statement of qualifications - ducks unlimited€¦ · statement of qualifications | 1 dducks...

G R E AT L A K E S /ATL A NTIC R EG IO N A L O F F IC E

S TAT E M E N T of Q UA L I F I C ATI O N S

£ SERVICES £ STAFF £ PROJECTS £ PARTNERS

Statement of Qualif ications

£ SERVICES £ STAFF £ PROJECTS £ PARTNERS

Statement of Qualifications | 1

D U C K S U N L I M I T E D D U C K S U N L I M I T E D A Global Leader in Wetlands and Waterfowl Conservation

DUCKS UNLIMITED INC. (DU) WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1937 BY FORWARD-MINDED CONSERVATIONISTS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS OF

SHRINKING HABITAT AND DECREASING WATERFOWL POPULATIONS. TODAY, DU IS THE WORLD’S LARGEST PRIVATE WETLANDS AND

WATERFOWL CONSERVATION ORGANIZATION, WITH MORE THAN A MILLION SUPPORTERS! DU WORKS WITH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE

CLIENTS TO IDENTIFY AND IMPLEMENT SCIENCE-BASED, ECOLOGICALLY SOUND SOLUTIONS TO HABITAT CONSERVATION PROBLEMS.

THE DU MISSION: DUCKS UNLIMITED CONSERVES, RESTORES AND MANAGES WETLANDS AND ASSOCIATED HABITATS FOR NORTH

AMERICAN WATERFOWL. THESE HABITATS ALSO BENEFIT OTHER WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE.

■ SERVICES £ STAFF £ PROJECTS £ PARTNERS

2 | Ducks Unlimited

G R E AT L A K E S / AT L A N T I C R E G I O N A L O F F I C EG R E AT L A K E S / AT L A N T I C R E G I O N A L O F F I C E

MANY OF THE CONTINENT’S MOST CRITICAL WETLANDS ARE FOUND IN THE GREAT LAKES/ATLANTIC REGION AND ALONG THE

ATLANTIC COAST, WHICH IS WHY DUCKS UNLIMITED OPENED ITS GREAT LAKES/ATLANTIC REGIONAL OFFICE (GLARO) IN 1998, IN

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN. THE GLARO PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE CONSERVATION SOLUTIONS TO RESTORE AND PROTECT WETLANDS

AND WATERFOWL HABITATS IN 18 STATES—FROM WISCONSIN AND ILLINOIS, EAST TO VIRGINIA, AND NORTH TO MAINE.

WORKING WITH A VARIETY OF CLIENTS, FROM PRIVATE LANDOWNERS, CONSULTANTS, CORPORATIONS AND CONSERVATION ORGANIZATIONS,

TO STATE AND FEDERAL WILDLIFE AGENCIES, THE GLARO PRODUCES UNSURPASSED RESULTS THAT PROVIDE WILDLIFE HABITAT,

IMPROVE WATER QUALITY, MITIGATE FOR WETLAND LOSS AND GENERATE A FULL RANGE OF OTHER ECOLOGICAL GOODS AND SERVICES.

Chapter

1 GLARO SERVICESGLARO SERVICES



S E RV I C E SS E RV I C E S

The GLARO staff includes more than 30 professionals with a diverse

mix of specialties to provide the following services and expertise:

• Wetland mitigation (1)

• Engineering concept and design (2)

• Conservation of wetland habitat (3)

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

tools and analyses (4)

• Project accountability (5)

• Public Policy (6)

• Communications and graphic design (7)

• Research science and planning (8)

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C O N S E RVAT I O N O F C O N S E RVAT I O N O F

W E T L A N D H A B I TATW E T L A N D H A B I TAT

Ducks Unlimited biologists combine biological and administrative expertise in

the planning and delivery of on-the-ground habitat restoration projects. They are

skilled practitioners of applied science and are experienced in providing workable

solutions for almost every situation, resulting in successful habitat restoration,

enhancement, management and protection that will benefi t wildlife and people

now and in the future. DU biologists are knowledgeable about wetland and

waterfowl ecology, and they have an understanding of the habitat values provided

by different types of wetlands and how those wetlands can meet the varying life

cycle needs of waterfowl and other wildlife, along with the other ecological goods

and services provided by wetlands.

R E S E A R C H S C I E N C ER E S E A R C H S C I E N C E

A N D P L A N N I N GA N D P L A N N I N G

Science-based applied research is an integral part of conservation planning,

but more importantly functions to identify information gaps and uncertainties

in program delivery. Subsequently, research is conducted to acquire the

necessary data to make informed decisions and enable the design of appropriate

conservation programs. DU research staff partner with university professionals,

Joint Ventures, state and federal agencies and other non-profi ts to conduct a

variety of large-scale research initiatives throughout the region.



P U B L I C P O L I C YP U B L I C P O L I C Y

Public policy staff work with DU’s Regional Offi ce in Washington D.C., members

of Congress and their staff and state legislatures to ensure sound conservation

policy advancing DU’s mission of wetlands and waterfowl conservation. In the

past few years, DU has worked with state legislators and other non-governmental

partners to promote wetland protection policies. DU’s strategy is to promote

voluntary, incentive-based solutions and encourage actions that directly benefi t

waterfowl and wetlands conservation. DU’s long history; membership in excess

of 600,000; presence in every state and science-based, balanced approach has

made Ducks Unlimited a respected presence in Washington, D.C., and in state

capitols across the country.

W E T L A N D M I T I G AT I O NW E T L A N D M I T I G AT I O N

DU has developed a specially designed bundled service line that provides the

resources and expertise necessary to restore degraded wetlands to high-quality,

functional habitat. These services include site identifi cation; wetland delineation;

topographic, hydrologic and natural resources surveys, drafting and mitigation

design; contracts and construction management; as-builts; monitoring and

evaluation and long-term protection and management. DU’s database of potential

wetland replacement sites, expertise in wetland habitat conservation, effi ciency in

contracting and delivery and respected reputation in the conservation community

provide a solid foundation for developing and implementing successful mitigation

plans.


6 | Ducks Unlimited

P R O J E C T A C C O U N TA B I L I T YP R O J E C T A C C O U N TA B I L I T Y

Ducks Unlimited has a team of professional employees dedicated to making sure

that fi scal tracking, project reporting, contract compliance and approved audits

are accomplished. DU works extensively with federal grants and contracts, and

has staff trained in managing federal agreements and experienced with OMB

uniform administrative requirements and cost principles. DU uses a tool called

CONSERV for tracking project progress and accounting practices, ensuring

maximum quality control.

