NOTICES
WILD RESOURCE CONSERVATION FUND
Annual Report for 1997
[27 Pa.B. 4060] The Wild Resource Conservation Act (32 P. S. §§ 5301--5314), signed June 23, 1982 by Governor Thornburgh, was the outgrowth of a realization that Pennsylvanians must take a more active role in protecting their rare and endangered species of flora and fauna and those habitats which are critical to their survival.
The act provides for the protection of protected wildlife and native wild plants. The act also established the Wild Resource Conservation Fund as the sole means of financing management work to be carried out under this program. The monies to support the program may only be raised through private contributions, as no general fund revenues from the State Treasury may be used for any purposes of this act. A seven-member Wild Resource Conservation Board was established to administer the conservation program and select the projects and studies which are to be funded.
The Board's members represent those State government agencies which are responsible for managing the Commonwealth's flora and fauna. The members are: Secretary, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; Executive Director, Fish and Boat Commission; Executive Director, Game Commission; Majority and Minority Chairpersons of The House Committee on Environmental Resources and Energy and the Minority and Majority Chairpersons of The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. The Chairmanship of the Board rotates on an annual basis between the members.
The centerpiece of the legislation is the establishment of a special fund which, for the first time, enables Pennsylvania's citizens to support the protection of wild plants and protected wildlife through voluntary, tax deductible contributions. The most creative source of funding is the opportunity for Pennsylvania's taxpayers to donate all or a portion of their State income tax refund to the Wild Resource Conservation Fund. Those who do not receive a State tax refund may also support this conservation program with a direct contribution.
Pennsylvania was 18th on the growing list of states providing tax checkoff funding for protected wildlife programs. While the list now numbers 34 states, Pennsylvania's law is unique in that it also focuses on protecting the Commonwealth's native wild plants. Tax checkoffs are a relatively new concept in raising funds for wildlife, with Colorado being the first to initiate such a program in 1977.
Program Objectives The research and management programs funded and authorized by the Wild Resource Conservation Board will be carried out by Pennsylvania's three natural resource agencies: the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR); the Fish and Boat Commission (FBC); and the Game Commission (GC). Professional and technical staff members from each of the agencies are responsible for developing comprehensive management programs to ensure the future welfare of wild plants and nongame wildlife. Previously, monies for this area of wildlife management were either nonexistent or very limited. The fund represents a major source of revenue focused on this specific area of long neglected wildlife management.
Among the Wild Resource Conservation Board's activities will be programs dealing with those species of nongame wildlife and wild plants which are classified as being either endangered or threatened. The three agencies have combined their efforts in a program to identify all such species found in Pennsylvania. The DCNR, FBC and GC have been working with the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, Morris Arboretum and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History on this study entitled, Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory (PNDI). The species of flora and fauna found to be endangered or threatened have been classified as special concern and it is this special concern group which will receive the immediate attention of the Board.
The Wild Resource Conservation Act requires the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to conduct investigations on wild plants in order to ascertain information relating to populations, distribution, habitat needs, limiting factors and other biological and ecological data to classify plants and to determine management measures necessary for their continued ability to sustain themselves successfully.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, through the PNDI, has developed a computerized database containing location and ecological information about Pennsylvania's rare native plants; unique plant communities; special concern animals reptiles, amphibians and fish; and significant geologic features. The system can be quickly and precisely queried to show the number and location of significant biological resources.
The plant information contained in the PNDI will be of great assistance in classifying plants as endangered, threatened or vulnerable as outlined in the Wild Resource Conservation Act. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has promulgated regulations based on the PNDI findings. The regulations established limitations relating to taking, possessing, transporting, exporting, processing, sale or offer for sale, or shipment of endangered, threatened or vulnerable classified native wild plants.
The Game Commission has always been involved, either directly or indirectly, with protected wildlife management. Game management practices, game land holdings, regulated hunting seasons and other factors have aided Pennsylvania's protected wildlife species. The Game Commission has, historically, aimed the greater majority of its management programs at game species to meet the desires and needs of sportsmen who support these programs through license fees. The Game Commission is broadening its protected wildlife management involvement through its Working Together for Wildlife Program and with monies available from the Wild Resource Conservation Fund.
The Fish and Boat Commission is charged with managing Pennsylvania's reptiles and amphibians in addition to its work with game fish and the protection of our waterways. The Fish and Boat Commission has organized itself to address the needs of this group of animals which have not received the attention shown other nongame animals such as raptors and song birds. Reptiles and amphibians, too, have seen drastic changes in their environment which have led to their decreasing numbers. The continual loss of wetland habitat is the factor most responsible. To help solve this problem, the Board has the authority to allocate monies from the Wild Resource Conservation Fund to purchase habitat deemed critical to the survival of any endangered or threatened species.
