SENEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE HARBOR ISLAND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE HURON ISLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT
Calendar Year 1988
U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM SENEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
SENEY, MICHIGAN
ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT
Calendar Year 1988
Refuge Manage Refuge Supervisor ReWe Date
Office Approval Date / INTRODUCTION
Seney National Wildlife Refuge is situated in the east central portion of Michigan's Upper Peninsula equidistant from Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Located in northeastern Schoolcraft County, the refuge is removed from major population centers. The three nearest major communities are all over 80 miles away.
The 95,455 acre refuge was established in 1935 in what is locally known as the Great Manistique Swamp. Habitats range from marshes and open water areas to hardwoods, spruce and pine forests. There are 21 major, managed impoundments with 7,000 surface acres. The 25,150 acre Seney Wilderness Area, characterized by string bog topography, is located in the northwest corner of the refuge.
Also administered from the Seney National Wildlife Refuge are the Huron Islands National Wildlife Refuge and Wilderness Area, eight small islands located off the south shore of Lake Superior, and the Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge in Lake Huron. Total acreage is 842 for these two satellite stations.
Typical Summer Scene on the Refuge (JP) TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION i
A. HIGHLIGHTS 01
B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS 02
C. LAND ACQUISITION
1. Fee Title (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Easements (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Other 04
D. PLANNING
1. Master Plan (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Management Plan 05 3. Public Participation NA 4. Compliance with Environmental and Cultural Resource Mandates (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Research and Investigation 05 6. Other 10
E. ADMINISTRATION
1. Personnel 12 2. Youth Programs 14 3. Other Manpower Programs 14 4. Volunteer Program 14 5. Funding 19 6. Safety 23 7. Technical Assistance 23 8. Other 23
F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT
1. General 24 2. Wetlands 24 3. Forests 25 4. Croplands (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Grasslands (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Other Habitats (Nothing to Report) NA
ii . < 7. Grazing (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Haying 26 9. Fire Management 26 10. Pest Control 30 11. Water Rights (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Wilderness and Special Areas 30 13. WPA Easement Monitoring (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Farm Bill Activities 30
G. WILDLIFE
1. Wildlife Diversity 31 2. Endangered and/or Threatened Species 31 3. Waterfowl 32 4. Marsh and Water Birds 35 5. Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns and Allied Species 36 6. Raptors 37 7. Other Migratory Birds 37 8. Game Mammals 37 9. Marine Mammals (Nothing to Report) NA 10. Other Resident Wildlife 39 11. Fisheries Resources 39 12. Wildlife Propagation and Stocking (Nothing to Report) . NA 13. Surplus Animal Disposal (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Scientific Collections 40 15. Animal Control (Nothing to Report) NA 16. Marking and Banding 40 17. Disease Prevention and Control 40
H. PUBLIC USE
1. General 41 2. Outdoor Classrooms-Students 42 3. Outdoor Classrooms-Teachers (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 4. Interpretive Foot Trails 42 5. Interpretive Tour Routes 43 6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations 43 7. Other Interpretive Programs 46 8. Hunting 47 9. Fishing 47 10. Trapping 48 11. Wildlife Observation 48 12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation 48 13. Camping (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Picnicking 49 15. Off-Road Vehicling (Nothing to Report) NA 16. Other Non-Wildlife Oriented Recreation 49 17. Law Enforcement 49
iii 18. Cooperating Associations 50 19. Concessions (Nothing to Report) NA 20. Entrance Fees 51
I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES
1. New Construction NA 2. Rehabilitation 53 3. Major Maintenance 53 4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement 54 5. Communications System 54 6. Computer Systems 55 7. Energy Conservation (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Other (Nothing to Report) NA
J. OTHER ITEMS
1. Cooperative Programs 57 2. Other Economic Uses (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Items of Interest 57 4. Credits 57
K. FEEDBACK
L. INFORMATION PACKET
iv < 1
A. HIGHLIGHTS
Driest spring and summer temperatures on record occurred during the months of April, May, June and July (see B).
Researchers from Ohio Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit conducted a soft release project with refuge sandhill cranes (see D-5).
Many personnel changes occurred in 1988. The Project leader position and the refuge biologist position were changed (see E-l).
High fire danger occurred in the summer resulting in station fire fighters responding to ten project fires, two of which occurred on the refuge (see F-9).
Field inspections were conducted for Farmers Home Administration properties in Michigan. Assistance was also given in wetland restorations (see F-14).
The Seney Natural History Association was formed and received a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (see H-18).
This year marked the first season of entrance fee collections (see H-20).
Renovation construction was completed on both the office and one phase of the shop (see 1-2). •-< 2
B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS
Weather records which include precipitation and temperature for 1988 are from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration cooperative weather station located at the refuge office. The refuge has maintained an official station since January 21, 1939. Refuge personnel record rainfall, snowfall, snow depth, and temperature daily including weekends and holidays during the summer months. The Secretary transmits this weather data to the Admini stration's computers via telephone on their ROSA encoder.
The months of April, May, June and July were the driest on record. However, the refuge received 7.29 inches of rain in August, well over the normal 3.11 inches, which began to raise the below normal annual precipitation level. The year ended with a slightly more than average annual precipitation total of 36.7 inches. The temperature readings for the year showed higher than normal temperatures with the highest reading on July 8 of 99 degrees. It is unusual for the Upper Peninsula to experience these high summer temperatures because of the affects of the surrounding Great Lakes. The 1988 snowfall of 86.1 inches was well below the average 125 inches of snowfall. 3
• f Table#!
1988 WEATHER STATISTICS
Precipitation Max. Min. Total Normal Snowfall Temp. Temp.
January 2 .64 2 . 08 25.2 38 -23
February .96 1.69 13.9 42 -11
March 3.93 2 . 08 10.1 47 -21
April 1 .03 2.23 3.5 65 21
May 1.41 2.96 89 27
June 2 . 16 3.53 91 34
July 2.45 2.80 99 39
August 7 . 29 3.11 91 45
September 3.08 3.43 82 37
October 4.47 2.83 76 27
November 4.79 3.04 3.3 57 22
December 2.49 2.46 30.1 43 -10
ANNUAL TOTALS 36.7 32.24 86 .1 99 -23 (Extremes)
Normal precipitation is calculated using monthly readings from 1940 to 1988 4 • < C. LAND ACQUISITION
Other
An exchange of property between the refuge and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources was proposed in 1986 to straighten irregular boundaries on the south end of the refuge. No final agreement has been made regarding the land exchange with the State of Michigan. The Land Protection Review Board approved the exchange in December of 1986. It is anticipated that the exchange will be finalized during 1989 . 5
D. PLANNING
2. Management Plan
Management Plan Part I and II were revised during the year. Objective levels were adjusted for some categories to provide more realistic goals. A significant change was the lowering of the objective of Canada goose production from 1080 to 450. This was because of the increase in the giant Canada goose population throughout Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
5. Research and Investigations
SNY NR-84-31510-1 and Ohio Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (14-16-0009-1539). Nesting, Productivity and Movement of Greater Sandhill Cranes of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Dr. Richard Urbanek
Nineteen eggs were collected on Seney National Wildlife Refuge via helicopter May 19-22 and hatched in an incubator May 20- 29. Chicks were reared in 1.36- x 0.91-m compartments that opened to 0.91- x 2.42-m runs. Each compartment contained a crane brood mount with a speaker, from which tape-recorded brood calls were played. Chicks were divided into four socialization groups and were exercised for about 1 hr each day, following a person in a puppet costume. Two chicks died from accidents and one died from an unknown cause. Health problems were minimal, and no serious leg/toe problems developed. The 16 surviving chicks were observed in sustained flight at ages of 67-81 days. The planned forced association experiments were not done because of poor weather conditions, construction delays, and severe time constraints. Chicks were released in the free association pen in late August. The 1.85-ha pen, an irregular, open-topped, 8-sided polygon, was built on an area of mudflat and shallow marsh. The fence extended 2.4 m above ground and 0.3 m below; an electrified wire was positioned 0.3 m below the top of the fence. A costumed dummy was placed in the pen so the chicks would remain there without brailing. Wild sandhill cranes began coming into the pen on August 28. Chicks were individually color-banded and equipped with solar/Ni-Cad radio transmitters the first week of September.
Eight chicks departed from the Upper Peninsula on September 25-28 and migrated along the normal route used by wild cranes to central Wisconsin. Eight chicks that did not depart were transported to the latter area and released on October 23. Fourteen chicks successfully migrated from central Wisconsin to Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area, Indiana, from October 15 to November 20. One chick that became separated 6
from wild birds was transported to Jasper-Pulaski Fish'and Wildlife Area and released on November 24. Another lost chick was reported alone in east-central Illinois on December 7 and was never recorded at Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area. The remaining 15 chicks successfully passed the Jasper- Pulaski stopover point along the correct migration route. Survival of the 16 chicks during the first leg of autumn migration (through the latitude of Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area) was 100%.
Costumed researcher exercises an attentive check. (ES) Dr. Richard Urbanek releasing one of the eight chicks that were transported to Wisconsin (ES)
SNY NR 88-31510-1 and Ohio Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Unit (14-16-0009-1562) A Survey of Xenobiotics in Biota on Seney National Wildlife Refuge, William Bowerman
A study to determine the presence and concentration of xenobiotics in biota was undertaken at Seney National Wildlife Refuge in Michigan. The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocepha- lugs) was chosen as the main bio-indicator species at the refuge. Aquatic vertebrates that are common in the eagle diet were collected from the refuge pools for contaminant analysis. In addition, mammal carcasses taken during the open trapping season at the refuge were turned in to the Refuge Biologist for contaminant analysis. Blood and feather samples were 8
collected from nestlings throughout Michigan for contamiiiant analysis and prey remains were collected from under and within the two nest sites on the refuge.
