BLM WY Buffalo Field Office Raptor Database Analysis

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A. Project Background Information: The BFO BLM wildlife staff has maintained a database that tracks the results of raptor nest surveys for six years but has not been able to analyze the dataset in order to apply better management for these species of special management concern. B. Project Objective: The Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (Co-Op) will analyze the results of six years of raptor nest monitoring data that has been collected in the Powder River Basin in association with approval of coal bed natural gas (CBNG) plans of development. The Co-Op will evaluate the dataset and test at least three hypotheses: 1) raptors choose nests based on density of wells within a certain distance, 2) raptors choose nests based on the distance to the nearest well, and 3) raptors choose nests based on the amount of change on the landscape within a certain distance. Based on the evaluation of the dataset, additional hypotheses may be developed by the Co-Op. The findings of this analysis will allow for appropriate species-specific management recommendations that BFO can incorporate in its RMP revision process and in future project planning. The Co-Op will also develop recommendations for modifying the current monitoring protocol that will further improve the utility of the dataset, and the Co-Op will provide recommendations for additional research to further our understanding of how CBNG development affects nesting raptors. C. Period of Agreement: July, 2010 to August, 2011

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