Wild Resource Conservation Fund
1996--1997 ProjectsThe Wild Resource Conservation Board met for its annual meeting on November 12, 1996 and approved funding for 56 projects in the amount of $707,081. A total of 84 applications were received requesting $1,308,863.31 in funding. The money allocated was received from taxpayers donating their tax refunds to the Wild Resource Conservation Fund and wildlife license plate sales. The following projects will protect and help manage the Commonwealth's non-game and wild plant species:
Project Sponsor Amount * Ecology & Distribution of Endangered Sedge, Scirpus ancistrochaetus Penn State--Dr. William Dunson $7,464 * Production of Outreach Tools Rodale Institute--Cyane Gresham $9,950 * Herbarium & Field Studies of PA Plants of Special Concern Carnegie Museum--Sue Thompson $17,310 * Development of Educational Materials of PA Native Wild Plants Carnegie Museum--Sue Thompson $23,000 * Field, Herbarium & Literature Surveys, Work on the Field Manual of PA Plants and Environmental Review Morris Arboretum--Ann Rhoads $35,000 * Herbarium Studies of Plant Species of Concern in Eastern PA The Nature Conservancy--John Kunsman $20,000 * Investigation into the historic and extant distribution of Amelanchier canadensis Carnegie Mellon--W. Ann Robinson $928.00 * Field Studies of PA Plants of Special Concern Shippensburg Univ.--Larry Klotz $4,500 * Field Surveys for Aster radula, Solidago speciosa and other rare Aster and Solidago species Dickinson College--Carol Loeffler $1,044 * Rare Plant and Natural Community Inventories of Northwestern PA Cleveland Museum of Natural History--Kathy Fouts $15,000 * An allozymal study laurentian bladdar fern from Centre Co., PA Millersville Univ.--James C. Parks $550 * Public Wild Plant Sanctuary Network Western PA Conservancy $42,000 * Continuation of Field Surveys of Plants of Special Concern Western PA Conservancy $22,385 * Herptological Educational Curriculum Carnegie Museum of Natural History/
Powdermill Nature Reserve Terri Kromel$6,100 * Writing of Publication of the Freshwater Bivalves of PA Arthur Bogan $15,000 * Status survey of Rare Fishes of Special Concern in the Delaware River Drainage of PA Robert Criswell $1,595 * Aquatic Craneflies of PA: A preliminary checklist & database development Carnegie Museum/Academy of Natural Science
Chen W. Young/Jon Gelhaus$17,050 * Status of Indigenous Lampreys in PA Penn State--Jay Stauffer $40,705 * Conservation and management of fish, herptiles and aquatic species special projects PA Fish & Boat Commission/
The Nature Conservancy--Andy Shiels$40,000 * PA Herpetological Atlas Project Indiana Univ.--Arthur E. Hulse $13,000 * In Situ Video of PA's Fresh Water Fish Fauna Penn State--Jay Stauffer $17,607 * GIS Mapping of Trichoptera (caddisfly) and Plecoptera (stonefly) distribution in PA Behrend College--E C Masteller $5,670 * Application of Geographical Information System Technology to Fish Conservation in PA Penn State--Robert Carline $24,723 * Wild Action Grant PA Game Commission-Theresa Alberici $2,500 * Status and Distribution Study of the Yellow-Bellied Flycatcher Ecology III--Douglas Gross $4,000 * Monitor Populations of Louisiana Waterthrush in acidified and unpolluted stream habitats Carnegie Museum of Natural History/Powderwmill
Nature Reserve--Robert S. Mulvihill$9,000 * Protection of significant bat maternal site and restoration of adjacent farm fields Allegheny National Forest--Brad Nelson $10,000 * Small mammal community structure and dynamics in old growth forests: A long term ecological study Shippensburg University--Dr. Gordon Kirkland $7,000 * Endangered Mammal Species Research and Management The Nature Conservancy--Jim Hart $20,000 * Survey of bats at Canoe Creek State Park with Special Emphasis on the ''Little Brown Bat'' Penn State--Dr. Michael Gannon $4,500 * Northern flying squirrels and northern water shrews as indicators of habitat quality in sensitive ecosystems of northeast PA Wilkes Univ.--Michael Steele $8,500 * Long-term ecological research: Small mammals as indicators of the health of PA Forest Ecosystems Powdermill Environmental Station--Dr. Joseph Merritt $7,000 * Maintenance of the Official List of the Birds of PA PA Ornithological Records Committee--Paul Schwalbe $1,500 * Young Ornithologists--research that educates Academy of Natural Science
Dr. Robert Ridgeley/Sally Conyne$10,000 * An adopt-a-kestrel-nestbox program of PA school children Hawk Mt.--Keith Bildstein/Bill Hilton $14,000 * Preparation and Curation of special concern mammals and bird specimens generated by PA Game Commission & Wild Resource Conservation Fund research Shippensburg Univ.--Dr. Gordon Kirkland $2,000 * Stabilization of bat nursery church Canoe Creek State Park--Terry Wentz $4,000 * Wildlife Biodiversity associated with a new forestry practice in PA Penn State--Richard Yahner $19,000 * Radiotelemetry study of experimental recolonization of an allgeheny woodrat Dickinson College--Janet Wright $3,500 * Biodiversity Conservation of Butterflies & Skippers in PA Richard Yahner $5,000 * Avian nesting success, species, diversity, and guild composition in fenced and unfenced riparian habitats in southwest PA California Univ.--Gary Popotnik $8,000 * Status and Distribution of Reintroduced River Otter and Fisher Populations in PA Penn State--Tom Serfass $13,000 * Reintroduction of Fishers to the Allegheny National Forest in Northwestern PA Penn State--Tom Serfass $20,000 * PA Important Bird Areas Mid-Atlantic Region National Audubon Society--Walter Pomeroy $19,000 * Landscaping for Wildlife in PA Sweet Arrow Communications--Marcus Schneck $19,000 * Osprey Monitoring East Stroudsburg University--Larry Rymon $3,500 * Birds: Special Areas Project Ecology III, Doug Gross $9,000 * Promote Awareness of Wild Resource Conservation Fund Robert & Thelma Clark $15,000 * Public Relations Tool: New York & Pennsylvania Joint Otter Reintroduction in Allegheny Drainage Penn State--Tom Serfass $10,000 The WRCF will match local contributions up to $10,000 Private Sector donations from Scrubgrass Generating Plant
$5,000
Ducks Unlimited
$850
Audubon Bartramian Chapter
$800* Interpretative Exhibit at the Elk Viewing Area PA Game Commission--Theresa Alberici $4,000 * Schoolyard Habitat Facilitator Training Workshops Audubon Council of PA--Marci Mowery $12,500 * Biodiversity in PA: A curriculum supplement for PA Middle Schools PA Biological Survey--Theresa Alberici $12,500 * Completion & Implementation of a Comprehensive Wildlife Management Plan PA Fish & Boat Commission--Brian Barner $12,500 * Wild Resource Elementary Workshop Slippery Rock--Paulette Johnson $4,000 * Natural Community (Habitat) Classification for Caves in PA The Nature Conservancy--Barbara Barton-Aldrich $8,000 * Barrens Habitat Survey--PA Invertebrate Inventory Project Carnegie Museum of Natural History--John Rawlins $25,000
Wild Resource Conservation Board Members
John Oliver, Secretary
Department of Conservation and Natural ResourcesHonorable Peter A. Colangelo, Executive Director
PA Fish and Boat CommissionHonorable Donald C. Madl, Executive Director
PA Game CommissionHonorable Raphael J Musto
Majority Chairperson
Senate Environmental Resources & Energy CommitteeHonorable Roger A. Madigan
Minority Chairperson
Senate Environmental Resources & Energy Committee Honorable Robert Reber
Majority Chairperson
House Committee on Environmental Resources & EnergyHonorable Camille ''Bud'' George
Minority Chairperson
House Committee on Environmental Resources & EnergyThe Balance Sheet and Statement of Unreserved Fund Balance provided were prepared by the Comptroller's Office on a cash basis of accounting, combined with an encumbrance budgetary system. They were not prepared in accordance with General Accepted Accounting Principles.
