CHARLES M. RUSSELL NARRATIVE REPORT January-December 1966 CHARLES M

CHARLES M. RUSSELL NARRATIVE REPORT January-December 1966 CHARLES M. RUSSELL NATIONAL WILDLIFE RANGE Narrative Report

January - December 1966

PERSONNEL

General Schedule *Staunton, Frederic T, Refuge Manager Burkholder, Bob L. Wildlife Biologist-Pilot ***DeGraw, Burton W. Administrative Assistant Gibbons, Charles W. Assistant Refuge Manager **'vHarper, LaDonna L. Clerk-Stenographer Kaschke, Marvin R. Wildlife Biologist (Mgt.) Peck, Charles S. Assistant Refuge Manager Plenert, Marvin L. Wildlife Biologist (Mgt.) Ramelli, Lloyd R. Recreation Specialist Wicks, Linda H. Clerk-Stenographer

Wage Board Emery, Floyd L, Maintenanceman (WAE) French, Frank V, Maintenanceman (WAE) Gilbert, Dean A. Shop Foreman Jones, Harold H, Maintenance Foreman Kilby, Lynes D. Maintenanceman (WAE) Kombol, John Operator General--Light (WAE) Kombol, Joseph J. Maintenanceman (WAE) ***Kozeliski, Julius J. Maintenanceman (WAE) Oset, Frank, Jr. Carpenter (WAE) "^Phillips, Jimmie L. Operator General--Heavy (WAE) Sage, Samuel A. Maintenanceman Sullisan, Gerald A. Mechanic--Heavy Duty >Wr*Thompson, Glen T. Operator General—Heavy (WAE) **'-Warneke, Norman J. Maintenanceman (WAE) Zupec, Joe F. Maintenanceman (WAE)

Temporary ''^Anderson, Lorn 0. Laborer **Cimrhakl, Daniel G. Operator General--Heavy **Davis, William F. Operator General—Heavy **Grovom, Walter W. Laborer -"'-Jellar, Pete, Jr. Laborer **Laugeman, Fuller K. Laborer **Morton, Craig L. Laborer **Schoonen, Thomas E. Operator General--Light **Sellers, Richard A. Biological Aid **Waite, Robert E. Laborer

-Retired ^Terminated — "Transferred TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. General A. Weather Conditions 1 B. Habitat Conditions 2

II. Wildlife A. Migratory Birds 3 B. Upland Game Birds 6 C. Big Game Animals 7 D. Fur Animals, Predators, Rodents and other Mammals.,.. 11 E. Hawks, Eagles, Owls, Crows, Ravens, and Magpies 13 F. Other Birds 14 G. Fish 14 H. Reptiles 15 I. Disease 16

III. Refuge Development and Maintenance A. Physical Development 16 B. Plantings 18 C. Collections and Receipts 19 D. Control of Vegetation ,, 19 E. Planned Burning 20 F. Fires 20

IV. Resource Management A. Grazing 21 B. Haying 22 C. Fur Harvest 22 D. Timber Removal 23 E. Commercial Fishing 23 F. Other Uses 23

V. Field Investigation or Applied Research A. Progress Report 24

VI. Public Relations A. Recreational Uses 28 B. Game Range Visitors 28 C. Refuge Participation 33 D. Hunting 37 E. Violations o 42 F. Safety 43

VII. Other Items. A. Items of Interest 43 B. Photographs 45 C. Signatures 45 CHARLES M. RUSSELL NATIONAL WILDLIFE RANGE Lewistown, Montana

NARRATIVE REPORT January - December 1966

I. GENERAL

A, Weather Conditions

Above average temperatures and below average rainfall during late spring and early summer resulted in generally low production of forage. Many stockwater reservoirs in the area dried up or became un usable in late summer because of stagnating water and a problem of livestock bogging along the water's edge.

Below average snow in the mountains in western Montana pro duced little water during the spring thaw and resulted in the level of the Missouri River above Fort Peck Reservoir being at its lowest point for many years. River ice rotted away very slowly and no damage due to flooding or ice jams was sustained. The ice "went out" on March 29 without incident. Low water levels and low temperatures during early November caused the river to freeze solid about a month earlier than last year.

Despite the early freezeup of the river, the lake itself remained ice free. During the last week in December, the narrow portion of the lake from Devil's Greek east to Timber Creek became icebound but the major portion of the reservoir was open except for small bays and inlets. A 20 mile stretch of river below the confluence of the Judith River remained open as well as a few stretches up to 300 yards in length at Rocky Point and Slippery Ann.

Listed below are observations made on the west end of the Slippery Ann Game Station, ^mK*mmmmmm00mmi^^^^^^^^^mi^^^^^^mmmmmmtf Snowfall Precipitation Temp srature 1966 1964 1965 1966 Max. Min. January 7,0 .20 .86 .40 28 -32 February 8.0 ,05 ,35 .55 49 -18 March 7.0 .50 ,33 .40 77 -18 April - 2.32 ,99 .64 71 12 May - 3.57 1,89 1.30 95 24 June _ 2.70 2,60 1.10 101 35 July - ,77 .88 2.08 104 48 August - 2.03 1.14 .73 102 35 September - .63 .78 .36 99 31 October - .17 T .68 85 18 November 20.0 ,67 .72 1.98 52 -16 December 11.0 1.45 .10 .50 50 -24

TOTALS 53.0 15.06 10.64 10.72 104 -32 The following weather table depicts the weather conditions on the east end of the game range. The data was taken from the weather station maintained by the Corps of Engineers at Fort Peck.

Precipitati on Temp erature 1964 1965 1966 Max. Min.

January .21 .50 .39 42 -26 February .34 .14 .07 38 -15 March .77 .42 .05 72 - 8 April .47 .90 .73 65 13 May 3.07 5.27 1.67 89 31 June 5.12 4.48 1.56 98 37 July 1.00 3.54 2.91 104 44 August 1.78 4.34 4.35 97 39 September .11 1.44 .44 91 35 October .13 T .82 79 25 Novemb er .61 T .27 53 - 1 December .34 .07 .23 50 -17

TOTALS 13.95 21.10 13.49 104 -26

B. Habitat Conditions

1. Water

FORT PECK RESERVOIR WATER LEVELS

1964 1965 1966 Jan 1 2214.8 2234.3 2242.1 Feb 1 2213.2 2233.3 2241.0 Mar 1 2212.2 2233.0 2239.6 Apr 1 2213.3 2233.2 2240.2 May 1 2214.4 2236.4 2239.7 Jun 1 2219.3 2239.7 2239.0 Jul 1 2231.8 2243.9 2239.0 Aug 1 2234.8 2245.6 2239.3 Sep 1 2235.7 2244.4 2239.0 Oct 1 2235.4 2243.6 2238.5 Nov 1 2235.3 2243.9 2238.3 Dec 1 2235.7 2243.4 2237.0

It has been Corps policy this year to hold the reservoir level as consistent as possible. Corps officials have repeatedly stated they intend to hold the level as high as possible and perhaps even reach the 2250 level if moisture should become available. As the table illustrates, 2242.1 was the highest level reached during 1966 as compared to 2245.6 in 1965. This level attained in 1965 is the highest the Fort Peck Reser voir has ever been. 2 , Food and Cover

It appeared on the east end that moisture was sufficient during the growing season to provide good plant growth.

Most hay crops in the Fort Peck area were considered fair or at least normal but below the 1965 yield.

