STATE OF NEVADA Jim Gibbons, Governor

Transcription

1 NEVADA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE BIG GAME STATUS

2 STATE OF NEVADA Jim Gibbons, Governor DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE Ken Mayer, Director GAME DIVISION Mark Atkinson, Chief Mike Cox, Big Game Staff Biologist Kevin Lansford, Furbearer Staff Biologist Dawn Carter, Administrative Assistant Western Region Southern Region Eastern Region Regional Supervisors Mike Dobel Steve Kimble Larry Gilbertson Big Game Biologists Chris Hampson Pat Cummings Curt Baughman Carl Lackey Tom Donham Ken Gray Kyle Neill Mike Scott Kari Huebner Ed Partee Mike Podborny Jason Salisbury Tony Wasley Russell Woolstenhulme Jeremy Lutz Cover Photos by Mike Cox, Norman Beach, Steve Albert, and Joe Doucette This publication will be made available in an alternative format upon request. Nevada Department of Wildlife receives funding through the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration. Federal laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and sex [in educational programs]. If you believe you ve been discriminated against in any NDOW program, activity, or facility, please write to the following: US Fish and Wildlife Service or Director Division of Federal Assistance Nevada Department of Wildlife 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Mailstop: MBSP Valley Road Arlington, VA Reno, Nevada Individuals with hearing impairments may contact the Department via telecommunications device at our Headquarters at , or teletype to the following State Relay number

3 NEVADA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE BIG GAME STATUS This Program Receives Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Grant W-48-R-40; Sub-Grant II, Big Game Management Compiled and Edited by: Mike Cox, Big Game Staff Biologist Mike Dobel, Regional Supervising Biologist Larry Gilbertson, Regional Supervising Biologist Steve Kimble, Regional Supervising Biologist Kevin Lansford, Furbearer Staff Biologist Dawn Carter, Administrative Assistant

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS BIG GAME STATUS STATEWIDE SUMMARY... SS1 SS5 MULE DEER... 1 Units , Northern Washoe and Western Humboldt Counties... 1 Units 021, 022, Southern Washoe County... 2 Units 031, 032, 034, 035: Western Humboldt County... 3 Unit 033, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge: Washoe and Humboldt Counties... 4 Units 041, 042: Western Pershing and Southern Humboldt Counties... 5 Units : Eastern Pershing and Southern Humboldt Counties... 6 Unit 051, Santa Rosa Mountains: Eastern Humboldt County... 6 Units , 064, , Independence and Tuscarora Ranges: Elko County... 7 Unit 065, Sulphur Springs Range: Southwestern Elko County... 9 Units , 091: Northeastern Elko County... 9 Unit 081, Goose Creek Area: Northeastern Elko County Units : Southern Elko and Northwestern White Pine Counties Units , Eastern White Pine County Units , Snake Range: Southeastern White Pine County Unit 121, North Egan, Cherry Creek Ranges: White Pine and Elko Counties Units : Southern White Pine, Eastern Nye and Western Lincoln Counties Units : Eureka and Eastern White Pine Counties Units 151, 152, 154, 155, Lander and Western Eureka Counties Units : North-Central Nye and Southern Lander and Eureka Counties Units : Northwestern Nye and Southern Lander Counties Units : Churchill, Southern Pershing and Western Lander Counties Unit 192, Carson River Interstate Mule Deer Herd: Douglas County Unit 194, 196, Carson Range and Peavine Mountain Interstate Herd: Washoe and Carson City Counties Unit 195, Virginia Range Herd: Storey, Washoe and Lyon Counties Units 201, 202, , Walker/Mono Interstate Deer Herd: Douglas, Lyon and Mineral Counties 21 Unit 203, Mason and Smith Valley Resident Herds: Lyon County Units 211, 212: Esmeralda County Units : Northern Lincoln and Southern White Pine Counties Unit 231, Wilson Creek Range: Northeastern Lincoln County Units , Clover, Delamar, and Meadow Valley Mountain Ranges: Lincoln County Units : South Central Nye County Units , Clark and Southern Nye Counties Units 271, 272: Southern Lincoln and Northeastern Clark Counties Unit 291, Pinenut Mountain Mule Deer Herd: Douglas County PRONGHORN ANTELOPE Units , 021, 022: Washoe and Western Humboldt Counties Units 031, 032, 034, 035, 051: Humboldt County Unit 033, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge: Washoe and Humboldt Counties Units 041, 042: Western Pershing and Southern Humboldt Counties Units 061, 062, 064, 071, 073: North Central Elko County i

5 Units 065, 142, portion of 144, Southern Elko County, Northern Eureka County Unit 066, Owyhee Desert: Northwestern Elko County Units 067, 068: Western Elko and Northern Lander and Eureka Counties Units 072, 074, 075: Northeastern Elko County Units 076, 077, 079, 081, 091: Northeastern Elko County Units 078, , 121: Southeastern Elko and Central White Pine Counties Units , 108, portion of 144: South Central Elko and Western White Pine Counties Units : Eastern White Pine County Units 115, 231, 242: Eastern Lincoln and Southern White Pine Counties Units 131, 145, 163, 164: Southern Eureka, Northeastern Nye, and Southwestern White Pine Counties Units , 245: Eastern Nye and Western Lincoln Counties Units 161, 162, Northern Nye, Southeastern Lander, and Southwestern Eureka Counties Units , Northwestern Nye and Southern Lander Counties Units : Churchill, Southern Pershing, Western Lander and Northern Mineral Counties Units 202, 204: Lyon and Mineral Counties Units 203, 291: Lyon, Douglas Counties Units 205, 206: Eastern Mineral County Units , 241: Lincoln and Southern White Pine Counties Unit 251, Central Nye County ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK Units 061, 071, Bruneau River and Merritt Mountain Area: Northern Elko County Units 062, 064, , Independence and Tuscarora Ranges: Western Elko and Northern Eureka and Lander Counties Units 072, 074 Jarbidge Mountains: Northern Elko County Unit 073 Stag Mountain Area: Elko County Unit 075, Snake Mountains: Elko County Units 076, 077, 079, 081 Thousand Springs, Goose Creek, and Pequop Mountains Area: Northern Elko County Units 078, 104, , Spruce Mountain: Elko County Unit 091 Pilot Range, Eastern Elko County Unit , East Humboldt and Ruby Mountains: Elko County Units , 221, 222, Schell, Egan, and Snake Ranges: Eastern White Pine, and Northern Lincoln Counties Unit 121 and portion of Units 104 and 108 Cherry Creek, North Egan, Butte and Medicine Ranges: Northern White Pine County Units 131,132, White Pine, Grant and Quinn Canyon Ranges: Southern White Pine and Eastern Nye Counties Units : North-Central Nye and Southern Lander and Eureka Counties Unit 231, Wilson Creek Range: Lincoln County Unit , Delamar and Clover Mountains: Lincoln County Unit 262, Spring Mountains: Clark and Southern Nye Counties DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP Units 044, 182: East and Stillwater Ranges: Pershing and Churchill Counties Unit 045, Tobin Range, Pershing County Units 131 & 164 White Pine Range: Southern White Pine and Eastern Nye Counties Unit 133, 245, Pahranagat and Mount Irish Ranges: Lincoln County ii

6 Unit 134, Pancake Range: Nye County Unit 161, Toquima Range: Northern Nye County Units 162, 163, Monitor and Hot Creek Ranges: Nye County Unit 173, Toiyabe Range: Northern Nye County Unit 181, Fairview Peak, Slate Mountain, and Sand Springs Range: Churchill County Unit 183, Clan Alpine Range: Churchill County Unit 184, Desatoya Range: Churchill and Lander Counties Unit 202, Wassuk Range of Mineral County Unit 204, Pine Grove Range: Lyon County Unit 205, Gabbs Valley Range, Gillis Range, Pilot Mountains: Eastern Mineral County Unit 206, Excelsior Range: Mineral County Unit 211 North, Monte Cristo Range: Esmeralda County Unit 211 South, Silver Peak Range and Volcanic Hills: Esmeralda County Unit 212, Lone Mountain: Esmeralda County Unit 221, South Egan Range: Lincoln County Unit 223, 241, Hiko, Pahroc, and Delamar Ranges: Lincoln County Unit 243, Meadow Valley Mountains: Lincoln County Unit 244, Arrow Canyon Range: Northern Clark County Unit 252, Stonewall Mountain: Nye County Unit 253, Bare Mountain and Specter Range: Southern Nye County Unit 261, Last Chance Range: Southeastern Nye County Unit 262, Spring Mountains (La Madre, Red Rock and South Spring Mountains) and Bird Spring Range: Western Clark County Unit 263, McCullough Range and Highland Range: Southern Clark County Unit 264, Newberry Mountains: Southern Clark County Unit 265, South Eldorado Mountains: Southeastern Clark County Unit 266, North Eldorado Mountains: Southeastern Clark County Unit 267, Black Mountains: Eastern Clark County Unit 268, Muddy Mountains: Clark County Unit 271, Mormon Mountains: Lincoln County Unit 272, Virgin Mountains and Gold Buttes: Northeastern Clark County Unit 280: Spotted Range: Northwestern Clark County Unit 281, Pintwater Range: Northwestern Clark County Unit 282, Desert Range and Desert Hills: Northwestern Clark County Unit 283, 284, East Desert Range and Sheep Range: Northern Clark County Unit 286, Las Vegas Range: Clark County CALIFORNIA BIGHORN SHEEP Unit 012, Calico Mountains and High Rock Canyon: Western Humboldt and Washoe Counties Unit 014, Granite Range: Washoe County Unit 022, Virginia Mountains: Washoe County Unit 031, Montana and Trout Creek Mountains: Humboldt County Unit 032, Pine Forest Range and McGee Mountain: Humboldt County Unit 033, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge: Washoe and Humboldt Counties Unit 034, Black Rock Range: Humboldt County Unit 035, Jackson Mountains: Humboldt County Unit 051, Santa Rosa Range: Humboldt County iii

7 Units 066, 068, Snowstorm and Sheep Creek: Western Elko and Northern Lander and Eureka Counties ROCKY MOUNTAIN BIGHORN SHEEP Unit 074, The Badlands: Elko County Unit 101, East Humboldt Range: Elko County Unit 102, Ruby Mountains: Elko County Unit 114, North Snake Range Mount Moriah: Eastern White Pine County MOUNTAIN GOAT Unit 101, East Humboldt Mountains: Elko County Unit 102, Ruby Mountains: Elko County Unit 103, South Ruby Mountains: Elko and White Pine Counties MOUNTAIN LION Western Region Areas: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 18, 19, 20, and Eastern Region: Areas 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and Southern Region: Areas 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and BLACK BEAR Western Region iv

8 BIG GAME STATUS STATEWIDE SUMMARIES

9 MULE DEER The 2008 hunting season was the first time in the last 6 years that deer hunters and deer harvest decreased from the previous year. There were 7,025 deer harvested in 2008, down approximately 1,800 deer from 2007 but still an increase from just over 6,000 harvested in Although not as high as the 18,600 deer tag holders in 2007, deer tag holders increased from , from 15,500 to about 17,000, respectively. Hunter success rates for resident rifle deer hunters dropped to 40% compared to 47% in 2007, while nonresident success (Hunt 1331) was unchanged at 55% from 2007 to At the same time, the percent of 4-point or better bucks of the total buck harvest was the highest since 1994 at 41%. This high percent of 4-point or better bucks is a strong indication that tag quotas are providing quality hunting at the same time showing more opportunity is available if desired. The 2007 deer season implemented a large number of split rifle seasons and in 2008, 21 of the 41 unit groups had a 16-day early and late season. As expected, the draw odds for most of the early seasons were from 2:1 to 4:1, providing better chances for those who simply want to hunt. Most of the late season odds for a given unit group were 2 to 8 times greater. Comparing harvest success rates for unit groups that switched to an early/late season format from a single 3- or 4-week season in 2006 showed an average 4% decline from the 2006 single season to the 2008 early season (the overall decline in success from 2006 to 2008 was accounted for using unit groups that already had split seasons in 2006 as a control). Making the same 2006 vs comparison based on 4-point plus bucks harvested, there was only a 3% decline from the single long season to 16-day early season. Comparing success rates and point class (4+) between the 2008 early and late seasons in a given unit group, there was an average of 16% and 17% higher success and point class, respectively in the late season. Overall, we have only seen a marginal change in the single long-season to the shorter early season with the goal of providing more opportunity with similar harvest numbers. The late seasons have provided applicants with more choices, and for those wanting that quality experience (weather permitting) and willing to wait a few more years to attain a tag, it may provide other hunters opportunity to draw an early-season tag more often. With a limited post-season aerial survey statewide, 13,592 deer were classified. The statewide fawn production value was only 48 fawns/100 does, though improved from last year s low value of 43. This is only the fourth time in the history of aerial surveys (beginning early 1970s) the value was below 50. The snow water equivalent or snowpack values in late April 2008 for almost every major water basin that have SNOTEL stations that influence Nevada deer herds, were near or below the long-term average. The minimal precipitation during the 2008 summer was equally hard on fawns. The spring fawn ratio or recruitment value was the fourth lowest on record since 1952 at 27 fawns/100 adults, based on a sample of 24,400 deer in March and April Driven by very poor fawn recruitment, the 2009 statewide population estimate declined 2% to 106,000 from The 2008 post-season buck ratio was again one of the highest on record at 31 bucks/100 does. Though this may be good news for the lucky Nevada deer applicants that are able to draw a tag, it is also a liability. With so many bucks in the population, they are directly competing with does and fawns for limited quality forage and thermal cover on winter range and are likely contributing to decreased body condition in does and fawns. This likely increases winter fawn mortality and decreases fawn production the following summer. Providing only moderate hope for short-term recovery, is the fact that as of 27 April 2009, most of Nevada water basins are between 70% and 125% of the long-term average snow-water equivalent and total water-year precipitation values. Northern portions of Area 6 and 7 and Area 10 are near the top end of this range, with White Pine County at nearly 150%. Other sites such as the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge saw very little snowpack and are below the low end of this range. PRONGHORN ANTELOPE Nevada pronghorn hunters have enjoyed significant increases in pronghorn hunting opportunity and continued high harvest rates. A total of 2,476 pronghorn tags were available this past year with an average of 7 applicants per available tag. During 2008 resident rifle hunters harvested 1,253 antelope and recorded an average hunter success rate of 78% with many units registering success rates in excess of 80%. SS-1