G E O G R A P H I C I N F O R M AT I O NG E O G R A P H I C I N F O R M AT I O N

S Y S T E M S ( G I S )S Y S T E M S ( G I S )

GLARO GIS staff supports, facilitates and enables science-based conservation

planning and delivery through data development and warehousing, spatial

analysis and customized tools and models. Our staff is knowledgeable in many

aspects of GIS including: remote sensing techniques, geodatabase design and

development, programming, spatial modeling and cartographic design. GIS staff

have incorporated the results of our research into a Decision Support System

that helps guide our conservation planning process.



C O M M U N I C AT I O N S A N D C O M M U N I C AT I O N S A N D

G R A P H I C D E S I G NG R A P H I C D E S I G N

GLARO has a full-scale communications program designed to create awareness

of conservation activities and issues among key audiences and the general public.

This host of services is viewed as a valuable asset when partnering with other

organizations on media/public relations events and issues. The graphic design

and in-house printing of communication tools is also appealing to partners when

jointly promoting a program or event.

E N G I N E E R I N G C O N C E P T E N G I N E E R I N G C O N C E P T

A N D D E S I G NA N D D E S I G N

Ducks Unlimited engineering is respected for its expertise, innovation and

effi ciency when delivering all formally contracted restoration projects. Our

engineers work with our biological staff to provide cutting-edge engineering

services to assist with habitat-based project designs, enhancing and refi ning the

function and maintenance of wetlands and associated habitat. Our surveying

crews lend accuracy and effi ciency to engineering designs using state-of-the-art

GPS and Total Station equipment to develop detailed topographic surveys of

individual project sites. Our team of construction managers then obtains

permits, hires contractors and supervises on-site construction.

DU’s emphasis on construction management ensures that design

specifi cations are followed and that any issues that arise during

construction are addressed immediately.

individua

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£ SERVICES ■ STAFF £ PROJECTS £ PARTNERS

8 | Ducks Unlimited

Chapter

2 GLARO STAFFGLARO STAFF



ATLANTIC COAST MANAGEMENT UNIT GREAT LAKES MANAGEMENT UNIT

Ken Babcock, Ph.D. Acting Director

Tina Yerkes, Ph.D. Director of Conservation Programs/Planning

Gildo M. Tori Director of Public Policy

Bernard Marczyk Government Affairs Representative

John M. Coluccy, Ph.D. Director of Conservation Planning

Robb Macleod GIS Manager

Rob Paige GIS/Remote Sensing Specialist

Kristin Schrader Public Affairs Coordinator

Ryan P. Martin Graphic Designer

Michelle Burdick Project Coordinator

David Pell Contract Specialist, Real Estate/Wetland Mitigation

Christopher Theriot Manager of Conservation Programs

Peter C. Wyckoff, P.E. Engineer

Jenifer Christman Manager of Conservation, Lands

K. Sarah Fleming Regional Biologist/Mitigation Specialist

Dennis L. McDonough, P.E. Director of Conservation Services

Warren S. Weirich Manager of Conservation Services

David Alsobrooks Senior Engineering Specialist

Gregg H. Bachmann Senior Engineering Specialist

Brian Nicholson, P.E., CFM Regional Engineer

Jade A. Phillips Engineering Specialist

Russ Terry Director of Conservation Programs

Roy Kroll Manager of Conservation Programs

Casey Bartkus Regional Biologist

Dane Cramer Regional Biologist

Eric Schenck Regional Biologist

Mike R. Sertle Regional Biologist

Jason Hill Regional Biologist

Kurt Dyroff Director of Conservation Programs

Ray Whittemore Director of Conservation Programs

Kurt Anderson Biologist

Craig Ferris Regional Biologist

Doug Gorby Regional Biologist

Benjamin Lewis Regional Biologist

DIRECTORSDIRECTORS

PUBLIC POLICYPUBLIC POLICY

RESEARCHRESEARCH

GEOGR APHIC INFORMATION GEOGR APHIC INFORMATION

SYSTEMS (GIS)SYSTEMS (GIS)

COMMUNICATIONSCOMMUNICATIONS

PROJECT ACCOUNTABIL IT YPROJECT ACCOUNTABIL IT Y

MITIGATION/L ANDSMITIGATION/L ANDS

ENGINEERINGENGINEERING

CONCEPT & DES IGNCONCEPT & DES IGN

CONSERVATION OFCONSERVATION OF

WETL AND HABITATWETL AND HABITAT

David Brakhage Director of Conservation Programs


10 | Ducks Unlimited

DAVID ALSOBROOKS DAVID ALSOBROOKS Senior Engineering Specialist

EDUCATION

Architectural Construction Technology; Henry Ford Community College

AFFILIATIONS

State of Michigan Residential Builders’ and M & A Contractors’s Board Residential Builder License

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Alsobrooks is responsible for the preparation of construction plans for wetland restoration using Land Development Desktop, along with the accompanying civil and survey software. He prepares topographical surveys from fi eld survey data and provides earthwork computations for construction costs estimation. He is also responsible for computerized information to facilitate staking by survey crews. Mr. Alsobrooks has 21 years of experience in the civil engineering and survey fi eld.

KEN BABCOCK KEN BABCOCK Acting Director

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Wildlife Management; Louisiana State UniversityBachelor of Arts, Biology; Hendrix College

AFFILIATIONS

Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Southeast Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Mississippi Flyway Council Technical Section, Mississippi Flyway Council, The Wildlife Society (Certifi ed Wildlife Biologist), Corps of Engineers Environmental Advisory Board, Louisiana Governor’s Advisory Commission on Coastal Conservation and Restoration

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Babcock provides oversight for all conservation operations, including administration, project delivery, planning, research, public policy and budgeting. He is responsible for the supervision of 34 full-time staff and for the management of a $14 million budget.

Mr. Babcock began his conservation career in Mississippi, working as a waterfowl biologist in the state’s Game and Fish Commission. He then held progressively responsible positions with the Missouri Department of Conservation, ultimately serving as the Department’s assistant director. Mr. Babcock then joined Ducks Unlimited as the director of the Southern regional offi ce. Prior to joining the staff at the Great Lakes regional offi ce he served at Ducks Unlimited’s national headquarters in Memphis as a senior director of conservation.

KURT A . ANDERSON KURT A . ANDERSON Biologist (Delaware & New Jersey)

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Fisheries and Wildlife; Michigan State University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Anderson is responsible for the development, administration and delivery of conservation programs in Delaware and New Jersey. This includes preliminary reconnaissance of potential projects, consultations with private landowners and other partners, preparation of agreements and management plans and the coordination and implementation of coastal and inland wetland restoration and land protection activities. Mr. Anderson also works with volunteers and fund-raising staff, and disseminates information on DU programs to private individuals and state and federal agencies.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Anderson has provided technical assistance to landowners interested in U.S. Farm Bill programs and has aided in the development of Michigan’s Revised Wolf Management Plan. Additionally, Mr. Anderson has facilitated white-tailed deer focus group meetings and has worked on waterfowl nesting ecology in the Prairie Pothole Region of North Dakota.

