The recent decline is causing biologists great concern. The first part of the research project was the capture and tagging of 60 female moose. Helicopter crews later captured 20 calves in several study areas. All moose were fitted with ear tags or radio collars. Each transmitter signals if there is a prolonged period of inactivity.
Biologists then attempt to confirm if there is a moose mortality and try to determine the cause.
Airplanes and vehicles will track and locate the moose across the vast region. There are also concerns about possible moose migrations. This study in the Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge and Beltrami Island State Forest continues until 1999. During the early months of the survey 3 calf mortalities were discovered using the radio signal collars. This research may solve the mystery of the missing moose.