Farming efforts on the refuge lands produced good barley crops. Heavy use of the fields after harvest by the wintering mallards has nearly depleted the loose and available grain. Moisture conditions during the fall months were such that volunteer barley attained heights of 8" to 10". Ducks were observed to make light use of this barley and goose use was even lighter.

Generally, the effects on food and cover by this year's lack of moisture are perhaps delayed due to a high precipitation cycle the past several years. White-tailed deer habitat inundated by the Fort Peck Reservoir remains a loss that cannot be mitigated by further up stream development. Prime big game habitat located in areas isolated from heavy livestock use is adequate only because deer and elk popu lations are low. The crops of barley, millet, and corn grown at Slip pery Ann were 90% utilized at the end of the year. The 20 acre cornfield proved to be very attractive to elk. So much so, in fact, that the ears of corn were nipped prior to their maturing and few, if any, ears de veloped as a result. Results were most graphic at the year's end since only an occasional shattered stalk remained of the original luxuriant cornfield.

II. WILDLIFE

A. Migratory Birds

1. Waterfowl

Census figures indicate a normal number, except for unseasonal lows in September and a peak in November, of the various species of ducks, coots, and grebes on the Missouri River and Fort Peck Reservoir. However, populations on the stockwater ponds and marsh habitat elsewhere on the game range were less than last year due to a lack of sufficient precipita tion. All stockponds were critically low and many dried up completely during the nesting season.

A winter population of 15,000 mallards remained at Fort Peck during the critical months of January and February. A decrease to 10,000 occurred February 27, and only 2,500 remained on March 7. Mortality was held to a minimum and a total of 3,000 bu. of grain was fed out during this period. Mallard weights were sampled in order to gage the winter feeding program at Fort Peck. STATISTICS CONCERNING MALLARD WEIGHTS TAKEN JANUARY, FEBRUARY, AND MARCH 1966 East Unit - Fort Peck

Sample No. in Average Weight Total Date Sample Male Female Average Jan 12 4 3 lb 1 oz 3 lb 1 oz Jan 18 6 2 lb llh oz 2 lb 11% oz Jan 27 10 2 lb 5 oz 2 lb 2 oz 2 lb 3^ oz Feb 3 10 2 lb 5 oz 1 lb 15 oz 2 lb 2 oz Feb 8 10 2 lb 3 oz 2 lb oz 2 lb 2% oz Feb 15 9 2 lb 2 oz 2 lb 1 oz 2 lb 2 oz Feb 16 10 2 lb 3 oz 1 lb 15 oz 2 lb 2 oz Feb 18 10 2 lb 5h oz 2 lb 2 oz 2 lb 5 oz Feb 28 4 2 lb 2% oz 2 lb 2k oz Mar 1 10 2 lb 8 oz 2 lb 4 oz 2 lb 6 oz Mar 10 10 2 lb 11 oz 2 lb 3 oz 2 lb 6 oz

Fall migration patterns were quite erratic. Resident birds departed in early September and northern migrants failed to arrive in large numbers until the first week of November. During the period November 7-9, 53,000 ducks and 4,200 Canada geese were present on the refuge but the numbers soon stabilized at 15,000 for the wintering population.

Approximately 1,600 flightless geese were on Fort Peck Reservoir during July and August; a 6%7o increase over those counted last year. Nesting activity near the Slippery Ann Game Station was intensive but raccoon and coyote predation accounted for a 50% loss of nesting success. A two-pronged attack on this problem is planned for next year. More nesting platforms will be constructed in trees and an intensive control program will be initiated in the primary nesting area until the tree-nest program is firmly established.

Due to shortage of funds, the usual goose nest and brood counts off the refuge and up the river to Great Falls was not ac complished.

The following lists arrival dates of various species as recorded at Fort Peck:

Mar 13 Redhead Mar 15 Canada Goose Mar 20 Lesser Scaup Mar 20 Canvasback Mar 23 Green Winged Teal Apr 3 Shoveler Apr 4 Bufflehead 2. Captive Geese

Twenty-five broods totaling 115 young were produced in the immediate vicinity of the captive goose flock at Slippery Ann this year. Not all breeding pairs producing these young were captive birds. Mating of captive birds with flyers makes it impossible to arrive at a meaningful figure for birds produced solely by the captive flock. The 115 young were banded with standard FWS aluminum band on the right leg and a green plastic band on the left leg. No birds were pinioned this year. Twenty-two pinioned birds from Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge were transferred to Slippery Ann Game Station and added to the captive flock. This increased the number of pinioned birds to 69, In addition to the pinioned birds, 200 flyers, mostly birds hatched this year, are wintering with the captive flock. Why any creature capable of flight would choose to spend the winter at this latitude remains a mystery.

Predator losses on the captive flock were minimal. Five losses were attributed to eagles and 3 to bobcats. Thirteen birds, 12 of them pinioned in July 1965, succumbed during the winter. Post mortem revealed no disease and the losses were attributed to prolonged exposure to extremely low temperatures.

Hay bales placed on the ground continued to attract nesting geese. Most elevated nesting platforms were in use so more will be erected before next spring. First brood appeared April 27 and the last on June 4,

3, Other Water Birds

No change was noted from last year in the abundance of gulls, terns, cormorants, herons, pelicans, and other birdlife of this type inhabitating the refuge. First sighting of the blue heron occurred March 23, and pelicans arrived April 15, The heron rookery on Harriet Island near Slippery Ann was again a foci of activity. Forty-eight nests were occupied--one of which was preempted by a Canada goose after several days of avian discord and debate. This rookery is near the main access road and many visitors stopped to watch the birds fishing in shallow water.

The heron-cormorant rookeries in the lake itself continue to decline as wave and ice action continue to knock down the above-water snags. Osprey and Canada goose nest sites are likewise affected in these areas.

This year the little brown Sandhill crane migration did not include the Charles Russell Range in their itinerary of landing sites. None were observed except at high altitude while enroute to wintering areas further south. 4. Shore Birds

Considerable attention was given to populations of upland and mountain plover in the course of studies on Nichols Coulee RCA. A number of nests were located and 24 mountain plover young were banded.

5. Doves

The mourning dove is an abundant species on the game range and almost exclusively a ground nester. A reliable method of estimat ing the population has not been developed for the area but it appeared that doves were more numerous than last year. The first sighting was on March 5, 1966.

On several occasions doves were observed roosting on a 300 yard stretch of 3-wire stock fence in such numbers that the wires were totally obscured. These concentrations occurred along a fence separat ing a field of winter wheat from native grass where livestock grazing is prohibited.

B. Upland Game Birds

All upland game bird populations have increased slightly from the low levels of last year but with the exception of sharptail grouse, not to a level that encouraged hunters to choose this area of Montana for bird hunting.

Wild turkeys are continuing a comeback. There is a total of at least 90 birds in the area near Slippery Ann. They have dispersed to other bottoms where suitable habitat exists up and down the river from Slippery Ann which makes census work more difficult than a year ago.

Turkey losses are considered very low, particularly consider ing the lack of wariness shown by the birds in the flock at the station. Only two losses are known during the past year; one to unknown causes and one to a nimrod during deer season who shot the bird and left the carcass to rot.

The inventory of sage grouse dancing grounds was expanded. Early morning flights were made in mid-April to locate these grounds and count the birds present, thus establishing a reference index for future evaluation. Eighteen such areas were located in Phillips County, west of Fourchette Creek, and 329 birds were the total number sighted. C. Big-Game Animals

1. Mule Deer

The total number of deer is far less than it should be ac cording to browse condition and trend indicators; nonetheless an alarming reduction of total numbers has been accomplished the past several years.