GREGG H. BACHMAN GREGG H. BACHMAN Senior Engineering Specialist

EDUCATION

Distance Education Land Surveying Program; Michigan Technological University

AFFILIATIONS

Michigan Society of Professional Surveyors—associate member

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Bachman is in charge of topographic surveying and construction staking for wetland restoration projects. He is involved with the pre-survey planning, data collection and development of the fi nal topographic survey drawings. Mr. Bachman provides horizontal and vertical control for topographic mapping and project construction, utilizing GPS equipment and conventional survey equipment. Mr. Bachman develops stakeout plans from the engineers’s plans to provide staking in the fi eld for construction of the wetland restoration project. Mr. Bachman is also involved in all aspects of the engineering department regarding the delivery of wetland restoration projects, including bid preparation, construction plan review, on-site construction inspection and construction management.



CASEY BARTKUS CASEY BARTKUS Regional Biologist, Saginaw Bay & Lake Erie Watersheds, MI

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Biological Sciences; Marshall UniversityBachelor of Science, Environmental Studies, Fisheries and Wildlife Biology Concentration; California University of Pennsylvania

AFFILIATIONS

Certifi ed Associate Wildlife Biologist; The Wildlife Society

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Bartkus is responsible for the coordination and delivery of habitat projects throughout portions of Michigan including the Saginaw Bay and western Lake Erie watersheds. He identifi es potential sites for restoration, enhancement and protec-tion, develops partnerships, secures funding, works with engineering staff to oversee construction, manages project budgets, and ensures project completion and reporting procedures are met.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Bartkus has worked with multiple organizations in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia to deliver conservation strategies. He has experience in grant writ-ing, wetland rehabilitation, threatened and endangered species, and invasive species

control.

M ICHELLE BURDICK MICHELLE BURDICK Project Coordinator

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting; Eastern Michigan UniversityManagement Concepts Grants Management Certifi cate

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ms. Burdick is the project coordinator for the Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Offi ce. Her specifi c duties include budget management and grant administration. Ms. Burdick assists management staff to ensure accurate budget projections, tracks funding availability for all projects and does budget training of new employees. She is also responsible for all of the invoicing and data entry for the regional offi ce.

DAVID H . BR AKHAGE DAVID H . BR AKHAGE Director of Conservation Programs

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Wildlife Ecology and Management; University of MissouriBachelor of Science, Forestry and Wildlife; Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

AWARDS

National Wetlands Conservation Award winner, 2003

AFFILIATIONS

The Wildlife Society—member since 1981, Upper Mississippi/Great Lakes region Joint Venture Management Board

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Brakhage managed conservation programs in the Great Lakes and upper Mississippi River, including the states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. His primary emphasis now is on developing foundation support for programs that effect Ducks Unlimited’s mission of conserving waterfowl and wetlands. His other responsibilities include advocacy, volunteer and partner relations, and providing staff support to the North American Wetlands Conservation Council.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Brakhage’s expertise includes wetland and waterfowl ecology; potential project evaluation; waterfowl habitat management; securing and administering federal grants and cooperative conservation at local, regional and national levels. Before joining DU, Mr. Brakhage worked 13 years for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

JENIFER CHRISTMAN JENIFER CHRISTMAN Manager of Conservation Programs, Lands

EDUCATION

Master of Environmental Management, Water Resources and Environmental Chemis-try; Duke UniversityBachelor of Science, Wildlife Management; University of Nevada, Reno

AWARDS

Howard Hughes Research Scholar, Western Society of Naturalists Honorarium

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ms. Christman manages GLARO’s regional land conservation strategy, including conservation easements, fee-title acquisitions, land donations, trade lands. She trains and coordinates fi eld staff relative to conservation easement and land transaction procedures and leads the team that develops and implements a comprehensive lands initiative to maximize conservation benefi ts for wetlands and wildlife and generate revenue for regional conservation priorities.

EXPERTISE

Ms. Christman has extensive natural resource management experience including conservation land transactions, watershed management issues and demonstrated

success in designing and implementing award-winning conservation partnerships..



JOHN M. COLUCCY, PH .D. JOHN M. COLUCCY, PH .D. Director of Conservation Planning

EDUCATION

Doctor of Philosophy, Wildlife Ecology; University of MissouriMaster of Science, Wildlife Ecology; University of MissouriBachelor of Science, Wildlife Ecology; University of Wisconsin

AFFILIATIONS

The Wildlife Society; Upper Mississippi River Great Lakes Joint Venture Science Technical Committee; Black Duck Joint Venture Science Technical Committee; Atlantic Coast Joint Venture Science Technical Committee; Mississippi Flyway Council Technical Section Giant Canada Goose Committee

RESPONSIBILITIES

John M. Coluccy oversees research and planning efforts, and assists with designing, funding and implementing landscape-level research with the objective of refi ning habitat programs within an adaptive management framework.

EXPERTISE

Dr. Coluccy has experience with a variety of research issues related to wetlands and breeding, migrating and wintering waterfowl across a broad geographic range. He also has extensive experience with on-the-ground habitat delivery, from directing conservation programs in Wisconsin, Indiana and southwest Michigan.

KURT W. DYROFF KURT W. DYROFF Director of Conservation Programs

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering, Minor in Environmental Engineering;

Pennsylvania State University

AFFILIATIONS

Engineer in Training, State of Pennsylvania; American Society of Civil Engineers

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Dyroff manages Ducks Unlimited’s conservation programs in the North and Mid-Atlantic states including supervising all biologists and some engineering staff that work in these states. Mr. Dyroff delivers an annual budget of $3 million, affecting more than 6,500 acres of waterfowl habitat per year. His responsibilities include program and partner development; habitat delivery; budget management; conservation planning; major gifts fundraising; communications and managing staff, volunteer and partner relations.

DANE CR AMER DANE CR AMER Regional Biologist (Ohio)

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Wildlife Ecology; University of DelawareBachelor of Science, Wildlife and Fisheries Science; Pennsylvania State University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Cramer is responsible for the development, delivery and administration of conservation programs in the state of Ohio. This includes identifying potential projects, developing partnerships, coordination of permits and agreements, and budget management. Additionally, Mr. Cramer works closely with individuals and public/private entities to secure funding to implement wetland protection, restoration and

enhancement projects throughout Ohio.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Cramer has worked with a variety of wildlife species in environments reaching from the Mississippi delta in northwest Mississippi to the sub-arctic tundra of northern Québec. His previous work in academia and at the state agency level has focused primarily on research and monitoring efforts pertaining to waterfowl

use of Atlantic coastal marshes during various periods in their annual cycle.