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Wild Resource Conservation Fund
Statement of Unreserved Fund Balance
for the period ended June 30, 1997
Unreserved Fund Balance, Beginning $2,608,823.70 Revenue Received: Income Tax Check-offs $297,043.97 Voluntary Donations 14,674.78 Income from ''Osprey''
Film6,003.55 Wild Plants
License/Permits1,895.00 River Otter
Reintroduction1,045.00 Sale of Publications 24,702.20 Wild Resource License
Plate108,177.00 Wild Resource Tee Shirts 6,604.79 Interest on Securities 149,402.02 Total Revenue Received $609,538.31 Prior Year Commitment Liquidation's $ 84,496.76 Total Funds Available $3,302,868.77 Deductions: Administrative Expenses $351,104.71 Administrative
Commitments (1)61,842.90 Project Expenses (2) 582,140.99 Project Commitments (3) 926,902.15 Total Deductions $1,921,990.75 Unreserved Fund Balance, Ending $1,380,878.02 (1) This figure does not include administrative commitments of $28,588.01 contingently committed against future years spending authorizations.
(2) This figure does include $240,494.71 in expenses from special projects approved by the WRCF Board.
(3) This figure does not include project commitments of $591,786.50 (of which $165,430.00 are special projects) contingently committed against future years spending authorizations. This figure does include $274,801.78 in special projects approved by the WRCF Board
(PREPARED BY COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE)
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Wild Resource Conservation Fund
Balance Sheet
June 30, 1997
ASSET Cash $ 763.97 Temporary Investments $2,399,000.00 Total Assets $2,399,763.97 LIABILITIES AND FUND EQUITY LIABILITIES Vouchers Payable $30,140.90 Total Liabilities $30,140.90 FUND EQUITY Unreserved Fund Equity $1,380,878.02 (1) Reserved for Administrative Commitments 61,842.90 (2) Reserved for Wild Resource Projects 926,902.15 Total Fund Equity $2,369,623.07 Total Liabilities and
Fund Equity$2,399,763.97 (1) This figure does not include administrative commitments of $28,588.01 contingently committed against future years spending authorizations
(2) This figure does not include project commitments of $591,786.50 (of which $165,430.00 are special projects) contingently committed against future years spending authorizations. This figure does include $274,801.78 in special projects by the WRCF Boad.
(PREPARED BY COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE)
Public Hearing The Wild Resource Conservation Board has scheduled a public hearing for Wednesday, September 10, 1997, 1 p.m. at the Game Commission Office, 2001 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. The purpose of the hearing is to provide individuals and organizations the opportunity to comment on the recommendations and programs funded with monies from the Wild Resource Conservation Fund. The Wild Resource Conservation Board is interested in hearing from any individual or organization that wishes to make comment on the projects submitted for funding to the agencies, Game Commission, Fish and Boat Commission or the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources list published in this issue of the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Agencies project recommendations for funding will be presented at the public hearing.
Only comments from the general public regarding the projects received will be heard at the September 10, 1997 Public Hearing.
The Board will then evaluate all recommendations submitted for its consideration and final funding decisions will be approved at the annual meeting on November 13, 1997.
Annual Meeting The Wild Resource Conservation Board will hold its annual meeting on Wednesday, November 13, 1997, 1 p.m. at the Game Commission Office, 2001 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg. A full report will be presented on the allocation of monies from the Wild Resource Conservation Fund. The Board will consider all presentations made at the public hearing and the plans outlined by the professional technical staffs of the Fish and Boat Commission, Game Commission and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
The recommendations funded by the Board will be administered by the Fish and Boat Commission, the Game Commission and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The recommendation selections will be based on their individual contribution to the management goals of three agencies and those outlined in the Wild Resource Conservation Act.
The following list includes the project recommendations requesting funding for 1997-1998 received by the Wild Resource Conservation Board. The public is invited to offer comment at the public hearing on September 10, 1997. The public hearing will be held at the Game Commission Headquarters, 2001 Elmerton Ave. at 1 p.m. Please limit comments to 5 minutes and provide eight copies for the Wild Resource Conservation Board.
Project Submissions to DCNR for WRCF
Funding in 1997* Title: Pennsylvania Invertebrate Inventory Project: Completion of Barrens Habitat Survey
Objective: Third and final year of project to document invertebrates and associated vegetation at 6 different types of barrens communities in PA and to assess faunistic differences between those sites to understand and maintain such diversity.