All animals checked during the 1965 and 1966 hunting season were judged to be in excellent condition. Both viscera and body fat deposits were extensive, again indicating a sufficient food supply of proper quality.

No winter "die-off" occurred despite a moderately severe season. No dead deer were found either from the air or from the ground except those killed by predators. This influence was judged excessive only in the light of the depressed deer populations and not from the standpoint of total numbers.

Reproduction improved from the low doe-fawn ratio of 10:1 (1965) to"10:7 this year reflecting perhaps the less severe winter. Such low reproduction usually reflects an over-population or an over used range but in this case it can be attributed to: (1) the over- harvest of all age classes in this 2-deer either sex area; (2) natural mortality of fawns, including predation.

Deer sightings by all personnel before, during, and after the hunting season confirmed the fact that deer were few in numbers. This was substantiated by the poor hunter success (13% at Slippery Ann and less than 20% at Fort Peck) during the 1966 season.

The Missouri River "breaks" has been popularized by hunting magazines the past several years. It is a two-deer either sex hunting area with special $20 non-resident permits issued specifically for the area.

Resident hunters, too, prefer to hunt the "breaks" because deer are larger and in better condition than elsewhere in central Montana It is an area that lends itself well to sophisticated hunting equipment, the scope sight, and the four-wheel drive vehicle. Opportunity for long shots, which seems to intrigue the average sportsman, are many and the scope sight provides the confidence, misplaced as it may be, to try. Most all of the area may be "hunted" from a four-wheel drive vehicle. The ridge tops provide easy access and the remainder of the area offers but slightly more obstacle to a hunting party so equipped. Add to this the overall beauty of the country, the sparsely timbered slopes, and juniper patches that can be scanned from each successive ridge top— and you have a country that is irresistibly popular for hunting. Such a combination of circumstances can and in fact has resulted in an over- harvest of the resource. Recognizing this eventuality we have by every means available to us recommended a less liberal season but without success. An even stronger recommendation will be extended to the Montana Department of Fish and Game in 1967.

2. Whitetail Deer

The doe/fawn ratio is 10:8.2, somewhat higher than the 10:7 for mule deer. The white-tailed deer continue to prosper despite the heavy hunting pressure exerted upon them. Six to ten thousand acres of prime habitat was lost as river bottoms became flooded by the rising lake level last year. The lake level was maintained in the 2240' range offering little relief for this situation. Whitetails are crowded on the remaining habitat and are forced into more of the mule deer range. There is little hope for correcting this situation as long as the lake is maintained above 2230' contour. New habitat cannot be created and the present supply is being completely utilized.

3. Elk

This historically important reintroduced species is on a biologically sound basis as evidenced by its productivity and general condition. The herd is not expanding due to a liberal hunting season imposed by the Montana Fish and Game Department. This year for the first time since the animals were introduced in 1951, a significant movement occurred across Fort Peck Reservoir from South Valley County to Garfield County. Although these elk have not been sighted by Bureau personnel, reports seem reliable and the census on the north side indicated an ab sence of a portion of the herd. (A preseason state elk census indicated some concern about the absence of elk also.)

Normally the elk herd is divided into two distinct groups— one west of a line between the UL Bend and the Musselshell River, and the other east of this line and north of Fort Peck Reservoir. The latter (eastern herd) is for some purposes subdivided into those ranging the Burnt Lodge area and those ranging east of Timber Creek to Fort Peck. As mentioned, it is possible that a fourth entity may now exist on the south side near Hell Creek in Garfield County.

Census figures, though not as finite as those of last year, indicate 225 head on the west unit and 300 on the east unit, not includ ing those that may have moved across the reservoir. Unantlered adult/calf ratios increased last year from 100:40 to 100:51 on the east end and from 100:40 to 100:53 on the west end.

Hunter success during the special permit rifle season was 87% on the east unit with a known kill of 52 animals; 66%, on the north side of the west unit (39 animals); and 65% on the south side west unit (26 animals). Hunter success overall was 70%. Crippling loss was believed significant due in part to inexperienced hunters (children, wives, and other non-hunters drawing permits). Elk herds were fired at, sometimes at extreme ranges, and hits were unknown unless an animal dropped. Two crippled elk were sighted from the air after the season and reports of at least 5 more were received. A total number of 19 animals were known crippled or illegally killed during the archery and rifle season. Archery hunters bagged 7 elk on the east end and 7 on the west end for a total known kill of 14 animals. It is estimated that the total kill could be in the neighborhood of 170.

A herd of 35 elk again spent the late summer and early fall at Slippery Ann. Here, as on several other bottoms, extremely heavy use was made of the grain and hay crops. Twelve acres of corn was worked so heavily by elk that virtually all the corn ears were eaten before maturity. Another crop, potatoes, not intended for game use, was totally obliterated in two nights. The elk at Slippery Ann are usually easily viewed by visitors from their cars and provide much en joyment for the non-hunting public.

The archery season for elk on the west unit this year included additional area not previously open to hunting. No losses due to crip pling were noted but.one archer indicated at least two elk were seriously wounded and not recovered.

4. Bighorn Sheep

A comprehensive ground census of bighorn sheep within the Two- Calf Enclosure and adjacent areas was performed during the summer of 1966, Counts were made on several consecutive days with particular emphasis placed on avoiding duplication of animals tallied. This yielded figures which should be considered to represent an absolute minimum number of sheep present at the time. Sighted inside the enclosure were 8 rams, 13 ewes, 6 lambs, and 1 yearling of undetermined sex. Outside the exclosure were 8 rams, 3 ewes, and 2 lambs. Bighorns have been seen to jump the fence around the enclosure so it should not be inferred that the animals on the outside represent a separate herd or population. A count in early fall revealed a total of 37 sheep within the enclosure including 2 large rams that had not been noted in the earlier census.

In late December, 14 lambs were sighted in a group of 36. Efforts to standardize the census technique are underway and will pro vide more reliable information as to trend of the population. It is estimated that the total population of sheep is less than 60. 10

A spring was developed and a wooden tank installed in the southeastern portion of the enclosure. The spring flowed .2 gpm in late summer of this an exceptionally dry year and should improve dis tribution of game use within the area.

During the census, remains of two sheep carcasses were found. Both appeared to have been dead for several months and cause of death could not be determined. No known losses to predators have occurred during the past year.

5. Antelope

The total number of this big game species using the game range was drastically reduced from last year primarily because of the severe winter of 1965-66. This same reduction was noted elsewhere in central Montana, especially south of the Missouri River. The "breaks" on the game range overwintered the bulk of those animals moving from the north and those populations were much less affected.

6. Bison

During the months of January, February, and March, alfalfa hay and "cake" was fed to the three buffalo in the Leo B. Coleman Wild life Exhibit. The animals had no trouble adjusting to alfalfa hay but were somewhat reluctant in taking the "cake". The first calf was born May 11 and the second one May 26. The first one was a bull and named "Akela" by the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce. The young heifer was called "Minngo".

On October 13 the calves were branded and vaccinated. They were branded with the letter six (6) on their left rear leg to denote their year of birth. Both calves were vaccinated for blackleg, malig nant edema, and shipping fever. The heifer was also vaccinated for brucellosis.

For a one-week period commencing the 4th of July and again September 11, the buffalo were retained in a smaller fenced off area of the exhibit pasture. While in this smaller pasture they were within view of the public at all times. Most of the time the animals conceal themselves in the small coulees and interior portion of the pasture making observation by the public almost impossible. It is intended that a larger area be fenced off where the animals could be retained for a period of two to three weeks.

