analyses of dabbling duck densities and no differences in mean weekly dabbling duck densities among wetlands open to hunting regardless of weekly or cumulative hunting encounters frequency. Distribution of the few white-fronted geese still using the RWB for staging did not seem to be affected by hunting disturbance. Given these results, a LGCO season with more allotted hunting time (i.e., open seven days a week) with the current network of closed wetlands remaining in place, will likely have minimal additional impacts on the distribution of non-target waterfowl species using the region for spring staging. An increase in days open to hunting may also increase hunter participation and ultimately aid in the reduction of mid-continent light goose populations. If allotted hunting time during the LGCO is increased, the closure of more public wetlands in the RWB may be warranted, which may help alleviate the potential impacts of crowding and the underutilization of food resources for non-target species in the region. We suggest continually monitoring potential effects of any regulation changes during the LGCO on waterfowl using the RWB during spring migration.
analyses of dabbling duck densities and no differences in mean weekly dabbling duck densities among wetlands open to hunting regardless of weekly or cumulative hunting encounters frequency. Distribution of the few white-fronted geese still using the RWB for staging did not seem to be affected by hunting disturbance. Given these results, a LGCO season with more allotted hunting time (i.e., open seven days a week) with the current network of closed wetlands remaining in place, will likely have minimal additional impacts on the distribution of non-target waterfowl species using the region for spring staging. An increase in days open to hunting may also increase hunter participation and ultimately aid in the reduction of mid-continent light goose populations. If allotted hunting time during the LGCO is increased, the closure of more public wetlands in the RWB may be warranted, which may help alleviate the potential impacts of crowding and the underutilization of food resources for non-target species in the region. We suggest continually monitoring potential effects of any regulation changes during the LGCO on waterfowl using the RWB during spring migration.
Dinges_Thesis-1.docx