10 Division biologists observed a total of 9,281 pronghorn while conducting annual composition surveys. These surveys yielded ratios of 40 bucks/100 does/31 fawns. These ratios are similar to what was obtained during 2007 surveys and indicate that conservative harvest levels allow buck ratios to remain high while fawn ratios have remained at maintenance levels. Nevada s statewide pronghorn population remains at a record high level of 24,500 animals. Recent declines in fawn recruitment, with the lowest observed fawn ratios occurring in the northeastern portion of the state, have leveled off the pronghorn population from its steady and strong growth since With record pronghorn numbers, NDOW biologists have recognized the need to keep herds in check with the proper carrying capacity of the range. In recent years this has been accomplished through an aggressive capture and relocation program. However, a scheduled capture in January 2009 in northern Humboldt County was canceled due to release site clearance issues. With this in mind, several new doe hunts have been added in northern Humboldt County. Other doe hunts will also occur in large pronghorn herds or where habitat carrying capacity has been reached. Tag numbers recommended for these hunts are intended to remove does at a level that will either prevent further increases or in some cases reduce overall numbers. ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK The sale of 2,723 elk tags in 2008 resulted in the harvest of 1,315 elk compared to 3,080 tags sold last year with a harvest of 1,396 elk. The 2008 elk harvest consisted of 656 bulls and 659 antlerless elk. The percent of 6-points-or-better bulls in the total bull harvest was 59% in 2008 compared to 66% in Starting in 2007, bull hunters were asked to measure the longest main beam from their harvested bull as part of their hunt return information. In 2007, 58% of all measured antlers were 44 inches or longer compared to 53% in The percent of bull antler measurements greater than 50 inches was 28% in 2007 and 25% in The average age of harvested bull elk from samples of White Pine County elk (no other area was sampled) was 6.2 (6.0 in 2007) indicating older age classes of bull elk remain well represented in the Unit Group. Harvest strategies are designed to maintain population objectives with a combination of bull harvest and intensive cow harvest directed towards individual unit population objectives. In units where elk populations are below objectives, elk harvest management is designed to allow those populations to increase. The Department's Elk Management on Private Lands Program continued to be a great success and benefit to private landowners with 68 elk-incentive tags sold for an estimated revenue of more than $600,000 for private landowners again this year. A total of 7,351 elk was classified during aerial winter composition surveys; yielding statewide ratios of 39 bulls/100 cows/38 calves compared to the previous year when 5,447 animals were classified, yielding ratios of 33/100/34. Calf recruitment was fair to good in 2009 and allowed for population increases in most units. Due to record elk survey samples in some areas, population estimates were increased accordingly. The 2009 statewide spring adult elk population estimate is 14% higher than last year with 10,900 elk estimated compared to 9,600 last year. Nevada s elk harvest management continues to be based on meeting population objectives within the guidelines of the state s Elk Species Management Plan. Statewide population increases resulted in an increase in recommended tag quotas overall with some exceptions by unit where either calf recruitment was low or where recent harvest strategies have been effective in reducing the elk population such as in the Unit Group. Hunters lucky enough to receive an elk tag for 2009 should enjoy good hunting conditions with overall healthy elk populations and good availability of mature bulls for harvest. DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP Nevada is a leader in providing quality desert bighorn hunting opportunities in North America. The Department issued a record number of 175 tags in 2008 Nevada desert bighorn hunt. Hunter success continues to be high at 88%. Hunters averaged approximately the same number of days in the field as in the last few years at 5.6. In 2008 the statewide average age of harvested rams was 6.3 years with an average unofficial B&C score of over 152 points. SS-2

11 The statewide desert bighorn survey in 2008 classified 4,400 animals. The calculated lamb ratio of 38 lambs/100 ewes indicates that survey results of lamb recruitment were a bit lower than last year. Although population estimates by hunt vary with some increases and decreases, the 2009 statewide desert bighorn population estimate is the highest ever recorded at 7,000 animals. A large amount of credit for this achievement lies within past and present NDOW biologists working along with dedicated, passionate, and active sportsman's conservation organizations. Restoration efforts of bighorn sheep populations into historic Nevada ranges continued this past year with desert bighorns released in the Delamar Mountains of Lincoln County, South Tobin Range, Pershing County Meadow Valley Mountains, and Lincoln County. ROCKY MOUNTAIN BIGHORN SHEEP The total Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep population estimate for the state increased 10% from 2008 to The statewide survey sample size was just under 300 bighorn observed yielding sex and age ratios of 50 rams/100 ewes/38 lambs. Thirteen tags were available for 2008 and 12 of the hunters were successful. The average age of rams harvested was 6.8 and the average B&C green-score was 169 4/8. The largest ram (6 years-old) was harvested in Unit 101 and was measured at 191 5/8! Rocky Mountain bighorn populations continue to exhibit increasing population trends. One interesting note for the 2008 season was the harvest of a Rocky Mountain bighorn ram during the Desert Bighorn season in Unit 131. Recent interest in the use of domestic goats for meat production and weed control poses some disease risk that could threaten the future of Rocky Mountain bighorn populations in some units. Although the Nevada Wool Growers, the Nevada Department of Agriculture and NDOW work cooperatively to prevent interaction between wild and domestic sheep, there is still potential for interaction between the two in some areas. Hunters who encounter estray goats or domestic sheep or observe any wild sheep in close proximity to domestic sheep or exhibiting abnormal behavior are encouraged to notify the NDOW and the Department of Agriculture. Strong ram ratios observed statewide should allow hunting opportunity for Rockies to be similar to last year. Odds of drawing a resident Rocky tag were 393:1 for residents, ranging from 212:1 in Unit 114 to 572:1 in Unit 101 and making this tag the most sought after big game tag for residents in Nevada. Successful tag applicants lucky enough to draw one of these tags should experience the hunt of a lifetime. CALIFORNIA BIGHORN SHEEP A total of 8,616 applications were received for the 42 available tags. Resident hunters faced odds of 147:1 while nonresidents faced odds averaging 373:1. During the 2008 California bighorn season a total of 42 hunters harvested 40 rams for a 95 percent success rate. These sheep hunters averaged 6 days in the field and the average age of their harvested rams was slightly over 7 years. The average Boone and Crockett score rose from 147 4/8 inches in 2007 to 152 3/8 in Biologists conducted composition surveys on all but one California bighorn herd during A record 852 bighorn were classified as 237 rams, 416 ewes and 199 lambs for a ratio of 57 rams/100 ewes/48 lambs. Ram ratios remained similar to what has been observed in recent years while the overall average lamb ratio increased approximately 10 percent. Most of this increase can be attributed to higher observed ratios in western Humboldt County. The 2009 statewide population estimate is 1,800 California bighorn and is the highest on record showing a six percent increase from last year. No problems or major die offs were noted in any populations this past year. High population levels and good ram ratios, allow biologists to recommend a statewide total of 47 tags for SS-3

12 MOUNTAIN GOAT There were 29 mountain goat tags in 2008 including; one PIW tag, 25 resident tags and 3 nonresident tags. Goat tags have increased from 11 in There was 93% success in 2008 compared to 100% in Hunters checked in 21 billies and 6 nannies in 2008 compared to 23 billies and 6 nannies in Average age was 5.5 in Unit 101, 4.4 in Unit 102, and 3.5 in Unit 103. Horn length was above average in two of the three units, 101 and 103. Surveys were conducted in early February 2009 and produced a good sample of 234 goats, yielding a ratio of 37 kids/100 adults. This suggests kid production was much improved from last year (28) allowing the goat populations to remain stable. The threat of possible disease transmission from domestic goats and sheep remains with mountain goats as described above for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. Hunters are asked to report estray goats or domestic sheep along with any observations of mountain goats that may be exhibiting abnormal behavior to NDOW and the Department of Agriculture. The odds of drawing a resident goat tag were 165:1 for residents and 812:1 for nonresidents in The number of goat tags in 2009 should increase slightly relative to last year. Applicants lucky enough to draw one of these tags should experience the hunt of a lifetime in the remote and beautiful, high elevation terrain inhabited by mountain goats in the Ruby Mountains and East Humboldt Range. MOUNTAIN LION A total of 152 lions were killed during the mountain lion hunting season. Sport hunter harvest accounted for 117 lions or 77% of the total lions killed. The average mountain lion sport harvest statewide since 2000 was 144 lions, with the season being 19% below this average. In 2007 sport harvest was 145 lions. This fluctuation in harvest falls well within normal ranges and is generally tied to hunting conditions for the winter months. Lions killed for the protection of livestock, human safety or natural resources such as deer and bighorn sheep decreased to 26 in 2008 from 37 in The 26 lions taken by the USDA/APHIS/Wildlife Service s (USDA) represent 17% of the total lion removal. Since 2000, depredation take averages 21 lions per year. The increase in depredation lions over the last couple years is mainly due to several Predation Management Projects implemented by sportsmen s dollars to reduce the impact of predation on identified ungulate populations, mainly deer and bighorn sheep. Five of those lions were taken from Predation Management Project 18 in Hunt Unit 014, the Granite Range for the enhancement of specific mule deer herds. Three other lions were taken to protect bighorn sheep in the Delamar Mountains on Project 6a. The other 18 lions removed by USDA were for the protection of livestock or human safety. The remaining 9 lions (6% of 152 lions) were killed incidentally or hit by vehicles. Sport harvest equaled 34% of the statewide harvest objective of 349 mountain lions. Males constituted 61% of the total sport harvest compared to the 20-year average of 58%. The regional status reports further break-down the mountain lion harvest. CENTRAL NEVADA WEATHER AND CLIMATE EFFECTS According to data published by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), central Nevada continues to experience abnormally dry to sever drought conditions. Although late winter and spring conditions in 2008 were more favorable than in 2007, allowing for some modest improvements in production for some species, conditions were still far below average. During the summer of 2008, central Nevada once again suffered from precipitation levels far below average. The dry trend continued through the late summer and fall with the months of July through November receiving only 62% of average precipitation totals. In October of 2008, central Nevada received a mere 17% of average precipitation. Moisture during this time of the year is critical for providing a boost to the nutrient content of forage, which allows mule deer and other wildlife to enter the winter in good condition. Unfortunately, due to the lack of moisture, this did not happen. Precipitation amounts returned to normal during November and December 2008, and January 2009, with average or above average totals. Despite this short reprieve, a return to below average conditions during February and SS-4

13 March negated much that might have been gained and snowpack conditions have fallen below normal once again. Although the dry, mild winter allowed for good carry over of adult animals, impacts to the quality and quantity of key forage continues to negatively influence wildlife and their habitats in central Nevada. Production rates of most wildlife populations are anticipated to once again fall below normal levels in 2009 due to poor range conditions and comparatively poor body condition of female animals coming out of winter. The cumulative impacts of drought conditions over the past few years have negatively affected many wildlife species and their habitats in central Nevada to a point where it will take improved climatic conditions over quite some length of time to see any real improvements. SOUTHEASTERN NEVADA According to WRCC/DRI, in 2008 Lincoln County received approximately 89% of the previous 10-year average of precipitation. BLM rain data obtained from 26 areas throughout Lincoln County suggests that the total was approximately 80% of average received since The year-to-date totals show Lincoln County to be at approximately 83% of average so far in The months of February and April have been the only months with decent precipitation throughout this area. Lincoln County can have very diverse weather conditions due to the change in latitude and elevation from north to south. The northern end of Lincoln County contains the higher elevation mountain ranges and tends to receive higher amounts of winter precipitation. The southern end of Lincoln County is lower elevation Mojave Desert terrain that typically receives more of the monsoonal moisture. According to WRCC/DRI, Ely received approximately 59% of average annual precipitation in Area 22 received very little precipitation throughout Area 23 received slightly higher-than-average amounts of monsoonal moisture, which resulted in moderate to good range conditions during the fall months. October, November, and December were all drier than average, but not significantly so. Big game animals should have entered winter in good condition. The late winter and spring of 2009 has been cooler and drier than recent years. Range conditions appear moderate to good across Lincoln County at this time. Although 2008 was drier than average, the timing of a large portion of precipitation coming during the summer months plays an important role in allowing native vegetation a shot in the arm so to speak. In general, the invasive annual grasses are cured out during this time which helps native or other beneficial plants to compete with exotic annual grasses. This tends to help areas of burned pinyon-juniper recover and produce quality forage for wildlife and livestock. This would be especially true if wild horse numbers were kept even close to AML. SOUTHERN NEVADA (MOJAVE DESERT) In February 2009, the drought status of the Mojave Desert region in southern Nevada improved from moderate drought to abnormally dry. Based on rain gauge data collected by Clark County Regional Flood Control District in cooperation with United States Geological Survey and National Weather Service (NWS), Las Vegas and outlying areas in Clark County experienced generally dry conditions over a 10-month period from late January 2008 through late November The recent winter of was wetter than the 3 preceding winters. Beginning in late November 2008 and extending into March 2009, storms produced precipitation generally in brief and localized events. In the short term, vegetative conditions in early 2009 are improved relative to spring conditions in the preceding three years ( ). However, the increased precipitation receipts during winter months have promoted widespread establishment of exotic invasive annuals. The resultant high accumulation of fine fuels coupled with dry lightning strikes associated with the early summer monsoon season, should increase the potential for wildland fire occurrence and severity. In Las Vegas, temperature data collected since 1937 by NWS indicate 2008 was the fourth hottest year on record. The eight hottest years on record have occurred within the present decade. In its seasonal outlook, the NWS does not forecast drought conditions to develop in the first half of SS-5

14 BIG GAME HERD STATUS REPORTS

15 MULE DEER MULE DEER Units , Northern Washoe and Western Humboldt Counties Report by: Chris Hampson Harvest In 2007, a split season scenario was adopted for hunting mule deer in Unit Group and Unit 014. The split season was enacted to try and provide more overall hunting opportunity than what was available during a standard month long season. The split seasons scenario was to provide more hunting opportunity by shifting more hunters (80%) into the early season that typically has a lower hunter success rate. The later season generally had a higher success rate and thus a reduced number of hunters (20%). The early season is typically hot and dry and can be a more difficult time of year to hunt. The split season was in place for only 2 years, so analyzing whether or not it worked as planned is difficult. However, the 5-year average ( ) hunter success rate for the standard month long season in Unit Group was 58% for resident rifle hunters. The 2-year average for the early season structure in 2007 and 2008 was 46% in 2007 and 32% in On average that s about 19% below the standard month long season average. The late-season hunter success rate was 61% in 2007 and 55% in The 2-year hunter success rate average for the late season was 58%, exactly the same as the standard month long season average. In the end, it does appear that the early season had an impact on hunter success rates and that would have allowed for more hunters to be in the field during that early season. However, the late season hunter success rate did not increase as expected when compared with the standard yearlong season average. Units 011, 013 and 014 were surveyed by Nevada Department of Wildlife biologists in mid-november A total of 666 mule deer was classified with an average ratio of 33 bucks:100 does:54 fawns. The composition ratios from this year s survey are very similar to the 2007 ratios of 34 bucks:100 does:51 fawns. California biologists generally conduct fall surveys in Unit 015. However, no data was available as of this writing. Unit 012 was not surveyed due to the lower densities of mule deer in the unit. Continued drought conditions throughout northwestern Nevada forced mule deer off of their typical high elevation summer range. Mule deer were concentrated closer to water sources and were found predominantly on northern and eastern slopes. Buck ratios remained fairly constant when averaged out over the entire management area. However, most units were near or close to buck ratio objectives at 28 to 30 bucks per 100 does. Unit 014 which is managed more conservatively had a buck ratio of 35 bucks per 100 does. Spring surveys were hindered by high winds and intermittent snow showers. All units in Management Area 1 were at least partially surveyed. A total of 596 mule deer were classified with a composition ratio of 40 fawns per 100 Adults. This is an increase of 10 fawns per 100 Adults over the previous year. Most units had ratios in the mid 30 s with Units 011, 014 and 015 having fawns:100 adult ratios of 40 and 41. Winter fawn loss for the entire management area averaged just 1%. Fawn survival over the winter was very high due to the warm temperatures and lack of any significant snowfall. However, fawn ratios in northwestern Nevada were lower than average coming into the winter of than what is typically observed. The extended drought conditions over the last few years are thought to be the cause for the lower than average postseason fawn ratios. 1