Justification: Better understanding of invertebrates from barrens communities will ultimately allow assessment of their importance for maintaining biodiversity at specific sites is necessary for effective management of those habitats and surrounding landscapes.
Sponsor: Carnegie Museum--John Rawlins
Cost: $13,622
* Title: Herbarium and Field Studies of Pennsylvania Plants of Special Concern
Objective: Record data and verify specimens of POSCIP plants; provide herbarium services to Heritage Program; document new plant taxa for PA; conduct field surveys for POSCIP plants.
Justification: Monitoring and conserving Pennsylvania's plant biodiversity is dependent on the most complete and accurate information possible, including data from current field surveys. Activities proposed here will increase both the accuracy and breadth of the data upon which environmental review decisions are based.
Sponsor: Carnegie Museum of Natural History--Sue Thompson
Cost: $16,845
* Title: Field Herbarium & Literature Surveys, Field Manual of the Plants of PA, PA Flora Project Web Site and Environmental Review
Objective: Surveys are intended to continue to collect the information necessary to refine the classification of plants currently listed as temporarily undetermined (TU) on the Plants of Special Concern list, Preparation of keys and illustrations for the field manual of the plants of PA, staff availability for environmental review services for Bureau of Forestry
Justification: Species currently listed as TU require study before a more accurate classification status can be recommended. A botanical artist has been secured to provide drawings of critical features to accompany keys and descriptions as an aid to identification. Extensive experience and expertise of the Morris Arboretum Botany Dept. will be available for consultation and/or field visits in eastern PA for PNDI environmental reviews.
Sponsor: Morris Arboretum--Ann Rhoads
Cost: $40,000
* Title: Studies of Plant Species of Special Concern in Eastern Pennsylvania
Objective: The project will involve work in the field, office and herbarium in order to maintain, refine, and augment data concerning plant species of special concern in the eastern half of PA
Justification: The infusion of new, updated, and revised data from the project will enhance the PNDI database, the POSCIP list, the state environmental review process, and public and private conservation efforts.
Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy--John Kunsman
Cost: $25,000
* Title: Databasing the Pennsylvania Vascular Collection at YUO
Objective: To make available for use by PNDI and POSCIP and others the vascular collection of YUO. The database will be in Paradox 4.0
Justification: When the PA flora was being written, Rhoads and Klein did not respond to an invitation to use YUO with approximately 11,000 vascular specimens from PA.
Sponsor: Youngstown State University--Carl Chuey
Cost: $5,750
* Title: Patterns of Pollen Transfer, Seed Set, and Genetic Variation in Three Cypripedium Taxa in PA--Is there evidence of inbreeding depression?
Objective: Electrophoretic study of isolated subpopulations, analysis of fruit set and pollen transfer, and determination of germination rate for outcrossed and selfed individuals to assess for inbreeding depression.
Justification: Due to decline in numbers of individuals and numbers of remaining populations in the state, it is imperative that we survey and asses remaining subpopulations for reproductive fitness and genetic make-up.
Sponsor: Penn State--Debra Arnoldsen
Cost: $875
* Title: A Historical Analysis of the Natural Vegetation of Western PA
Objective: Determination of species composition, structure, environmental determinants, and spatial extent of western PA's presettlement forests from historical records.
Justification: A better understanding of the state's presettlement forests is needed to improve our ability to identify and manage the remaining old-growth forest communities and ecosystems.
Sponsor: Dr. Gordon Whitney
Cost: $15,740
* Title: Wild Seeds
Objective: To increase awareness of PA's native wildflower species, to encourage the use of native wildflower species in habitat improvement projects on schools, community areas and in backyards.
Justification: While conducting workshops with teachers and homeowners throughout the state, the sponsoring agencies and organizations have found a great interest and use of wildflower seed mixes, however these mixes do not reflect native PA species. PA native seed packets are not readily available.
Sponsor: PA Game Commission--Theresa Alberici
Cost: $6,000
* Title: Rare Plant and Natural Community Inventories of Northwestern PA
Objective: The department will continue searching for new records of Plants of Special Concern in PA and updating historical POSCIP records. The Dept. will continue long term stewardship projects at Presque Isle.
Justification: Since 1985 the Museum Botany Dept. has found hundreds of POSCIP records and discovered several dozen significant areas that were not previousy documented. Several dozen new POSCIP records were discovered in 1996. A pondweed listed as extirpated in PA was discovered at Presque Isle Bay. Significant Lake Erie Bluff seepage was discovered within Northeast Township, and only the extant population of Malais brachupoda was discoverd within Erie County.
Sponsor: The Cleveland Museum of Natural History--Kathy Fouts
Cost: $15,000
* Title: Management of Pennsylvania's Public Wild Plant Sanctuary Network
Objective: To implement the Public Wild Plant Sanctuary Network established by Section 10 of the Wild Resource Conervation Act.
Justification: The Bureau of Forestry needs assistance in the identification of potential plant sanctuaries on public lands. These areas must be mapped and written management plans must be developed.
Sponsor: Western PA Conservancy--Charles Bier
Cost: $44,500
* Title: Botanical Studies Related to the conservation of the flora of PA in conjunction with the PA Natural Diversity Inventory
Objective: To provide botanical expertise and services through field surveys for new species added to the special concern list, field surveys to known sites that have not been recently checked, and to provide other services to the PNDI program: quality control of data, and the like.
Justification: Bureau of Forestry must have this information and these services to conduct its responsibilities related to the protection of vascular flora of PA.
Sponsor: Western PA Conservancy--Charles Bier
Cost: $27,790
Project Submissions Submitted to the Fish and Boat Commission for Funding in 1997
* Title: Aquatic craneflies of PA: A preliminary checklist and database development
Objective: Expand sampling on Aquatic Craneflys statewide concentrating on rare, threatened and special concern species and species possibly extirpated; assemble distribution data and distribute database of State records.