CR AIG R . FERRIS , PH .D. CR AIG R . FERRIS , PH .D. Regional Biologist (New England)

EDUCATION

Doctor of Philosophy, Wildlife Biology, University of MaineMaster of Science, Wildlife Biology, West Virginia UniversityBachelor of Science, Wildlife Biology, Cornell University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Dr. Ferris has delivered conservation programs in New England and has been a Regional Director, managing grassroots efforts, as well. Currently his primary emphasis is on developing fi nancial support for programs that effect Ducks Unlimited’s mission of conserving waterfowl and wetlands. His other responsibilities include grant and proposal writing, advocacy, volunteer and partner relations.

EXPERTISE

Dr. Ferris draws upon his previous experience of more than 15 years as an environ-mental consultant, specializing in wetland studies, impact assessment, permitting and design of wetland mitigation and enhancement programs, as well as his thirteen years of experience in fund-raising for Ducks Unlimited conservation programs.



K. SARAH FLEMING K. SARAH FLEMING Regional Biologist/Mitigation Specialist

EDUCATION

Master in Wildlife Science, Mississippi State UniversityBachelor of Science, Zoology, University of Western Ontario

AFFILIATIONS

The Wildlife Society, National Wildlife Turkey Federation, The Nature Conservancy

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ms. Fleming assists with the coordination and delivery of GLARO’s wetland mitigation programs, including site identifi cation, contract development, wetland restoration and protection, habitat monitoring and evaluation, technical assistance, and management. Fleming works with a team of biologists, engineers, partners and landowners, to conserve and restore functioning wetland systems.

EXPERTISE

Fleming has worked with USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service, Maine

Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Connecticut Department of Environmental

Protection, Long Point Waterfowl, and Bird Studies Canada. Her experiences include

monitoring and sampling wetland habitat, passerine, waterbirds, and waterfowl sur-

veys, delivery of management strategies for wetlands restoration and management,

water quality testing, and passerine and waterfowl banding.

JASON D. HILL JASON D. HILL Regional Biologist (Wisconsin)

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Fisheries and Wildlife; Michigan State UniversityBachelor of Science, Fisheries and Wildlife; Michigan State University

AFFILIATIONS

Society of Wetland Scientists; The Wildlife Society

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Hill is responsible for all conservation programs in Wisconsin, including wetland restoration and associated upland habitat delivery, land and easement acquisition and technical assistance. Mr. Hill is also a project coordinator in various DU priority areas across the Great Lakes states, including small wetland design and permitting, construction management and native prairie establishment. Additional responsibilities include project planning and management, initiative fund raising and volunteer and conservation partner relations.

DOUG GORBY DOUG GORBY Regional Biologist (Western and Central New York)

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Natural Resource Management; Ohio State University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Gorby is responsible for the development, delivery and administration of conservation programs in New York. This includes prospecting of potential projects, collaboration with landowners and partners, project design and management, and coordination of agreements, permits, and management plans. Additionally, Mr. Gorby works closely with individuals and entities to secure funding for future protection, restoration and enhancement of wetlands and associated habitats.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Gorby has worked with US Fish and Wildlife Service, Ohio Division of Wildlife,

and USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service. His experiences include

conducting biological surveys for waterfowl and other avian species, implementing

Ohio’s Bald Eagle recovery plan, and delivering conservation program to landowners

and partners, resulting in hundreds of successful projects and thousands of acres of

diverse habitats restored and protected. He has extensive experience in on-site

habitat establishment and management.

ROY KROLL ROY KROLL Conservation Programs Manager (SW Lake Erie and Ohio Programs)

EDUCATIONMaster of Science, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management; Ohio State University Bachelor of Science, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management; Ohio State University

AFFILIATIONS

Certifi ed Wildlife Biologist; The Wildlife Society - member since 1976

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Kroll directs the Southwest Lake Erie Land Protection Strategy, which protects existing wetlands and adjacent agricultural property within the coastal zone of Lake Erie in Ohio and Michigan by use of conservation easements, fee-title acquisitions, wetland restorations and other land protection measures. Mr. Kroll is also responsible for the delivery of DU conservation programs in Ohio. He acts as project manager, overseeing partnership and project development, budgeting, coordination with engineering staff, development of funding proposals, and administration of grant funds

EXPERTISE

Mr. Kroll has directed on-site research and educational programs, and private land conservation efforts. He has experience in wetland design, restoration, and invasive species control and has authored several peer-reviewed publications on wetland management and historical trends in Lake Erie coastal marshes.



BENJAMIN S . LEWIS JR . BENJAMIN S . LEWIS JR . Regional Biologist, MD/VA/WV

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Wildlife Science, Minor in Biology; Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityMaster of Science, Zoology, In Progress, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Lewis is responsible for the initiation and management of wetland enhancement and restoration projects throughout Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Mr. Lewis provides technical assistance for waterfowl and wetland management, Ducks Unlimited’s land protection program and other conservation activities.

BERNIE MARCZYK BERNIE MARCZYK Governmental Affairs Representative

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts, Politics; Princeton University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Marczyk is responsible for public policy efforts in the Chesapeake and Delaware Bay watersheds. He works with relevant federal and state agencies to advance public policy that increases the acres of wetlands and waterfowl habitat conserved in these watersheds.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Marczyk has served at both the federal and state levels of government spending 6 years as a senior staffer for former Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich while he was a member of the US House of Representatives and Governor. Mr. Marczyk also worked at the US Department of Agriculture before joining the Ducks Unlimited Governmental Affairs Offi ce in 2008.

ROBB MACLEOD ROBB MACLEOD GIS Manager

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Natural Resources (GIS and Remote Sensing); University of New HampshireBachelor of Science, Forestry; Michigan State University

AFFILIATIONS

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing; Society of American Foresters

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Macleod oversees all GIS activities. He works closely with the region’s conservation planner and regional biologists to perform spatial analayses for targeting conservation efforts and planning restoration activities.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Macleod has classifi ed and assessed the accuracy of more than 20 million acres using satellite and airborne multispectral and hyperspectral imagery, and performed fi eld data collection for the classifi cation of remotely sensed data. He has worked on developing spatial databases and the Internet-based Decision Support Systems for conservation planning in the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay watersheds.