16 MULE DEER Most basins in northwestern Nevada remain well-below average for water year precipitation and snowfall. The water year was considered one of the driest on record. Water sources that have experienced low flows or have gone completely dry in recent years will once again have little to no runoff from melting snow. Plant growth may be hindered this spring and early summer due to the lack of soil moisture. Significant rainfall is needed this spring to help refill lakebeds and re-charge springs and seeps. Bitterbrush plants throughout northwestern Nevada continue to show signs of stress due to the drought. Past wildfires have destroyed a significant amount of winter range within hunt Units 013, 014 and 015. In most cases, the important browse species that mule deer depend upon for cover and forage during tough winters was completely lost or has been significantly reduced in size. Biologists are concerned that if the current drought conditions persist, mule deer herds may be susceptible to large scale die-offs should a heavy winter with several feet of snow occur over the next few years. The mule deer predator control project in Unit 014 is now in its fifth year. Wildlife Services has been removing both lions and coyotes from the area. Mule deer recruitment rates have thus far been somewhat variable from year to year when compared with the control units. Post-season survey sample sizes appear to have increased over time in the unit, while spring samples sizes have remained fairly stable. Sample sizes can also be variable based upon many factors. Recruitment rates for mule deer within Management Area 1 ranged between 33 and 41 fawns per 100 Adults in This will result in decreasing to slightly increasing trends for the various mule deer populations in northwestern Nevada. Quota recommendations will generally be similar to the previous year with some units seeing slight increases or decreases based upon harvest objectives. Units 021, 022, Southern Washoe County Report by: Chris Hampson Harvest The season structure for hunting in Unit 021 was changed in The rifle, muzzleloader and archery seasons were moved into the month of December to allow the hunters to hunt when deer densities were the highest. The mule deer herd in hunt Unit 021 is mostly made up of migratory deer out of California that do not generally make their way into Nevada until December. Harvest results for muzzleloaders and archery hunters have been mixed under the new late season structure. In 2007, 3 out the 4 muzzleloader tag holders reported being successful. This year none of the 3 muzzleloader tag holders reported being successful. The archery hunters did pretty well this year with 3 of 13 reporting being successful. In 2006, the archery season was held November 18 to December 1 and none of the 10 tag holders were successful. It appears that the muzzleloader hunters are generally pretty successful in Unit 021 no matter what the season structure, while the archers may be having more success under the new December 1 to December 10 season structure. Harvest within hunt Unit 022 dropped from 44% in 2007 to 39% for resident rifle hunters in Access issues continue to be a problem in this hunt unit. Deer populations in this unit continue to struggle against drought, significant loss of habitat from wildfires and human encroachment. California Fish and Game biologists conducted post-season surveys in California hunt Units X6B and X7A during late November and early December A total of 520 deer was classified from the 2 large hunt units in The resulting average ratio for the sample was 27 bucks:100 does:41 fawns. The 2 California deer herds migrate into Nevada hunt Unit 021 in the winter. No fall surveys were flown in Unit

17 MULE DEER Spring mule deer surveys were conducted by both California Fish and Game and Nevada Department of Wildlife biologists. California biologists classified a total of 1,360 mule deer while flying X6B, X7A and Unit 021 in Nevada. The combined average ratio for the sample was 42 fawns per 100 adults. Nevada Department of Wildlife biologists flew portions of Unit 021 in Nevada and classified 180 mule deer with a computed ratio of 34 fawns per 100 adults. The more conservative fawn ratio was used in this year s modeling process. Unit 022 was flown this past spring by NDOW biologists. The survey classified a total of 134 mule deer with a computed ratio of 37 fawns per 100 adults. Due to the mild condition this spring, mule deer were scattered over a wide area and more difficult to locate. According to the Nevada Water Supply Outlook Report, as of April 1, 2009, most basins in northwestern Nevada are below or well below average for both water year precipitation and snowfall. Nevada is heading into its third consecutive drought year and the predicted outlook for early 2009 (April thru June) is to remain in the Droughts to persist or intensify classification. Consecutive drought years have left most water sources with low levels or flows. Significant spring moisture is needed to help ensure that water sources do not dry up by late summer. Vegetation important to mule deer shows signs of stress due to the extended drought. Snowpack levels have been almost nonexistent this winter and runoff during the spring months will be significantly reduced. A late season wildfire occurred in the Peterson Range in October. The 1000 acre fire was located on the north end of the range in good quality mule deer habitat. The fire burned in sagebrush and juniper that is important winter habitat for deer migrating from California hunt Unit X6B. Restoration efforts have met with limited success due to the lower elevations and invasion of cheatgrass and other annuals. In many cases, the same areas burn due to cheatgrass infestation and drought. A lion removal project in the Virginia Mountains of Unit 022 continues. The projects main focus was to reduce lion densities in an effort to help a newly released complement of California bighorn sheep to become established on the north end of the range. Wildlife Services has removed 5 lions to date from the area. Management Area 2 deer herds will experience stable to decreasing trends in Mule deer winter range within hunt Units 021 and 022 continues to be impacted by large housing developments and human encroachment. Past wildfires have also played a huge role in the loss of important mule deer habitat within Management Area 2. Access issues continue to make it difficult to hunt mule deer in many areas of hunt Unit 022. The mule deer habitat will continue to shrink in the coming years as Reno/Sparks expands to the north and east. Mule deer numbers will continue to shrink in the long-term as more and more habitat is lost or disturbed. Units 031, 032, 034, 035: Western Humboldt County Report by: Ed Partee In early November 2008, a post-season helicopter flight was conducted. A total of 602 deer was classified which is up slightly from the 2007 survey of 554. There was a total of 92 bucks, 327 does, and 183 fawns classified during these surveys. These surveys resulted in a ratio of 38 bucks:100 does:52 fawns. Survey conditions were less than ideal during portions of this survey due to inclement weather. Dry range conditions encountered during the fall of 2008 appeared to have spread deer out which increased search time. 3

18 MULE DEER A spring helicopter survey was conducted in mid March A total of 1,058 deer were classified; yielding a ratio of 34 fawns:100 adults. This year s survey was slightly above the 5-year average. Conditions on the ground were much drier this year compared to what was observed last year. Continued drought conditions are having major impacts on water availability and vegetation in northern Humboldt County. conditions continue to decline in the short term with a lack of significant winter precipitation creating problems with water availability and resulting in poor forage conditions for mule deer and other wildlife. Poor forage quality may produce a reduction in the quality of bucks that are available for harvest. Spring and summer rains will be needed to improve forage quality and to sustain these populations at their current levels. Fortunately no additional habitat loss occurred from wild land fires during the summer of Several habitat projects are occurring in Management Area 3. Past wildfires are being replanted with sagebrush and other shrubs in an attempt to reestablish areas of brush which have been lost to past fires. Other projects include protecting areas that have not been affected by wild land fires by using green-strip methods. The estimated population for Management Area 3 has remained static over the last 3 years. Fawn ratios improved slightly this past year but this increase was not significant enough to provide for increases in deer numbers. Production this year is expected to be a little lower then what was observed last year. Drought conditions have affected forage which in turn may reduce fawn production. Winter fawn mortality was a little higher this year at 21%. These populations are still substantially lower than the historical highs mainly due to existing range conditions. At this time the limiting factor for this population is winter range. Many of the traditional winter use areas have been converted to annual grasses due to past wildfires. If fires continue to burn in this area and recovery is hampered, this unit will never reach historical highs. Continued rehabilitation on previously burned areas will be beneficial for these herds. Unit 033, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge: Washoe and Humboldt Counties Report by: Chris Hampson Harvest Declining deer numbers and the extended drought conditions have also led to a decline in harvest. The early season rifle hunters had the most difficulty this past year with a very low hunter success rate of around 30%. The late season hunters who had cooler weather had a bit more success and reported a hunter success rate of 50%. Statewide hunter success rates for resident rifle hunters also fell sharply in The statewide average was only 40% this year compared with a 47% statewide average in The 2008 post-season surveys were conducted immediately following the end of the rifle season in early November. The areas surveyed included Catnip Mountain, Badger Mountain and Fish Creek Mountain. A total of 287 mule deer was classified with a calculated ratio of 27 bucks:100 does:46 fawns. In 2007, a small sample of only 106 mule deer was obtained. The small sample was due to the drought conditions forcing mule deer to move away from traditional summer use areas to lower elevation habitats where better food and water were available. The 2007 drought year was considered one of the worst on record. The spring 2009 surveys were conducted from both the ground and from the air. NDOW biologists classified many more deer this spring due to a mule deer collaring project that was ongoing on the Sheldon. Many of the deer groups were classified as biologists collected the drop-off collars during the study this past spring. This helped to increase the overall spring sample size this year. A total of 273 deer were classified. The ratio from the sample was 34.5 fawns per 100 adults. Several new winter ranges have been identified 4

19 MULE DEER due to the mule deer collaring project on the Sheldon. This new information will help biologists better define important habitats used by the Sheldon mule deer herd. It will also allow biologists an opportunity to determine if anything can be done to improve these important habitats. Further analysis of the data obtained from the satellite collars will be completed over the next year. The winter of has been very dry with little snowfall and higher than normal temperatures. This past season was so warm that temperatures on the Sheldon reached 60 degrees in every month throughout the winter. Bitterbrush plants throughout northwestern Nevada continue to show signs of stress and no longer provide mule deer with the quality forage they need in the fall and winter. Spring sources and lakebeds on the top of Rock Springs Table were dry once again this past summer. Recent rainfall in late March and early April will help increase soil moisture, however, the lack of any significant snowpack will reduce runoff to springs and seeps and fail to fill the lakebeds sufficiently so that they can provide water during the late summer months. No major wildfires were reported on the Sheldon over the past year. Drought conditions throughout most of northwestern Nevada continued in Fawn recruitment for the Sheldon mule deer herd has declined in recent years. conditions also remain poor to fair. Due to the drought, forage quality continues to be poor during the summer and fall when mule deer are trying to build fat reserves to survive the winter. If drought conditions experienced over the past few years continue, the mule deer numbers on the Sheldon will continue to decline. The population model for the Sheldon mule deer herd shows a continued downward trend for Quotas will mimic this trend. Units 041, 042: Western Pershing and Southern Humboldt Counties Report by: Kyle Neill There were no post-season surveys conducted in Units 041 and 042 during the fall of Spring mule deer surveys were performed for 2 days from the ground in the Selenite, Trinity and Seven Troughs Ranges and 1 day from the air in the Eugene Mountains in mid-march Combined survey observations resulted in 55 mule deer being classified that resulted in a recruitment ratio of 25 fawns:100 adults. All observed mule deer appeared to be in poor body condition with many of the bucks still retaining antlers. The 2009 spring fawn ratio is the lowest observed since 1995 when it was measured at 16 fawns:100 adults. Also, the 2009 fawn ratio is well below the long-term average of 36 fawns:100 adults. conditions for mule deer in western Pershing County have continued to decline every year following the wildfires from and 2008, which converted good mule deer habitat into annual grasslands. Little quality deer habitat currently remains in this unit group. The 2009 mule deer population estimate for Units 041, 042 is 750 animals and represents an 8% decline from what was reported last year. This herds population trend has remained stagnate to slightly declining every year since 1999 when the population was estimated at 1,000 animals. Poor habitat conditions from wildfires and drought cycles have led to poor forage quantity and quality and have ultimately influenced fawn recruitment, which has been below maintenance levels for the last 2 years. Overall, this herd will continue to struggle under current habitat conditions. 5

20 MULE DEER Units : Eastern Pershing and Southern Humboldt Counties Report by: Kyle Neill Harvest Results The 2008 hunting season marked the second year that split seasons were in place for the any legal weapons hunt Hunter success rates were again lower in the early season versus the late season, suggesting that the 1331 split season harvest strategy has continued to work in Units However, the Wildlife Commission elected to discontinue this hunt strategy for the 2009 and 2010 seasons. There were no post-season surveys conducted in these hunt units during the fall of Spring aerial composition surveys were conducted in every unit during mid-march Approximately 6 hours of flight time were utilized over a 2-day period. This effort resulted in the largest spring sample ever obtained at 707 animals. Fawn ratios were calculated at 43 fawns:100 adults and are slightly below the ten-year average of 46 fawns:100 adults. In the fall of 2008, a big game guzzler was built near the upper elevations of Little Miller Basin in the Tobin Range of Unit 045. This guzzler is intended to be utilized by mule deer in the winter and spring months. This herd continues to experience poor winter range conditions throughout the whole unit group. Unit 043, the Humboldt Range continues to be the most degraded. Forage recovery in the lower elevations has been slow to non-existent following the devastating fires of 2000 and Lack of forage recovery can be attributed to drought cycles and over utilization by domestic sheep, that heavily graze all of the lower elevations in the fall months on the east side of the Humboldt Range. Mule deer die offs may arise if the area experiences severe winter conditions, which will inhibit the growing mule deer herd from using the upper elevations for forage during the winter months. The 2008 mule deer population estimate for eastern Pershing County is 3,100 animals and is near the all time high estimate of 3,200 animals in This herd has been demonstrating a 6% average rate of increase since Herd growth can be correlated to recruitment rates that have averaged 46 fawns:100 does for the last 10 years. Additionally, percent 4-point or better bucks harvested for all hunts in 2008 was 49%, the highest percentage reported since 1997 when the figure was 55%. Also, hunter success rates for the resident any legal weapon hunt 1331 has remained high. Quality summer range continues to leave mule deer entering the winter months in good to excellent body condition. This has enabled mule deer to subsist through poor winter range conditions, which have largely been converted into annual grasslands from wildfires. There are concerns that this herd is at or above carrying capacity of this range. Poor winter range conditions in combination with a hard winter may cause significant losses to this herd in the near future. Unit 051, Santa Rosa Mountains: Eastern Humboldt County Report by: Ed Partee Post-season helicopter flights were conducted in early November A total of 161 deer was observed this year which is down slightly from the 2007 survey of 204. This year s survey resulted in a reduction of 77 animals from the 5-year average. A total of 32 bucks, 85 does and 44 fawns was observed on these 6

