WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH GRANT PROPOSAL
WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH GRANT PROPOSAL
Project ID: 2002ND16B
Title: Variables Influencing Habitat Use by Diving Waterbirds Foraging in the Prairie Pothole Region
Project Type: Research
Focus Categories: Wetlands, Ecology, Water Quality
Keywords: Aquatic habitat, Prairie potholes, Sedimentation
Start Date: 09/01/2002
End Date: 12/31/2003
Federal Funds: $5,656
Non-Federal Matching Funds: $11,505
Congressional District: 1
Principal Investigator:
Malcolm George Butler
North Dakota State University
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to uncover patterns of habitat use by diving waterbirds foraging within potholes in relationship to water depth, submergent vegetation, benthic invertebrate biomass and size, and benthic compactness and particle size. The study will focus on habitat use on the scale of the individual pothole and will seek to explain observed patterns in habitat use by comparing habitat variables to morphological features of diving waterfowl species. Habitat use information can lead to a better understanding of the habitat needs of diving ducks and how to best manage aquatic habitats for these species.