SNY-84-02 Research to Determine the Best Black Bear Method ology. In Cooperation with State of Michigan, Department of Natural Resources. Project number: W-127--R, Study Number: 127-51, James A. Kesel
This project was initiated to determine bear population trends and started as a joint project with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in 1985.
Bait stations established in 1984 were again used this year in the interior and west boundary of the refuge. Pork baits were placed out once a month during May, June, July and August. Stations were checked after seven days to determine if a visit was made. It appeared that bears visited baits sites more frequently during June in 1988 with 13 hits per 30 stations. The total hits per station ratio in 1988 is 25 hits for 130 stations.
The research suggested that during drought periods, bears may be more susceptible to baiting. The State of Michigan was concerned that this may lead to an over harvest of bears during the hunting season following drought periods.
The project was expanded to include artificial marking posts in 1987 in order to overcome the natural food bias. The new marking posts recorded two sign posts marked in 1988. However, refuge signs treated with the same type of preserva tive stain received heavy use. It is speculated that marking posts need to be aged before bears begin to use them. On two occasions, bear tracks indicated that they visited a post without marking it. This portion of the study is scheduled to continue until 1992.
The refuge bear population is estimated to be approximately 65 bears or one bear per 2.5 square miles.
SNY 87-01 Study to Determine the Best Common Loon Banding Methodology , James A. Kesel
Common Loon (Gavia immer) observations, capture and banding started on July 20 and continued until July 25. Observations showed that 1988 loon production on the refuge decreased slightly from 1987. Night lighting was used to color band five chicks and one adult loon in 1988 and three chicks were banded in 1987. This was the second year of the study. A proposal from an interested researcher has been submitted to 9 the North American Loon Fund for research to continue in 1989 on the "Multiple-Lake Usage by Common Loons in Declining and Non-Declining Populations."
Common loon finds plenty of food on refuge (RD) 10
6. Other
The following refuge plans were drafted or revised by the staff in 1988.
(a) Refuge Fire Management Plan (b) Annual Water Plan (c) Long-term Water Management Plan (d) Refuge Annual Prescribed Fire Plan (e) Management Plans Parts I & II (f) Fur Management Plan (g) Law Enforcement Plan (h) Hunting Plan (i) Safety Plan 11
• < E. ADMINISTRATION
Front Row: S.Siekaniec, D.Kesel, G.Losey Back Row: L.Zellar, J.Kurth, T.Papple, and M.Tansy
1. Michael G. Tansy Refuge Manager GS-12 (PFT) (EOD 1/15/89) 2. Donald N. Frickie Refuge Manager GS-12 (PFT) (Transferred to Region 5 11/18/88) 3 . James W. Kurth Assistant Refuge Manager GS-11 (PFT) 4 . James A. Kesel Wildlife Biologist GS-11 (PFT) 5. SandraM. Siekaniec Assistant Refuge Manager GS- 5 ( PFT) 6. Deborah J. Kesel Secretary GS- 5 (PFT)
8. Lawrence Zellar Automotive Worker WG- 9 ( PFT) 9 . Glen Losey, Jr. Maintenance Worker WG-7 (PFT) 10. TerrenceB. Papple Maintenance Worker WG- 7 ( PFT) 11. Thomas A. Siekaniec Refuge Guide GS- 5 (SFT) 12. Paul H. Stoetzer Social Service Assist/ GS- 5 ( SFT) YCC Leader
Not shown in picture: Donald Frickie, James Kesel, Thomas Siekaniec or Paul Stoetzer 12
Personnel
Project Leader Donald Frickie was selected for promotion to the position of Wildlife Associate Manager in the Division of Refuges in Region 5. He departed on November 18 after serving seven years at Seney National Wildlife Refuge.
Michael Tansy, Project Leader at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, was selected for the Refuge Manager's position and is scheduled for enter on duty at Seney Refuge on January 15, 1989.
Assistant Manager Kurth received a temporary promotion to GS- 12 while he served as acting Refuge Manager.
Wildlife Biologist Jim Kesel's last day at Seney National Wildlife Refuge was December 30. He was reassigned to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge effective 1/1/89.
Refuge Biologist/Fire Management Officer James Kesel received a Special Commendation for his management skills in saving the towns of Cooke City and Silver Gate while serving as a Division Supervisor on the National Overhead Team during the Yellowstone National Park area wildfires in August and Septem ber .
Thomas Siekaniec was hired as a GS-5 Park Ranger to staff the visitor center from May through September. The position was reclassified as a Refuge Guide late in the summer. Tom did an excellent job with the public use program.
Paul Stoetzer was hired as GS-5 Social Service Assistant to run YCC program. Paul has been involved with YCC at the refuge for many years and did an excellent job with the program.
Four emergency fire fighters were hired for most of the 1988 fire season. Joseph Reid, Alan Duszynski, Valorie Tate and Jerry Zellar provided much needed support during the very busy fire season. Mr. Reid was selected for a WG-7 maintenance position at Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge in October.
Refuge Manager Frickie received a $500 Special Achievement Award for his sustained outstanding performance. Assistant Manager Siekaniec received a $250 Special Achievement Award for her sustained outstanding performance. The Seney maintenance staff of Lawrence Zellar, Terry Papple and Glen Losey, Jr. received a group performance award for their outstanding work and split $1,500. 13
Table #2
REFUGE STAFF TRAINING 1988
Training Date Location Staff
Fire training Jan 14 Rapid River, MI D. Kesel 1-220 S. Siekaniec
Wetland Restoration Jan 20-21 Minneapolis, MN D. Frickie Workshop J. Kurth
Computer Training Feb 14 Marquette, MI J. Kesel Multiplan D. Kesel J. Kurth
National Wood duck Feb 20-22 St. Louis, MO J. Kesel Symposium
Law Enforcement Feb 22-26 Tomah, WI D. Frickie Refresher J. Kurth T. Papple
Advanced Refuge Mar 14-31 Washington,D.C, D. Frickie Managers Academy
Administrative Apr 11-14 Minneapolis, MN S. Siekaniec Workshop
Supervisor and May 2-6 Detroit, MI J. Kurth Group Performance
Adverse Actions May 14-16 Chicago, IL J. Kurth and Unacceptable Performance Actions
Fire Training June 6-10 Escanaba, MI J. Kesel S-270 J. Kurth
Non-game bird Aug 10-12 Minneapolis, MN J. Kurth Workshop S. Siekaniec
Basic Law Oct 17- Glynco, GA S. Siekaniec Enforcement Dec 20 14
2. Youth Programs
The annual non-resident Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program was again hosted at Seney from June 20 to August 12. The number of enrollees was up from three in 1987 (with no supervisor) to five in 1988 (with a supervisor). This made for vast improvement over the productivity experienced in 1987. It is definitely worth the extra cost to hire a supervisor for the YCC. A local school teacher served as supervisor and in addition to increasing productivity, improved the quality of the enrollee experience.
YCC assistance was used in the following projects:
a. trail and landscape maintenance b. goose banding c. equipment maintenance d. sandhill crane project assistance e. visitor center assistance f. bulrush planting g. picnic table repair h. preparation of buildings for painting i. wood duck nest box maintenance j. and a variety of small jobs
The following 1988 enrollees were selected in a random drawing by the Germfask Elementary School kindergarten and first grade classes:
a. Vanessa Davis b. Gordon Edwards c. Richard Lane d. Josette Rousseau e. Kimberly Rutherford
3. Other Manpower Programs
Darcy Burton and Mike White worked 224 hours during the summer months as part of the Jobs Partnership Training Act (JPTA) program. Mike served as a maintenance assistant, and Darcy provided office and public use assistance. Their help was greatly appreciated.
4. Volunteers
The refuge once again was aided by a varied volunteer program in 1988. A total of 7,738 hours were contributed by 31 individual volunteers. This is an increase in hours of 237% 15
over 1987 (3255 hours). Most of this increase was due to^he labor intensive project of hand rearing sandhill cranes for a soft release experiment.
The refuge visitor center has become nearly dependent on the use of volunteers. The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) volunteers who staff the information desk are an invaluable asset. Not only are they knowledgeable, enthu siastic and helpful, but they allow the refuge staff to accomplish more with limited time. A potluck supper was held at the refuge Log Cabin at the end of the season to show our appreciation for the biological, RSVP, and visitor center volunteers. Approximately 40 people attended this event. 16
.-f
Table 3
1988 VOLUNTEERS
RSVP Volunteer Hours RSVP Volunteer Hours
Elizabeth Anderson 4 Charles Jones 76 Mary Chidester 3 Delpha Jones 80 Don Dexter 72 Walter Lixey 36 Madeline Dexter 68 Agnes Lixey 36 Richard Dohmen 152 Harold Peters 72 Kathleen Dunlap 26 Dick St. Martin 32 George Farley 52 Myrtle St. Martin 119 Frank Goodenough 43 Edna Skarritt 12 Don Kallmann 72 Flora Strobel 4 Albert Howell 80 Les Walstrom 81 Mary Howell 76
Visitor Center Hours Eagle Research Hours
Ed Miller 53 Bill Bowerman 115 3 Kristi Whaley 16
Biological Hours Crane Research Hours
Andrew Beechnau 512 Michael Eberts 1132 John Holland, Jr. 681,5 Douglas May 1122 John Johnston 634 . 5 Eileen Stoetzer 365 Richard Urbanek (OSU) 873
OSU-Ohio State University, FWS Cooperative Unit, Sandhill Crane Researcher RSVP-Retired Senior Volunteer Program 17
• *
A few visitor center volunteers. Front to back (1 to r) , F. Strobel, M. Howell, M. St. Mar tin, K. Dunlap. D. Jones, C. Peters, H. Peters, D. St. Martin, E. Miller. C. Jones, E. Walstrom, F. Goodenough, A. Howell, and L. Walstrom. (SMS)
Another important aspect of our volunteer program is the use of student biologists. They served primarily as assistance to the Refuge Biologist. The biologists worked on various projects including waterfowl migration and nesting census, waterfowl banding and collaring, Common loon banding and census, bear census, sandhill crane research, and vegetative, invertebrate and wildlife surveys. Biological volunteers, Bill Bowerman (Eagle Research), John Holland, Andy Beechnau, John Johnston. (TAS) 19
5, Fundirxg
The major project at the refuge this year was the continuation of the headquarters rehabilitation project. The headquarters rehabilitation project consists of:
1. moving the subheadquarters garage to the shop area 2. building a grader storage garage between the shop and "subheadquarters" garage 3. converting the small storage building near the office known as the "barn" into a garage, and 4. remodeling the office
In fiscal year 84 with $50,000 available, the project started with the plans being completed for the office remodeling, the moving of the subheadquarters garage to the shop area and the purchase of materials and garage doors to convert the "barn" to a garage.
