These areas are open to hunting of migratory birds, resident upland game, deer and trapping in accordance with state seasons and regulations. Wetland management activities include the monitoring and maintenance of approximately 30 water control structures affecting wetlands ranging in size from 3 acres to 300 acres. In addition, thousands of small fresh water prairie wetlands varying from tiny season wetlands of less than an acre in size to semi-permanent and permanent wetlands have been restored via earthen dikes and breakage of agriculture drain tiles. Upland management includes the seeding of locally harvested warm season natural tall grass prairie grasses and associated forbs. These fields and other fields comprised of cool season nature grasses are managed primarily through early spring prescribed fires.
Much times is spent mowing and spraying noxious weeds including thistle and leafy spurge.
Waterfowl populations are monitored on both refuge lands and private lands each spring by conducting breeding pair counts. Nongame species of grassland birds are also being monitored for abundance and diversity. Nearly all management practices are aimed at benefiting migratory waterfowl and waterbirds. Work Outdoors at GORP Jobs Click Here. All rights reserved.