The buffalo have adjusted quite well to the Fort Peck pasture and have exceeded expectation in their gentleness and general appearance. A survey of the pasture vegetation this fall revealed the range to be in excellent condition and apparently capable of holding five buffalo. 11

The five mule deer in the pasture are seen frequently in the spring and fall months. The mule deer were fenced into the exclosure and originally consisted of 2 does with 2 fawns each. Sometime during the spring one doe died leaving the present five animals. Three of the fawns are does and one is a buck. There was no production this year of mule deer but we expect an increase next year.

On October 21, two white-tailed deer and one antelope were added to the exhibit pasture. The whitetail were obtained from a saloon owner in Culbertson, Montana, and included a doe and her fawn. The ani mal was quite gentle and broke to pull a wagon. The Montana Fish and Game confiscated the animals and asked if we might keep them in the Coleman Exhibit area. So far they have made a valuable addition to exhibit.

The young antelope doe was obtained from a rancher near Opheim, Montana. Since the day she was placed in the pasture she has been the "star" attraction. She waits at the fence for attention and usually re ceives it. It is hoped that three or four more antelope can be obtained to better represent this native species in the Coleman Exhibit.

D. Fur Animals, Predators, Rodents, and Other Mammals

1. Fur Animals

Fur animal populations are again low on the refuge and no harvest is recommended except for beaver. Observations throughout the year and aerial census in November indicated a harvestable surplus on the west end of the range. On the east end a "surplus" exists only be cause of the conflict with a more dense human population and permits to take nuisance beaver and foxes were issued. A total of 16 beaver were removed by the trapper and 13 were livetrapped and released on the Milk River by the state. Complaints by residents along the reservoir and the Corps of Engineers has been less this year than last, no doubt due to the lowered population.

2. Predators

On the east end coyotes were not overly abundant except for the area from Duck Creek to Fourth Point where a noticeable increase in numbers has taken place.

Red fox population in the Fort Peck area has increased over the past several years. The numerous duck kills around the dredge cuts found both last year and again this year have caused a trapping program to be initiated.

At the close of the season fox pelts were bringing $5.00 in Glasgow. The trapping of fox in this general area has become a profit able sport for many people. 12

Last spring and again this fall there were several reports of mountain lion sightings in the Harper Ridge and Gilbert Creek areas and one report was received from the area of Rock Creek. No predation prob lem is known to exist.

Bobcats are no more numerous than a year ago and although a predation problem does exist with the captive goose flock at Slippery Ann, the matter is routinely handled by personnel stationed there.

Raccoon sign is more common than a year ago although the animals themselves are seldom seen. Some nest destruction is no doubt due to their activities.

Skunk populations on the west end are up considerably over last year. Some permittees have experienced poultry losses and all residents along the river have had fragrant encounters with these striped stinkers. No formal complaints have been received and it is anticipated that control can be handled by regular personnel.

Coyotes, along with raccoons and skunks, seriously curtailed goose nesting on the west end and a request for assistance from the Division of Wildlife Services was approved. This program is scheduled to begin and end prior to the spring migration and will consist of two parts--a short-term intensive reduction of predator species and expansion of the artificial nesting tree site program. This two-pronged attack should assure a successful production of goslings next summer. If the tree nests are as successful as those already established, the actual control of ground predators can be phased out probably within a year or two.

The impact of this control program will not affect the total population of the target species on the game range because of its short duration and limited area of operation.

3. Rodents

Mice continue to be a nuisance around home sites on the river but populations have not noticeably changed. No increase in porcupine numbers have been observed. Prairie dog towns have increased slightly on both ends of the game range and a colony believed to have been poisoned two years ago is again becoming active.

4. Rabbits

Both black-tailed jackrabbit and white-tail populations re main low and unchanged. 13

E. Hawks, Eagles, Owls, Grows, Ravens, and Magpies

Populations of conraionly occurring species of hawks, eagles, and owls were normal and unchanged. These include sparrow hawks, marsh hawks, red-tailed hawks, and Swainson's hawks, golden eagles, short- eared owls, and great-horned owls. Snowy owls were sighted twice during the winter.

Bald eagles are winter residents and have not declined in numbers. They are the primary avian predator of the geese at Slippery Ann but vigilance by personnel stationed there discourage this activity and losses have not been excessive.

One dead bald eagle was found west of the Robinson Bridge and shipped to the Wildlife Research Laboratory at Patuxant.

Osprey nesting activity has steadily declined from 1963 to 1965. This year a rally occurred in nesting activity but production was poor. Only 1 chick was produced from 16 eggs and 2 of the 7 nests were destroyed by wave action.

The following report describes this activity in more detail:

"The Osprey, Pandion haliaetus, nests over water in old cottonwood snags, sometimes in heron-cormorant rookeries but more usually in isolated trees. Although such nesting sites occur elsewhere on the Charles M, Russell National Wildlife Range, the nesting activity is confined to the UL Bend from Devil Creek on the east to Soda Creek on the west.

In June of 1963, 11 nests containing 13 chicks were located, but in June of 1964 there were only 5 nests con taining 3 eggs in this area. Only 1 nest was located in 1965. The number of birds surviving to flight stage is un known .

On May 31, 7 nests were located and 16 eggs were counted. Another census was made June 8 but only 14 eggs were counted. On July 8 another census revealed that only 5 nests remained; 2 had been destroyed by wave action. Only 2 eggs and 1 chick were counted on this date. A follow-up count was made on July 25 but there was no change.

A Canada goose nested in one of the osprey nest sites prior to the hawk's arrival. It is not known whether or not the goose brood was "brought off" prior to the hawk's arrival or if the osprey preempted the nest to the detriment of the goose brood. 14

One adult osprey was killed as it attacked the air plane. It is a fact that this bird will defend its nest against any odds and extreme caution must be used when flying in the vicinity of the nests. Usually the hawk will spiral upward and dive on the aircraft but in this case the bird made a swoop upward, striking the wing tip of the airplane."

F. Other Birds

Birds common to the area were present in the usual numbers and provided visitors to the area with much enjoyment. Sightings of birds which are known to the game range but not often seen include a black-crowned night heron during spring migration and two snowy owls during early winter.

Some first observations of the season were

March 12 Hairy Woodpecker March 13 Western Bluebird March 14 Red-winged Blackbird March 14 Yellow-headed Blackbird March 14 Brewer's Blackbird March 15 Killdeer March 15 Western Meadowlark March 17 Horned Lark March 19 Robin March 20 American Coot March 23 Great Blue Heron March 29 Mourning Dove April 10 Double-crested Cormorant April 10 White Pelican April 11 Sparrow Hawk April 15 Long-billed Curlew April 16 Common Egret

G. Fish

Northern pike fishing this year was the best in the history of the Fort Peck Reservoir. Many catches of fish over 20 pounds were made. The Big Dry area furnished some of the best pike fishing and the largest caught this summer came from Rock Creek. This fish weighed 2& pounds. An increasing number of northern pike are being taken from the river. 15

Fish plants this summer by the Montana Fish and Game Department consisted of:

Species Number Location Northern Pike 20,000 Fry Reservoir Rainbow Trout 20,000 3V' Trout Pond

Of general interest regarding the poundage of sport fish taken from the reservoir is the following taken from a State Fish and Game report:

"The estimate furnished last year (1965) was 50,000 pounds, up 10,000 pounds from the year before on the basis of increased license sales and the take of larger northern pike. Our most recent fisherman use inventory indicates a greatly increased use of the reservoir, far in excess of that indicated by license sales alone. With this in mind and the obvious improvement in the fishing, it is of little value to continue increasing the estimate that was origi nally based on data that is no longer valid. We also hesi tate to offer a new guess which is based on no data at all."