In fiscal year 85, $80,000 was allocated for planning and initiation of the office remodeling. Since the $80,000 was not enough to complete the entire office remodeling project, it was necessary to divide the office remodeling project into three phases and redirect the funds.
The actual office remodeling of Phase I started with $108,000 allocated in fiscal year 86. > Phases II and III, which completed the office remodeling project, were funded in fiscal year 87 with $64,400 allocated.
In fiscal year 88 the headquarters rehabilitation project was increased by $700. The total cost of the headquarters rehabilitation project is $223,100. After the default of the initial contractor for the office remodeling phase of the headquarters rehabilitation project, a local contractor was hired who completed the office remodeling in June, 1988. The maintenance crew completed the building of the grader storage garage between the shop and the old "subheadquarters" garage. The majority of supplies and materials were purchased in fiscal year 86 and 87 and only minor costs for supplies and materials incurred in fiscal year 88 while the actual con struction was underway.
The shop/maintenance building remodeling project was completed in 1988 with the final payment submitted August, 1988 for a total of $79,991. The project was awarded in fiscal year 1987 under construction funds and increased in fiscal year 1988 by $2,500 to complete the project. (See 1-2)
The refuge expended few quarters maintenance dollars this year spending only $1,715 of the $11,857 available. Of the 20
The refuge expended few quarters maintenance dollars this fear spending only $1,715 of the $11 ,857 available. Of the $1,715, $687 was for improvements to the Refuge Manager's quarters (#1) with most of the cost being a new water heater; $631 for improvements in the Assistant Manager's quarters (#136); $232 for improvements in the Maintenance Worker's quarters (#137) and $165 for the log cabin and student cabin. The remaining balance will be carried over into fiscal year 89.
Because of an extreme to very high fire danger and fire suppression activities, the refuge received Fire funds (1240). The savings were approximately $50,000 in the 1260's accounts due to using 1240's dollars to pay permanent staff salaries under emergency presuppression and suppression activities. The $50,000 was used to purchase the Go-Tract ATV ($34,782), snow plow ($2,122), vehicle tires, for general refuge mainte nance and for the public use/entrance fee program.
Seney received $64,000 in fiscal year 88 for a survey of road oil and mercury contaminants on the refuge. Contracts were made with Mississippi State University for $21,420, Versar for $4,408.20 and Michigan State University for $28,200. In addition, $10,000 was obligated through a cooperative agree ment with Ohio State University for a research study "A Survey of the Xenobiotics in Biota on Seney NWR" which was carried out during 1988.
The refuge initiated entrance fees this year, and received $1,365 which was used to cover costs to administer the program. The start-up costs for the entrance fee program included: cash register $663; printing of permits $1,601; pipe safe and shipping $924; visitor center counter remodeling $71. See Public Use Section, (H-20).
Because of the newly formed Seney Natural History Association which administers the visitor center bookstore, the refuge received $5,000 matching grant funds in fiscal year 88. These funds were used to purchase materials for a kiosk and a spotting scope to be located on the wildlife drive. TABLE #4
FIVE - YEAR FUNDING COMPARISON
1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 OPERATING FUNDS $271,811 $346,650 $270,500 $279,850 $305,250
ARMMS $109,661 $ 56,000 $135,800 $262,220 $ 71,929
YCC $ 8,500 $ 5,250 $ 18,500 $ 19,000 $ 23,125
QRTS $ 11,857 $ 8,601 $ 12,266 $ 8,245 $ 5,600
CONTAMINANT STUDY $ 64,028 $ 10,000
CHALLENGE GRANT $ 5,000
ENTRANCE FEES $ 1,365
TOTAL $472,222 $426,501 $437,066 $569,315 $405,904
TABLE #5
FISCAL YEAR 1988 FUNDING
QUARTERS 8610 $ 11,857
O & M FUNDS 1261 $354,300 1262 $104,700 4960 $ 1,365
TOTAL FUNDS $472,222 TABLE #6
BREAKDOWN FOR FUNDING
QUARTERS 8610 $ 11,857
YOUTH CONSERVATION CORP (YCC) 1261-YC $ 8,500
CORE AND FLEXIBLE MAINTENANCE FUNDS (ARMMS)
Fire Equipment/Go-Tract ATV $100,283
Refuge Signs $ 2,008
Harbor Island NWR dock removal $ 7,375
REGIONAL FUNDS
Motorola Radio System (30130) $ 19,704
Suppression & Presuppression fire costs $ 94,332
CONTAMINANT STUDY
Mississippi State University $ 21,420 Versar $ 4,408 Michigan State University $ 28,200 Ohio State University $ 10,000 $ 64,028
CHALLENGE GRANT FUNDS MATCHED BY SENEY NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION
Miscellaneous $ 591 Telescope, Mark I $ 2,870 Kiosk $ 1,539 $ 5,000 23
6. Safety
Only one accident occurred during the year. A volunteer biologist punctured his finger with a piece of wire being used in a taxidermy mount. Periodic safety meetings throughout the year helped to maintain an otherwise safe year. We were especially pleased to have another accident-free YCC program. The entire staff received a Group Safety Award for its excellent safety record.
7. Technical Assistance
Technical assistance to various agencies was provided including the following:
a. Technical assistance to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for management of waterfowl in the Muniscong Refuge.
b. Technical assistance to the U.S. Forest Service for wildlife management and wetland management on the Hiawatha National Forest.
c. Technical assistance to the U.S. Forest Service and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for fire management and wildfire cause investigation.
d. Technical assistance to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for management of the common loon and management of timber wolves.
e. Technical assistance to the Michigan Waterfowler's Association for Sandcreek Marsh management.
f. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources in gathering deer population data.
8. Other
The former Young Adult Conservation Corps complex continues to be used by the Schoolcraft County Medical Health Department for their adult activity day care program called the Germfask Adult Activity Center. The agreement ensures the upkeep of these buildings, that would otherwise stand empty.
The Germfask Adult Activity Center took over the janitorial work at the refuge office and visitor center with the clients from the Center carrying out the janitorial duties under the supervision of Center employees. This provided participants a work experience and saved the refuge the cost of contracted janitorial services. 24
F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT
1. General
In 1988 the refuge biological and emergency fire fighting crew continued to emphasize wetland and wildlife habitat work. Upland habitat management was highlighted through the completion of a timber sale (See Section F-3).
The drought had a major short term effect on the staff time due to time spent on fire management activities. For many weeks, almost the entire staff spent 100% of their time on fire activities.
An increase in impoundment productivity (plant growth) resulted from the increase in temperatures. Water supplies were sufficient in impoundments due to water diversions from rivers.
2. Wetlands
The objective of water management is to create wetland habitat diversity and to maintain wetland productivity.
Wetland management activities included manipulation and monitoring of water levels in 21 impoundments, aquatic plant surveys and plantings. No wetland related research was conducted in 1988. Partial and full drawdowns were conducted on seven pools. Water manipulations are used primarily to promote eagle and waterfowl production and secondarily for shorebird and waterfowl maintenance. All refuge pool levels were managed according to the annual water management program, except where temporary adjustments were used to facilitate management activities. For example, A-l pool was drawn down to aid in the crane research project. Even though we had a late concentration of snowfall, spring runoff was below normal.
The dry summer proved that water control ditches used for diverting water, especially the Diversion and Holland ditches, need to be maintained in good condition. These ditches bring the life blood to refuge impoundments during dry years. They have become choked with sand and are useless to the refuge at this time. 25
Vegetative surveys were conducted on the C-l, C-3, and Marsh Creek units during July. Increased structure and diversity were apparent due in part to the higher degree days experienced this year. Soft stem bulrush, bushy pondweed, water smartweed.. wild celery had a productive year. Needlerush, which had a spurt of growth in the spring, experienced burn out in the summer due to the high tempera tures .
3. Forests
Seney contains a total of 95,455 acres of which 22,884 acres are typed as forest habitat. This does not include 1,368 acres reserved as Society of American Foresters Natural Areas or the 25,150 acre Wilderness Area.
The objective of all forest habitat manipulation is to enhance wildlife habitat. The refuge issued one timber harvest permit in 1987 covering 19.5 acres in Forest Compartment 17. The purpose of this sale was to create openings and to regenerate aspen for woodcock breeding and nesting habitat. The permittee initiated work in February of 1988, and completed the work in July.
Table 7
FOREST MANAGEMENT ON SENEY REFUGE 1974-1988
Calendar New Acres Cords Revenue Year Permits Treated Removed Received
1974 2 621 1,251 $ 6,644 1975 3 687 242 2,287 1976 0 200 1,133 5,011 1977 3 395 1,881 10,858 1978 5 125 1,448 7,095 1979 3 255 879 9,939 1980 0 0 0 0 1981 0 65 0 0 1982 3 920 2,710 1,613 1983 0 690 310 0 1984 3 227 270 2,038 1985 2 41 390 2,843 1986 1 20 100 200 1987 1 0 0 1,496 1988 0 20 163 0 TOTAL 26 4 , 266 10,614 $50,024 26
8. Haying
Haying is used as a management tool on approximately 415 acres to provide legume/grass sites for Canada geese, sandhill cranes, deer, bear and a variety of other wildlife species. The fields provide important openings in the refuge's extensive forested land.