Justification: This is a species at risk. This study will identify if additional sites are occupied by the species, delineate its population levels at these sites, point out possible factors impacting long term maintenance of the population, and allow resource managers and regulatory agencies make informed decisions regarding land use.
Sponsor: Carnegie Museum/Academy of Natural Sciences--Chen Young/Jon Gelhaus
Cost: $6,000
* Title: Population Dynamics and Fish Host Identification for Rare Atlantic Slope Mussels in PA
Objective: Conduct field and laboratory studies to identify critical populations of rare Atlantic Slope freshwater mussels in Pennsylvania, determine size, structure and genetic makeup of these populations, and identify existing potential fish hosts.
Justification: Four Atlantic slope mussel species have been identified as potential candidates for listing as endangered by the Commonwealth. Information on the location and extent of these remaining mussel populations their genetic relationship and their fish hosts are required before more effective preservation can occur.
Sponsor: United States Geological Survey--William Lellis
Cost: $43,470
* Title: Aquatic Beetle Fauna of Pennsylvania
Objective: Examine entomological collections for aquatic beetles in educational and research institutions in the northeastern US, collect and identify beetles adults, larvae in areas where aquatic fauna is little known or poorly collected, develop database for Pennsylvania aquatic Coleoptera, produce a fauna list of aquatic beetles of Pennsylvania, produce guide to identification of aquatic Pennsylvania beetles.
Justification: Management of aquatic ecosystems require information on biological resources of which aquatic beetles are poorly known in Pennsylvania This study will provide the first account of the aquatic beetles of Pennsylvania.
Sponsor: Penn State--Dr. K C Kim/R P Withington III
Cost: $18,602
* Title: Pennsylvania Paddlefish Restoration: Population Assessment Segment
Objective: To determine the current status and relative abundance of paddlefish in Pennsylvania, establish survival of paddlefish in order for FBC to direct efforts towards restoration of the other big river species, develop educational fact sheet on paddlefish restoration in Pennsylvania.
Justification: Limited data exists of success of paddlefish stocking and distribution of these fish. FBC work schedules do not permit work to be done in-house.
Sponsor: Aquatic Systems a Service of McLaren/Hart--Robert Shema/Patrick Bonislawsky
Cost: $31,000
* Title: Fishes of Pennsylvania
Objective: Publication to provide the definitive resource and reference work for the state on this subject. It will provide technical information required by the professional and academic, yet be useful and attractive to teachers students, and the general public.
Justification: Significantly updates available information and increases the understanding of the status of many Commonwealth species giving a high quality resource material to researchers, educators, students, planners, recreationists, politicians and interested citizens.
Sponsor: Penn State--Jay Stauffer
Cost: $39,042
* Title: Reevaluation of Pennsylvania's Crayfishes: Ortmann 1906 to the Present
Objective: Write a summary of the state of knowledge for Pennsylvania crayfishes, review all significant collections of Pennsylvania crayfishes, create a Pennsylvania crayfish database, and plan/begin a systematic sampling of the six drainage basins.
Justification: Pennsylvania's crayfishes have not been censured since Ortmann 1906. ''Holes'' in the survey include much of the NE/NC Susquehanna drainage, lakes, bogs, and caves. Native and non/native species distribution is not well known.
Sponsor: Lock Haven University--Ted R. Nuttall
Cost: $6,100
* Title: The Effect of Forest Management Practices on Vernal Woodland Pond Amphibians
Objective: Changes in the forest community surrounding these vernal ponds can potentially impact this unique amphibian community in two ways: 1. Changes may affect the woodland habitat of the adult amphibians 2. Changes may indirectly impact the growth and survival of amphibian larvae by affecting conditions in vernal ponds such as exposure to sunlight, temperature and pond duration. We propose to investigate how timber harvest in the surrounding forest affects the amphibian community that utilizes vernal ponds.
Justification: Pennsylvania is home to extremely diverse amphibian fauna. One of the most diverse amphibian communities occurs in and around vernal woodland ponds. These shallow pools, which usually fill with water in later winter or early spring, are visited by a variety of woodland salamanders, frogs, and toads which breed, lay eggs and return to the terrestrial forest habitat.
Sponsor: Shippensburg University--Timothy J Maret/Randy W. Cassell
Cost: $5205.81
* Title: Conservation and Management of Fish, Herptiles and Aquatic Species--Special Projects
Objective: To complete a series of specific projects related to the monitoring, research and management of nongame fish, amphibians, reptiles and aquatic organisms.
Justification: 46 fishes, 12 amphibians and reptiles and 2 freshwater mussel species are presently on the Pennsylvania endangered, threatened and/or candidate lists. Project reviews, special studies and data management to adequately address the conservation of these species will be accomplished by these special projects.
Sponsor: FBC--Andy Shiels
Cost: $40,000
* Title: Herptile Atlas Pilot Project
Objective: The atlas is an effort to determine in detail the Statewide distribution of all species of amphibians and reptiles occurring within the borders of Pennsylvania.
Justification: Pilot project will act as a proving ground to test procedures such as setting up the volunteer network, reporting results, and sending out program reports. The pilot project is designed to last for 2 years and survey Armstrong, Indiana, and Westmoreland counties in western Pennsylvania.
Sponsor: Indiana University--Arthur C. Hulse
Cost: $44,710
Projects Submitted to the Game Commission for Funding in 1997 * Title: Distribution and Timing of Northern Saw-whet owl migration across Southeast Pennsylvania
Objective: To set up a migration banding station network across a portion of Pennsylvania train volunteers to run stations, public education, assess migration parameter important to northern saw-whet owls, an investigate winter ecology of those individuals wintering in Pennsylvania.