Classification of the paddlefish as a game fish and regula tion of limit and means of taking came none too soon. The number:of fishermen participating in snagging these primitive creatures increased to an estimated 400 fisherman use days this year,

A total of 66 paddlefish ranging in weight from 19 pounds to 110 pounds were measured and weighed by Bureau personnel in cooperation with the State Fish and Game Department, Lower jaws were collected as an aging technique.

Previous years' paddlefishing activities have generally lasted for a period of four to six weeks during April and May. However, this year some die-hard snaggers experienced success as late as July. It is probable that fish taken this late were returning downstream subsequent to spawning. Increased public use by paddlefishermen is anticipated in future years.

Catfishing was generally poorer on the river than in previous years due to low water levels and high temperatures; but some nice catches of wall-eyed pike and sauger were made from the river.

H. Reptiles

This group of animals was conspicuous by their absence. Only a few sightings of rattlesnakes were reported. Other snakes and horned toads were few in numbers. 16

I. Diseases

No incidents of any disease was noted this year,

III. REFUGE DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE

A. Physical Development

The following list of items was accomplished throughout the year:

Two 5-foot culverts installed on Antelope Creek crossing on Kendall Bottom's access trail. This will eliminate a trouble crossing and improve access to farm tracts and proposed waterfowl development area

Installation of a cattleguard at entrance to tract 17, This area has gained popularity with hunters, fishermen, and picnickers. The cattleguard should eliminate trespass livestock caused by the gate being left down.

Construction of a jeep trail to tract 34, A patrol cabin at tract 34 has been inaccessible since the Fort Peck Reservoir inundated the road two years ago. The cabin can again be reached and used by personnel working in the area thus saving much commuting time.

Completion of 4,000 feet of level ditch below Rock Creek Reservoir, This ditch, capable of carrying 9,000 gpm, makes it possible to irrigate 500 acres of land either from Rock Creek Reservoir or from the Missouri River, The ditch proved especially useful this year be cause Rock Creek Reservoir dried up completely in mid-summer and the only irrigation water available was in the Missouri River,

Construction of 1,5 miles of fence in Chain Buttes Grazing District, This fence ties in with previously constructed fence and will facilitate range improvement by preventing overuse due to excessive num bers of livestock moving around the end of the existing drift fence.

Construction of an additional two livestock-big game exclosures in Nichols Coulee RCA,

Installation of a windmill and two stock tanks on Upper 7-Mile well in Nichols Coulee RCA. The well drilled in 1965 had produced water but was not a flowing well. The windmill and tanks provided a reliable source of stock water throughout the grazing season.

Stabilization of bank on Missouri River. In an attempt to stabilize erosion of the bank at the upper pump site at Slippery Ann, 225 feet of riverbank was faced with pile-driven steel rails 24'xl8nx4", The rails, which somewhat resemble I-beams, were obtained from surplus. An additional 150 feet of bank was barricaded with cottonwood logs. It is too early to evaluate results of the project. 17

An underground sprinkler system was installed at Slippery Ann. This project satisfied the needs for irrigation of the winter goose pas ture and the grounds and lawns at the station. For the first time in several years a good stand of grain was produced in the goose pasture. Lawns, trees, and shrubs are doing much better than with the old system. Grass seed has been planted on barren fills where it is hoped the new source of water will aid in producing a sod.

Slippery Ann Waterfowl Development. Construction of approxi mately 1,000 feet of dike was completed before lack of funds necessitated curtailment of construction. It will be completed when funds permit.

A patrol cabin was moved to tract 15. This will replace the patrol cabin at tract 19-A which was rendered useless by the 1964 flood.

Well at Camp Charley. A well at Camp Charley which had been drilled previously and capped was activated and connected to the water system in hopes of providing a more palatable and less corrosive source of domestic water.

At the Fort Peck Station, a new horse barn and corral was con structed this spring. The barn is of treated post and plywood construction with a covering of sheet aluminum while the corral is built of lodgepole pine. The unit was built to handle the station's four horses but also offers limited storage for feed and other materials for both the horses and buffalo.

A set of corrals built to handle buffalo was constructed in side the Leo B. Coleman Wildlife Exhibit pasture this fall. The corral measures 42 feet square and is divided through the center. The unit has additional posts for support and the poles forming the sides were placed at closer intervals than was necessary for the horse corral. An exit chute was built to facilitate animals into a "squeeze chute" onto a truck or trailer. The corrals were used for the vaccination and branding of the calves and for insect control of the adult buffalo. At that time the corrals worked as intended and no difficulties were encountered to either corrals or animals.

A storage yard built adjacent to the shop at Fort Peck was completed in June. The yard measures 110'xl70' and features a graded gravel yard bounded by a seven foot page-wire fence. A new 1,000 bushel grain bin, oil house, and overhead 500 gallon diesel tank were placed in the yard. Poles have been set for a night-lighting system that was recom mended by the Corps of Engineers.

A new information sign was placed along Highway 249 pointing to the shop and warehouse location. A sign placed on the shop identifies it as a Bureau installation. This is necessary as we are bordered by Bureau of Reclamation and Corps of Engineers shops and warehouses. 18

Land tracts 68-D, 70-D, and 71-D were staked and surveyed this summer for leveling. On tract 68-D, 70-foot border dikes were constructed and the ditch was cleaned. A pumping site in the dredge cut adjoining tract 68-D was built although pumping has not yet been initiated.

Staking and surveying of the land tracts was accomplished by this Bureau while the field designs were prepared by the Soil Conserva tion Service. Eighty acres in tracts 70-D and 71-D remain to be leveled as does the ditching system for these two tracts. It is planned to fin ish these projects this coming spring and summer or as funds become available.

Maintenance of vehicles and equipment received high priority and were serviced as the need arose. Painting and general maintenance of all buildings and grounds were accomplished throughout the year. Quarters #3, the Fort Peck residence, received considerable work in restoring it to an acceptable living level,

B. Plantings

1. Aquatic and Marsh Plants

None.

2. Trees and Shrubs

None,

3, Upland Herbaceous Plants

Roadsides and disturbed sites are being seeded to western wheatgrass. The seed is being applied on melting snow with a hand broadcast seeder. Rate of seeding is approximately four pounds per acre,

4, Cultivated Crops

On the refuge-farmed lands at Fort Peck, 20 acres of tract 68-D were seeded to proso millet in mid-August. This was done after the land leveling and fertilizing was finished. The millet progressed well and headed out but was killed by an early frost. Volunteer barley along with the millet did provide feed for some of the wintering mallards. Due to the land leveling operation, no other crops were farmed by refuge personnel this year.

On the sharecropped lands, 74.4 acres were planted to barley. Yield totaled 3,440 bu, for an average of 46 bu, per acre. Part of 19 tract 62-D, which is dry farmed, yielded 55 bu. per acre. Nine acres of irrigated alfalfa on tract 66-D put up 30 tons of hay. The refuge share of this crop is used for supplemental feeding of the buffalo. The refuge share of the barley, which totaled 910 bu., was placed in Government bins for winter feeding.

