Wetland Wildlife Population and Research Group

Jeff Lawrence, Group Leader, Bemdiji
tel. (218) 308-2284
fax (218)755-2604

The group is responsible for wetland wildlife research and surveys. Primary emphasis is on waterfowl and the wetlands they depend on. Group work often involves multiple partners. The group works extensively with the Technical Section of the Mississippi Flyway Council. Projects are often developed cooperatively with biologists from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Biological Resources Division of the U.S. Geological Survey and the U.S. Forest Service. Students and instructors from various universities, conservation groups and private individuals are important collaborators.

Spring surveys of resident breeding duck and goose populations are conducted annually as are assessments of waterfowl distribution and abundance in the fall. Waterfowl are also banded each summer through early fall to aid in setting hunting seasons. Research topics vary as does project duration. Current research is focusing on specific aspects of mallard breeding biology and management and the influence of bait fish and wetland restorations on abundance and composition of waterfowl foods in wetlands.