Justification: From work in 1996 it became apparent that a previously unknown saw-whet owl migration occurs in Southeast PA. We wish to document this migration through public involvement at banding stations contributing to overall natural history and environmental appreciation.
Sponsor: Eric and Melonie Atkinson, Todd Bauman, Scott Weidensaul
Cost: $19,040
* Title: Reintroduction of Fishers to the Allegheny National Forest in Northwestern Pennsylvania
Objective: Obtain fishers for reintroduction from New Hampshire and New York, implement captive care and evaluation program, evaluate and monitor fates of reintroduced fishers, establish a public relations program.
Justification: Improved wildlife and forest management techniques have enabled state wildlife agencies to successfully reintroduce fishers to portions of their former range.
Sponsor: Penn State--Tom Serfass
Cost: $19,900
* Title: Status and Distribution of reintroduced river otter to the Allegheny River in Northwestern Pennsylvania
Objective: To restore extirpated river otter populations throughout the upper Allegheny River.
Justification: This project will continue work to restore river otter populations to the Allegheny River
Sponsor: Penn State--Tom Serfass
Cost: $12,500
* Title: Feasibility of Reintroducing Pine Martens to the Allegheny National Forest
Objective: To determine if suitable habitat conditions exist in the Allegheny National Forest and elsewhere in Pennsylvania for reintroduction of pine martens.
Justification: Martens are native to Pennsylvania but became extirpated about 100 years ago. This project will establish guidelines for returning them to the Commonwealth.
Sponsor: Penn State--Tom Serfass
Cost: $2,659
* Title: Pennsylvania BayScapes Urban Initiative
Objective: Educate citizens about practices that enhance biological diversity and protect water quality within their own urban community. Participant of the workshop/seminar ill learn that the utilization of low input landscape management concepts and technique can result in functional and aesthetically pleasing landscape results. The workshop will be a 'hands-on' workshop and model site planting which will be targeted to those who have adopted a city lot and urban leaders.
Justification: In cooperation with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service/Chesapeake Bay Field Office has been developing the BayScapes program since 1992 and conducted numerous workshops, seminars, field trips and other outreach programs primarily in Maryland and Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Alliance would like to continue the BayScapes message in Pennsylvania into the urban setting.
Sponsor: Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay--Rebecca Wertime
Cost: $10,887.50
* Title: Wild Action Grant
Objective: To encourage youth to take responsible action to help wildlife by improving habitat for wildlife on school and community grounds.
Justification: Over 300 schools are interested in improving habitat for wildlife on school and community grounds. These schools need funding to help conduct habitat projects.
Sponsor: Game Commission-Theresa Alberici
Cost: $4,000
* Title: Special Areas Project
Objective: Obtain information about birds found at many Pennsylvania locations and shares this information with appropriate government agencies, research and education institutions, interested conservation groups and the general public. Special areas being inventoried include Pennsylvania State Park, DCNR Natural Areas and Wild Areas, Bureau of Forestry forestlands, GC lands, county parks municipal parks and private sanctuaries.
Justification: Volunteers inventory birds throughout the year and document the number of individuals of each species observed, breeding behavior. The data collected will be used to determine the status, abundance, frequency and seasonal occurrence of each species.
Sponsor: Ecology III--Douglas A. Gross
Cost: $14,000
* Title: Small mammal community structure and dynamics in old growth forests: A long term ecological study
Objective: To continue a proposed long-term ecological research project to document the characteristics and dynamics of small mammal communities in old-growth forests in Pennsylvania and compare these characteristics to those of small mammal communities in second-growth forests.
Justification: We know virtually nothing regarding the characteristics of small mammal communities in old-growth forests in Pennsylvania and elsewhere in North America. This research will permit us to assess how the conversion of old-growth forests to second-growth forests may influence the structure and dynamics of small mammal communities and thereby the entire forest.
Sponsor: Shippensburg University--Dr. Gordon Kirkland
Cost: $10,000
* Title: Preparation and Curation of special concern mammals and bird specimens generated by Game Commission and Wild Resource Conservation Fund research
Objective: Help defray the costs of preparing and curating specimens of mammals and birds collected by Game Commission personnel or researchers studying special concern mammals and birds in Pennsylvania.
Justification: Institutional funds are not allowed to defray the costs of preparing and curating specimens collected and deposited in the Vertebrate Museum by Game Commission personnel. This also applies to specimens collected during WRCF sponsored research carried out by individuals dot employed by the Vertebrate Museum
Sponsor: Shippensburg Univ.--Dr. Gordon Kirkland
Cost: $2,636
* Title: Status and Distribution Study of the Yellow-Bellied Flycatcher
Objective: Determine the status, natural history traits and habitat requirements of the Yellow-Bellied Flycatcher by surveying likely nesting location, monitoring breeding populations, observing breeding pairs, and analyzing vegetation and physical characteristics of nesting habitat in Pennsylvania.
Justification: The Yellow-bellied Flycatcher is a threatened species in Pennsylvania and one of its rarest and most poorly known nesting species. Considered one of Pennsylvania's rarest nesting species. All Yellow-Bellied Flycatchers have been found in unmanaged sections of large-scale forests.
Sponsor: Ecology III--Douglas Gross
Cost: $5,000
* Title: Habitat use an selection by Neotropical migratory songbirds during migration.
Objective: To document patterns of habitat use by Neotropical migrant birds during migration. using this information, management guidelines will be produced to allow for the enhancement of habitats for migrating birds and for habitat prioritization for conservation.
Justification: Very little is known about the use of habitat by migratory birds during migration. Stopover habitats are a critical link in the life cycles of migratory birds, many of which are reported to have experienced population declines. Conservation efforts for migratory birds will be compromised without information on habitat requirements during migration.