This was the fourth year of a five-year hayland management program. The summer drought decreased the production of the hayfields, and required that top-dressing be cancelled.
9. Fire Management
The refuge's fire management program has grown over the last six years as has the Service's program. The station has a normal unit strength of four red-carded permanent full-time Service employees Sind four red-carded temporary emergency fire fighters.
The refuge has experience two successive years of drought which has raised the fire danger in refuge marshes for years to come as a result of the curing of 10,000 hour fuels (peats). When these fuels are dried and heated as they were the past two years, they form an almost unwettable paraffin-organic fuel. It will take years of cold wet winters to reduce the ignition and burning component of these fuels. A variety of interagency fire related meetings were attended throughout the year.
Two prescribed burns were conducted in the refuge's Unit 1 on 1,300 acres for re-establishing emergent vegetation in marshes and removal of woody vegetation. Extreme fire conditions prevented further burns.
An extreme fire danger fire rating was present in April through July. April, May, June and July were the driest on record. On June 15, 1988 the Governor of Michigan issue a burning ban throughout the State of Michigan due to the high temperatures and low humidities which caused an extremely high wildfire danger.
The refuge fire crew responded to 10 project fires throughout the fire season occurring on refuge lands, Michigan Department of Natural Resources lands and Hiawatha National Forest lands. Two fires occurred on the refuge in 1988. Three fires occurred simultaneously on refuge and DNR lands in July. The Coyote Fire which occurred on the refuge in May burned 284 acres.
Fire Management Officer Kesel was detailed to Yellowstone National Park in Montana for three weeks during August and September to assist in the suppression of the large fires occurring in that 27 •-< State. Jim Kesel was assigned as a Division Supervisor on the National Overhead Team and promoted to Operations Chief for the coming year. Mr. Kesel is currently the only Fish and Wildlife Service employee who is on the National Overhead Team.
The Fish and Wildlife Service and the Forest Service formed an agreement to share in the cost of a helicopter to be stationed at nearby Manistique, Michigan and used for wildfire suppression throughout the fire season. Emergency fire fighters from the Seney Refuge and fire fighters from the Forest Service served on the helitack crew which responded to wildfire emergencies. The helicopter and crew were an important fire suppression tool during the wilderness area fire on the refuge, as well as fires located on Forest Service lands and Michigan Department of Natural Resources lands. It is hoped that this important cooperation between agencies will continue in the future and that the helicopter will be available if the fire season dictates.
Refuge Fire Management Officer, Jim Kesel, assisted the State of Michigan and the U.S. Forest Service in determining the cause of 10 wildfires in 1988. He was also an instructor in the State of Michigan's "Wildfire Cause Investigation School." Basic fire fighter training (S-130 and S-190) was provided to individuals from State, Federal and local agencies as well as refuge volunteers in the spring and summer of 1988. Four emergency fire fighters from the refuge were detailed to Utah in September to assist in wildfire suppression activities. The crew included: Allen Duszynski, John Johnston, John Holland and Andy Beechnau. They each spent two weeks on several different fires throughout Utah. They were assigned to the U.S. Forest Service, Hiawatha National Forest Crew #5.
Table 8
FIVE-YEAR FIRE FUNDING COMPARISON
YEAR TOTAL FUNDS
1988 $94,332 1987 $72,789 1986 $60,300 1985 1984 $42,790 28
Aerial view of the Coyote Fire located in the Wilderness Area. (JAK)
Coyote Fire Base Camp located miles from the fire (JAK) 29
The refuge purchased a Go-Tract all terrain vehicle for wildfire suppression in marshlands at a cost of $100,282. It arrived at the refuge on November 28, 1988.
Go-Tract ATV for marshland wildfire suppression (JAK) 30
10. Pest Control
MCP-Amine (DOW) was applied to Chicago Farm Field A at a rate of .25 pounds of active ingredient per acre. Target species include yellow rocket, lambs quarters and other broad-leafed plants during re- establishment of legumes.
12. Wilderness and Special Areas
Three wildfires occurred in the 25,150 acre Seney Wilderness Area during the year. The policy of using the minimum tool required to suppress wildfire in the wilderness was successful in minimizing impacts on the wilderness. Heavy equipment was required on only one fire. A pre-position helicopter and U.S. Forest Service hot-shot crew successfully contained one potentially dangerous fire at less than one acre. The third fire was discovered after it burned itself out in less than an acre. The use of helicopters to transport fire fighters into the wilderness is extremely effective in quickly containing lightning fires and minimizing the need for heavy equipment.
14. Farm Bill Activities
Refuge Manager Frickie and Assistant Manager Kurth attended the wetland restoration workshop in Minneapolis on January 20-21. Donald Frickie, James Kurth and James Kesel attended a coordination meeting with USDA personnel and State Farm Bill Coordinator Len Schumann in Escanaba on January 14.
Field inspections of 12 Farm Home Administration inventory proper ties located in the Upper Peninsula were completed. Wetlands were delineated and submitted to the State Farm Bill Coordinator for restoration. Conservation easements are being proposed for all wetlands identified. Wetland restoration opportunities were minimal in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, however, the refuge staff was active in the wetland restoration effort. Maintenance Worker Papple and Automotive Worker Zellar were detailed to wetland restoration teams for four to seven weeks respectively. They travelled to southern Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota to participate in the program.
Maintenance Worker Papple travelled to the Regional office on October 27 to help plan the Regional Force Account team's activi ties. He travelled to Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge on December 6 to review a project proposed for the team. 31
G. WILDLIFE
1. Wildlife Diversity
Seney has a wide diversity of wildlife habitats which range from rare string bogs to common northern hardwoods. The refuge provides for the production and maintenance of a wide range of wildlife species including the uncommon yellow rail to the common black bear. The effect of being placed mid-way between Lakes Superior and Michigan also contribute to this diversity. Infrequent visits by western grebes, parasitic jaegers and peregrine falcons also attests to the species diversity on the refuge.
The refuge had a good waterfowl production despite and possibly as a result of the warm conditions.
2. Endangered Species
The refuge has two active and two inactive eagle nesting sites. In 1988 nesting attempts were made on E-l and C-2 nest sites. Both sites were successful with a total production of 4 eaglets. This production is a three fold increase over 1987 production. Eagles normally return to the area by mid-February.
A contaminant study was conducted in cooperation with Ohio State (see D-5). Aquatic vertebrates as well as mammal, and waterfowl were collected to evaluate contaminates in the refuge bald eagles' prey. Blood samples and feather samples of eaglets, taken during banding operations, were also examined. Also identified were bald eagle perch locations, historic and current bald eagle nest locations on the refuge and young produced from 1948 to 1988.
Peregrine falcons were not sighted on the refuge during 1988. Falcon sightings were made in the refuge in 1982, 1983, 1985 and 1986.
Reports of wolf sightings continue to circulate since a wolf sighting was made in 1987 for the first time since 1982. A large male was seen dragging a car killed, adult deer from the shoulder of Highway M-28 1/8 of a mile into the refuge's Wilderness Area. Infrequent sightings have been regularly reported on adjacent and nearby State and Forest Service lands. Wolf tracks were noted by refuge trappers for the fourth consecutive year. Adult Bald Eagle poses for the camera (RD)
3. Waterfowl
Spring migration began with the arrival of Canada geese during the third week in March. Black ducks began arriving during the second week in April. Goose nesting began April 5 and dabbler nesting was noted on April 20. Goose broods began to hatch on May 10, and mallard broods on May 17 with larger than normal brood sizes. The leucocytozoon parasite was not a significant factor in goose production. This is in contrast with 1985 when 35% to 40% of production was lost to the parasite. Pair counts were conducted during April to ascertain black and ring-necked duck production. In addition, spring aerial transects were established and flown to estimate pre-nesting population of waterfowl. Results strongly correlate with regular- weekly waterfowl censuses which include correction factors for weather and areas not censused. 33
Table 9
1988 WATERFOWL PRODUCTION ESTIMATE
Actual 1988 1995 Species Production Objective Objective
Mallards 322 400 500 Wood Ducks 185 200 250 Black Ducks 295 300 350 Ring-necked Ducks 410 400 700 Blue-winged Teal 210 200 225 Canada Geese(Maxima)411 1000 1100 Hooded Merganser 222 400 425
The fall Canada geese migration peaked at about 5,400 during the first week in October. An additional 2,000 to 3,000 geese used farms east and south of the refuge during this period. Neck collared geese were noted again during October. The collar color and number codes were recorded in a cooperative effort with the University of Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Unit.
Five tundra swan were spotted during spring migration in the middle of April. Although the refuge normally has at least one summer resident swan (a second year juvenile) none were spotted this year. Table 10
FALL PEAK # FOR BLACK & RING-NECKED DUCKS
Year Ring-necked Black
1979 14,145 962 1980 9,075 1,041 1981 11,400 535 1982 11,000 323 1983 1,487 432 1984 1,010 510 1985 1,550 785 1986 1,456 1,535 1987 2,210 410 1988 1,810 451 AVERAGE 5,514 698
Ring-necked duck loafs on a pool (RD) 35
. f
Fall peak migration of ring-necked ducks remained below the eight year average and peak black duck numbers were also below average.
Marsh and Water Birds
The sandhill crane research project completed its fourth year with full funding (See Section D-5). Sandhill cranes returned to the refuge on March 23. Crane Research Biologist Urbanek also returned to the refuge during the last week in March. Sandhills had left the refuge for the season by mid-October.
In 1986 the common loon was placed on Michigan's threatened species list. The refuge is cooperating with the State's non-game management program with color marking and banding of loons. Five loon chicks and one adult loon were banded at night by using artificial lights. The refuge's loon production decreased slightly over last year with a total of eight chicks reaching flight stage. The refuge apparently produces the highest number of loons per water surface area in the State. High mortality from commercial fishing on the nearby Great Lakes has been found to be one major cause of loss in the Statewide population.