21 MULE DEER flights. The calculated ratios for these surveys were 38 bucks:100 does:52 fawns. The buck ratio was the same as the 5-year average and fawn ratios were slightly lower. Spring helicopter flights were conducted in mid March. A total of 639 deer was surveyed with 449 of those being adults. The calculated ratio for this survey was 42 fawns:100 adults. This ratio was slightly below the 5-year average of 48 fawns:100 adults. Snow conditions were lacking in most of the areas surveyed. Over the last 10 years, Area 5 has had a tremendous amount of habitat lost due to wild land fires. Most of these fires have affected wintering habitat. In 2008 this unit experienced another 1,800 acre fire. This 1,800 acre fire burned in critical winter range which will negatively impact this herd in future years. A major effort was put forth by the Nevada Department of Wildlife and Nevada Muley s to do rehab work in this area. Sage brush plantings as well as aerial seeding took place on this burn. Additionally, a mow strip that was put in by the BLM in 2001 was redone to make it a functioning green-strip with funds provided by Nevada Muley s. With this fire and all the other fires that have occurred, the limiting factor for this herd is the shrub component on important wintering areas. Continued dry summer conditions have also taken a toll on the range. Spring and summer moisture will be needed to sustain these herds. The estimated population for Unit 051 is showing a slight increase from the 2008 estimate. This increase can be attributed to spring fawn ratios which are above maintenance levels and post season buck ratios continuing to remain above 30 bucks:100 does despite an increase in harvest. Precipitation levels in northern Humboldt County were below average this past year and winter loss of fawns was minimal. However, persistent drought conditions will have negative impacts on this deer herd. Spring and summer moisture will be needed to increase the quality of existing forage. Units , 064, , Independence and Tuscarora Ranges: Elko County Report by: Ken Gray Harvest Results There were 692 rifle buck tags available in This represented a 128-tag decrease from the 2007 quota. The hunter success rate for all rifle buck hunters was 43%, which was 7% lower than last year s success rate and in fact was the lowest success rate ever recorded in Area 6. Forty-eight percent of all of the bucks harvested supported 4-points or better. The past 5-year-average for 4-point or better bucks was 44%. The rifle hunt was split into 2 seasons for the third consecutive year. Ninety percent of the tags were offered in the first 16-day season while 10 percent were offered in the second 16-day season. Hunter success for resident hunters was 41% in the early season and 63% in the late season. A fall helicopter survey was conducted in November A total of 1,990 deer was classified yielding age and sex ratios of 33 bucks:100 does:69 fawns. The fawn ratio was 10 fawns:100 does higher than the average of the 4 fall surveys conducted in the 2000s. The buck ratio was 5 bucks:100 does higher than the average of the past 4 fall surveys. A spring helicopter survey was conducted in March 2009 for Units while a ground survey was conducted in Unit 061. A total of 2,562 deer was classified; yielding a fawn:adult ratio of 32 fawns:100 adults. This was 8 fawns:100 adults higher than the past 2-year-average and was equal to the past 10-year average. Fawn recruitment was 14 fawns per 100 adults lower in the 2000 s compared with the 1990s. The winter fawn loss was calculated at 38%. 7

22 MULE DEER Since 1999, over 1,370,864 acres of rangeland have burned in Area 6, much of which was important deer habitat. In 2008 only 2,000 acres burned which allowed the Department of Wildlife and the Elko BLM to reseed some of the most important areas that burned during the summer of 2007 but were showing poor recovery. The Department of Wildlife seeded close to 2,000 acres of crucial deer habitat while the Elko BLM seeded over 10,000 acres of deer habitat. The Nevada Department of Wildlife and the TS Ranch implemented a 1,100 acre seeding project on the north end of Boulder Valley in a fire degraded historic deer winter range. Vegetation conducive to winter deer survival was planted in hopes of restoring this area as a viable deer winter range. Seedings planted by NDOW and the Elko BLM in the past 20 years are receiving significant use by deer. In January, 2009 over 800 deer were observed using the western Izzenhood seedings. In other areas however, much higher numbers of deer were wintering along the Humboldt River than in the past. These deer were eating weeds such as white-top and scotch thistle which emphasize the desperation they face on winter ranges. The railroad built 4 heavy duty 5-strand barbed wire fences within the Palisade Canyon paralleling the railroad tracks. These non wildlife-friendly fences will pose significant barriers to deer trying to move south for the winter. Gold prices continued to hover around $1, per ounce. These prices have facilitated mining and exploration throughout Area 6. The greatest potential impact to deer at this time is in the south Tuscarora Range. New mining activity is proposed within the last remaining migration corridors through this area which may severely restrict deer migration to the Dunphy Hills and other southern winter ranges. A team of professionals from Newmont, Barrick, BLM and NDOW wrote a plan with strategies to keep these corridors open while mining continues. The implementation of these strategies may dictate the future of these corridors. Since 2006, 30 deer have been radio collared in Area 6. The major objectives of this study have been: 1. determine how deer are using habitat in relation to the massive fires that have burned during the past 3 years, 2. determine how deer are moving though mining disturbance, 3. determine the degree to which deer are utilizing winter range seedings and 4. quantify how far into Idaho deer are wintering. The winter of produced moderate to heavy snowfall in December and early January before moderating for the remainder of the winter. These conditions forced deer to winter range in mid to late December. Even though the grass component on the burns has recovered, the shrubs have not. Many deer move through 30 to 40 miles of recently burned habitat to reach winter ranges. The adults have the fat reserves to make these journeys and still survive moderate winters. The fawns do not have these reserves and arrive on winter ranges in a weakened condition. This, combined with poor winter range, has resulted in moderate to high fawn mortality over the past 5 years. The winter mortality on fawns was moderate and the adult mortality was believed to be low. Although fawn recruitment was higher than it has been for the past 2 years it was still only enough to maintain the population of the Area 6 Deer Herd at last year s level. It is believed that the Area 6 Deer Herd is within the carrying capacity of winter range which is estimated to support between 5,500 and 7,000 deer. Continued aggressive restoration efforts are needed to increase the winter habitat carrying capacity for deer in this management area. However, if fire suppression priorities and techniques are not addressed, and fires continue to burn out of control in this area, this deer herd will continue to spiral downward to the point that there will be little hope of ever restoring it. 8

23 MULE DEER The recommended buck quota will be up slightly from last year s quota due to lower success rates experienced in Very few antlerless tags will be recommended since deer are within the carrying capacity of the winter range. Unit 065, Sulphur Springs Range: Southwestern Elko County Report by: Russell Woolstenhulme No Surveys were conducted within this unit in The average fawn ratio for the past 5 years was used in the population estimate. Harvest Results In 2008 there were 354 first choice applicants for the Area 065 any legal weapon hunt (hunt 1331) compared to 310 first choice applicants for the 2007 season. Harvest for the 1331 hunt was similar for both years with 29 successful hunters in 2008 compared to 27 in That represents an 81% success rate during the 2008 season and 84% for the 2007 season. Of those deer during the 2008 any legal weapon hunt, 62% (65 deer) were 4-point bucks or better. During the 2007 deer season, 60% were 4-point or better. Long-term habitat conditions for deer are poor in Unit 065 due to the tremendous amount of habitat that has been lost to fires since A reseeding project of the 3000 acre Bailey fire took place in the fall/ winter of rehabilitation in burned areas that once served as important deer habitat would help increase carrying capacity and facilitate overall mule deer production and survival. Poor habitat conditions have resulted in population levels that are below historic levels. The trend of this deer population is believed to be stagnant. The area is managed as a Quality hunt area and is capable of producing good bucks. The quota in this unit has been based on similar numbers of tags as in previous years. Units , 091: Northeastern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Harvest Results A split in the Any Legal Weapon hunt was held in the 071 Unit Group for the 2008 hunting season. The 2008 hunter success for the early season was much lower at 40% success compared to last year s 51%. The late season hunter success was also much lower at 51% compared with 69% in In 2007, harvest of 4- point or better bucks was 33% early and 54% late. This year harvest of 4-point or better bucks was 35% in the early season and 43% late. The archery season was also split in the 071 Unit Group for the first time in The 2007 archery success was 13% early, whereas this year it was slightly higher at 16%. The late season success dropped from 38% in 2007 to 28% in In 2007 the percentage of 4-point or better bucks was 47% early and 58% late. This year harvest of 4-point or better bucks was 48% early and 33% late. Post-season flights were not conducted in this unit group this year. Spring surveys were flown in late February. A total of 2,712 mule deer was classified during the survey; yielding a ratio of 33 fawns:100 adults. 9

24 MULE DEER Deer habitat in this unit groups has been reduced following the tremendous wildfires that have occurred in the area since Invasive weeds such as cheatgrass and mustard have invaded some of these areas and replaced much of the native vegetation that previously existed. However, even in areas where weed invasion has not occurred and perennial grasses and forbs are found, it will take years for the shrubs, mainly sagebrush and bitterbrush, to recover and expand back into these burned areas. A good majority of the area 7 deer herd winters south of Interstate 80 in the Pequop Mountains. Unfortunately as many of these deer attempt to make it to their winter range from Jarbidge and outlying areas, they are often struck by vehicles either on Highway 93 or Interstate 80. Fifteen deer were collared in the fall of 2008 and already we are learning more about the timing of their migration and the movement corridors they are using to get to winter range. This information will help both the Nevada Department of Wildlife and the Nevada Department of Transportation work collaboratively on current and future projects to reduce the amount of vehicle mortality that is occurring, including possible underpass and overpass options. This year s recruitment rate of 33 fawns:100 adults is below the previous 5-year average of 38 fawns:100 adults. The population model for Unit Group ,091 predicts a pre-hunt adult mule deer population only slightly lower than the previous year. The decline in the deer population is a result of continued low fawn recruitment. Although the fawn recruitment was slightly higher than last year, it was still lower than expected considering this past winter was relatively mild. Even if environmental conditions in the future prove conducive to promote herd growth, the population may not be able to reach peak numbers that occurred in 1988 due to the significant loss of deer habitat from wildfires in much of Area 7 summer and transitional ranges. Unit 081, Goose Creek Area: Northeastern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Neither fall nor were spring composition flights flown in this unit this year. This deer herd s winter range and some summer range were significantly impacted by the West Fork Fire in The fire burned 154,943 acres of primary winter range. The fire burned very hot and left few islands of habitat. Although the area was intensely seeded the first winter following the fire, it will be several years until the brush community recovers in this area. Overall this is a relatively small deer resource in terms of resident deer populations with some migration from both Idaho and Utah. The magnitude of this migration is dependent on weather conditions during the hunting season and timing of the hunt. This year in attempt to take advantage of these later migrations the muzzleloader and any legal weapon hunts have been scheduled later than previous years. The intended result will be to harvest more of the migratory herd and lessen the harvest on the small resident deer populations in the area. This herd has been managed as a trophy area in the past and with current challenges such as the reduction of winter range, the tags will be expected to remain conservative. 10

25 MULE DEER Units : Southern Elko and Northwestern White Pine Counties Report by: Tony Wasley Harvest Results Area 10 contains over 20 percent of Nevada s mule deer population. The long-term average hunter success for the early any legal weapon season is approximately 25 percent. The 2008 early any legal weapon hunter success was 30 percent. The late season hunter success varies as snow fall amount and timing play a key role in late season hunter success and is typically over 50 percent. The 2008 late season hunter success dropped to 40 percent success, well below the long-term average, with 36 percent 4-point or better. Early and late season archery hunters had 13 percent and 20 percent hunter success respectively, with 4-points or better at 34 and 46 percent respectively. For specific 2008 hunting season results, please refer to Harvest Tables in the Appendix Section. A post-season helicopter survey was not conducted in the fall of A spring helicopter survey was conducted in March During this survey 7,068 deer were classified. The young:adult ratio was 19.8 fawns per 100 adults. Weather and Snow pack levels and moisture content for the winter of continued to remain below the longterm average for the Ruby Mountains and adjacent mountain ranges. The winter of was not a severe winter, but due to the drought-like conditions on summer-range in 2008, fawn recruitment remains low. Despite there being drought-like conditions in Area 10 during the summer of 2008, the area was spared from any catastrophic fires. The Area 10 population is down slightly from last year (-2%). This minor decrease is the result of successive years with poor fawn production and recruitment. Until this year, population estimates in area 10 had increased for 7 of the last 8 years. Good age class representation is observed throughout the buck segment of the population and hunters should continue to see many mature bucks. Barring extreme weather conditions, we should continue to be optimistic about future trends of the Area 10 deer herd. Units , Eastern White Pine County Report by: Curt Baughman Harvest Results The total 2008 approved buck quota (including youth) was 1,041 tags compared to 1,422 tags in The 2008 reported harvest was 383 bucks and 52 antlerless deer. The 2007 reported buck harvest was 546. Resident rifle tags were split 95% early and 5% late. For the third consecutive year, hunter success for the early resident rifle hunt was 36%. Success for the late hunt was 40%. Success for resident archers was 27% in 2008 following 41% in An aerial post-season herd composition survey was conducted in December The sample was 1,723 deer yielding age and sex ratios of 26 bucks:100 does:38 fawns. The spring 2009 survey was flown in April. A sample of 1,921 deer was classified yielding 19 fawns:100 adults. This ties 1993 and 1994 for the second lowest recruitment on record and was 17 points below the previous 10-year average ( ) recruitment of 36 fawns:100 adults. The lowest recruitment on record was the ratio of 15 fawns:100 adults documented during the spring survey in

26 MULE DEER Drought conditions have persisted in east-central Nevada from mid-2006 through Over that period, the precipitation total measured at Ely by the National Weather Service has totaled 63% of average. Moisture totals for the April through June period were 47% in 2007 and 28% in In addition, the spring and summer of 2007 was warmer than average. The past 2 spring seasons have been cold, which has delayed green-up of the forage resources that mule deer need to recover their body condition. Reduced water distribution, cover and nutritional values have been unfavorable for the survival of mule deer. A brief period of intense cold in early January 2009 may have also contributed to poor winter survival of fawns. Use of mule deer habitat by domestic livestock and feral horses has further compromised habitat values. On the plus side, current water-year (October 1, 2008 through April 15, 2009) precipitation stands at 95% for Ely, and local mountain Snotel Sites have recorded above-average moisture. conditions will improve in the short term. Continued favorable climatic conditions will be needed to recover habitats from the effects of drought that have been all too common over the past decade. Long-term habitat potential for mule deer is slowly declining due to the encroachment of pinyon and juniper trees upward into mountain brush zones and downward onto bench areas. In some areas, degradation from severe drought has resulted in loss of native vegetation and expansion of cheatgrass and noxious weeds. Large-scale projects designed to control the encroachment of trees without imposing long-term impacts to shrub communities will be needed to reverse this trend. In addition, development of summer homes and a ski area threaten some of the most valuable summer mule deer habitat in this unitgroup. This deer population expanded between 2004 and 2007 due to improved habitat conditions and favorable fawn recruitment. Drought conditions have reversed the upward trend. Although the 2008 population appears to have been slightly underestimated, the 2009 population estimate is 7% lower than the 2008 estimate. Deer are in below-average condition coming into the spring. They will need favorable environmental conditions through 2009 to improve both body condition and reproductive potential. It is likely that fawn production will be below average again in Units , Snake Range: Southeastern White Pine County Report by: Curt Baughman Harvest Results The total approved 2008 buck quota (including youth) was 491 tags following 511 tags in The 2008 reported harvest was 144 bucks and 50 antlerless deer. The 2007 reported buck harvest was 217. The approved resident rifle quota was split 95% early and 5% late. Hunter success was 32% for the early hunt and 67% late. Overall hunter success for all buck-only hunts was 30% in 2008, 42% in 2007 and 41% in Hunter success for the late-season muzzleloader hunt was 38% in 2008 following 53% in An aerial post-season herd composition survey was flown in late December 2008, netting a sample of 425 deer yielding age and sex ratios of 32 bucks:100 does:29 fawns. In contrast, the previous postseason survey of January 2007 sampled 518 deer with ratios of 41:100:63. The spring 2009 aerial survey was flown early April A sample of 473 was classified yielding ratios of 17 fawns:100 does. This was the third lowest fawn recruitment on record and follows 22 fawns:100 does (the fourth lowest) last year. The 2009 fawn:adult ratio was 14 points below the previous 10-year average ( ) recruitment of 31 fawns:100 adults. 12