RYAN P. MARTIN RYAN P. MARTIN Graphic Designer

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Art, Graphic Design; Saginaw Valley State University

AFFILIATIONS

Freelancers Union

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Martin handles the design and production of the communications and marketing materials produced by the Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Offi ce, including; annual conservation reports for the 18 GLARO states, posters, brochures, postcards, tradeshow displays and tabletops, as well as a variety of invitations and materials for DU events throughout the region. Mr. Martin also works remotely for the Southern Regional Offi ce, handling their graphic design needs.

EXPERTISE

• Adobe Creative Suite design software (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop)



DENNIS L . MCDONOUGH, P.E .DENNIS L . MCDONOUGH, P.E . Director of Conservation Services

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering; Montana State University

AFFILIATIONS

Registered Professional Engineer in the states of DE, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT and WI

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. McDonough serves as the primary engineer for Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, and is responsible for the design of specialty restoration projects throughout the Great Lakes/Atlantic Region. He also coordinates engineering services for project delivery. His innovative ideas and techniques, along with his effi cient project deliveries, have positioned Ducks Unlimited as a leader in the fi eld of engineering. Additional responsibilities include the supervision of project coordinators, manager of conservation services and regional conservation budget oversight.

EXPERTISE

Over the past 20 years, Mr. McDonough has designed wetland restoration projects for Ducks Unlimited throughout the United States, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

ROB PAIGE ROB PAIGE GIS/Remote Sensing Specialist

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Biology (Natural Resources)/English; Central Michigan University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Paige utilizes ArcGIS, ArcView and Erdas Imagine to perform various GIS/remote sensing tasks. He conducts searches to acquire data from different sources or creates the necessary data layers. Mr. Paige also performs spatial and spectral analyses, and provides the results in the form of maps, digital data with metadata or as layers on an Internet mapping site.

EXPERTISE

• ArcGIS/ArcView cartography• Erdas Imagine image classifi cation, rectifi cation and transformation• Data layer creation, organization and manipulation• IT profi ciency

BRIAN NICHOLSON, P.E . , CFM BRIAN NICHOLSON, P.E . , CFM Regional Engineer

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering; University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

AFFILIATIONS

Registered Professional Engineer in Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan; Certifi ed Floodplain Manager, Association of State Floodplain Managers

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Nicholson serves as the primary engineer for Illinois and Wisconsin. His duties include all aspects of engineering, including survey, design, bidding, construction staking, construction management and working with project partners on other engineering needs that may arise.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Nicholson has worked as a civil engineer for the City of Peoria, IL, working in permitting for erosion, sediment and storm-water control and serving as resident engineer for municipal construction projects involving construction and reconstruction of roads, sidewalks, traffi c signals, ornamental streetlights, retaining walls and sewers. His construction project budgets ranged from $250,000 to over $1 million, often with projects running concurrently.

DAVID PELL DAVID PELL Contract Specialist, Real Estate/Wetland Mitigation

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance; Western Michigan UniversityJuris Doctor, Salmon P. Chase College of Law; Northern Kentucky University

AFFILIATIONS

State Bar of Michigan

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Pell is responsible for assisting regional staff in developing, negotiating and executing agreements. He is responsible for drafting contracts, reviewing and editing deeds and other real-estate instruments for wetland mitigation and land protection projects. He coordinates with legal, contract and accounting departments to ensure contract execution and payment. He develops, compiles and maintains project fi les and supporting information, and oversees record management and staff compliance for wetland mitigation and land protection projects. He is also responsible for all contract solicitation, awards and payments throughout the region.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Pell ran his own private law practice specializing in Estate Planning for three years. Prior to that, he spent seven years as a corporate attorney for a public utility company focusing on the drafting and negotiating of real estate contracts, easements, deeds and various other agreements.



JADE A . PHILLIPS JADE A . PHILLIPS Engineering Specialist

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Wildlife Resource Management; West Virginia University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Phillips is involved with the engineering department delivering conservation services throughout the Mid-Atlantic region by surveying wetland restoration sites, on-site construction inspection and construction management. Mr. Phillips brings with him 11 years experience as an engineering technician with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. While with the Department of Agriculture he was responsible for the survey, design, layout and construction management of projects benefi cial to agriculture and wildlife.

KRISTIN SCHR ADER KRISTIN SCHR ADER Public Affairs Coordinator

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Anthropology, Eastern Michigan University

AFFILIATIONS

New England Outdoor Writers Association, Association of Conservation Information, Association of Great Lakes Outdoors Writers

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ms. Schrader comes from a marketing and advertising background, and has found that forming relationships is the best way to share a message. She most recently was employed in the building industry where she worked as a marketing director, served on several association boards and as a communication liaison for property-related issues. Prior to that Ms. Schrader was an account representative for an advertising agency.

ERIC W. SCHENCK ERIC W. SCHENCK Regional Biologist (Illinois)

EDUCATION

Master of Forest Science; Yale UniversityBachelor of Science, Wildlife Management; University of Idaho

AFFILIATIONS

The Wildlife Society, Certifi ed Wildlife Biologist; Society of American Foresters, Certifi ed Forester

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Schenck is responsible for wetland and waterfowl habitat conservation projects in Illinois. He has successfully delivered numerous projects in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Forest Preserve Districts, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, corporations and private landowners.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Schenck can assist public and private land partners in a variety of habitat projects involving wetlands, bottomland forests and native grasses. He is familiar with numerous fi nancial assistance programs available in Illinois and he works closely with landowners needing funding support for their projects.

M ICHAEL R . SERTLEMICHAEL R . SERTLERegional Biologist (Indiana & Southwest Michigan)

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Wildlife Management; Southern Illinois University, CarbondaleBachelor of Science, Zoology; Western Illinois University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Sertle is responsible for the coordination and delivery of private and public wetland enhancement and restoration projects throughout the state of Indiana and the southwestern portion of Michigan. He is further responsible for the coordination of landowners, engineering staff, contractors and permitting agencies. Additional responsibilities of this position include the evaluation of completed projects, development of funding proposals and composition of reports.

EXPERTISE

Mr. Sertle has accumulated a wide variety of work experience in the states of Illinois, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota and Iowa. His area of expertise is waterfowl and wetland management, specifi cally the nesting ecology of giant Canada geese. He has additional expertise in the nesting ecology and behavior of federally threatened and endangered piping plovers and interior least terns.



RUSSEL H . TERRY RUSSEL H . TERRY Director of Conservation Programs

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Range and Wildlife Management;Texas A&M University, KingsvilleBachelor of Science, Fisheries and Wildlife Management; Lake Superior State University

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Terry provides leadership and strategic oversight of Ducks Unlimited’s conservation programs in the Great Lakes states of Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin and Illinois, including supervising all biologists and some engineering staff that work in these states. Mr. Terry manages an annual conservation budget in excess of $4 million and is active in partner and volunteer relations, fund raising and strategic planning.