Adult loon with chick (RD) 36
Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns and Allied Species
Caspian terns have become a common visitor to the refuge during June and July. They roost on the Lake Michigan shoreline and its islands during the night and then fly inland to forage on refuge pools.
There was more black tern use and nesting on refuge pools this year than in past years. F-pool which was in draw down the previous 3 years and was flooded in 1988 saw a large increase in black tern use.
Woodcock surveys were conducted on three routes including two located on the refuge. These routes have been run annually since 1965.
Table 11
MALE WOODCOCK SINGING GROUNDS SURVEY
Number 39 Number 37 Sub-headquarters Driggs River Year Date No. Date No. Total
1973 5/21 1 5/15 38 39 1974 5/21 1 5/15 38 39 1975 5/19 0 5/20 42 42 1976 5/19 3 5/13 21 24 1977 5/13 0 5/12 19 19 1978 5/17 1 5/16 16 17 1979 5/14 2 5/15 13 15 1980 5/15 2 5/01 8 10 * 1981 5/18 0 5/19 11 11 1982 5/11 0 5/01 17 17 1983 5/01 1 5/03 21 22 1984 5/03 0 5/10 19 19 1985 5/01 0 5/03 10 10 1986 5/03 3 5/01 18 21 1987 5/01 0 5/02 15 15 1988 5/04 1 5/03 21 22
* Timber sale conducted adjacent to the route following annual census. 37
6. Raptors '
Marsh and broad-winged hawks returned to the refuge during the first week in April. These along with sharp-shinned hawks, kestrels and goshawks are the most common raptors that nest on the refuge.
Osprey use of Unit 1 pools gives rise to the hope that these "fish hawks" will some day nest on the refuge. A nest is located three miles east of the refuge along the Fox River.
7. Other Migratory Birds
The first confirmed nesting of a yellow headed black bird was recorded on the refuge. A small population of 3 to 4 have been seen near the visitor center since 1987.
8. Game Animals
In cooperation with Michigan Department of Natural Resources research project, the refuge conducted an annual bear census (See Section D-5). Bear populations seem stable at approximately 60 to 70 animals. Bears are hunted on the refuge, but only one was reported harvested (See Section H-8).
White-tail deer numbers rose as a result of the mild winter conditions (1987-1988). The refuge's deer winter severity index (WSI) registered 94.8 points (average is 102) by the first week in April. Refuge deer were not confined to their normal yards located at Gulliver, Lakefield and Manistique. It should be noted that when the WSI reaches 100 points deer begin to starve, at 120 points fawn mortality is severe and does begin to absorb their fetuses.
Hunters harvested more deer in 1988 than the previous three years. Local hunters stated that they were also observing more deer than in previous years. It was estimated that 80 bucks were harvested from the refuge during the firearms/muzzleloader deer season and an additional ten deer (either sex) were harvested during the archery season.
Assistance was provided to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in gathering deer harvest data. A total of 15 deer were examined including 13 bucks taken from the refuge. 38
Table 12
DEER OBSERVED PER FIELD MAN-HOUR BY REFUGE STAFF JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER
Hours in Bucks Does Fawns Unknown Total Year Field No. /hrs No. /hrs No. /hrs No. /hrs No. /hrs
1973 588 25 .04 139 . 24 89 .15 52 .09 305 . 52 1974 355 23 .06 117 .33 78 .22 80 . 22 298 . 84 1975 232 9 .04 50 . 20 14 .06 64 .27 136 .58 1976 275 4 .01 41 .15 21 .08 49 .18 114 .42 1977 353 18 .05 80 .23 51 .14 43 .12 192 . 54 1978 228 22 . 10 88 .39 83 .36 162 .71 349 .50 1979* 948 22 .02 140 .15 101 .11 38 .04 301 .32 1980 328 27 .08 138 .42 82 . 25 16 .05 263 .80 1981 647 50 .08 141 . 22 36 .05 80 .12 307 .47 1982 816 10 .01 125 .15 40 .05 37 .04 196 . 24 1983 702 14 .02 91 .13 32 .05 29 .04 166 .23 1984** 1368 48 .04 211 .07 82 .06 102 .07 443 .32 1985 3062 37 .01 300 .10 109 .04 38 .01 484 . 16 1986***710 21 .03 81 .09 49 .05 36 .05 187 . 26 1987 720 29 .02 158 . 17 58 .07 59 .06 337 .32 1988 400 27 .07 275 .69 80 .20 9 .02 391 .98
* On-site inspection of new water control structures accounted for many "Field Man-Hours." Although these hours were unproductive in spotting deer, they were included in calculations, therefore lowering the deer/hour figure.
**Sandhill crane researchers accounted for approximately 40% of the total "Man-Hours." These hours generally occurred at or near dawn or dusk, therefore raising the total deer/hour figures.
**^Only biological and maintenance crew data used.
Snowshoe hare numbers appeared to increase during the past three years. The refuge has lost a major portion of their preferred habitat (aspen and lowland conifer regeneration) and thus cannot reach the high numbers that were present in the 1950's. Only a few snowshoes are harvested from the refuge annually. These generally are taken in aspen/conifer stands along the refuge's north boundary. 39
10. Other Resident Wildlife
Four moose sightings were made by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, volunteer biologists, and a hunter on the refuge this year. Two sightings were along the Creighton Truck Trail which boarders the refuge, one along M-77, and one cow was sighted near Marsh Creek. Sightings in the Upper Peninsula by the public increase every year and it should be only a matter of time before a viable population is established.
Sharp-tailed grouse numbers appear to be down significantly. The Michigan hunting season was closed in the refuge area due to the depressed numbers of sharp-tailed grouse. Brush encroachment on dancing and nesting grounds continues to reduce bird numbers. Ruffed grouse numbers continued to rise on the refuge. Recent habitat projects favoring aspen have the highest bird densities.
11. Fisheries Resources
Creel censuses were conducted throughout the summer. Northern pike and yellow perch continue to be the primary species harvested by refuge fishermen. When asked why they use the refuge for fishing despite the abundance nearby of quality fishing lakes, fishermen reply they like to be able to catch fish from shore. Barrow ditches adjacent to dikes concentrate northern pike especially during drawdowns making them easier to catch. Brook trout fishing in the Driggs River continues to improve, while brown trout decreased this year. Plantings of brook and brown trout were done in 1982 and 1983.
During the summer personnel from the Fisheries Assistance Office did a preliminary survey for an upcoming fisheries plan for Seney. Results from this survey have not been received. 40
14 . Scientific Collections
Wildlife specimens were collect in conjunction with a contaminants study conducted by the Ohio Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (see D-5). Prey species of the refuge bald eagles were collected. Fish species were collected by using small-mesh fyke nets in the refuge pools. Mammal carcasses were collected from refuge trappers during the 1987 - 1988 trapping season. Waterfowl were collected with a 12-gauge shotgun and steel shot cartridges. Blood samples and breast feathers were also collected from the eaglets on the refuge during banding activities.
Table 13
SPECIES COLLECTED ON THE SENEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE DURING 1988
Species No. Species No.
Northern pike 45 Canada goose 3 Yellow perch 35 Mallard 1 bullhead (spp.) 100 ring-necked duck 6 white sucker 2 hooded merganser 1 rock bass 1 river otter 4 crayfish 7 muskrat 16 snapping turtle 4 mink 6
16. Marking and Banding
On June 13, 1988, a total of 179 Canada geese were banded on the refuge for demonstration purposes. Of the 179 geese banded, 100 geese were banded with Fish and Wildlife bands, 60 with bands issued to the State of Michigan, and 19 birds had neck bands and leg bands.
17. Disease Prevention and Control
Leucocytozoonosis was not significant in reducing Canada goose production. Black fly (vector) numbers were reduced by dry, cool weather. The refuge has not had a 100% loss of goose production since 1979.
Lyme Disease was of concern to many people visiting and living in the area. A few suspected cases were reported but none were confirmed. 41
H. PUBLIC USE
1. General
Public use of the refuge saw a slight increase in overall use over last year. Apparently implementation of entrance fees did not affect public use to a great extent. Visitors from all across the United States (42 states) and many foreign countries (18 countries) visited the refuge. The great majority of public use is non-consumptive wildlife oriented recreation and it occurs during the May through October tourist season.
This year the visitor center was staffed with a Park Ranger/Refuge Ranger/Refuge Guide. Although his title was changed three times during the season, Thomas Siekaniec did a fine job of managing the visitor center and assisting with entrance fees. Assistant Refuge Manager Sandra Siekaniec along with the visitor center volunteers assisted Thomas and helped to keep the visitor center open 7 days per week and functional as the hub of refuge visitor activities.
A total of 12 news releases were issued during the year on subjects ranging from visitor center activities and YCC programs to the active bald eagle nest. Several interviews were conducted by local media sources regarding refuge programs. An article on the refuge was written for the Woods-N-Water News at the request of one of the paper's staff members. The article appeared in the July 1988 issue.
One major change in our public use program was implemented during the 1988 tourist season. Entrance fee collection began on May 15 with a mixed reaction received from outrage to persons wanting to donate more than $2.00 (see H-20).
A large framed picture of the Seney Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC's) Company 3626 was donated to the refuge by George T. Zysk (a former member of the camp). The picture will be displayed in the visitor center. Company 3626 was instrumental in converting the refuge from abandoned farmland back into the marshland that it once was. They assisted in building dikes, dams, ditches, pools, and buildings, as well as fire fighting, planting aquatic vegetation, bird banding, deer counts, search and rescues and many other projects, 42
2. Outdoor Classrooms - Students
As part of the observation of National Wildlife Week, informational packets were supplied to the 11 surrounding schools. A list of refuge films was also given to local school teachers and a few were borrowed for the week.