27 MULE DEER Above-average precipitation was received from mid-2004 through mid conditions responded and were reflected in fawn recruitment that averaged 46 fawns:100 adults in 2006 and Drought conditions have dominated from mid-2006 through This has brought declines in water distribution and other habitat factors including both cover and nutrition values of forage. Other negative factors have included a 2007 spring and summer that were much warmer than normal, extremely dry spring seasons in and colder than average spring seasons in On the brighter side, current water year (October 1, 2008 through mid-april 2009) precipitation is near average at Ely. Areas to the south received greater amounts. Monitoring equipment at higher elevation (Snotel sites) has recorded approximately 120% of normal moisture in the Ely area. This increased precipitation should bring some short-term improvements in habitat conditions. Longer term improvements in climatic conditions are needed to reverse the habitat degradation that has occurred over the past decade. Long-term habitat potential for mule deer is slowly declining due to the encroachment of pinyon and juniper trees upward into mountain brush zones and downward onto bench areas. In some areas, recurrent drought has resulted in loss of native vegetation and expansion of cheatgrass and noxious weeds. Large-scale projects designed to control the encroachment of trees without imposing long-term impacts to shrub communities will be needed to reverse this trend. In addition, Southern Nevada Water Authority has purchased several ranches on the west side of Unit 115 and now holds grazing permits on allotments containing important mule deer habitat. It is hoped that improved grazing practices can provide benefits to mule deer. Six of the last 8 years witnessed below-average fawn recruitment including 4 of the lowest on record. The result was a downward population trend from 2001 to 2005, some recovery between 2005 and 2007 and a return to negative trend since that time. In addition, an analysis of sample size, harvest, buck ratio objectives and observed post-season buck ratios suggest that the 2008 population was overestimated. Population modeling yields a 2009 population estimate that is 30% lower than last year. Although this population retains a healthy buck to doe ratio, quota recommendations for 2009 will be lower than 2008 levels. The health and productivity of this mule deer herd can rebound relatively quickly if conditions remain favorable. Unit 121, North Egan, Cherry Creek Ranges: White Pine and Elko Counties Report by: Russell Woolstenhulme Harvest Results Fifty percent of hunters in the any legal weapon hunt reported successfully harvesting a deer. Of those 28% reported harvesting a buck that was a 4-points or better. The any legal weapon hunt was split into an early and a late season with 95% of tags available for the early hunt and the remaining 5% available for the late hunt. Hunter success was higher for the late hunt (49% in early compared to 60% in late). Four-point or better take was also higher in the late hunt than the early (27% in early compared to 33% in late). Post-season mule deer composition surveys were conducted from helicopter in the Cherry Creek and North Egan Ranges in late November A total of 490 deer were classified in Unit 121 with age and sex ratios of 20 bucks:100 does:40 fawns. Spring mule deer composition surveys were conducted from the ground during March The Cherry Creek Range and North Egan Range were surveyed along the East Benches. A total of 416 deer were classified in Unit 121, yielding a ratio of 33 fawns:100 adults. Production is down following a very dry summer. The Unit 121 herd estimate declined a little from the previous year. 13

28 MULE DEER Precipitation during 2007 was below normal which resulted in poor range conditions across much of Unit 121. The winter of received near normal precipitation, but prolonged cold temperatures resulted in persistent snow cover. The winter precipitation, while beneficial may not be enough to improve range conditions. Normal to above normal spring and summer precipitation could be a real boost to the Unit 121 deer herd. improvement projects and small fires in the unit are creating improved habitat. A horse round-up was conducted in the Cherry Creek Range and Butte Valley during the summer of 2006 which is also likely helping habitat conditions for deer. The spring fawn ratio of 33 fawns:100 adults resulted in a population estimate very similar to last year. Despite poor range conditions last year, Unit 121 deer herds fared well with only a minimal decrease in the population. If moisture regimes continue to be normal or above normal, improved range conditions could cause a favorable response in the deer herd. Unit 121 has so far avoided major impacts to deer habitat from range fires and man-made disturbances. Pinion/juniper encroachment is of some concern but small fires and habitat projects are slowing the effects. Mule deer carrying capacity is being improved by these small improvements. Barring any unforeseen setbacks deer populations could return to an upward trend that has been documented in the last few years. Units : Southern White Pine, Eastern Nye and Western Lincoln Counties Report by: Mike Podborny Harvest Results The 2008 Any Legal Weapon season was split into an early 16 day hunt from October 5 to October 20 and a late 16 day hunt from October 21 to November 5 for the second consecutive year. The following summary is for the Resident Any Legal Weapon hunt in The resident tags were split with 95% in the early season; 177 tags and 5% in the late season; 10 tags. In 2007 there were 272 tags early and 14 tags late. Hunter success was 58% early and 100% late compared to 52% early and 50% late in The breakdown of harvest in the early hunt was 38% spikes and 2-points, 30% 3-points and 32% 4-points or greater. The late hunt point class breakdown was 0% 2-points, 30% 3-points and 70% 4-points or greater. Hunter success increased in both the early and late hunts compared to the same seasons in The late hunt is a quality hunt with low hunting pressure and a greater opportunity to harvest a 4 point or better buck (32% early, 70% late). There were 2 emergency depredation doe hunts in Unit 132 at the Cherry Creek Ranch with a total of 55 tags issued and 33 deer harvested for 60% success. The total harvest for all hunts was 243 deer; 201 bucks and 42 does. There was no post-season herd composition survey conducted. The previous post-season survey was conducted by helicopter in January 2007 with 460 deer classified; yielding ratios of 31bucks:100 does:60 fawns. The spring survey was conducted from the ground in March 2009 in the White Pine Range and Horse Range. There were 339 deer classified; yielding a ratio of 30 fawns:100 adults; compared to the spring 2008 survey of 637 deer yielding a ratio of 17:100. conditions deteriorated in the short term with poor forage production and reduced water available for wildlife from the drought in 2007 and The long-term quality and quantity of summer ranges are slowly being reduced by Pinion/Juniper forests taking over brush zones thereby lowering the carrying capacity for mule deer. Although this deteriorating condition also affects winter range, it is believed the effect on summer range has a greater impact to the deer herd. No major fires have occurred since 1999 but smaller fires in upper elevations in the last few years may benefit deer habitat over the long term. 14

29 MULE DEER Reported harvest was slightly above expected harvest. Spring recruitment in 2009 increased from the record low observed in 2008 but was still below that required to allow the population to increase resulting in a relatively stable population compared to last year. Drought conditions existed in 2007 and 2008 resulting in dry springs and poor forage conditions and deer going into the winter in less than optimal body condition. The drought has also increased deer use on private agricultural fields like the Cherry Creek Ranch in Unit 132. Units : Eureka and Eastern White Pine Counties Report by: Mike Podborny Harvest Results The 2008 Any Legal Weapon season was split into an early 16 day hunt from October 5 to October 20 and a late 16 day hunt from October 21 to November 5. The following summary was for the Resident Any Legal Weapon Hunt in The tags were split with 90% in the early season; 318 tags and 10% in the late season; 36 tags. In 2007 with the same season structure, there were 392 tags early and 44 tags late. The hunter success was 44% in the early hunt and 44% in the late hunt compared to 49% early and 75% late in The early hunt breakdown of the point class of bucks in the harvest was 39% spikes and 2-points, 29% 3-points and 32% 4-points and greater. The harvest in the late hunt was broken out with 25% spikes and 2- points, 38% 3-points and 38% 4-points or greater. In 2007 the percent of 4-points or better in the harvest was 25% in the early hunt and 32% in the late hunt. The late hunt provides for a quality hunt with low hunting pressure and larger bucks harvested. No post-season herd composition survey was conducted in The last post-season helicopter survey in December 2007 under very good conditions with cold temperatures and good snow cover resulted in the classification of 1,900 deer; yielding age and sex ratios of 31 bucks:100 does:41 fawns. The previous postseason survey was conducted in 2003 with a ratio of 24 bucks:100 does:51 fawns from a sample of 1,540 deer. A spring survey were conducted in April 2009 by helicopter with 731 deer classified in 1 day in the Diamond Mountains; yielding a ratio of 21 fawns:100 adults. In 2008 the spring ground survey resulted in 822 deer classified; yielding a ratio of 19:100; the lowest on record. conditions declined in the short term with poor forage production and reduced water availability due to the droughts of 2007 and Over the long term deer habitat is being reduced by Pinion/Juniper forests crowding out the highly productive mountain brush zones with the browse community maturing and becoming less productive. There were no major wildfires in Major wildfires occurred in 1999, 2001 and 2007 in Units 141 and 142. These fires burned and converted extensive brush zones into monocultures of cheatgrass and other annual weeds reducing the value of these areas for deer and other wildlife. The cumulative effect of these fires has been a reduced capacity of the range to support deer. The post-fire seeding efforts to restore the most critical portions of these fires have been partially successful. A very large molybdenum mine is being proposed for Mt. Hope in Unit 143. The mine will impact deer habitat in the immediate area of the mine site but is not expected to cause a major decrease of the deer herd in Unit 143. Hunter success decreased in both the early and late hunts while there was a slight increase in percent of 4-points or better in each hunt when compared to the previous year. The drought conditions that existed in 2007 continued in 2008 and resulted in deer entering the winter in less than optimum body condition. Although the snow depth and temperatures were not extreme there was a substantial loss of fawns over 15

30 MULE DEER the winter period. The 2009 spring recruitment was the third lowest on record and resulted in a 5% decrease in the deer population from the previous year and an 18% decrease over the last 2 years. Units 151, 152, 154, 155, Lander and Western Eureka Counties Report by: Jeremy Lutz Harvest Results During the 2008 season hunters killed 131 bucks and 5 antlerless deer compared to 173 bucks and 5 antlerless deer in The following analysis is for the Resident Any Legal Weapon Hunt which was changed to a split season with an early and late hunt in There were 356 first choice applicants for the early hunt and 173 first choice applicants for the late hunt. The total number of first choice applicants for the Area 15 Resident Any Legal Weapon Hunt was 529 in 2008 and 479 in 2007 compared to 488 in 2006 without a split season. The odds of drawing a tag in the early hunt were 3 to 1 compared to 13 to 1 for the late hunt because of the number of tags in the quota for each hunt. Early hunters experienced 44% hunter success compared to 57% success late. Forty-six percent of the bucks harvested in the early hunt were 4 point or better compared to 50% in the late hunt. Overall hunter success for both the early and late hunts was 46% compared to 54% in A post-season aerial composition flight was conducted in November of 2008 that included the Battle Mountains, Fish Creeks, Shoshones, Simpson Parks and north Toiyabes. There were 772 deer classified during the survey; yielding ratios of 31 bucks:100 does:76 fawns. Fawn production in 2008 was the third highest on record for this unit group. The previous post-season survey was conducted in December 2007 with 939 deer classified; yielding ratios of 39 bucks:100 does:33 fawns. Spring surveys were conducted from the ground during March Samples of 544 deer were classified; yielding a ratio of 32 fawns:100 adults. Lack of snow and an abundance of green-up throughout Lander County during March had deer widely scattered, making it difficult to find adequate samples from Units 155 and 154. The previous year s survey was conducted from the ground in March of A sample of 479 deer was obtained; yielding a ratio of 31 fawns:100 adults. Both 2008 and 2009 spring fawn:adult ratios were below average. conditions in Area 15 continue to improve. Seventeen hundred horses were removed from Units 152,154, and 155. This will greatly alleviate pressure from over grazing on native grasses, forbs and shrubs, as well as heavy use on springs and riparian areas. If horse management levels are managed correctly recovery of both the quality and quantity of habitat will greatly benefit mule deer and all attendant wildlife. Area 15 experienced 1 small fire in the North Toiyabes. The Callahan fire burned nearly 1,100 acres of Pinon-Juniper dominated rangeland. If properly managed this burn will improve deer habitat by opening up this dense stand of PJ and allow grasses and shrubs to re-establish. The Battle Mountain BLM continues to make progress on grazing management plans for Lander County. Once established and proper grazing management plans are practiced habitat conditions should improve. The Area 15 adult deer population experienced a mild winter with short durations of cold temperatures and snow accumulations. The spring of 2008 was relatively dry until late spring rains came and native grasses and forbs flourished. During this time Area 15 experienced the third highest fawn crop since Below average precipitation during the fall led to poor habitat conditions on winter ranges and Area 15 16

31 MULE DEER experienced 52% fawn mortality. Under current weather and habitat conditions this herd will remain stable and quota recommendations will likely be similar to last year. Units : North-Central Nye and Southern Lander and Eureka Counties Report by: Tom Donham Post-season compositions surveys were not conducted during the reporting period. Spring composition surveys were conducted in Management Area 16 during late March The survey took place primarily in Units 161, and 162 with very little time spent in 163. Unit 164 was not included in the survey. A total sample of 409 deer was classified as 318 adults and 91 fawns. Although fawn ratios remain below long-term averages, production and recruitment appear to have improved somewhat over levels experienced during the period. The previous post-season aerial composition flight was conducted in December 2006, and included Units 161, 162, and 163. A total sample of 587 deer was classified resulting in the ratios of 32 bucks:100 does:51 fawns. The previous spring composition survey occurred in April 2007 when a total of 342 mule deer was classified as 251 adults and 91 fawns. Harvest Results 2008 was the second consecutive year of the newly created Any Legal Weapon early/late split mule deer hunt. In 2007, the season changed from a single 23-day season to a split 16-day early/late season for both Management Area 16 and 17. The early season was designed for those sportsmen who wish to hunt deer on a more frequent basis, and who are willing to deal with larger crowds and comparatively more difficult hunting conditions in order to do so. The late season is designed for those sportsmen who are willing to wait longer between drawing deer tags in order to hunt later in the fall, and with significantly fewer other hunters in the field. The draw odds for the Early Resident Any Legal Weapon hunt in Area 16 were 2 to 1 in 2007 and 3 to 1 in Early season hunter success in 2008 was 46% with a harvest of 34% 4-points or better which was very similar to early season numbers in The draw odds for the Late Resident Any Legal Weapon hunt were 10 to 1 in 2007 and 12 to 1 in Late season hunter success was 78% with a harvest of 89% 4-points or better, which is considerably higher in both categories than was seen in Due to the low number of tags issued for the late season, these rates are not anticipated to impact the quality or quantity of the male segment of the herd. Due to comparatively easy access to higher elevations in much of Area 16, late season hunters do not need to rely on weather conditions to make deer more accessible as is the case in some other central Nevada Management Areas. The Area 16 deer herd has remained relatively static in recent years due to lowered production and recruitment rates experienced most years since the mid to late 1990 s. Fortunately, rates remained at maintenance levels through much of that period. From October 2006 through November 2007, central Nevada experienced extremely dry conditions that greatly impacted many wildlife species and their habitats throughout central Nevada. Poor body condition of mule deer entering the spring and early summer period severely hampered production and recruitment for most deer herds in central Nevada in 2007 resulting in reductions in herd size. Central Nevada saw a short-lived return to more favorable moisture patterns during the late winter and spring of 2008, but the respite was not sufficient to significantly improve degraded range conditions. Unfortunately, the summer of 2008 saw a return to drought conditions that last through the fall and into mid-winter. While production and recruitment in 2008 were somewhat improved over 2007, levels remain below average and currently the Management Area 16 deer herd is struggling to simply remain stable. The Area 16 pre-hunt population estimate is approximately 3,700 animals. 17