Sponsor: Penn State--Margaret Brittingham
Cost: $29,077
* Title: Western Pennsylvania Barn Owl Recovery Program
Objective: To re-establish a viable owl population by first providing nesting habitat; then eliminate the use of rodenticides on participating farms; then captive breed and release 1,000 owls and the long range goal is to educate the general public and to create farmers to re-establish fence row habitat.
Justification: The barn owl is a species of ''special concern.'' By effecting the factors causing the decline, a viable population of birds can be re-established.
Sponsor: Moraine Preservation Fund--Wesley F. Hamilton
Cost: $61,400
* Title: Mycophagy by Small Mammals: Implications for management and preservation of PA Forests
Objective: Past funding by WRCF made it possible to delimit population dynamics of species of small mammals deemed essential to contributing to the health of a PA forest ecosystem. In order to understand the role of small mammals in the ecosystem one must delineate the requirements and degree of consumption of underground fleshy fungus by small mammals. Rodents such as mice and squirrels reported impede reforestation due to consumption of tree seeds. However, they also disperse mycorrhizal inoculum this influencing colonization of species of trees.
Justification: Population density of small mammals coupled with their degree of consumption and rate of dispersal of inoculum will help us to understand the contribution of small mammals in regeneration of forest ecosystems following natural or human induced changes. Knowledge of forest succession will aid in developing ecologically sound management practices for our forests.
Sponsor: Carnegie Museum/Powdermill Biological Station--Joseph Merritt and Mike Steele/Wilkes Univ.
Cost: $19,227
* Title: Population Dynamics of White-Footed Mice in Optimal and Disturbed Habitats
Objective: To understand how populations that are disturbed regain the ability to regulate their numbers.
Justification: Although most species live in human-altered landscapes, little is known about how populations respond to habitat disturbance. This type of information is needed in order to predict the likelihood of population survival following disturbance. An understanding of underlying mechanisms for population stabilization can assist in devising management strategies.
Sponsor: Indiana University--Alicia Linzey/Michael Kesner
Cost: $14,464
* Title: Fact Sheets on Pennsylvania Wildlife
Objective: To develop six additional fact sheets; three in the Wildlife Nuisance and Damage Control series and three in the new Pennsylvania Wildlife series.
Justification: Citizens of the Commonwealth have a large interest in and need for accurate informative fact sheets on safe and effective methods of dealing with problem wildlife as well as on habitat management for wildlife.
Sponsor: Penn State--Margaret Brittingham
Cost: $12,946
* Title: Maintenance of the Official List of the Birds of Pennsylvania
Objective: To maintain Official List, review status of all species, archive copies of slides, review new records, publish results to hold committee meetings.
Justification: Pennsylvania Ornithological Committee is a sub-committee of the Pennsylvania Biological Survey's Ornithological Committee which is an official advisory group to the PGC was founded to maintain the Official List of Birds of Pennsylvania, determine authenticity of rare or unusual bird sightings, original bird records, publish data on all records, provide a means by which sight records can gain acceptance as credible scientific data, establish standards in the methods of collecting and submitting quality field data.
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Ornithological Records Committee--Paul Schwalbe
Cost: $2,000
* Title: Wildlife Biodiversity associated with a new forestry practice in Pennsylvania
Objective: Compare alpha (site-specific) diversity and population abundance of wildlife communities (breeding birds, terrestrial salamanders, and butterflies/skippers) among EAR stands of two size classes in the Valley and Ridge Province of Pennsylvania.
Justification: The Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry adopted a new forest-management practice, which termed even-aged reproduction stands with reservation guidelines'' or simply EAR stands for use on state forests beginning in 1992. Hence forest management has entered an exciting era because EAR stands are intended to enhance the biodiversity of wildlife in these stands. Because many investigations have been conducted on wildlife biodiversity and habitat requirements on clear-cut stands in Pennsylvania results from these past studies can be compared to those obtained on EAR trends in the proposed study. Such comparisons will be very helpful in evaluating the role of the EAR stands in enhancing or maintaining wildlife biodiversity in forested landscapes in Pennsylvania.
Sponsor: Penn State--Richard Yahner
Cost: $27,139
* Title: Monitor Populations of Louisiana Waterthrush in acidified and unpolluted stream habitats
Objective: Study possible effects of stream acidification on the breeding biology of Louisiana Waterthrushes by comparing the availability of stream macroinvertebrates with breeding densities, foraging behavior, and nesting success in polluted and unpolluted forested stream habitats located on Powdermill Nature Reserve.
Justification: Degradation of riparian habitats in Pennsylvania such as that caused by acid mine drainage and acid precipitation, for the breeding biology of Louisiana Waterthrushes is unknown. Knowledge of the possible effects of stream acidification on the population ecology and population dynamics of this species will enhance conservation efforts in the state.
Sponsor: Carnegie Museum of Nat. History/Powdermill Nature Reserve Robert S. Mulvihill
Cost: $9,000
* Title: Special concern mammal species research and management
Objective: Gather baseline data on special-concern mammals and provide these data to the appropriate State agencies that they can formulate sound management practices for these species.
Justification: Mammal species of concern have not received adequate efforts to understand their status and distribution patterns in Pennsylvania. Maintaining the State's biodiversity requires the baseline data on these species to effect their long-term survival.
Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy--Jim Hart
Cost: $25,000
* Title: Habitat Associations of the Swainson's Thrush
Objective: Test hypotheses about habitat preferences of Swainson's Thrushes in Pennsylvania a coniferous canopy of large trees (especially eastern hemlock) coupled with a sparse hardwood or softwood understory.
Justification: Study will focus on two new, but similar sites in remote sections of Pennsylvania, each of which processes habitat with structural features similar to those where Swainson's Thrushes have been recorded in western Pennsylvania. No evidence that either site has been extensively studied before.