Due to the extremely dry weather on the west end, dry land crops were below average. On sharecropped tracts, 145 acres of barley yielded an estimated average of 17 bu./acre, and 100 acres of winter wheat averaged 23.7 bu./acre. The refuge-farmed tract yields were 30 bu./acre for barley, 20 bu./acre for winter wheat, and 55 bu./acre on irrigated millet. Alfalfa yields average 1.7 ton/acre and wild hay yielded approximately \ ton/acre.

Most of the crops received excellent utilization by waterfowl, upland game, and big game. Doves made extremely heavy use of millet crops.

High water levels in the Fort Peck Reservoir continue to curtail farming operations on the west end. Approximately 370 acres of land formerly farmed by the refuge is still under water. It is anticipated that about 90 acres of this will be reclaimed during the coming year as waters have receded.

C. Collections and Receipts

None.

D. Control of Vegetation

Results of spraying weeds with 2,4-D Amine were very disap pointing. In most cases, this was because the growth stage of the target species was too far advanced by the time the herbicide was ap plied. During the period that spraying should have been done, the wind blew almost constantly, making spraying inadvisable.

On the advice of the County Extension Agent, five acres in fested with Russian knapweed were treated with Benzabor soil sterilant at the rate of 240 lb./acre. If effective, this will kill all vegetation for approximately two years. This measure seems a bit extreme but all attempts to kill the knapweed by cultivation and use of 2,4-D had failed, and it was threatening to take over 30 acres of irrigated farmland. Re sults of the Benzabor treatment appear good with a 607o kill to date and more expected within the next year.

The airstrip at Slippery Ann was also treated with Benzabor. The sterilant was applied in the fall and no results are expected to be evident before spring moisture leaches the material into the soil. 20

E, Planned Burning

Tracts 68-D, 70-D, and 71-D were burned in order to clear the land for land leveling operations. Barley and millet left standing from the 1965 season burned well. However, the luxuriant weed growth and volunteer barley found in the fallow strips did not burn and cons- quently were disked, raked, and then burned.

F. Fires

Weather conditions were responsible for one of the worst fire seasons encountered on the wildlife range. The season started early with the first fire being recorded on May 31, and the last on August 11. There was a total of 19 fires which burned 9,798.4 acres. All fires were started by lightning. Game Range personnel assisted BLM with five fires which were entirely off the wildlife range.

All available equipment and fire fighting personnel were uti lized throughout the fire season. Aerial retardants were dropped with good results. Indian crews provided assistance on several occasions, especially during mop-up. Heavy equipment was dispatched to most of the larger fires. The Service aircraft played an important role in spotting and scouting fires and also servicing fire camps.

One incident of excessive use of heavy equipment was made by BLM on a fire in the proposed Burnt Lodge Wilderness Area. The result is a tragic scar and spoilage of perhaps the most scenic and rugged area of the game range. Resultant efforts by the machines were far more dev astating to the area than the fire. This incident will require a modi fication of our fire agreement concerning the proposed wilderness areas.

The following table is a list of all fires within the wild life range.

Total Acres Fire Name Location Date Fuel Type Burned

Phillips County Wilder Coulee #1 Sec 29 T22N R26E 5/31 Western Woodland .1 Wilder Coulee #2 Sec 25 T22N R25E 5/31 Western Woodland .1 Garden Coulee Sec 34 T22N R28E 6/20 Ponderosa Pine 1.0 Rock Creek Sec 3 T22N R25E 6/28 Juniper-Pine- 2166.0 Grassland Scramble Fire Sec 28 T22N R25E 7/11 Pinion Juniper 2.0 Seven Mile Sec 30 T22N R27E 7/11 Pinion Juniper .1 Slippery Ann Creek Sec 30 T22N R25E 7/11 Western Woodland 2.0 Wiedderick Sec 27 T23N R31E 7/14 Pinion Juniper .1 Larb Hills Sec 22 T22N R33E 7/19 Agropyron-Stipa 190.0 Williams Sec 32 T22N R24E 7/19 Grass-Woodland 2.0 Mickey Butte Sec 18 T21N R31E 7/25 Grass 1.0 21

Total Acres Fire Name Location Date Fuel Type Burned

Valley County Killed Woman Sec 2 T22N R32E 7/25 Grass 1.0

Fergus County Sand Creek Sec 3 T21N R24E 7/19 Ponderosa Pine 420.0 Mauland Sec 17 T21N R25E 8/11 Ponderosa Pine 3.0

Petroleum County McArthur Sec 26 T21N R27E 7/19 Ponderosa Pine 2361.0 Hansen Flat Sec 24 T21N R28E 7/25 Western Woodland 3.0

Garfield County Snow Creek Sec 26 T22N R36E 7/19 Woodland-Grass 4526.0 Billy Creek Sec 35 T22N R34E 7/19 Pine-Juniper 50.0 Phipps Sec 13 T21N R31E 7/25 Pine 70.0

Total Acres 9798.4

IV. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

A. Grazing

Livestock management has again been a major problem on the wildlife range. The Bureau of Land Management is attempting to complete the final adjudication in McCone, Garfield, Petroleum, and Fergus Counties. The range users in Fergus and Petroleum Counties have all agreed to accept the proposed final adjudication. This was accepted primarily because no livestock reductions were necessary. However, in McCone and Garfield Counties where reductions were made, there was nearly 100% protest to the proposed final adjudication. These users have 60 days to appeal the pro posal and it appears likely many will. Unfortunately, these appeals will probably be kept in courts for 3 to 15 years. During this period the livestock licenses must be issued the same as in previous years. This means if the range is being overused, it will continue to be overused until the case is settled.

Trespass livestock continues to be a problem although consider able progress has been made in recent years which has improved the situa tion. One herd of approximately 80 trespass horses was rounded up and sold. Winter trespass is the biggest problem.

Generally, in the western two-third's of the range, the grazing use appeared heavy. Extreme drouth conditions were partially responsible for the heavy use although stocking rates are believed high in some areas. Many reservoirs dried up completely during the summer, making distribution 22 a problem. On the eastern one-third of the area, precipitation was better and several large rains supplemented all reservoirs and pro vided moisture for the growing forage. This also kept fires to a minimum on this portion of the range.

The range survey report is shown under Section V, Progress Report, Nichols Coulee.

B. Haying

Hay was harvested on about 300 acres of the Fort Peck horse pasture. This field has not been cut for several years and the hay was of poor quality. The yield was about .23 ton per acre.

Many tracts of land on the western one-third of the wildlife range which produced good yields of hay prior to 1964 are still under water. The dryland hay production was poor on most of this area. As a comparison of hay yields—one tract produced 1,750 bales last year and 120 bales this year. Several permittees, who normally do not irrigate, put pumps into operation this summer. Most of them did not irrigate soon enough to get a second cutting but their efforts should result in better hay yields next year.

C. Fur Harvest

Onetrapping permit was in effect at the beginning of the year. This trapper caught 10 beaver in the area below Fort Peck Dam in early spring. During the summer months few complaints were voiced by summer home occupants although two reports of beaver damage to boat docks and tree plantings were turned in. Below the dam, decreased activity was present most of the year but the perennial damming at the outlet of the filtration plant occurred in late fall. A trapping permit was issued for the Fort Peck area this fall but the quota was reduced over that of the previous year. To date only one beaver has been taken but trapper activity has been curtailed due to some bad weather conditions.