32 MULE DEER Units : Northwestern Nye and Southern Lander Counties Report by: Tom Donham Neither post-season, nor spring aerial composition surveys were conducted in Management Area 17 during the reporting period. The last post-season survey accomplished in Area 17 took place in late During the survey, a sample of 1,810 mule deer was classified as 343 bucks, 1145 does, and 322 fawns. The sample size was the largest that has been obtained during a post-season survey since The observed fawn:100 doe ratio indicated that the Area 17 mule deer population experienced record low fawn production in During the last spring composition survey, conducted in late March of 2008, a very modest sample of 509 mule deer was classified as 426 adults and 83 fawns. The observed 2008 fawn:100 adult ratio indicated that while production rates were at a record low level in 2007, over-winter mortality was comparatively low. Management Areas 16 and 17 historically show similar levels of production and recruitment, and based upon spring surveys conducted in MA 16, central Nevada appears to have seen a modest improvement recruitment rates in Although rates increased somewhat, levels remain below average due to a continuation of abnormally dry conditions. Harvest Results 2008 was the second consecutive year of the newly created Any Legal Weapon early/late split mule deer hunt. In 2007, the season changed from a single 23-day season to a 16-day split early/late season for both Management Area 16 and 17. The early season was designed for those sportsmen who wish to hunt deer on a more frequent basis, and who are willing to deal with larger crowds and comparatively more difficult hunting conditions in order to do so. The late season is designed for those sportsmen who are willing to wait longer between drawing deer tags in order to hunt later in the fall, and with significantly fewer other hunters in the field. The draw odds for the Early Resident Any Legal Weapon hunt in Area 17 were 2 to 1 in both 2007 and Early season hunter success was 31% with a harvest of 27% 4-points or better in 2007, and 26% success with a harvest of 33% 4-points or better in The draw odds for the Late Resident Any Legal Weapon hunt were 4 to 1 in both 2007 and Late season hunter success was 32% with a harvest of 29% 4-points or better in 2007, and 48% success with a harvest of 62% 4-points or better in The Area 17 hunter success rate for the late hunt was not as high as anticipated in 2007 largely due to unfavorable climatic conditions saw somewhat better conditions resulting in an increase in success as well as the percent of 4-point or better bucks in the harvest. Unlike some other areas in central Nevada, the comparative success of the Area 17 late hunt depends of cooler temperatures and/or sufficient precipitation to move deer to more easily accessible areas. From October 2006 through November 2007, central Nevada experienced extremely dry conditions that greatly impacted many wildlife species and their habitats throughout central Nevada. Poor body condition of mule deer entering the spring and early summer period severely hampered production and recruitment for most deer herds in central Nevada in 2007 resulting in reductions in herd size. Central Nevada saw a short-lived return to more favorable moisture patterns during the late winter and spring of 2008, but the respite was not sufficient to significantly improve degraded range conditions. Unfortunately, the summer of 2008 saw a return to drought conditions that last through the fall and into mid-winter. While production and recruitment in 2008 were somewhat improved over 2007, levels remain below average and currently central Nevada deer herds struggle to remain stable. The Unit Group pre-hunt adult deer population estimate is approximately 4,

33 MULE DEER Units : Churchill, Southern Pershing and Western Lander Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury Harvest Data A split season for the any legal weapon hunt was initiated in Area 18 in 2007 and extended through Harvest results indicate a success rate of 22% for the early season and 44% for the late season. The 2008 hunter success was similar to the previous year with early season structures showing 21% and 36% for the late hunt. What is interesting to note is that in 2008 between the early and late hunts, 46% of the harvest was 4-point and better. This indicates that hunting pressure was directed toward older age class bucks which are represented in the population. The Area 18 herd has not experienced this high of 4 point or greater harvest since the mid 1980 s. The early and late season concept was abolished for 2009 and 2010 resulting in an October start and end time. In recent years Area 18 was one of the only seasons that ran into the first part of November. This later time frame enabled hunters more of an opportunity to hunt the first stage of the rut. The 10-year average hunter success rate for the general rifle hunt is 31%. The 2009 spring survey was an abbreviated ground assessment resulting in the classification of 86 mule deer. The sample consisted of 64 adults and 22 fawns, resulting in a ratio of 34 fawns:100 adults. Areas surveyed include the Desatoya s and the Clan Alpine Mountains. conditions for 2009 are in a slightly degraded state due to below average precipitation, resulting in an unproductive shrub component. Adequate spring moisture will be needed to improve range conditions. The Area 18 mule deer herd over the long term has had to cope with extensive pinion juniper encroachment into browse areas supporting mule deer. The maturation of the browse community combined with an increasing pinyon juniper canopy will cause the browse community to be less productive in the future for mule deer. Currently, projects are in the planning phase that will address some of these issues on a small scale. Two projects of less than 1000 acres a piece will address encroachment of pinyon pine on riparian areas as well as sagebrush communities. These projects are located in Unit 184 and will benefit mule deer in the Desatoya Mountains. Upper elevation fires in a pinyon and juniper woodland has shown to be beneficial to restoring brush species in the Clan Alpines and Stillwater Mountain Ranges. The Area 18 deer population has remained stable due to maintenance level fawn production and recruitment rates that we have experienced since the mid 1990 s. Below average precipitation received in has had a negative impact on mule deer habitats as well as mule deer body condition. Does going into the spring and summer months in poor body condition will result in low fawn production. Spring and summer moisture is important in the short-term to allow for improved leader production as well as the promotion of forbs and grasses, making up the vegetative component for mule deer in Area 18. Unit 192, Carson River Interstate Mule Deer Herd: Douglas County Report by: Carl Lackey The post-season survey flight took place on 9 January Survey results were fair, and very similar to last year with 186 deer classified and ratios of 11 bucks:100 does:40 fawns. The spring survey results were slightly more favorable with 291 deer classified with a ratio of 54 fawns:100 adults. Winter fawn loss was modeled at only 5%. Similar to last year the low buck ratios may have more to do with survey timing than actual numbers of male deer. The majority of snowfall in Western Nevada did not begin until later in the winter and it is likely that the bucks were still in the trees at higher elevations making them harder to locate. Based on survey and harvest data this deer herd has probably maintained itself over the last year. 19

34 MULE DEER Urbanization along the Carson Front continues to encroach upon winter range traditionally used by the Carson River deer herd and is the single most important issue facing deer herds in the Carson Range. What habitat that does remain above the home-line is in fairly good condition. Changes to the season structure for the 2008 season did not affect the overall harvest in this unit. This deer herd is in decline and has been for at least 2 decades. As with the Loyalton-Truckee/Peavine herd (Units 194, 196) the population includes Nevada s resident deer within the herd. Without intensive research it is not clear what percentage of the herd are resident deer but the number is estimated at about 20-30%. Under current habitat regimes the herd is probably at or near carrying capacity, a number which declines somewhat almost every year in correlation to increased urbanization. This trend in declining numbers will continue given the loss of habitat this herd has experienced on both sides of the state line. Regardless, fawn production and recruitment rates have been at maintenance levels for the carrying capacity. Unit 194, 196, Carson Range and Peavine Mountain Interstate Herd: Washoe and Carson City Counties Report by: Carl Lackey Biologists completed a late post-season composition survey flight in early January 2009 and classified 348 deer with a ratio of 29 bucks:100 does:51 fawns. A spring survey flight was accomplished in March 2009 classifying 490 deer with a ratio of 41 fawns:100 adults. Survey timing and conditions were the probable reasons for the increase in the buck ratio as there were no other contributing factors to account for the difference from last year s results. As in past surveys the majority of deer in Unit 194 were found at treeline and from Highway 431 north to Verdi. The deer in Unit 196 usually concentrate on the south facing slopes of Peavine Mountain. Even though housing development and the accompanying human recreation associated with it are increasing on a yearly basis there was a respite this past year due to Nevada s economic downturn. Loss of habitat due to this urbanization is the single most important issue facing the Carson Front deer herds. Population Estimates and Trend This deer herd, known as the Loyalton-Truckee Interstate herd, is probably operating at carry capacity and has been doing so for the past 2 decades. The population limit placed on this deer herd by human encroachment/development is decreased every year because of the decline in available winter range. The 2008 modeled population estimate includes Nevada s resident deer within the herd, a proportion estimated at 20-30%. Over the last few years this deer herd has appeared healthy with adequate fawn recruitment rates and generally good age cohort distribution. The long-term trend in numbers however continues downward, mostly due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and is mirroring carry capacity. This unit remains a much desired area to hunt deer for locals and non-residents, with high success rates and good point-class distribution. Changes to the season structure (split seasons) for this unit did not affect the overall harvest as there were only 2 more bucks killed in 2008 than in 2007, even with the increased number of tags. 20

35 MULE DEER Unit 195, Virginia Range Herd: Storey, Washoe and Lyon Counties Report by: Carl Lackey Formal post-season and spring surveys have not been completed for Unit 195 since The majority of land in this unit is privately owned and therefore difficult to manage for wildlife. Additionally, a significant portion is being developed, commercially and residentially. Furthermore, the unit will soon be separated north to south upon completion of a planned highway extending from Interstate 80 to Highway 50. The resulting fragmentation and loss of habitat has decreased this once migratory herd to a mostly resident herd. Population Estimates and Trend The population estimate for this deer herd is derived only from harvest statistics. Deer are fairly common along the Truckee River corridor on mostly private lands. Interest in Unit 195 appears to be fairly high with 292 first-choice applications for 49 tags including the youth and non-resident quotas. Most of this can be attributed to applicants wishing to hunt locally. Hunter success indicates an adequate number of deer for the tags sold. The population is thought to be stable to declining at this time. Units 201, 202, , Walker/Mono Interstate Deer Herd: Douglas, Lyon and Mineral Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury The Nevada Department of Wildlife conducted fall survey flights resulting in the classification of 605 mule deer. The sample consisted of 74 bucks, 390 does, and 141 fawns for a ratio of 19 bucks:100 does: 32 fawns. The Nevada Department of Wildlife uses directed search patterns to locate groups of deer. Mule deer were scattered on traditional winter range as well as transitional ranges. Precipitation that accumulated during the winter of was slightly below average allowing mule deer the opportunity to utilize higher elevation mountain mahogany and Ceanothus stands located in the Sierra Nevada s. Spring survey flights were conducted in late March 2008 by California Fish and Game and NDOW personnel producing a sample of 1,363 deer. This sample of 1,363 deer was classified as 1,032 adults and 331 fawns for a fawn ratio of 32 fawns:100 adults. During this year s spring survey mule deer were mainly located on traditional spring green-up which included the toe slopes and benches. The winter of was a mild winter in which snow accumulations along the Sierra Front were below average. Late winter and spring precipitation has allowed for some green-up which will allow for short term use by mule deer. Farther to the east precipitation totals were increasingly less for deer that utilize the Pine Grove Hills area. Green-up within perennial grass communities to the east offered little in the way of nutrition for wintering mule deer. Consequently fawn ratios for the East Walker herd were 28% lower than what was observed for the West Walker herd. projects which are needed to improve deer winter ranges in this area include reducing the pinyon and juniper woodland densities allowing for an increase in brush communities. It is also noteworthy to recognize that improving the habitat conditions on the winter range should be combined with improving degraded summer ranges. The California Department of Wildlife has studied mule deer populations that utilize the Sierra Nevada s, particularly mule deer condition from year to year. It has been suggested that 21

36 MULE DEER the mule deer s body condition coming off of summer ranges is less than optimal. Therefore, it is important to identify which seasonal habitat is in greater need of improvement for a given mule deer subherd. In addition to concerns over seasonal habitats, migration corridors that presently exist in the Wellington Hills area of Unit 201 are threatened by increased urbanization. This year s fawn recruitment rate of 32 fawns:100 adults should maintain herd numbers. Another indicator of stability is demonstrated by the 1331 any legal weapon hunt. The 5-year average for the Area 20 hunt is 64% which is 38% higher than the 2008 percent success rate for the rest of the units in the state. The pre-hunt adult deer population estimate for the Walker River interstate herd is approximately 5,200 animals. Nevada s apportionment of the herd is approximately 30% based upon the percentage of the herd that occupies winter range in Nevada. Harvest objectives are then distributed between Unit groups 201 & 204 and Unit groups 202, 205 and 206. This is a 45% and 55% split, respectively. Deer in Unit 205 are actually yearlong residents but harvest levels are not significant enough to warrant a separate management approach. Unit 203, Mason and Smith Valley Resident Herds: Lyon County Report by: Jason Salisbury No surveys were conducted in The last survey occurred in April 2008 on the Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area (MVWMA). This survey resulted in the observation of 83 mule deer and provided a fawn ratio of 36 fawns:100 adults. There is no population model for this herd. The mule deer herd occupying Mason Valley has declined from what was observed in the 1990 s but has remained stable since Hunter success for hunt 1331 any legal weapon is an indicator of stability. The 2008 success rate of 47% and percent 4 point or better bucks harvested for all hunts was 28%, both of which are slightly below their 10-year averages of 50% hunter success and 37% 4 points or better bucks harvested for all hunts. The future outlook for this herd is threatened by the increasing trend of converting brush and other escape cover into onion and garlic fields. Furthermore, ongoing housing development and infrastructure within Mason and Smith Valleys will eventually impact this herd s population. Units 211, 212: Esmeralda County Report by: Tom Donham Presently, no surveys are conducted in Area 21. Past survey efforts have not resulted in sufficient sample sizes for use in monitoring population dynamics. The Area 21 mule deer population based on harvest has remained at low numbers for many years. Very dry conditions experienced most years since the late 1990 s have likely impacted production and recruitment rates throughout much of the area. From October 2006 through November 2007, severe drought conditions plagued much of central Nevada. Even deer populations in the more northern reaches of central Nevada showed record low production and recruitment in Although surveys are not conducted in Area 21, it is expected that this same phenomenon occurred in Area 21, and will likely result in further reductions in the herd. 22

37 MULE DEER Central Nevada saw a short-lived return to more favorable moisture patterns during the late winter and spring of 2008, but the respite was not sufficient to significantly improve degraded range conditions. Unfortunately, the summer of 2008 saw a return to drought conditions that last through the fall and into mid-winter. While production and recruitment in 2008 were somewhat improved over 2007, levels remain below average and currently central Nevada deer herds struggle to remain stable. Presently, the population estimate for Units 211 and 212 is approximately 300 adult animals. Units : Northern Lincoln and Southern White Pine Counties Report by: Mike Scott Post-season aerial surveys were completed during December 2008, and resulted in the classification of 1,132 deer. The sample consisted of 250 bucks, 608 does, and 274 fawns which results in a ratio of 41 bucks:100 does:45 fawns. The previous sample was obtained in December 2007 and consisted of 1,017 deer of with 200 bucks, 565 does, and 252 fawns, which provides a ratio of 35 bucks:100 does:45 fawns. Spring surveys were conducted in April 2009, and resulted in the classification of 777 deer consisting of 570 adults and 207 fawns, which provides fawn to adult ratio of 36. Deer were found associated with traditional winter ranges; however, due to developing bad weather, surveys were limited to 4 hours instead of the traditional 9. Harvest A total of 373 deer were harvested from Area 22 including 354 bucks and 19 antlerless deer. Of the 354 bucks harvested, 48% were considered 4-points or better. Below average summer/fall precipitation throughout the northern portion of Area 22 likely had a detrimental effect on fawn survival in this area. Pinyon-Juniper invasions, senescent shrubs, overuse by wild horses, and indiscriminant use of off-highway vehicles all have some affect on the deer population. Since both Utah and Arizona have passed legislation discouraging use of ATV s anywhere other than roads and trails increased numbers of out-of-state shed antler hunters come to Lincoln County where off-road use of vehicles is still allowed. Additionally, a new wind energy proposal through crucial winter range may eventually result in further habitat fragmentation. The computer-generated population estimate is 4,900 compared to 4,600 in Unit 231, Wilson Creek Range: Northeastern Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Post-season aerial surveys were conducted during December 2008 and resulted in the classification of 1,626 deer. These consisted of 315 bucks, 821 does, and 490 fawns which results in a ratio of 38 bucks:100 does:60 fawns. Yearling bucks comprised 28% of the bucks observed. During the previous fall survey a total of 1,233 deer was classified as 245 bucks, 652 does, and 336 fawns, for a ratio of 38 bucks:100 does:52 fawns. Spring surveys were conducted during April 2009 and resulted in the classification of 808 deer, consisting of 566 adults and 242 fawns. This results in a ratio of 43 fawns per 100 adults. 23