G ILDO M. TORIGILDO M. TORI Director of Public Policy

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Zoology, Wildlife Ecology and Toxicology; The Ohio State UniversityBachelor of Science, Wildlife Biology and Management; Michigan State University

AFFILIATIONS

The Wildlife Society; Certifi ed Wildlife Biologist; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Certifi cation

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Tori is responsible for public policy actions, including national issues such as the Farm Bill, North American Wetlands Conservation Act, wetland policy and waterfowl legislative issues. He also leads GLARO’s Public Policy Team and coordinates regional legislative issues that deal with Ducks Unlimited’s mission of conserving waterfowl and wetlands, including Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay conservation coalitions. Mr. Tori also serves as a liaison to federal and state agencies, including those states that participate in DU’s State Grant Program, which directs conservation dollars to Ducks Unlimited Canada for habitat conservation.

CHRISTOPHER THERIOTCHRISTOPHER THERIOT Manager of Conservation Programs

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Environmental Policy and Planning, University of MichiganMaster of Public Policy, University of ChicagoBachelor of Art, Colgate University

AFFILIATIONS

World Resources Institute - Business and Ecosystem Services Group

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Theriot oversees the strategic direction and program management of GLARO’s wetland mitigation program. In this role, he manages relationships with key federal agencies (Army Corps, USFWS, and USEPA), and works with clients and consulting fi rms to deliver mitigation solutions. Additionally, he assists with coordination of DU’s nationwide mitigation program and contributes to DU’s overall eco-asset strategy.

EXPERTISE

With more than 15 years experience working on environmental, business & policy issues, Mr. Theriot has considerable experience launching and managing program initiatives in the public and private sector. He has consulted and worked directly on ecosystem and payment for environmental services nationally and internationally. Skills and training include fi nancial analysis, budgeting, strategy development, and communi-

cations. Additionally, he has training in facilitation and negotiation.

WARREN S . WEIRICH WARREN S . WEIRICH Manager of Conservation Services

EDUCATION

Mechanical Engineering; Owens Community College

AFFILIATIONS

American Concrete Institute—Certifi ed Testing Technician #143337;Michigan Concrete Association—Certifi ed Testing Technician

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Weirich oversees multiple aspects of regional or national conservation service functions, such as project coordination, engineering, information systems, budgets, contract compliance and new product design. Mr. Weirich also supervises engineering staff associated with project delivery.



R AY E . WHITTEMORE R AY E . WHITTEMORE Director of Conservation Programs, Atlantic Region

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Wildlife Biology and Management; Cornell University

AFFILIATIONS

Member of NH Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership Advisory Board; ME Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership Advisory Board; Atlantic Coast Joint Venture Management Board; ME Wetlands Coalition Partnership State Advisory Committee

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Whittemore is responsible for delivering conservation programs throughout New England, and developing GLARO programs in the Lake Champlain corridor in particular. He is responsible for coordinating all aspects of project development and completion, from the initial planning stages through project development, preparation of funding proposals, administration of grants and budgets, design, contracting, monitoring and preparation of project documentation and reports. His expertise includes wetland and waterfowl habitat management. He has held biological positions with state, federal and private agencies, and his long-time relationships in the region contribute to the advancement of Duck’s Unlimited’s mission.

TINA YERKES , PH .D. TINA YERKES , PH .D. Director of Conservation Programs/Planning

EDUCATION

Doctor of Philosophy, Zoology; University of ManitobaMaster of Science, Interdisciplinary Science; Johns Hopkins UniversityBachelor of Arts, Biology/Psychology; University of Maryland

RESPONSIBILITIES

Dr. Yerkes is in charge of landscape-level planning and research initiatives and oversees conservation delivery, GIS and communications.

EXPERTISE

Dr. Yerkes’ main expertise is designing, implementing and funding landscape-level research with the objective of refi ning habitat programs in an adaptive management framework. She has experience with a variety of research issues related to waterfowl and wetlands, including breeding, wintering and spring periods. In addition to research on the life cycle of waterfowl, she has experience in a variety of geographies including the arctic, prairies, southern coastal marshes, Atlantic coastal habitats and Chesapeake Bay estuarine habitats. To date, Dr. Yerkes has mentored and co-advised 10 graduate students.

PETER C . W YCKOFF P.E .PETER C . W YCKOFF P.E . Engineer

EDUCATION

Master of Science, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering; Michigan State UniversityBachelor of Science, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering; Michigan State UniversityBachelor of Science, Fisheries and Wildlife; Michigan State University

AFFILIATIONS

Professional Engineer, State of Michigan; National Society of Professional Engineers; Michigan Society of Professional Engineers; The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers; Aquacultural Engineering Society

RESPONSIBILITIES

Mr. Wyckoff delivers conservation services throughout the Great Lakes region, including wetland delineations, topographic surveys of possible restoration sites, performing engineering design requirements for wetland restoration projects, computer-aided drafting and construction management. Mr. Wyckoff’s technical skills include wetland delineations, GPS surveys, AutoDesk Land Desktop, HydroCAD modeling, natural stream channel design, hydraulic engineering design and engineering design of aquaponics systems.

£ SERVICES £ STAFF ■ PROJECTS £ PARTNERS


Chapter

3 PROJECT SAMPLESPROJECT SAMPLES



W E T L A N D R E S T O R AT I O NW E T L A N D R E S T O R AT I O N from Dream to Reality

WETLANDS REPRESENT SOME OF NATURE’S MOST PRODUCTIVE AND BIOLOGICALLY DIVERSE ECOSYSTEMS ON EARTH. UNIQUE

COMMUNITIES OF PLANTS ADAPTED TO WET ENVIRONMENTS PROVIDE CRITICAL HABITATS FOR THOUSANDS OF SPECIES OF

FISH AND WILDLIFE AND NUMEROUS BENEFITS FOR PEOPLE. MORE THAN HALF OF NORTH AMERICA’S WETLANDS HAVE BEEN

LOST. AS THE WORLD LEADER IN WETLANDS CONSERVATION, DU ACKNOWLEDGES THE CHALLENGE THAT LIES IN REVERS-

ING THIS TREND AND IS COMMITTED TO APPLYING STATE-OF-THE-ART MECHANISMS TO PROTECT REMAINING WETLANDS AND

TO RESTORE THOSE THAT HAVE BEEN ALTERED AND DEGRADED. ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES, YOU WILL FIND PROJECT DESCRIP-

TIONS WHICH ARE EXAMPLES OF THE TECHNICAL AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE DU EMPLOYS TO ACCOMPLISH ITS MISSION

AND TO PROVIDE A FUTURE FOR WATERFOWL, OTHER WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE THAT DEPEND ON THESE VALUABLE RESOURCES.