Beaver populations on the west unit were up somewhat from last year and a permit was issued to trap 70 beaver as compared to 65 a year ago. High water in the Fort Peck Reservoir has flooded out most of the beaver in the two lower management units so no permits to trap were issued for that area. The trapping program was a success—the 70 beaver for which permits were issued were taken. Following is a tabulation of the harvest by unit. Number Unit Quota Harvested I 15 15 II 25 25 III 30 30 IV 0 0 V 0 0 70 70 23

D. Timber Removal

None,

E. Commercial Fishing

One commercial fisherman operated on the Fort Peck Reservoir this season. His activities took him over most of the reservoir but his base was near Devil's Creek. Tabulated below are the results of this year's operation as compared to 1965.

Species Poundage Taken

1965 1966

Buffalo 130,340 157,092 Catfish 7,603 10,965 Carp 1,120 3,100 Drum 440 1,325 White Carp - 12,800

Totals 139,503 185,282

Commercial fishing activity on the Fort Peck Reservoir is handled entirely by the Montana Fish & Game Department, The above figures were obtained from that agency.

The Montana Fish & Game Department has initiated a research and study project of the reservoir to evaluate the prospects of enlarg ing the commercial fishing business. An inventory of fish in the reser voir both as to species and abundance is high on their priority. Through assistance from the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries, the State has a 35- foot research vessel stationed in Fort Peck, and two full-time employees, a Commercial Fisheries Biologist and a Boat Operator-Maintenanceman.

At this early date, the Montana Fish & Game Department, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Valley County Development Com mittee have high hopes of expanding the commercial fishing industry in this area. The Pre-Gondola site at Duck Creek has been suggested as a base of operations for commercial fisheries once the Corps of Engineers is through experimenting as inland harbors, electricity, and access roads will then be available.

F. Other Uses

Flight time, including all aircraft types, during the calendar year totaled 441,2 hours, 410 hours were flown in the contract Supercub, and 31,2 hours were flown in four-place Mooney's and Cessna's on special charter for other government agencies and BSF&W projects (other than CMR). 24

This flying for associated agencies and other refuges increased from 23% to 26% this year. Total hours of flying time are listed below.

Benton Lake Refuge ^ 43.6 Bowdoin Refuge 23.0 Medicine Lake Refuge r 5.2 Red Rock Lakes Refuge 15.0 Regional Office 14.7 Bureau Outdoor Recreation 9.0 Wetlands Survey y 5.2

Total Hours 115.7

This percentage of total flight time increases as other projects become familiar with advantages offered. This trend is encouraged but not to the degree that adversely affects the primary objectives on CMR.

The airplane is an essential tool in most all activities on the CMR Range, be it fire patrol, biological fact finding, hauling emergency repairs, enforcement patrol, or rescue work. Census work is removed from the "educated guess" category to one of finite measure ment. Livestock trespass has been reduced significantly. In short, management on the refuge is becoming more of a reality due to the benefits of the airplane.

V. FIELD INVESTIGATION OR APPLIED RESEARCH

A. Progress Report

1. Nichols Coulee R.C.A.

Investigative studies and development of physical structures on the Nichols Coulee RCA have progressed according to plan and most development work has been completed. Basic inventories of soils, vege tation, and wildlife have been completed with adjustment and refinement continuing as needed,

A four pasture rest-rotation grazing plan initiated during 1965 was continued according to plan. However, some adjustment in livestock use per pasture was made by BLM to accomodate the water shortage resulting from the lack of precipitation.

Upon recommendation of the Denver Wildlife Research Laboratory, the 30 miles of pellet group transects was discontinued because of its statistical unreliability. Another pellet group census ^stem was sug gested which encompasses some of the data previously gathered but there was not sufficient time to start this new system of measurement. 25

Two more big game-livestock exclosures were constructed, bringing the total of these structures to six on the study area. Con trol areas in conjunction with each exclosure were located and staked. In addition, aerial photos were taken of all exclosure complexes utiliz ing the Bureau's aircraft from Sacramento, piloted by U.S. Game Manage ment Agent Alvin Weinrich. The photos were taken with a K-17 aerial camera. These photographs are of excellent quality and in sufficient detail to use as vegetative cover maps for laying out the controls planned, in addition to being an excellent documentary of existing vegetation and topographic conditions.

Under the guidance of Dr. Charles Loveless, Denver Research Laboratory, a system for vegetative analysis was designed. This in volves various transects and a point-contact method to measure changing conditions both within the exclosures and also outside in the "control" areas. Some of these transects are also designed to be used for pellet group studies. Lateness of the season precluded establishing all con trols recommended but a good start has been made and many details worked out to facilitate an all-out effort next summer.

This phase of the study was coordinated with the Montana Fish and Game Department and recommendations were solicited and received from them as well as the Bureau of Land Management.

The annual waterfowl survey on stockwater ponds in the Nichols Coulee RCA was conducted again on June 8. Thirty reservoirs were in cluded in the survey (27 last year) and adult birds showed a slight decrease from 53 to 51. Only 14 chicks (3 broods) were sighted this year as compared to 38 (6 broods) in 1965. This decline in production is believed to result from the lack of precipitation experienced in 1966.

The prairie dog study progressed satisfactorily. The census indicated slight increases in size and population of all towns surveyed.

The proposed hydrologic study was not implemented due to a lack of funds from the cooperating agencies.

A comprehensive survey is conducted periodically to determine status of big game populations. This includes sex and age composition counts, movements, and fluctuations in number and/or species. This in formation is to be correlated with livestock and other management techniques used in the RCA, Game animal numbers were down in 1965 from the index established in 1964; and this trend appears to be leveling off in 1966. In 1964, 63 deer were sighted per hour of flying time. In 1965, the number dropped to 20; and so far this year no increase has been noted.

The Soil Conservation Service was contracted to conduct a range site and condition survey on the wildlife range portion of Nichols 26

Coulee allotment. The survey was made by SCS Range Conservationists Joe Zacek and Robert L. Ross. The field work was completed during July.

The survey was made primarily for two reasons:

1. Establish the present range condition to provide a basis for measuring changes that may occur as a result of the rest rotation system;

2. To make a comparison of the AIM's with the 1952-53 ocular reconnaissance survey.

The following paragraph is a summary of the range condition taken from the SCS report:

"Of the 12,700 acres of clayey, panspots, and dense clay sites which has been prominently used by livestock, about 47% is in fair condition, 38% good, and 15% excellent. Sites not grazed much by cattle are thin clayey, shallow clay, and shale. 91% of these sites are in excellent con dition and 9% in good condition."

It is interesting to note the SCS assigned to livestock all AUM's available on the clayey, panspots, and dense clay sites. These sites are primarily the ridge tops and coulee bottoms. On the thin clayey, shallow clay, and shale sites, which are generally the rough breaks, only 25% of the AlM's was assigned to livestock and the 75% reserved for game.

The following table is a summary of the results of the SCS survey:

Available AUM's Available AUM's Total Avail- Total Acres Range Site Livestock Wildlife able AUM's by Site

Clayey 810 810 3,294 Panspots 757 - 757 4,063 Dense clay 801 - 801 5,322 Thin clay 1,951 5,852 7,803 33,436 Shallow clay 142 424 566 3,811 Shale - - - 535

Totals 4,461 6,276 10,737 50,461 27

A comparison of the AUM's in the SCS and Joint BSF&W and BLM 1952 Survey is shown in this table.

