Final Council recommendation (Nov 2006)

Funding category: Expense

Recommended budgets: FY07: $400,738 | FY08: $406,360 | FY09: $371,961

Comment: Interim funding pending wildlife o&m review.

ISRP final recommendation: Fundable

Comment:

This proposal cites more appropriate literature than most wildlife proposals and demonstrates an emphasis on use of science in management. The authors clearly stated the problem. The ISRP wonders whether the proposed acquisitions link to other current or future parcels, perhaps under other ownership, that create a landscape level habitat network. Is there such a thing here, or could there be? The objectives are generally clear and measurable, but timelines are continuous. Work elements regarding monitoring protocols are especially clear and appear sound. Focal species’ links to the landscape are not presented. Persistence of benefits to fish and wildlife is implied, given continuing support. Could some of these sites become more self sustaining, for example, convert irrigated sites to native vegetation? It is not clear that monitoring data already being collected for prior acquisitions have been evaluated for adaptive management and achievement of Program goals. Information transfer is not mentioned, nor any published outputs. By the next review this proposal should report monitoring results in biological terms and applications for adaptive management based on the results.

State/province recommendation: Fundable

Review group: Snake

Recommended budgets: FY07: $400,738 | FY08: $406,360 | FY09: $371,961

Comment: No change to proposed budget