B I G M A R S H L A K EB I G M A R S H L A K EBig Marsh Lake Wetland Restoration, Michigan

Ducks Unlimited, in collaboration with a multitude of conservation partners and with North American Wetlands Conservation Act funding, restored 200 acres of emergent

wetland and hemi-marsh habitat by replacing a water control structure and repairing the existing levee. The project was completed in conjunction with the Kiwanis Club of

Battle Creek’s Big Marsh Lake property and Michigan Audubon Society’s Baker Sanctuary. The previous water control structure had fallen into disrepair and the wetland had

not been actively managed for over 30 years, resulting in lowered wetland productivity and markedly decreased migratory bird use. The new water control structure allows for

both active wetland management and fi sh passage. The innovative water control structure design conceived by DU’s engineering staff provides fi sh passage through the structure

during any stage of drawdown. With a system of interior fi sh ladders arranged in a switch-back formation and multiple exterior stop-log bays, fi sh can travel up or downstream

through the structure when the wetland is either at full capacity or during complete drawdown. The wetland itself is managed specifi cally for waterfowl and sandhill crane nesting

and migration. In less than of year from completion, the rejuvenated emergent wetland witnessed the largest concentration of greater sandhill cranes ever recorded at Baker

Sanctuary, an immediate increase in waterfowl usage, and consistent fi sh movement. This wetland restoration with its innovate design is just one example of the dedication that

DU has to overcoming project obstacles in order to see the full conservation of our valuable wetlands.



I L L I N O I S L A N D S P R O G R A MI L L I N O I S L A N D S P R O G R A MIllinois

For the past 10 years, Ducks Unlimited has had an active land program underway

in Illinois that has protected more than 3,000 acres of wetland habitat through fee-

title purchase or permanent conservation easement. DU’s unique understanding of

waterfowl migration patterns, wetland habitat potential and local real estate markets

has resulted in premiere land deals that are cost conscious and results focused. DU

specializes in acquiring lands for conservation partners and in “turn key” projects

that also involve wetland or habitat restoration. Ducks Unlimited’s team of land

specialists and biologists has experience in all aspects of negotiating purchase, due

diligence, and real estate closings as well as in delivering top rated habitat restoration

projects on newly acquired parcels. In some cases, DU also is able to serve as a

temporary custodian of property prior to re-sale or transfer of title. In that

capacity, DU works with tenant farmers, foresters and contractors to manage and

maintain property during transitions of ownership. Ducks Unlimited also works with

landowners wishing to protect their property with conservation easements. Often,

this results in a long-term commitment by DU to serve as the easement steward

responsible for monitoring and protection of wetland habitat, functions and values

in perpetuity.

B R A N C H E A UB R A N C H E A UCoastal Wetland Restoration, Michigan

Ducks Unlimited (DU) partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

(USFWS), Waterfowl USA, the International Wildlife Refuge Alliance,

Michigan Duck Hunters Association, Metropolitan Affairs Coalition, DTE,

and the North American Wetlands Conservation Council to restore 67

acres of critical coastal wetland habitat along western Lake Erie in Monroe

County. The Brancheau property previously was in agricultural production

but was restored to coastal wetlands in two adjacent units (45 acres and

22 acres) that will be managed by the USFWS as part of the Detroit River

International Wildlife Refuge. DU staff provided the topographic survey,

engineering design, bidding, contracting and construction management

services for this showcase project. In 2010 DU and the USFWS intend to

co-host a dedication of this impressive project.



G R E AT C Y P R E S S S WA M PG R E AT C Y P R E S S S WA M PWetland Restoration, Sussex County, Delaware

The Great Cypress Swamp is located in the southernmost portion of Sussex County, Delaware. Blanketing over 13,000 acres, it is the largest remaining tract of contiguous

forest on the Delmarva Peninsula and is one of its most unique wetland resources. Sadly, while portions of the Great Cypress Swamp are still partially inundated during wet

years, its natural hydrology has been dramatically altered. A vast network of drainage ditches excavated to accommodate agriculture and timber harvest have disrupted complex

drainage patterns and diminished both the extent and ecological function of the area. Several years’ worth of concerted effort culminated in the 2009 restoration of 426 acres

in the Great Cypress Swamp. Delaware Wild Lands (DWL), which owns and manages over 11,000 acres there, joined forces with Ducks Unlimited (DU), U.S. Fish and Wildlife

Service Delaware Bay Estuary Project and Partners for Fish and Wildlife, Center for the Inland Bays, and others to strategically install six water control structures and fi ve ditch

plugs aimed at retaining outfl ow and lengthening the hydroperiod, thus effectively rewetting vast portions of the Great Cypress Swamp.DWL and others planted more than

33,000 Atlantic white cedars, which have declined signifi cantly and are identifi ed as a “Habitat of Conservation Concern” in the Delaware Wildlife Action Plan. Furthermore,

DU spearheaded submission of a North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grant in 2009 which proposes a similar restoration on an adjacent 343 acres. With

support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Center for the Inland Bays, and others, DU and DWL are committed to the long-term restoration of the Great Cypress Swamp

to improve water quality and wildlife habitat.



W E S T C R E E K P R O P E RT YW E S T C R E E K P R O P E RT YVirginia

One hundred acres of fl oodplain wetlands along Tuckahoe Creek in Goochland

and Henrico counties is now protected by a Ducks Unlimited conservation ease-

ment. Preserving the West Creek property in perpetuity will maintain its valuable

undeveloped state for numerous waterfowl and other wildlife species. This is

biologically important not only from a water quality perspective, but as wetland

habitat. While greater Richmond continues to expand, the West Creek prop-

erty will serve as an increasingly important urban refuge for the local, wintering

and migrating waterfowl along the James River. Visitors commonly seen on the

easement property include American black ducks, mallards, green-winged teal,

ring-necked ducks, wood ducks and Canada geese. With dense stands of vegeta-

tion along the creek, local nesting ducks depend on the area during that crucial

breeding period. DU currently holds nearly 2,800 acres in conservation ease-

ments throughout the state of Virginia. As the landscape becomes increasingly

fragmented and wetlands are lost, the need to protect the highest-quality habitats

will become progressively more important.

