A broad-scale research and monitoring program for breeding productivity and habitat requirements of entire communities of coexisting species is needed and such data are best gathered by collaborative partnerships among independent investigators spread over a broad geographic area. The program identifies habitat conditions affecting breeding productivity and population health of species throughout their geographic ranges. The program is based on partnerships and data-sharing among researchers that use standardized sampling protocols. This allows comparisons of nesting productivity and associated habitat across broad geographic regions to assess the breadth of environmental problems and provide data for implementing management responses. More than 25,000 nests were located and monitored in the first five years of the program.
Nongame birds are particularly appropriate for monitoring environmental health.
Breeding Bird Surveys suggest that populations of many nongame bird species are declining. Bird species differ in environmental requirements and tolerances and thus form sensitive indicators of environmental health. Federal agencies have a responsibility to conserve bird populations under the Mitchell Amendment and National Forest Management Act. Provide baseline data on breeding productivity of species in healthy environments. Identify unhealthy habitats and conditions.