38 MULE DEER Harvest There were 185 bucks and 3 antlerless deer harvested from Area 23. Of the 185 bucks harvested, 61% were 4-points or better. conditions appear to be good throughout Area 23 due to reasonable spring moisture. Still, many threats to mule deer habitat exist including wind energy, water transfer, overuse by wild horses, pinyonjuniper invasion, and abuse of off-road vehicles by shed antler hunters. Shed antler hunters from adjacent states flood southeastern Nevada due to the restrictive laws that prohibit them from using their ATV s off of roads and trails in both Utah and Arizona. Two mule deer water developments are scheduled to be rebuilt in Unit 223 in 2009 that will benefit mule deer. Population Estimates and Trend The computer-generated population estimate is 3,100 animals, compared to 2,600 in Units , Clover, Delamar, and Meadow Valley Mountain Ranges: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Post-season aerial surveys were conducted in January 2009 and resulted in a total of 322 deer classified. Of these, 77 were bucks, 155 does, and 90 fawns for a ratio of 50 bucks:100 does:58 fawns. The previous survey was conducted in January 2008 and resulted in a total of 314 deer classified with a ratio of 39 bucks:100 does:39 fawns. Spring aerial surveys were conducted in April 2009 with a total of 352 deer classified for a ratio of 35 fawns:100 adults. The previous survey was done from the ground and resulted in a total of 67 deer classified for a ratio of 28.8 fawns per adults. Harvest A total of 62 bucks and 1 doe were harvested from Area 24. Of the 62 bucks harvested 66% were classified as 4-points or better. Area 24 is probably more water limited than most other deer units in Nevada. Three water developments have been built and maintained for the benefit of mule deer. Several other water developments targeting mule deer are also being planned. Area 24 also has vast areas of dense pinyon-juniper with no understory to support mule deer. Large areas that burned in the Clover and Delamar Mountains in 2005 appear to be responding well. Deer are often found associated with these burned areas on aerial surveys. Area 24 received approximately 101% of the previous 10-year average precipitation during 2008, which appears to show better habitat conditions. Population Estimates and Trend The computer-generated population estimate is 800 animals, compared to 700 in

39 MULE DEER Units : South Central Nye County Report by: Tom Donham Presently, neither post-season nor spring surveys are conducted in these units. The last surveys conducted in the area occurred in 1998 and failed to yield a sufficient sample for analysis. Good quality mule deer habitat is very limited in Management Area 25. The majority of the habitat, and consequently, the majority of the deer population in Area 25, occurs in Unit 251. Deer habitat in Unit 251 continues to be impacted by feral horses, pinyon and juniper encroachment, and regular periods of drought. During the period from October 2006 through November 2007, severe drought plagued much of central Nevada. Record low fawn production and recruitment rates were seen in even the more northern reaches of Nye County where the quantity and quality of mule deer habitat is much better. Poor body condition of mule deer entering the spring and early summer period, as well as poor range conditions, likely resulted in very low fawn production and recruitment in Area 25 as well. Central Nevada saw a short-lived return to more favorable moisture patterns during the late winter and spring of 2008, but the respite was not sufficient to significantly improve degraded range conditions. Unfortunately, the summer of 2008 saw a return to drought conditions that last through the fall and into mid-winter. While production and recruitment in 2008 were somewhat improved over 2007, levels remain below average and currently central Nevada deer herds struggle to remain stable. Presently, the population estimate for Units 211 and 212 is approximately 300 adult animals. Units , Clark and Southern Nye Counties Report by: Patrick Cummings Mule deer habitat in Area 26 is marginal; consequently, deer densities are low and below levels that warrant annual or periodic aerial surveys. The lack of composition data precludes development of a useful model that would demonstrate herd population dynamics and generate population estimates. Area 26 is in proximity to Las Vegas and other growing cities. Recreational pursuits that include OHV and mountain bike use and the resultant proliferation of roads and trails coupled with suburban sprawl, serve to degrade mule deer habitat. In the Spring Mountains, mule deer habitat is also impacted by feral horses and burros. In June 2004, the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest issued a Decision Notice and Finding of No Significant Impact for Spring Mountains National Recreation Area Motorized Trails Designation Project. The decision to implement alternative five (with modifications) as summarized in the respective Environmental Assessment involves minimal closure of newly established roads. Thus, the recently authorized management prescription for motorized trails ensures the status quo for the foreseeable future. The mule deer population in Area 26 likely experienced a decline as result of drought conditions that have persisted from November 2005 through October During this period, mule deer coped with reduced availability of quality forage, and subsisted largely on cured and woody vegetation low in digestibility and nutritive value. Thus, the consequences of mule deer in Area 26 surviving on a lower nutritional plane were reduced reproduction and recruitment. 25

40 MULE DEER As of this writing in March 2008, environmental conditions have improved due to near normal precipitation receipts in late 2008 and early In its seasonal outlook, the NWS does not forecast drought conditions to develop in the first half of Units 271, 272: Southern Lincoln and Northeastern Clark Counties Report by: Mike Scott No surveys were conducted in Units 271 or 272 during the reporting period. Mule deer densities are low enough that standard surveys do not result in enough data for analysis. The harvest strategy is based on hunter demand and success. Harvest A total of 20 bucks were harvested from Area 27 in Eleven of the 20 deer were 4-points or better for a total of 55%. Water developments installed with the assistance of sportsmen s groups, coupled with a few natural springs, provide limited suitable habitat for mule deer. Large-scale wildfires burned in both the Mormon and Virgin Mountains during the summer of 2005, which will have both short and long-term detrimental effects on the Mule Deer population in these areas. To the contrary there were limited areas of dense pinyon-juniper that burned that will likely be beneficial to mule deer. Areas of suitable habitat hold limited populations of mule deer mainly in the Virgin Mountains, although deer are also observed in the Mormons Mountains on occasion as well. Unit 291, Pinenut Mountain Mule Deer Herd: Douglas County Report by: Carl Lackey No formal surveys were conducted in this unit. General observations and anecdotal reports indicate that this herd is stable over the short-term but has declined significantly over the long-term. Loss of habitat and access to available and adequate habitat in this unit continue to keep the deer population at low levels. Expansion of the pinyon forest over the past few decades, livestock grazing practices, increased human recreational activity and increased urbanization on the perimeter with corresponding traffic have all contributed to loss of habitat and the decline of mule deer in Unit 291. Significant portions of the unit contain monocultures of pinyon-juniper, much of which is dead. improvement projects have been recommended to reduce the pinyon-juniper coverage. There is no modeled population estimate for this herd. This population is believed to be stable, but has the potential to increase under more ideal habitat conditions. Many of the deer, particularly in the northern part of the management area, are resident deer. The population for area 29 is well below the historic levels recorded for the Pinenut Mountains and may well be below carrying capacity. The loss of travel corridors, due to Highway 395 traffic and housing development from Topaz Ranch Estates up along the eastern side of Carson Valley, into the unit are the primary cause for this. Still, it is an area that offers a local hunting opportunity with a good buck point-class available and decent hunter success. This is evidenced by demand in the form of 363 first-choice applications for the 84 available tags combing all hunts. 26

41 PRONGHORN PRONGHORN ANTELOPE Units , 021, 022: Washoe and Western Humboldt Counties Report by: Chris Hampson Harvest Results Hunter success rates for hunt units in northwestern Nevada were down between 5 and 12 percent when compared with the 2007 hunting season. Due to the extremely dry conditions, pronghorn were not concentrated on their typical summer ranges and were much more difficult to locate. In the hunt units where designated Wilderness Areas prevent off road travel, pronghorn have shifted their distribution into these less traveled areas. Lower fawn recruitment over the past few years has also resulted in downward trends for a number of the Management Area 1 and 2 pronghorn herds. Due to the below average precipitation and warmer average temperatures over the past 3 years, habitat conditions in northern Washoe County have deteriorated. This past summer, the dry conditions forced many pronghorn to move off of their traditional summer ranges in search of better forage and more reliable water. Due to the fact that pronghorn were not concentrated on high elevation summer range, they were much more difficult to locate during this year s post-season survey. The 2008 survey sample size was similar to the 2006 sample but approximately 400 animals lower than the 2007 total. Despite, the smaller sample size obtained this past year; the average composition ratios for Management Areas 1 & 2 remained static at 36 bucks:100 does:46 fawns. Table post-season pronghorn composition for Washoe County. Units Bucks Does Fawns Total Bucks:100 Does:Fawns :100: :100: :100: :100: Totals ,045 36:100: Totals ,433 36:100:44 As was the case in 2007, pronghorn recruitment values varied considerably between hunt units. In 2007, northwestern Nevada suffered through one of the driest years on record. In 2008, the dry conditions and below average precipitation receipts continued. Recruitment rates remained strong in hunt Units 011 and 015 but were much lower in those hunt units most affected by the drought, hunt Units 012 thru 014 and 021, 022. Fawn recruitment in these drought stricken areas continues to be low and will result in stable to decreasing trends for those pronghorn populations. The average buck ratio for Management Areas 1 & 2 has remained static for the past 2 years. Buck ratios typically change somewhat from year to year within the hunt units but when averaged out are normally similar to the previous year s average. Buck ratios remain strong in hunt Units 011, 015, and in Unit Group 021, 022. However, the higher buck ratios observed in these hunt units are somewhat inflated by the proceeding year s strong recruitment values. The average group size varied between hunt units and unit groups but was much higher in Unit 011 at 18.1 animals per group. Unit 015 and Unit Group 012 thru 014 had an average group size of 9.7 and 9.9 animals, respectively. Unit group 021, 022 had the lowest average at 7.3 animals per group. 27

42 PRONGHORN The higher elevation habitats in the extreme western portion of Washoe County have fared better during the drought than those areas that are lower in elevation and further to the south and east. These higher elevation areas have also been observed to have the highest recruitment values when compared with the drier portions of Washoe and western Humboldt Counties. Competition for food and water between pronghorn, feral horses, cattle and domestic sheep continues to be an issue in Western Nevada. The current drought conditions have only made things worse, especially during the warmer months as animals seek out the areas with better forage and concentrate close to water sources. Once again, numerous complaints were received from hunters who had observed feral horses chasing and harassing pronghorn near water sources. The competition between horses and pronghorn occurs in most units but appears to be especially high in Unit 012 where water sources are somewhat limited. Western Nevada is in the midst of yet another below average water year. As of February 1, 2009, all basins in the western portion of the state are well below average for both snow pack and total precipitation values. The February issue of The Nevada Water Supply Outlook Report shows precipitation totals for the basins within Management Areas 1 & 2 ranging between 64% and 77% for Water Year Percent of Average. Snowpack totals were equally dismal and ranged between 61% and 68% of average. The month of February was extremely dry and the lack of precipitation and warmer temperatures reduced the snow pack and precipitation totals significantly. The outlook for more storm fronts in early March is encouraging; however, significant precipitation will be needed over the next several months in order to reverse the effects of the prolonged drought. Drought conditions continued throughout much of western Nevada during Recruitment values for some of the pronghorn populations within Management Areas 1 & 2 remain at or below maintenance levels. Pronghorn populations in Unit Group and Unit 033 the Sheldon have been the most affected by the drought conditions. Recruitment values for the Unit Group have averaged in the low 30 s for the past 2 years. However, the average does not necessarily tell the whole story as higher fawn recruitment on the extreme western side of Unit 013 skewed the overall average recruitment rate upwards. Recruitment was observed to be much lower in the central and eastern portions of the unit group. These areas averaged only 28 fawns per 100 does. Unit 033 the Sheldon has averaged only 26 fawns per 100 does over the past 3 years. Drought conditions are considered to be the major reason for the lower recruitment values on the Sheldon. The high horse numbers on the Sheldon are also believed to be a contributing factor. The current drought conditions have intensified the competition between horses and pronghorn, especially near water sources during late summer. Fawn recruitment within Unit Group 021, 022 was also observed to be lower this year. The ratio of 33 fawns per 100 does will allow the population to maintain current levels. Fawn ratios in this unit group have generally been strong with an average of 45 fawns per 100 does for the 5-year period between 2003 and However, buck ratios remain strong in this unit group. Housing development, wind energy development and an overall increase in human activity continue to be the biggest threats to this pronghorn population. Due to the fact that many of the access roads to the Virginia and Pah Rah Mountains are on or pass through private property, access to these areas to hunt antelope is becoming more and more difficult as time goes by. Pronghorn populations in Units 011 and 015 continue to do well. Recruitment values have been very strong in both of these units for several years. The pronghorn populations in these units are expanding. Unit

43 PRONGHORN was slightly drier this year than what has been observed in the recent past, however, habitat conditions were still markedly better than what was observed in surrounding hunt units. Most pronghorn winter ranges have been devoid of snow for most of the winter. Pronghorn survival through the winter of is expected to be high. However, the lack of moisture and dry conditions are concerning, conditions will continue to suffer if the dry conditions continue thru the spring and summer. Pronghorn populations in hunt Units 011 and 015 will continue to experience increasing trends while those populations within hunt Units 012, 013, 014, 021, and 022 will remain static or experience continued downward trends this year. Units 031, 032, 034, 035, 051: Humboldt County Report by: Ed Partee Aerial composition surveys were conducted for Management Areas 3 and 5 during late September This year s sample size was almost half of what was observed during surveys in The reduction in sample size was a result of less time spent conducting aerial surveys to reduce potential conflicts with hunters already in the field during the normal survey period. One unit within Management Area 3 was not surveyed during this period. Table post-season pronghorn for Humboldt County. Unit Bucks Does Fawns Total Bucks:100 Does:Fawns :100: :100: :100: Totals :100: Totals :100:39 Despite the lower number of animals surveyed this year, buck and fawn ratios were very similar to what was observed last year. The 2008 ratios compared to the 5-year averages for area 3 and 5 have fallen slightly. This drop in numbers is mainly due to the drought conditions that we have experienced over the last 2 years. When splitting out units within Management Area 3, some are showing increases while others are declining. In Unit 031, we are seeing an increase in both the fawn and buck ratios from last year. This unit is experiencing a significant increase in pronghorn numbers which is having an observable impact on limited winter range. Observed ratios for this unit were 56 bucks:100 does:45 fawns compared to last year s ratio of 39 bucks:100 does:34 fawns. Units 032,034 and 035 are showing static to slight declines in numbers. Overall ratios from survey work completed in Units 032, 034 and 035 were 22 bucks:100 does:31 fawns. This is down from last year s ratio of 30 bucks:100 does:41 fawns. Observed ratios in Management Area 5 were mixed and showed a decline in buck ratios while fawn ratios increased from 36 fawns:100 does in 2007 to 40 fawns:100 does in With a decline in traditional water sources pronghorn were difficult to locate throughout much of the area surveyed. Continued drought conditions are affecting forage quality in these units. The summer of 2008 was extremely dry resulting in many of water sources and pit tanks going dry throughout Humboldt County. With the dry conditions, grasses and forbs cured early in the spring. Animals were in smaller groups and much more spread out. Only 1 fire occurred in Humboldt County; however, it did not have any major influence on any pronghorn use areas. There has been a lack of winter precipitation with only 1 major storm occurring at the end of December Several smaller storms have occurred which have added slightly to the existing snow pack. Warm days in January lead to some early green up which provided 29