1952-53 1966 BSF&W & BLM Survey SCS Survey

AUM's available for livestock 5,362 4,461 AUM's available for game 2,660 6,276

Total AUM's--livestock and game 8,022 10,737

On the basis of this comparison it appears a reduction in livestock is in line. Using the present game populations, there are enough AUM's available in either survey for the present number of elk and twice as many deer.

2. Bird Banding

A total of 22 mountain plover was banded during this report ing period. An interesting band return was received when a mountain plover band was extracted from an aircraft jet engine near Austin, Texas. The bird was banded on June 29, 1965, and the recovery was made December 1, 1965. (Reported during 1966.)

The post-season banding quotas, 1,000 at Fort Peck and 500 at Lewistown, on the resident wintering populations of mallards were exceeded by 64 birds. Adult birds are trapped with funnel traps, drop-door traps, and cannon net. One hundred and twenty-seven geese were banded; 121 of these with green plastic bands.

The goose banding project evolves from the hatch of the captive goose flock at Slippery Ann; however, some completely "wild" goslings are included. Color-coded plastic leg bands are added to these birds to sepa rate year classes. This project is important in reestablishing Canada geese on the historically important Missouri River, both on and off the refuge, as evidenced by color band sightings during nesting season 150 miles upstream and ever increasing numbers of birds nesting on the river and adjacent areas. Following is a listing of Canada geese banded at Slippery Ann Station.

Year No. Banded Band Color Band Location 1966 121 Green Right leg 1965 75 White Left leg 1964 114 White Right leg 1963 118 Red Right leg 1962 111 Red Left leg 28

VI. PUBLIC RELATIONS

A, Recreational Uses

With the two comparatively minor instances of waterfowl hunting and big game bow hunting, all of the various recreational activities showed a decrease over the calendar year of 1965. There was an approximate decrease of 20% in total visits.

The greatest decrease appeared to be those fishermen fish ing from the bank for goldeye and similar types of fish. Activities among those fishing for paddlefish and northern pike were considerably greater than last year.

Twenty-five $7 conservation permits of "Operation Golden Eagle" were sold. Most of these were sold to local people who were using the local Forest Service campgrounds and to those who traveled the National Parks.

Boating down the Missouri River continues to increase in popularity. Personnel participated in one trip from Virgelle to Camp Charley. This trip was primarily for familiarization of personnel and data gathering for representatives of the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation and the Montana Fish & Game Department,

B. Game Range Visitors

1. Lewistown Headquarters

Jan 27 E. E. Seyler, Asst. State Supervisor, and Nick H. Lafrantz, Wildlife Services. Predation problems.

Mar 2 Harold Hardesty, Regional Transport Driver, Tulelake, California. Deliver excess property.

Mar 22 Dick Trueblood and Thomas R. Hay, Fish & Game, Glasgow, Mutual management problems and big game seasons.

Mar 22 Robert Cooney, Recreation & Parks, Fish & Game, Helena, Recreation problems.

Mar 23 E. E. Seyler, Asst. State Supervisor, Wildlife Services, Billings. Introduce Eugene Chapel, District Field Assistant, as new area Government trapper.

Mar 24 Clayton Ogle, Area Conservationist, Steve Kowatch, R.B. Dean & Earl P. Erickson; SCS personnel. Agriculture engineering,

Apr 5 Ray Hotchkiss, Mechanic, Red Rock Lakes Refuge, Monida, Property transfer. 29

Apr 21 E. E. Seyler, Asst. State Supervisor, Wildlife Services, Billings. Rabies outbreak in eastern Montana.

May 2 W. Ashton Brann, U.S. Game Management Agent, Helena. Enforcement patrol.

May 19 Henry A. Hansen, Asst. Chief, Branch of Management, Washington, D.C. Waterfowl breeding survey.

May 20 Homer L, Bradley, Refuge Manager, Des Lacs Refuge, Kenmare, North Dakota. Courtesy call.

May 31 Bruce Stollberg, Refuge Manager, Administration, Washing ton, D. C. Planning and hunting regulations.

May 31 Robert C. Fields, Refuge Manager, Fort Niobrara Refuge, Valentine, Nebraska. Courtesy call.

Jun 7 Willard Eraser, Mayor, Billings. Fort Peck Yacht Club Annual River Trip.

Jun 22 Jerry Wilson, Refuge Manager, Lower Souris Refuge, Upham, North Dakota. Courtesy call.

Jul 11 John E. Moorey, Joseph C. Zacek, Clayton Ogle, Robert Ross; SCS personnel. Charles M, Loveless, Biometrician, BSF&W, Denver, Colorado. Exclosure study of Nichols Coulee RCA and ecological site range survey.

Jul 16 Kenji Ego, Chief, Fisheries Branch, Honolulu, Hawaii. William Alvord, Superintendent, Fisheries, Fish & Game, Helena. Courtesy call.

Jul 18 Charles H. Rouse, Biologist, Ray Glahn, Regional Pilot, BSF&W, Portland, Oregon, & Nate Snyder, Forester, USFW, Missoula. Miller case.

Jul 19 Floyd E. Kinsinger, BLM Range Scientist, Washington, D.C. Joseph E. Townsend, BLM Wildlife Biologist, Denver, Colorado Allan L. Lovaas, NPS Regional Management Biologist, Omaha, Nebraska. Miller case.

Jul 25 Charles D. Evans, Fish & Wildlife Administrator, Anchorage, Alaska. Courtesy call.

Jul 26 Lawrence W. Ward & Mervin A. Cross, Realty Branch, FWS, Portland, Oregon. UL Bend Waterfowl Project.

Aug 1 A. E. Weinrich, Game Agent-Pilot, Sacramento, California. Photograph Nichols Coulee Project. 29

Apr 21 E. E. Seyler, Asst. State Supervisor, Wildlife Services, Billings. Rabies outbreak in eastern Montana.

May 2 W. Ashton Brann, U.S. Game Management Agent, Helena. Enforcement patrol.

May 19 Henry A. Hansen, Asst. Chief, Branch of Management, Washington, D.C. Waterfowl breeding survey.

May 20 Homer L. Bradley, Refuge Manager, Des Lacs Refuge, Kenmare, North Dakota. Courtesy call.

May 31 Bruce Stollberg, Refuge Manager, Administration, Washing ton, D. C. Planning and hunting regulations.

May 31 Robert C. Fields, Refuge Manager, Fort Niobrara Refuge, Valentine, Nebraska. Courtesy call.

Jun 7 Willard Eraser, Mayor, Billings. Fort Peck Yacht Club Annual River Trip.

Jun 22 Jerry Wilson, Refuge Manager, Lower Souris Refuge, Upham, North Dakota. Courtesy call.

Jul 11 John E. Moorey, Joseph C. Zacek, Clayton Ogle, Robert Ross; SCS personnel. Charles M. Loveless, Biometrician, BSF&W, Denver, Colorado. Exclosure study of Nichols Coulee RCA and ecological site range survey.

Jul 16 Kenji Ego, Chief, Fisheries Branch, Honolulu, Hawaii. William Alvord, Superintendent, Fisheries, Fish & Game, Helena. Courtesy call.

Jul 18 Charles H. Rouse, Biologist, Ray Glahn, Regional Pilot, BSF&W, Portland, Oregon, & Nate Snyder, Forester, USFW, Missoula. Miller case.

Jul 19 Floyd E. Kinsinger, BLM Range Scientist, Washington, D.C. Joseph E. Townsend, BLM Wildlife Biologist, Denver, Colorado. Allan L. Lovaas, NPS Regional Management Biologist, Omaha, Nebraska. Miller case.