phases. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation will provide $84,330 for future agricultural conversion and enhancement of privately owned land. Finally, the Quechan Tribe-an active and vital partner- will allow 40 to 50% of future restoration activities to take place on its lands. All environmental pernuts and compliance are already in place.

HABIT AT TYPES AND WILDLIFE BENEFITTfNG: The Yuma East Wetlands area encompasses 1,418 acres along the Lower Colorado River within the Sonoran Joint Venture district. The river and wetlands provide valuable habitat for ducks and other birds; this habitat is some of the most important in the arid southwest for Western Grebes, Clark's Grebes, and American A vocets. Seventy percent of all bird species in western North America live in or visit the Yuma area. Between 303 and 384 species of birds, 32 species of mammals, 19 species of fish, 20 species of reptiles, and 9 amphibians have been documented along the Lower Colorado River. The Project will restore dying wetlands and marshes, palustrine forests, and open water in accordance with the goals and objectives of various bird conservation plans.

PUBLIC BENEFITS: The Project will benefit the Yuma community, the Quechan Tribe, the region, and also the state and the nation. Colorado River water is the lifeblood of the southwest, and consumption will be lowered substantially when thick, inhospitable stands of invasive and non-native plant species are removed. USBR's Water Accounting Division has shown that when all Project phases are implemented, approximately 858 acre-feet of water per year will be saved. Nesting, breeding, feeding, and resting grounds for over 300 species of birds will be restored, increasing the area's biodiversity and ecological health and allowing the community to expand its growing ecotourism industry with new opportunities for wildlife viewing, birding, canoeing, and environmental education. Reopening the historic backwaters and braided channels will improve water quality and reduce a growing vector disease concern related to the appearance of West Nile Virus in Yuma County. This Project will allow the community to reclaim its connection with the river by reducing fire hazards, elinunating illegal dumping, and providing low-impact recreational access to the river. Most importantly, the area will no longer be a safe haven for illegal activities. Finally, the Project will serve as a national role model and provide a roadmap for the long-term restoration of the Lower Colorado River and sinular degraded riparian environments in arid regions.

NEW PARTNERS: As discussed above, this Project has many comnutted partners that will contribute cash, in-kind efforts, or general support. Along with its 28 major stakeholders, the Project has received resolutions of support from the Quechan Tribal Council, the Yuma City Council, and the Yuma County Board of Supervisors. Letters of support have come from the Sonoran Joint Venture, three state agencies, three federal agencies, and over 28 individuals. It is believed that the majority of the Project's funding partners are new to NA WCA.

~~2 NORTH AMERICAN WETLANDS CONSERVATION ACT SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM~~

Report on FY 2005 Actions: In June 2004, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) approved funding for the Small Grants program at a level of up to $2,000,000. This funding was accompanied with the stipulation that this amount could be allocated at the discretion of the North American Wetlands Conservation Council (Council). In December 2004, 63 proposals were submitted totaling $2.6 million in grant requests. Of these 63 proposals, 38 were accepted for funding by the Council at their March 14, 2005, meeting The slate totals $1,620,088 in grant funds and includes partner funds totaling $8,744,641.00 (a 5.4:1 ratio of partner to grant dollars). The 38 proposals selected for funding, with State and grant request amount information, are:

Ambassador Duck Club Wetland Restoration In Treated Phragmites Area, UT, $27,400 Baldwin Flooding Wetland & Grassland Complex, MI, $35,000 Burleson Wetlands Village Slough & West Roost Renovation, TX, $45,000 Camp 19 / Old Railroad Grade Waterfowl Management Area, WI, $19,000 Carpinteria Creek Arundo Removal Project, CA, $36,600 Clinton Lake Sra Trenkle Slough Unit #2, IL, $49,200 Dougherty County Greenspace Acquisition Program - Lower Flint River Basin, GA, $50,000 Errol Creek Wetlands & Stream Habitat, OR, $50,000 Goose Pond Wildlife Refuge Restoration & Acquisition, MA, $36,450 Headwater Wetlands Of Crosswicks Creek, NJ, $50,000 Iowa Prairie Pothole Upland Habitat Development Project, IA, $50,000 Joseph Creek Watershed Preservation Project, WA, $50,000 Lunch Creek Project, AK, $50,000 Mcnamara Ranch Acquisition & Habitat Enhancement, CA, $50,000 Middle Mississippi River Ecosystem Project: Rockwood Island, IL, $50,000 Millers Pasture Wetland Project, GA, $50,000 North Bay Grays Harbor Coastal Preservation Project, WA, $50,000 North Branch Tidal Wetland Acquisition, ME, $50,000 Northeastern Indiana Wetland / Grassland Restoration Program, IN, $50,000 Pra irie & Wetland Focus Area - Playa Restoration Project, CO, $50,000 Project Greenshores Habitat Restoration, Site 2, FL, $50,000 Rabbit River Restoration, MN, $50,000 Raven Run Nature Sanctuary Seasonal Wetland Establishment, KY, $6,839 Restoration Of Wetlands, La Selva Verde Tract Of Laguna Atascosa NWR, TX, $21,000 Rio Grande Wetland Protection Project - Higel Ranch, CO, $50,000 San Joaquin Basin Wetland Restoration, CA, $50,000 Schoodic Bog Acquisition, ME, $50,000 Shonhatsi Meadows Wetlands Enhancement, NY, $22,213 Spring Creek Enhancement Project, NC, $50,000 Sunoco Wetlands Restoration, NJ, $22,000 Supplemental Water For The Myrtle Foester-Whitmire Preserve, TX, $45,509 Three Rivers Wetland Hydrology Enhancement, CA, $50,000 Truman Lake Wetland Restoration Partnership, MO, $50,000 Union River Estuary Acquisition, WA, $43,642 Upper Berrys Brook Headwaters Conservation Initiative, Maxam Parcels, NH, $41 ,500 Upper Cuyahoga River Project Area, OH, $50,000 West Tennessee Migratory Bird Conservation Area, TN, $50,000 Willow Creek Wetlands Enhancement Project, CA, $18,735 Recommended Action for FY 2006: The Council recommends that the MBCC approve funding for Small Grants up to $2,000,000, the maximum amount being contingent upon the quality and number of the proposals received. Based on such measures as resource values, partner involvement, match and partner ratios, the Small Grants Program has been highly successful. It is also an extremely popular program. During each funding cycle, the proposal requests have consistently exceeded the dollars available.