4 81 - M I T I G AT I O N P R O J E C T4 81 - M I T I G AT I O N P R O J E C TNew York

The 481 Mitigation Project in the city of North Syracuse is one of the fi rst mitiga-

tion projects that DU has developed in New York. Once the U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers (USACE) determined the mitigation requirements, DU worked with

the mitigant and landowner to develop a mitigation plan that would meet USACE

permit conditions and replace wetland functions. This project has utilized DU’s

full scope of services: site identifi cation, survey, design, contracting, construc-

tion oversight, project management and monitoring. The goal of the 481 Mitiga-

tion Project is to establish 10 acres of palustrine emergent marsh immediately

adjacent to a state wildlife management area. This wetland will replace important

watershed functions including wildlife habitat, reduced fragmentation and water

quality protection. Restoration activities include the removal and control of

Phragmites australis in a 30-acre basin. Topsoil was imported and spread within

the basin to provide an organic medium for establishing native wetland vegetation

and a grassland buffer. DU will monitor the site for 10 years and provide a long-

term management plan.



B L A C K D U C K S AT E L L I T E R A D I O S T U DYB L A C K D U C K S AT E L L I T E R A D I O S T U DYMississippi & Atlantic Flyways

The purpose of this study was to document the migration ecology of American black ducks in eastern North America to assist managers in refi ning habitat

conservation programs and developing biologically based habitat objectives. Our objectives were to identify: (1) migration routes, estimate migration chronology, and

describe seasonal variation among black ducks from different latitudes, longitudes, and wintering areas, and (2) key stopovers, estimate habitat use and availability,

and describe seasonal variation among black ducks from different latitudes, longitudes, and wintering areas. During the winters of 2008 and 2009, 68 black duck hens

were bait-trapped and fi tted with GPS solar-powered satellite radio transmitters in OH, NY,

NJ, DE and VA. Transmitters were programmed to obtain 6 GPS location fi xes daily and hen

movements were monitored using the ARGOS satellite tracking system. Once completed this

study will facilitate the identifi cation of important wintering, staging and breeding areas for

targeting conservation efforts and the development of biologically based habitat objectives for

black ducks in the Mississippi and Atlantic Flyways.



RY E T O W N S H I PRY E T O W N S H I PResource Planning Tool, New Hampshire

In 2004, Ducks Unlimited began the development of a GIS-based interactive plan-

ning tool for salt marsh restorations in the Township of Rye, New Hampshire.

Rye has been very progressive in addressing past degradation of salt marsh com-

munities and has removed most of the tidal restrictions that occur there to allow

natural tidal fl ushing to return. Also, hydrologic restoration to marsh surfaces has

been completed to increase fi sh habitat where it has been drained, and to provide

habitat for predatory fi sh that eat mosquito larvae, thus decreasing mosquito

populations. The New Hampshire coastal program, Department of Environmental

Services funded the project. DU staff worked directly with the town’s Mosquito

and Wetland Management Commission to develop the tool, based on known

project areas and estuaries (Figure 1). With this historical information, DU staff

captured data in shape fi les and assembled them into an interactive Web-based

format that would facilitate the identifi cation and prioritization of target areas

easily and effi ciently.

N W IN W INational Wetlands Inventory, Great Lakes

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)

has been used for many modeling and planning activities because it covers a large

area and uses a consistent classifi cation. However, much of this inventory is 20 to

30 years old and some of the data for the Great Lakes is still in hardcopy format.

The usefulness of the NWI data has been diminished due to its age, availability,

and the FWS’s limited resources for updating the NWI. Therefore, the GLARO

GIS staff is currently working with the FWS and a consortium of public and

non-profi t organizations to update and track the wetland changes in the Great

Lakes states. A database scheme

has been developed that allows the

users to identify current wetlands as

well as track the changes of individual

wetlands. The updated NWI data will

be used by many different agencies

and organizations for modeling and

planning efforts.

£ SERVICES £ STAFF £ PROJECTS ■ PARTNERS


American Bird Conservancy (ABC)

Atlantic Coast Joint Venture (ACJV)

Audubon Society

Bella Vista Group Inc.

Black Duck Joint Venture (BDJV)

Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Clover Construction Management Inc.

Corporate Wetland Restoration Partnership

(CWRP)

County Soil and Water Conservation Districts

Delaware Department of Natural Resources

and Environmental Control (DNREC)

Dolomite Group

Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, Maryland

Empire State Pipeline

Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission

(GLIFWC)

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

(IL DNR)

Illinois Natural History Survey

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

(IN DNR), Division of Fish and Wildlife

John Deere

Lake County Parks and Recreation Indiana

Land Trust Alliance (LTA)

Maryland’s Coastal Zone Management program

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

(MD DNR)

Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT)

Maine Division of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA)

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality

(MDEQ)

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

(MI DNR)

Michigan State University

Millennium Pipeline Company LLC

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration (NOAA)

Natural Heritage Land Trust, Wisconsin

New Jersey Department of Environmental

Protection (NJDEP)

New Jersey Department of Environmental

Protection, Division of Land Use Regulation;

Freshwater Mitigation Council

New Jersey’s Meadowland Commission

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department

New York Department of Environmental

Conservation (NY DEC)

Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR),

Division of Wildlife

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and

Natural Resources

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental

Protection (DEP)

Pheasants Forever

Private Landowners

Rhode Island Department of Environmental

Management, Division of Fish & Wildlife

Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy, Michigan

Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy

Southern Illinois University

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation

The Black Swamp Conservancy, Ohio

The Dow Chemical Company

The Nature Conservancy (TNC)

The Ohio State University

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural

Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

U.S. Forest Service (USFS)

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Farm Services Agency (FSA)

University of Delaware

Upper Mississippi River & Great Lakes Region

Joint Venture (UMR/GLR JV)

USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center,

Maryland

Virginia Department of Forestry

Virginia Department of Game and Inland

Fisheries (VDGIF)

Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife

Wal-Mart Stores East, LP

Waterfowl Festival Inc.

Watershed Initiative Network (WIN)

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

(WI DNR)

Wisconsin Waterfowl Association

Wisconsin Wetlands Association

Chapter

4REPRESENTATIVEREPRESENTATIVEPARTNER & CLIENT LISTPARTNER & CLIENT LIST

C O N S E RV E S , R E S TO R E S A N D

MANAGES WETLANDS AND

ASSOCIATED HABITATS FOR

NORTH AMERICAN WATERFOWL.

THESE HABITATS ALSO BENEFIT

OTHER WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE.

G R E AT L A K E S /ATL A NTIC R EG IO N A L O F F IC E

1220 Eisenhower Place, Ann Arbor, MI 48108

P: (734) 623-2000 | F: (734) 623-2035 | www.ducks.org

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