THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS- Population Dynamics of Threatened Piping Plovers on the Niobrara River, Nebraska- THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS
Provide a brief overview of the project â₏“ the Recipient and why they were chosen â₏“ NPS Substantial Involvement OVERVIEW: The 3-year project would document the population dynamics of threatened piping plovers (Charadrius melodus) on the Niobrara River in northeastern Nebraska, including the 39-mile and 59-mile segments of the Missouri National Recreational River (MNRR) during the 2015â₏“2016 breeding seasons. Specifically, the project will estimate survival and reproductive output of birds nesting on sandbars on the lower Niobrara, as well as the connection of these birds to the breeding populations throughout the Great Plains. Additionally, the project will examine the relationship between these birds and their habitat using remotely-sensed imagery and monitoring data from various groups and locations along the Niobrara. STATEMENT OF JOINT OBJECTIVES/PROJECT MANAGEMENT PLAN: To greater understand the population dynamics and habitat of piping plovers on the lower Niobrara River and to make management recommendations based on these findings. RECIPIENT INVOLVEMENT: Conduct field monitoring (nest and chick monitoring, bird banding) and remote-sensing analysis to determine habitat suitability. Estimate the effects of habitat change on the distribution of plovers on the Niobrara and examine which factors contribute to and distract from efforts to recover the species. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE INVOLVEMENT: Provide technical and logistical assistance and expertise. Take lead in interpretive component implementation. Assist with field monitoring. The Recipient is a member of the (Southern Appalachian Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit) who was awarded a Master Cooperative Agreement (P14AC00882) allowing (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University) to participate in specific tasks, and can provide the necessary activities involved in this particular task while providing an effective outcome for NPS and the objectives of this research/educational project. The recipient is uniquely qualified to carry out the field work and scientific study associated with the study. This study will fill knowledge gaps and inform NPS management decisions.
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