Four local Boy Scout groups participated in activities such as broom ball, wildlife identification, and leaf identification for their 1988 Klondike II. Although the weather was poor approximately 33 persons participated.
I
Boy Scouts participating in the 1988 Klondike II broom ball event at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. (SMS)
4. Interpretive Foot Trails
Approximately 5,721 visitors used the refuge's two interpretive foot trails in 1988. The Pine Ridge Trail (near the visitor center) was brushed and chipped by the YCC crew and interpretive signs were replaced as needed. The Driggs River Trail is in a state of disrepair and will eventually be removed or replaced. 43
. f Interpretive Tour Routes
The seven mile self-guided Marshland Wildlife Drive was open from June 1 to October 15. Car count figures showed a total of 13,315 vehicles used the tour route during 1988, compared with 12,068 in 1987, 12,407 in 1986 and 15,119 in 1985.
6 . Interpretive- Exhibits/Demonstrations
The refuge visitor center was open seven days per week 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from May 15 to September 30 including all holidays. Visitation was 26,131, a 13 percent decrease from 1987. Center visits are the most accurate public use figures we have, as each visitor is counted as they enter by the person staffing the informa tion desk. Visitor center use over the past six years is summarized below.
Table 14
VISITOR CENTER USE 1983-1988
YEAR TOTAL VISITS
1988 26,131 1987 29,912 1986 26,617 1985 23,904 1984 22,530 1983 22,936
A winter film series was held again this year. The films were shown each Thursday evening from January 28 through March 3 at the refuge visitor center. This was the fifteenth consecutive year for the program and it is a welcome event for the rather remote local communities. Total attendance at the films was 430 as compared to 330 in 1987. Attendance has increased to the point that all available space in the auditorium is used.
National Hunting and Fishing Day was held at the refuge on September 24. Over 200 people turned out for the festivities which included exhibits and demonstrations by several conservation organizations. Among the exhibits were a trapping display by Mark Spencer of the Michigan Trapper's Association; fishing and hunting relics from the past by Dick Dohmen; a Sea Lamprey display by Mark Dougherty of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sea Lamprey Control Center in Mar quette; a cork decoy carving display and retrieving demonstration by Dennis Elliott; and a boater safety display by Robert Wells of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Retrieving demonstration presented during National Hunting and Fishing Day. (TAS) Fishing and Hunting Relics from the past (TAS)
Sea Lamprey Control Display, Mark Dougherty 46
The evening guide tour program was unfortunately canceled 7. Other Interpretive Programs Refuge staff gave 62 group presentations in 1988. Nineteen of those presentations were off-refuge programs. Those included college and school groups, Forest Service, National Park Service and senior citizens groups. These presentations were given to a total of over 1,200 people. In March of 1988, residents from Applewood Manor Nursing Home came to the refuge to view two films. In return, they assisted the refuge staff with evaluating buildings for handicapped access ibility. During the summer season, one group of visitors caused quite a stir in the visitor center parking lot. A touring group of classic cars visited and even brought their own police vehicle. A glimpse into the past (TAS) 47 8. Hunting ' Approximately 85,000 acres of the refuge are open to hunting with deer and ruffed grouse hunting drawing the most visits. Complete regulations can be found on the hunting map at the back of the report. Hunting season opened September 15 in refuge Area B (33,000 acres) for ruffed grouse, woodcock and snipe. Hunting pressure on grouse in the area seems to have increased. Deer hunting on the refuge is a popular activity. Hunting pressure is light during the archery season which opens October 1. The 16- day bucks only firearms deer season that runs from November 15 to November 30 attracts the largest number of participants of any of our refuge hunts. Since the check station was discontinued, public use and harvest data is estimated on available information. General observations were made and compared to the average of previous years. Harvest was estimated at approximately 80 bucks. A total of 1,600 hunter-days were recorded. Muzzle-loader deer hunting on the refuge was permitted from December 2 to 11. Seasons are in accordance with State regulations. Bear hunting was permitted during the early State of Michigan season of September 10 to October 31 on Area B, and on both Area A and B during the November 15 to 30 (late season). Most bear hunting on the Upper Peninsula is done with the aid of dogs or bait and because both practices are prohibited by refuge regulations, we have very little bear hunting pressure. This year the Michigan DNR reported that 3 bears had been registered as being killed on the refuge. One bear was an immature male (2 to 3 years old) shot near the Highwater Trucktrail on the refuge's south-west boundary. 9. Fishing All refuge pools were open to ice fishing January 1 through February 28. Fishing pressure during the winter is extremely light, largely because access roads to the pools are not plowed and excellent ice fishing is available on nearby lakes off the refuge. Summer fishing in the pools is much more popular. The main pools are open to fishing July 1 through September 30. The late opening is designed to minimize disturbance to broods of Canada geese which use refuge dikes. Fishing in the refuge pools is not always spectacular, but it provides for some 3,500 recreational visits. A few northern pike over ten pounds are taken each year. 48 10. Trapping Only 3 trapping units were open for a yearly bid in 1988. The trapping period extends from October 1, 1988 until May 1, 1989 and state rules and regulations are followed. Bids received for the three units were as follows: Unit A 15,040 acres $ 316.00 Unit B 22,016 acres $ 286.00 Unit C 11,456 acres $ 461.61 The refuge is closed to the taking of otter, however, they continue to be taken accidentally by beaver and coyote trappers. Trappers are required to turn in all accidentally caught otters. The 1987-1988 season saw three otters turned in. Currently no otters have been accidentally trapped during the 1988-89 trapping period. The refuge appears to have an abundant supply of otters with as many as 10 seen in one group during 1987. Refuge otters have been used to establish new populations in other states and as such are protected. 11. Wildlife Observations Thousands of people come to Seney to see one thing - Canada geese. The geese and their broods are readily seen around the visitor center and the tour route. The geese around headquarters are not particularly wary and they provide the public with the rare oppor tunity to view wildlife at close range. The refuge visitors love it and the geese don't seem to mind as long as they receive an oc casional handout. Other species of major interest that are commonly observed include: bald eagles, sandhill cranes, common loons, and a variety of ducks. An otter family uses the pool adjacent to the visitor center, and their antics often entertain the public. On June 18 a white pelican, believed to have been flown off course by a storm, was seen on the refuge. To the delight and surprise of many visitors it stayed near the auto route for a couple of weeks. The first recorded sighting of a pelican occurred in 1944, and one was also spotted on the refuge in the early 1960's. This summer's observation was the third reported sighting in Schoolcraft County. 12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreations Camping was again permitted during the firearms deer season with 42 camps registered. The deer camp is a strong tradition in the Northwoods and on the refuge as well. Camps are permitted only west of the Driggs River and outside the Wilderness Area. One problem occurred when a hunter who was camping on the refuge was reported missing on November 16. A search and rescue involving a Coast Guard 49 helicopter, a State Police K-9 unit from Sault Ste. Mdrie, Park Service personnel, a Schoolcraft County Sheriff and Deputy, refuge personnel and volunteers was conducted. He was found in the afternoon of November 17 south of Marsh Creek. The hunter was cold, wet and hungry but other wise in good health. He was checked out by Emergency Medical Technicians on the scene. An estimated 730 canoeists used the refuge during 1988. Canoeing is limited mainly to the Manistique River which flows through several miles of the refuge's southeast corner. Two canoe rental businesses are located in the nearby town of Germfask. The Driggs and Creighton Rivers and the Walsh Creek are also open to canoeing but beaver dams, deadfalls and streamside brush prevent their use by most canoeists. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing were permitted throughout the refuge. Most visitors used the marked trails near headquarters where parking is provided. Use was light totaling about 195 visits for December and January through March. The possibility of groomed cross country ski trails for the refuge was discussed with Mr. Donald M. Wickersham, Grants and Projects Director for U.S. Congressman, Robert W. Davis. The local business interest in the ski trails made this meeting possible. This would increase the refuge winter visitor use. 14. Picnicking The Wigwam and Driggs picnic areas received a total of 13,628 visitors during the year. The Wigwam site (about one mile from headquarters) received heavy use due to the adjacent Show Pools where fishing is allowed, while the Driggs site is used primarily as a rest area along the heavily travelled Highway M-28. Informa tion boards at each site were replaced during the year. 16. Other Non-Wildlife Oriented Recreation Blueberry, raspberry and morel mushroom picking are popular activities. Due to the drought, blueberry production was extremely low and those blueberries which were found were dry. Mushroom picking was scarce as usual. Berry and mushroom visits accounted for approximately 150 visits this year. Definitely a decrease over last year. 17. Law Enforcement The effective enforcement of regulations on a 95,000 acre refuge requires a substantial investment of time. Our staffing does not allow for such, therefore, enforcement efforts are aimed at the prevention of violations through high visibility patrols during peaks of anticipated problems. While this approach does not have the same deterrent value as the apprehension of violators, it does serve to minimize potential problems. No citations were issued during this year. 50 Additional surveillance of all terrain vehicle trespass"along the refuge's south boundary was conducted during the year. The Governor's ban on ATV use during the drought was successful in reducing trespass during the summer. We continue to experience difficulties with ATV's during deer season. 18. Cooperating Associations This year was the first year of a new association formed by our local volunteers. The Seney Natural History Association took over the duties of bookstore sales from Lake States Interpretive Association. They were fortunate to have obtained a three-year, interest free loan of $10,000 from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. This loan along with the donated stock from Lake States got the new association off to a good start. Once again the bookstore brought in record sales profits. Gross Sales totalled $30,606.95 for a four and a half month period. One of the reasons for the increase in profits was due to an increase variety of books and other items. As a result of these profits two major projects were accomplished for the refuge. Bookstore sales receipts for the past seven years are summarized below. Table 15 BOOKSTORE RECEIPTS AT SENEY NWR 1982-1988 YEAR TOTAL SALES 1938 * $30,606 1987 $24,603 1986 $16,931 1985 $13,260 1984 $ 9,367 1983 $ 5,867 1982 $ 7,941 * New association established The visitor center bookstore not only provides a service for the public but also generates funds for projects to improve the public facilities. One of the projects funded this year was a government matching grant to install an informational kiosk for the visiting public to be located on the wildlife drive. This cost the associ ation $5,000 with the government matching it with an additional $5,000. Assistance was also given to the Regional Office to buy Farm Bill hats. 51 Entrance Fees 1988 was the first year of entrance fees for Seney. The fees were in effect from May 15 through September 30 for the refuge head quarters area. Although the local public was very disagreeable to the proaram, public use did not show a noticeable decline due to the user fees. Some of the visiting public protested loudly but mo.