Sponsor: The Wilderness Society--J. Christopher Haney
Cost: $7,046.94
* Title: Young Ornithologists--research that educates
Objective: To combine ornithological research and science education for teenagers.
Justification: The Academy recognizes the critical importance of education in our quest to study and preserve the natural world and its biodiversity. To teach teenagers about ornithology and to encourage vocations and avocations in field biology we have designed Young Ornithologists using birds as the vehicle.
Sponsor: Academy of Natural Science--Sally Conyne/Robert Ridgely
Cost: $15,000
* Title: Development of a monitoring program for the conservation of the long-eared owl in Pennsylvania
Objective: Identify wintering and breeding habitat for long-eared owl in Pennsylvania, develop a monitoring program for the conservation of the long-eared owl in Pennsylvania.
Justification: The Pennsylvania Partners in Flight Program has identified the long-eared owl as a priority species for the development of a monitoring program in the Commonwealth.
Sponsor: Penn State--Richard Yahner
Cost: $9,000
* Title: Establishment of a network of self-guided butterfly and wildflower trails on public lands in a two-county area of Pennsylvania
Objective: Establish a permanent network of self-guided butterfly trails in a two-county area of Pennsylvania, inventory and monitor butterfly and wildflower populations along each trail during a 3-year period, develop self-guided tour maps and trail markers in cooperation with state agency personnel and members of the local chapter of North American Butterfly Association for each butterfly trail, develop management and conservation recommendations for each trail, cooperate with extension personnel at Penn State to develop an informational packet on the butterfly and wildflower trail network for distribution to the public.
Justification: Butterflies have tremendous aesthetic value to the public, adding beauty and enjoyment to any outdoor experience from May through September. Butterflies have scientific value, serving as barometers of a healthy ecosystem and are dependent on native wildflowers as a nectar source.
Sponsor: Richard Yahner
Cost: $7,350
* Title: Pennsylvania Important Bird Areas Project
Objective: The National Audubon Society proposes to enlist the cooperation of ornithologists, bird watchers, local Audubon chapters and other organizations and governmental agencies to identify ''Important Bird Areas'' (IBA in Pennsylvania as a prototype for a Nationwide ''IBA'' program. An IBA is critical habitat used by birds in their nesting migration cycle.
Justification: An IBA is a site that supplies essential habitats for one or more species of birds and which, on some basis, can be distinguished from surrounding lands. IBA's must be chosen on the basis of criteria that are substantially objective, which would be developed along with a how to manual, nominated sites, quarterly newsletter, electronic database use in GIS
Sponsor: Mid-Atlantic Regional Office of National Audubon--Cindy Adams Dunn/Gary Crossley
Cost: $12,000
* Title: APATH Project (Audubon Protecting Animals Through Habitat)
Objective: Conduct two major APATH workshops, develop a demonstration site at the Ned Smith center, Conduct a pilot mini-grant program to Audubon chapters for workshops and/or demonstration plantings
Justification: Audubon's mission is to conserve birds, wildlife and their habitats. One effective way Audubon has communicated the critical link between plants and animals is through the APATH program. The program gives landowners the knowledge and skill to plant native species of plants that are beneficial to birds and other wildlife.
Sponsor: National Audubon Society--Cindy Adams Dunn
Cost: $9,500
Projects Submitted to the WRCF for
Funding in 1996* Title: Promote Awareness of Wild Resource Conservation Fund
Objective: Continue promotion and awareness of Pennsylvania's Wild Resource Conservation Fund. Make items available such as videos, T-shirts, posters, ''Keystone Wild Notes''--newsletter, and other sale items and education materials directly to the citizens of Pennsylvania.
Justification: With a limited staff and funds keeping the WRCF in the public awareness has been difficult. This project will allow the general public to learn of the Fund's accomplishments and past and future projects directly with minimal costs.
Sponsor: Robert and Thelma Clark
Cost: $15,000
Projects Submitted Which Cover Multi-Agencies for Funding in 1997 * Title: Terrestrial Salamanders in Old-Growth versus Second-Growth Forests
Objective: Little is known about the relationship of wildlife to late seral stage forests. Compare species composition and relative abundance of terrestrial salamanders in old-growth with those of forests of lesser age.
Justification: Amphibians deserve special attention with regard to management considerations because there are a significant and important wildlife component of the fauna in most terrestrial habitats in Pennsylvania. Compared to other vertebrate groups research efforts directed toward amphibians is small or missing. Thus the fundamental data base necessary for thorough management decisions is often absent.
Sponsor: Penn State--Charles Schaadt
Cost: $10,508.00
* Title: An updated assessment of Acidic Deposition in Pennsylvania
Objective: Assess the current state of knowledge with respect to acidic deposition impact to wildlife, plants and fish in Pennsylvania
Justification: Pennsylvania suffers from the highest acidic deposition in any state and it has been eight year since a conference of this type has been held.
Sponsor: Penn State--Wm. Sharpe
Cost: $7,872
* Title: Multi-feature Exhibit at The Nature Center at Wildwood Lake Sanctuary
Objective: Contribute $185,000 charitable contribution to The Friends Capital Campaign effort in exchange for a multi-feature exhibit.
Justification: Investment will help ignite the interest of young minds in nature and wetlands, promote the understanding of a valuable resource, keep environmental education affordable for school groups and promote the Wild Resource Conservation Fund.
Sponsor: The Friends of Wildwood Lake Nature Center, Inc.--Jan N. LeBlanc
Cost: $185,000 over 6 years
ROBERT D. REBER, Jr.,
Chairperson
[Pa.B. Doc. No. 97-1292. Filed for public inspection August 8, 1997, 9:00 a.m.]
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