^t willingly paid for the opportunity to visit our refuge. The most difficult problem for the public was deciphering how to pay their fees Those who qualified for a free Golden Age or Golden Access passport occasionally donated $2.00 because they ennoyed facilities so much. Graph 1: Entrance Fee Breakdown 52 Much of the staff's time was spent in implementing these entrance fees. Three people put in approximately 5 hours per week each to collect and count the money generated. More time was spent with visitors in explaining why we were charging entrance fees and how to use the envelopes for paying. According to our end of the year report our yearly costs for the program exceeded our 30% return by approximately $2,000. This does not take into account time spent by employees explaining the program that might be spent better elsewhere. The concept is a good one but implementation with immediate staffing is very difficult. Visitor Center volunteers, Frank Goodenough, Harold Peters and Dick Dohmen, puzzle over entrance fee cash register - located in the left corner of the picture. (TAS) 53 I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES 2. Rehabilitation The office remodeling which was substantially completed in 1937 was finished during the year. The original contractor defaulted on the contract and left a large punch list of unfinished and unacceptable jobs to be completed. This included removal of the new roof they had installed and replacing it with an acceptable roof. Olsen and Olsen of Manistique, Michigan was hired by the bonding company and they completed the work in June. Outside of completed office (JWK) The first phase of the shop rehabilitation was completed by Hoholik, Inc. of Manistique, Michigan. This contract included the con struction of a small crew room, bathrooms and shower facilities, a storage mezzanine, and installation of a new boiler system. No funding was provided for FY 89 to complete the next phase of rehabilitation. 3. Major Maintenance All three refuge quarters were repainted during the summer. Because of the busy fire season and maintenance staff being detailed to work on wetland restorations, little major maintenance was completed. We continue to have a large backlog of water control structure, dike and ditch maintenance to accomplish. 54 4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement Two new Dodge 4X2 pickups and a Chevrolet 4X4 pickup were delivered during the year. The Chevy was outfitted with a new snowplow which will certainly see a lot of action during the next several winters. New Chevrolet 4X4 with snow plow (JWK) A new tracked all-terrain vehicle was purchased during the year with fire funds. The Go-Tract 1600 which cost $100,000 will become a main-stay of our fire fighting fleet. It will provide for greater initial attack capability in marsh fires. (See photo in F-9) 5. Communication System The refuge radio system was upgraded. Two new base stations (one State frequency and one refuge frequency) were purchased. Six mobile radios and six handheld radios were also acquired. This purchase should greatly improve communications, especially during wildfire suppression. 55 6. Computer Systems Due to salary savings because of charges against fire funds in 1987, the Refuge was able to purchase two Personal System/2 (PS/2) computers which were received in fiscal year 88. One computer has a 70 mega byte hard disk drive and the other has a 44 mega byte hard disk drive. Both PS/2 computers have one high capacity disk drive. Math Co-Processor and color display. A low capacity external disk drive was also purchase in 1987 to use with the PS/2 so that we can interchange information with the AT. An external streaming tape drive was purchased in 1987 to facilitate back up procedures. An IBM Proprinter XL24 was purchased in 1987 for graphics and spread sheet capabilities and an IBM Proprinter was received through excess property so that each computer system has printing capabilities. The refuge's third computer is an IBM PC AT which has a 30 mega byte hard disk drive, IBM Enhanced color display, Math Co-Processor, enhanced graphics adapter, communications adapter, and serial/- parallel adapter. In 1988, telecommunication capabilities became operational using the Hayes Smartmodem 2400 and Procomm program. The majority of telecommunications is through CompuServe but some direct telecommunications have been accomplished. The refuge upgraded its software library by purchasing Chart, SY- TOS, Micro Behave and Multiplan for the PS/2's, Procomm Plus for the AT, WordPerfect 5.0, and R:Base for DOS for all three computers. These additional programs provide the staff with more data process ing capabilities. The refuge staff is finding these programs a very useful tool in their daily work. A computer training plan has been established with the introductory courses completed. The Refuge Manager, Primary Assistant, Assistant Refuge Manager, Biologist and Secretary attended a MultiPlan course provided by MicroAge Computer Stores. The refuge received the R;Base tutorial videos during a wildfire so the staff was unable to make use of the tapes. The training was rescheduled for the winter months. The Local Support Person Deborah Kesel has providing in- house training throughout the year for the mandatory programs. 56 When the manufacture's warranties expired on all the newly purchased computer equipment, the refuge purchased a maintenance agreement for the three main computer units, the Proprinter XL24, Wheelprinter and the external disk drive. The refuge had both the PS/2 70 mega byte and the AT serviced under the manufacture's warranty so it was felt an extended warranty was necessary to ensure that all computers were kept in good working order. The PS/2 70 mega byte had major part replacement which took over three days of work by the IBM service person. This could have cost a great deal if it had not been under warranty. 57 J. OTHER ITEMS 1. Cooperative Programs Insect traps were placed on the refuge in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (2 traps) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture (4 traps). The traps were set to monitor for Gypsy Moths. All traps resulted in negative reports. 3. Other Items Two professional photographers donated framed photographs to the refuge for placement in the renovated office. Rick Denomme donated a large eagle photo, a set of small birds, a set of mammals, and two sets of duck prints. Carl Sams III donated a framed set of bear photos taken on the refuge. Both photographers have a photographic permit for the refuge and regularly take photos on the refuge. These photographs really bring the outdoors in and remind the staff of the business we are in. Don Wickersam from Congressman Davis' office visited the refuge on June 23. He was interested in how the refuge was working with local entities to develop groomed cross-country ski trails. Bill Huber from Congressman Davis' office visited the refuge for a general orientation tour on July 7. Dave Anthony from Senator Levin's office visited in September. Mr. Anthony tries to visit the refuge annually and is very interested in Seney National Wildlife Refuge. To foster interagency cooperation, the refuge conducted a joint staff meeting with National Park Service personnel from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on November 9. 4. Credits D. Kesel: B, D-5, E-l, 5, 7, 8; F-9, 1-6; J-4; and typing and arrangement J. Kesel: provide information for Sections D-5, F, G, H-10 J. Kurth: A; C; D; E-l, 3, 6, 7; F-8, 12; H-17; 1-1 to 5; J-l to 3; Huron Island NWR and Harbor Island NWR S. Siekaniec: D-5, 7; E-2, 4; F-l to 7; F-10 to 13; G; H-l to 16, 18 to 20; and coordination and editing of writing M. Tansy: Reviewed and edited the entire report Dr. Richard Urbanek, Ohio Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, wrote D. Planning, Section 5 "Nesting and Movements of Sandhill Cranes at Seney NWR" 58 William Bowerman, IV, D. Planning, Section 5 "A Survey of Xeno- biotics in Biota on Seney National Wildlife Refuge" Photo Credits: ES - Eileen Stoetzer RD - Rick Denomme JAK - Jim Kesel SMS - Sandra Siekaniec JP - John Penrod TAS - Thomas Siekaniec JWK - Jim Kurth HARBOR ISLAND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT Calendar Year 1988 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM INTRODUCTION The Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge is located one mile north of Drummond Island, Michigan and 3.5 miles south of the United States-Canadian (Ontario) border in Potagannissing Bay on Lake Huron. This refuge is comprised of a single island totalling 695 acres. Refuge designation came as a result of a purchase from The Nature Conservancy on December 14, 1983. The refuge was purchased as part of the Unique Ecosystem Program, waterfowl production area, and is administered as a satellite refuge of the Seney National Wildlife Refuge located 117 miles to the east. Habitats included on this Island consist of balsam/cedar lowlands and oak uplands. Soils consist of shallow organics or sands over dolomitic rock. • < TABLE OF CONTENTS Page INTRODUCTION i A. HIGHLIGHTS 01 B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS 01 C. LAND ACQUISITION 1. Fee Title (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Easements (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Other (Nothing to Report) NA D. PLANNING 1. Master Plan (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Management Plan (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Public Participation (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Compliance with Environmental and Cultural Resource Mandates (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Research and Investigation (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 6. Other (Nothing to Report) NA E. ADMINISTRATION 1. Personnel (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Youth Programs (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Other Manpower Programs (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Volunteer Program (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Funding (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Safety (Nothing to Report) . • NA 7. Technical Assistance (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Other (Nothing to Report) NA F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT 1. General 01 2. Wetlands (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Forests (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Croplands (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Grasslands (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Other Habitats (Nothing to Report) NA ii • f 7. Grazing (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Haying (Nothing to Report) NA 9. Fire Management (Nothing to Report) NA 10. Pest Control (Nothing to Report) NA 11. Water Rights (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Wilderness and Special Areas (Nothing to Report) . . . NA 13. WPA Easement Monitoring (Nothing to Report) NA G. WILDLIFE 1. Wildlife Diversity 01 2. Endangered and/or Threatened Species 02 3. Waterfowl (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Marsh and Water Birds (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns and Allied Species (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Raptors NA 7. Other Migratory Birds (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Game Mammals NA 9. Marine Mammals (Nothing to Report) NA 10. Other Resident Wildlife (Nothing to Report) NA 11. Fisheries Resources (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Wildlife Propagation and Stocking (Nothing to Report) . NA 13. Surplus Animal Disposal (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Scientific Collections (Nothing to Report) NA 15. Animal Control (Nothing to Report) NA 16. Marking and Banding (Nothing to Report) NA 17. Disease Prevention and Control (Nothing to Report) . . NA H. PUBLIC USE 1. General 02 2. Outdoor Classrooms-Students (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 3. Outdoor Classrooms-Teachers (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 4. Interpretive Foot Trails (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Interpretive Tour Routes (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations (Nothing to Report) NA 7. Other Interpretive Programs (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 8. Hunting = 03 9. Fishing (Nothing to Report) NA 10. Trapping (Nothing to Report) NA 11. Wildlife Observation (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation (Nothing to Report) NA 13. Camping (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Picnicking (Nothing to Report) NA 15. Off-Road Vehicling (Nothing to Report) NA 16. Other Non-Wildlife Oriented Recreation (Nothing to Report) NA 17. Law Enforcement (Nothing to Report) NA iii _ 18. Cooperating Associations (Nothing to Report) NA 19. Concessions (Nothing to Report) NA I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES 1. New Construction (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Rehabilitation (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Major Maintenance (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Communications System (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Computer Systems (Nothing to Report) NA 7. Energy Conservation (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Other 03 J. OTHER ITEMS 1. Cooperative Programs (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Other Economic Uses (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Items of Interest (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Credits 03 K. FEEDBACK NA L. INFORMATION PACKET iv A. HIGHLIGHTS Staff limitations continue to make frequent trips to this satellite refuge impossible. B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge's climate is typical of northern Great Lakes islands with the winter low temperatures in the -20 degree range and summer highs in the mid to upper 70 degree range. Annual snowfall averages 200 plus inches per year. F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT 1. General Lake Huron waters fell throughout the year which exposed a small amount of beach erosion and a number of wind thrown trees which resulted from the previous year's high water. The wind throw problem was the worst along the west side of the Island where fall storms pounded the shoreline. A balsam fir conversion and a loss of the birch/aspen type continues on the north end of the Island. Little or no reproduction of oaks is occurring on the east side of the Island due to high deer numbers. G. WILDLIFE 1. Wildlife Diversity The refuge is the largest Island in the Drummond- Potagannissing archipelago. As such, it is the only Island to have resident populations of fox, grouse and snowshoe hare. It also provides nesting habitat for many migratory birds which include white-throated sparrows, gray jays and magnolia warblers. 2 2. Endangered Species Timber wolves frequently leave St. Joseph Island (Ontario) each winter to hunt the smaller islands for deer and snowshoe hare. However, due to a mild winter and many stretches of open water wolves did not use the Potgannnising archipelago for hunting this past year. Eagles also use the Island's large bay for fishing each spring and fall. A nest is located seven miles northwest on St. Joseph Island. H. PUBLIC USE 1. General Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge has a sheltered bay which is used by boaters for fishing, water skiing and as an overnight anchorage for small boats. The bay is part of Lake Huron and does not come under the jurisdiction of the Fish and Wildlife Service. In addition, the Island has one of two sand beaches in Potagannissing Bay suitable for swimming. Heaviest use occurs during late July and August when Lake Huron water temperatures approach 70 degrees. Hunting The hunting season on Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge began on September 15 with the opening of woodcock and ruffed grouse hunting. Hunting pressure was very light or non existent due to low numbers of grouse and woodcock. Archery hunters took one large buck, an 11-pointer, off the Island in October. Firearm deer season saw light hunting pressure due to cold, rainy and windy weather which discouraged access to the Island. I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES Other A contract was issued to Les Cheneaux Construction to remove an old crib dock at the refuge. The structure was considered a hazard to navigation and was removed at a cost of $7,300. J. OTHER ITEMS Credits Jim Kurth wrote the Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge narrative. Sandra Siekaniec edited the narrative. Refuge Manager Tansy reviewed and edited this report. HURON ISLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT Calendar Year 1983 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM INTRODUCTION The Huron Islands National Wildlife Refuge is located five kilometers off the south shore of Lake Superior and 30 kilometers east of the Keweenaw Peninsula. The refuge is comprised of eight islands totalling 147 acres, and is administered as a satellite refuge of the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. Refuge designation came in Executive Order 7795 on January 21, 1938. The islands were designated as Wilderness by the Omnibus wilderness Act of 1970 (P.L. 91-504). A lighthouse was built on West Huron Island in 1868 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Four other buildings are present. Two buildings are located on an 11-acre parcel which comes under the primary jurisdiction of the U.S. Coast Guard. Two additional buildings are located on Fish and Wildlife Service lands on the west end of Lighthouse Island. Habitat of this unmanned refuge varies from a sparse covering of red pines and white birch with ground vegetation to barren granite with scattered lichen growth. The refuge was established for the protection of migratory birds; namely a large nesting colony of herring gulls. TABLE OF CONTENTS Page INTRODUCTION i A. HIGHLIGHTS 01 B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS 01 C. LAND ACQUISITION 1. Fee Title (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Easements (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Other (Nothing to Report) NA D. PLANNING 1. Master Plan (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Management Plan (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Public Participation (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Compliance with Environmental and Cultural Resource Mandates (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Research and Investigation (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 6. Other (Nothing to Report) NA E. ADMINISTRATION 1. Personnel (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Youth Programs (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Other Manpower Programs (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Volunteer Program (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Funding (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Safety (Nothing to Report) NA 7. Technical Assistance (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Other 01 ii F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT 1. General 01 2. Wetlands (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Forests (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Croplands (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Grasslands (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Other Habitats (Nothing to Report) NA 7. Grazing (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Haying (Nothing to Report) NA 9. Fire Management (Nothing to Report) NA 10. Pest Control (Nothing to Report) NA 11. Water Rights (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Wilderness and Special Areas (Nothing to Report) . . . NA 13. WPA Easement Monitoring (Nothing to Report) NA G. WILDLIFE 1. Wildlife Diversity (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Endangered and/or Threatened Species NA 3. Waterfowl (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Marsh and Water Birds (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns and Allied Species 02 6. Raptors 02 7. Other Migratory Birds (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Game Mammals (Nothing to Report) NA 9. Marine Mammals (Nothing to Report) NA 10. Other Resident Wildlife (Nothing to Report) NA 11. Fisheries Resources (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Wildlife Propagation and Stocking (Nothing to Report) . NA 13. Surplus Animal Disposal (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Scientific Collections (Nothing to Report) NA 15. Animal Control (Nothing to Report) NA 16. Marking and Banding (Nothing to Report) NA 17. Disease Prevention and Control (Nothing to Report) . . NA H. PUBLIC USE 1. General 02 2. Outdoor Classrooms-Students (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 3. Outdoor Classrooms-Teachers (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 4. Interpretive Foot Trails (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Interpretive Tour Routes (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations (Nothing to Report) NA 7. Other Interpretive Programs (Nothing to Report) . . . . NA 8. Hunting (Nothing to Report) NA 9. Fishing (Nothing to Report) NA iii 10. Trapping (Nothing to Report) NA 11. Wildlife Observation (Nothing to Report) NA 12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation (Nothing to Report). NA 13. Camping (Nothing to Report) NA 14. Picnicking (Nothing to Report) NA 15. Off-Road Vehicling (Nothing to Report) NA 16. Other Non-Wildlife Oriented Recreation (Nothing to Report) NA 17. Law Enforcement (Nothing to Report) NA 18. Cooperating Associations (Nothing to Report) NA 19. Concessions (Nothing to Report) NA I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES 1. New Construction (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Rehabilitation (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Major Maintenance (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement (Nothing to Report) NA 5. Communications System (Nothing to Report) NA 6. Computer Systems (Nothing to Report) NA 7. Energy Conservation (Nothing to Report) NA 8. Other (Nothing to Report) NA J. OTHER ITEMS 1. Cooperative Programs (Nothing to Report) NA 2. Other Economic Uses (Nothing to Report) NA 3. Items of Interest (Nothing to Report) NA 4. Credits 02 K. FEEDBACK NA L. INFORMATION PACKET 1 A. HIGHLIGHTS Bald eagles continued their use of the Islands; however, no nesting attempts were recorded. B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS The weather on the Islands can best be described as cold and damp with ice sometimes persisting along their shorelines until the first of June. Sudden and fierce Lake Superior storms frequent the area during spring and fall. E. ADMINISTRATION 8. Other The U.S. Coast Guard maintains primary jurisdiction over 11 acres of the refuge and the Fish and Wildlife Service has secondary jurisdiction on these 11 acres. The purpose of the Coast Guard presence is to operate and maintain the automatic lighthouse on West Huron Island. Several other buildings also remain from the era when this was a manned Coast Guard station. Most of these buildings have greatly deteriorated and have been severely vandalized. F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT 1. General As a result of the damage to the refuge's forests by a severe 1986 wind storm, intolerant and/or second growth tree species have been released or encouraged to grow. Aspen and balsam fir appear to be the most benefited. The plant site index for this site is very low due to its very cool marine environment. White spruce having a diameter of five inches was noted to be 70 years of age. Plant diversity is high with six different orchids found to grow on East Huron Island. These habitats are sensitive to disturbance from man's activities. . < 2 G. WILDLIFE 5. Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns and Allied Species A small colony of double-crested cormorants nest off Huron Island NWR. A large herring gull colony is also located on Cattle and nearby Rock Islands. 6. ' Raptors Merlins are believed to nest on Lighthouse Island. No active nests have actually been located however. H. PUBLIC USE 1. General Public use of the refuge is generally day visits by boaters and occasionally unauthorized camping. Limited staff time and the remote location of the refuge makes law enforcement very difficult. Informational signs have been ordered and will be placed in 1989. It is hoped that this information will reduce vandalism and illegal camping. J. OTHER ITEMS 4. Credits Jim Kurth, author Sandra Siekaniec, editor Deborah Kesel, typist Michael Tansy reviewed and edited the entire narrative