44 PRONGHORN minimal amounts of forage during this period. Some units are seeing a rather large population increase which is having detrimental effects on the wintering range that is left. Existing stands of sage and forage kochia are being over utilized in some areas. If a large snow event and/or extreme winter conditions occur we may sustain significant losses to some of these herds. Pronghorn numbers vary throughout these 2 management areas. Despite dry conditions Unit 031 continues to produce relatively high fawn numbers. Pronghorn densities within this unit are high and may be above the carrying capacity of the winter range. Other populations within management area 3 are either stable or showing slight increases. Major agricultural activities taking place within the central portions of Management Area 3 may contribute to higher fawn ratios and survivability. Management Area 5 is holding relatively constant. Drought conditions will continue to depress fawn ratios in some areas. Spring and summer moisture will be needed to sustain these animals throughout the summer months and into winter. Unit 033, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge: Washoe and Humboldt Counties Report by: Chris Hampson Harvest Results Seventy-four pronghorn bucks were harvested from the Sheldon in This is equal to the number harvested in Resident rifle hunter success dropped by 5% this past hunting season but was still very good at 80%. A very high percentage of the unsuccessful hunters reported having an opportunity to harvest a buck but chose not to pull the trigger. Harvest data shows 42 of the 74 bucks (60%) harvested in 2008, had horns that measured 15 inches or longer. In 2009, a split season format will once again be offered to hunters who draw a Sheldon pronghorn tag. This format is identical to the hunting season structure that was in place on the Sheldon just a few years ago. In 2008, only limited flight time was expended surveying for pronghorn antelope on the Sheldon. The smaller sample was compared with the data collected by the USFWS during their intensive annual pronghorn surveys. Ratios from the 2 surveys were similar with the USFWS fawn ratio at 28 fawns per 100 does and the small sample from the NDOW surveys showing a ratio of 35 fawns per 100 does. The lower recruitment ratio was used in this year s modeling process. This represents the third consecutive year of low fawn recruitment for the Sheldon pronghorn herd. Buck ratios remain high on the Sheldon. However, buck ratios are highly variable and can fluctuate depending on the timing of the surveys. Generally, the most reliable ratios are obtained following the hunting season in early to mid-september. Pronghorn bucks at this time of year are generally in close proximity to doe-fawn groups due to the on-going rut. This year s post-season ratio for the Sheldon pronghorn population was 45 bucks:100 does. Drought conditions on the Sheldon are now into their third consecutive year. The resulting poor habitat conditions are believed to be the cause for the lower recruitment values observed over the past 3 years. The very dry conditions and lack of good reliable water sources forced pronghorn to expend more energy moving from area to area in search of the best forage and reliable water. Once again, the water sources on top of Rock Spring Table were completely dry during the late summer of In the past, this was an uncommon occurrence, but with 7 out of the last 10 years receiving below average precipitation, it has become a fairly common occurrence. 30

45 PRONGHORN conditions on the Sheldon were once again poor this year due to the continued dry conditions. During the ten-year period from 1999 to 2008, the Sheldon received below-average precipitation receipts during 7 of the 10 years. In some instances, 2 dry years were followed by an above normal year and then followed by 2 more dry years. This single year of above average precipitation between consecutive dry years does not provide the moisture needed to reverse the harsh effects of the long-term drought. The Sheldon snotel site located in Guano Valley shows the area receiving approximately 77% of average this year and only 73% in The effects of these drought years on forage quality and water availability cannot be understated. Past wildfires have also had a serious negative effect on the mule deer resource on the Sheldon. Up to 60% of the highest quality mule deer summer range has burned over the past 2 decades. Browse species and important thermal and escape cover were lost in the fires. Loss of critical deer summer and fall range on Catnip and Badger Mountains has lowered the carrying capacity for mule deer on the Sheldon. Drought conditions have only exacerbated this situation on the Sheldon. Horse numbers on the Sheldon are well above the number needed to ensure that the resources on the Sheldon are protected. Impacts on the available forage and water sources are apparent. Horse numbers need to be controlled and their numbers held at reasonable numbers to ensure that horses do not impact important wildlife habitats. The USFWS is currently attempting to reduce horse and burro numbers down to AML. Significant spring and summer precipitation is needed to help offset the extremely dry conditions that have persisted on the Sheldon. The moisture is also needed to bolster flows to spring sources and fill lakebeds that pronghorn use through the summer and fall. Current water year totals that began October 1, 2008 indicate that the Sheldon snotel site has received 5.1 inches of precipitation so far this water year. The annual precipitation average for the Sheldon site is 9.9 inches. Snow accumulations this past winter have been well below average but the area has received limited rainfall that has helped to increase soil moisture. Snow accumulations have been almost non-existent this winter. Continued poor recruitment in 2008 will once again result in a slight downward trend for the Sheldon pronghorn herd. The population estimate for the Sheldon pronghorn population now stands at an estimated 1300 animals. This figure represents those animals that are estimated to reside outside of the Little Sheldon which is closed to the hunting. Units 041, 042: Western Pershing and Southern Humboldt Counties Report by: Kyle Neill Ground surveys were preformed over a 3-day period during the last week of September 2008 (Table 1). Table 1. Pronghorn Composition Survey Results for Units 041 and 042. Year Bucks Does Fawns Total Bucks:100 Does:Fawns :100: :100:32 5-year average :100:45 31

46 PRONGHORN Age and sex ratios obtained during 2008 surveys of 40 bucks:100 does:32 fawns were below 5-year and long-term averages. However, the post-season buck ratio remains high. The 2008 fawn ratio of 32 fawns:100 does is the lowest observed recruitment rate since 1995, when the ratio was 30 fawns:100does. Several new windmills have been installed in Granite Springs Valley, which lies between the Sahwave Mountains and the Trinity Range. These units were utilized by pronghorn this past summer and have expanded their summer range. Additionally, C Punch Ranch is currently constructing alfalfa fields in the Granite Springs Valley that will be irrigated by 10 center pivots and will encompass a total of 1,250 acres. It is expected that this will eventually influence the distribution of existing antelope in this area. Overall, habitat conditions in both units have remained good. However, some dependable water sources in Unit 041 were routinely depleted by feral horses, burros and livestock, which forced antelope to find alternate sources. The Eugene Mountains produced high numbers following last year s Tungsten Fire that burned 61,951 acres. Antelope responded well to the abundant forbs that occurred following the fire. Since 1990, this herd s population has showed increasing trends followed by 2 to 3 years of stability then increasing trends. High recruitment rates and mild winters fueled high population growth in 2006 and However, the 2008 recruitment rate of 32 fawns:100 does signifies that Units 041, 042 s antelope population has entered into another stagnate growth trend. The unit group s population estimate remains at 1,500 animals. Units 061, 062, 064, 071, 073: North Central Elko County Report by: Ken Gray A ground survey was conducted in the Unit Group in September A sample of 571 pronghorn was obtained; yielding ratios of 40 bucks:100 does:36 fawns. The buck ratio was close to the 10-yearaverage. The fawn ratio was 19 fawns below the previous 10-year-average and was the second lowest ever recorded (Table 1). Table 1. Observed buck ratios, fawn ratios and sample size for pronghorn in Units Parameter Average Bucks:100 does from fall surveys Fawns:100 does from fall surveys Sample size from fall surveys The spring of 2008 was dry and cold through most of May. Vegetative conditions on antelope fawning grounds were in extremely poor condition when fawns were born which contributed to the poor fawn production observed. Significant storms with ample moisture in late May and early June, 2008 provided a remarkable recovery in vegetative conditions. Antelope went into the winter in good condition. The winter of was mild and snow did not accumulate on the winter ranges. Winter survival was thought to be high. No major fires burned during the summer of 2008 in this unit group. 32

47 PRONGHORN In 2006 and 2007, a total of 653 antelope was removed from this herd through either trapping or harvest. Consequently, last year s population estimate had decreased by 43% from the 2005 level. In December of 2008, 24 antelope were killed by a vehicle on highway 225. The current population estimate is down slightly from last year s. This is due in part to the antelope killed on the highway and in part to low fawn production experienced in This antelope herd is within the estimated carrying capacity of the winter range. The objective of the 2009 harvest recommendations will be to maintain the population at approximately 750 to 800 antelope, which is compatible with their winter range. Units 065, 142, portion of 144, Southern Elko County, Northern Eureka County Report by: Russell Woolstenhulme Harvest Results Twenty-six resident and 3 nonresident tags were available for the Resident Buck Antelope any legal weapon hunt in Nine resident tags were available for the Buck Antelope Archery hunt. Seventeen resident tags for horns shorter than ears were available for the Eureka County portion of Unit 144. Post-season herd composition surveys were conducted from the ground in December A total sample of 381 antelope was obtained; yielding ratios of 37 bucks:100 does:34 fawns. In 2007 the sample of 166 antelope resulted in ratios of 56:100:39. Approximately 35,000 acres of habitat burned within this unit group during the summer of The Webb and Sneekee fires in particular affected range used by antelope during the summer and fall months. Several fires over the last 2 years have burned areas that were previously burned during fires in These burns are expected to provide good summer and fall habitat in the future. Most of the important antelope winter habitat in this unit group was unaffected by the burns. Winter habitat is a limiting factor within this unit group which may limit herd growth potential and create depredation problems in Unit 144 as antelope continue to disperse further into Eureka County. Population estimates for this unit group have grown over the past few years. A record count was recorded this year on the post-season herd composition survey. Fawn and buck ratios were down in the short term, but the population is still showing long-term growth. Unit 066, Owyhee Desert: Northwestern Elko County Report by: Ken Gray The 9 antelope water developments constructed on the Owyhee Desert were used extensively by antelope during the summer of 2008 as all other water sources were dry. The Owyhee Desert segment of the population has remained static but increases in the population have occurred on the west side of the Snowstorm Range and in the Petan Ranch area. Hunter success and the percentage of mature bucks harvested remained high. Low fawn recruitment levels were used in the model since all surrounding areas showed poor fawn production. 33

48 PRONGHORN Units 067, 068: Western Elko and Northern Lander and Eureka Counties Report by: Ken Gray A winter ground survey was conducted in January A sample of 1,060 pronghorn was obtained; yielding ratios of 54 bucks:100 does:23 fawns (Table 1). The buck ratio was 11 bucks per 100 does above the 10-year-average. The fawn ratio was similar to last year and was one of the lowest ever recorded for this unit group. The number of antelope observed on this survey was the highest ever recorded. Table 1. Observed buck ratios, fawn ratios and sample size for pronghorn in Units Parameter Average Bucks:100 does from fall surveys Fawns:100 does from fall surveys Sample size from fall surveys 1, The spring of 2008 was dry and cold through most of May. Vegetative conditions on antelope fawning grounds were in extremely poor condition when fawns were born which contributed to the poor fawn production. The large seedings that were implemented during the past 12 years are being used extensively by wintering antelope. Antelope are especially utilizing the forage kochia associated with these seeded areas. Antelope winter use on kochia has averaged 30% in some areas over the past 5 years. The Izzenhood seeding, implemented by the Elko BLM, along with the Bobs Flat and Dunphy Hills seedings have been extremely important for wintering antelope. A 1,100 acre seeding was implemented by NDOW and the TS Ranch this past year in the northern end of Boulder Valley in order to improve degraded winter range for antelope. A small horse farm was constructed within crucial antelope winter range on the west side of the Izzenhood Range. This year s sample was the highest ever obtained in this unit group despite the fact that 196 pronghorn were removed from the population through trapping and transplant last year. It was believed that a significant number of antelope were moving into Unit 068 during the winter from Units 051 and 066. However, collaring and tagging efforts have not supported this theory thus far. It is unknown why the number of antelope observed on surveys has increased despite increased doe harvest, aggressive trapping during the winter of and relatively poor productions rates for the past 2 years. The population estimate was increased to reflect the high number of antelope observed during surveys. Units 072, 074, 075: Northeastern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Surveys resulted in 260 antelope being classified in mid-august. The resulting age and sex ratios for the sample were 36 bucks:100 does:21 fawns. Although the buck ratios were considerably higher, the fawn ratios were down for the fourth consecutive year. Fawn recruitment is 46 percent lower than the 10 year 34

49 PRONGHORN average of 40 fawns:100 does. This survey is typically conducted between the archery and rifle season in this unit group due to the migration of antelope out of the Unit 072 into Idaho during and after the rifle season. This unit group was affected greatly by wildfire in 2007 and A large amount of area burned in the northern end of Units 072 and 074 (Murphy, Scott Creek, and East Slide Rock Ridge Fires-nearly 700,000 acres), and a smaller area in Unit 075 (The Hepworth Fire-38,000 acres). The long-term effects of these fires may be beneficial as perennial grasses dominate the recovering burned areas, however the negative short-term effect will be less brush available on winter ranges. Overall, this pronghorn herd appears to be stable to slightly decreasing. The combination of the lack of timely summer precipitation and the reduction of quality winter range due to fires have contributed to lower fawn survival than expected for this herd. Hopefully with the extensive seeding efforts in Nevada and Idaho on the burned areas the herd s carrying capacity will increase and expand in future years. Units 076, 077, 079, 081, 091: Northeastern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Post-season surveys in August and September resulted in 122 antelope being classified. The resulting age and sex ratios for the sample were 46 bucks:100 does:19 fawns. The buck ratio was higher than last year s ratio of 37 bucks:100 does, however the fawn ratio decreased for the second year in a row, down 32 percent from last year s ratio of 28 fawns:100 does. Major fires impacted this herd in The West Basin and Eccles Fires (81,741 acres) affected a good portion of Unit 076, and the West Fork Fire (162,151 acres) burned the majority of Unit 081. The longterm effects of these fires should be beneficial to pronghorn as perennial grasses dominate the recovering burned areas, however the negative short-term effect will be less brush available on winter ranges. Overall, this pronghorn herd appears to be stable. This herd has been utilizing the northern portion of Unit 076 more than in previous years. This was more than likely a result of the large amount of area that burned in these units during the summers of 2000 and 2001 that has been seeded heavily and is coming back well. Hopefully the extensive seeding efforts on this year s burned areas will be successful and allow this herd to increase once again. Units 078, , 121: Southeastern Elko and Central White Pine Counties Report by: Tony Wasley Tag Quotas and Harvest Results Forty-nine tags were available for the rifle pronghorn buck hunt in each of the last 2 seasons, 2008 and The 10-year average tag quota in this unit was 54. Tag quotas have varied very little in this unit group. 35

50 PRONGHORN These units were surveyed from the ground in early December. A total of 705 animals was observed yielding age and sex ratios of 38 bucks:100 does:23 fawns. The spring of 2008 provided great moisture. However, it appears to have been too little too late to improve fawn weights and survival. The timing and amount of spring precipitation facilitated significant grass and forb growth in May and June. However, summer moisture was lacking and subsequently so was the production of summer forbs and grasses. Despite having good spring moisture in 2008, water availability throughout the year continues to be an issue for both animal water requirements and forage production. Antelope have been especially challenged in areas where they face stiff competition from wild horses for the little water that is available. After 5 consecutive years of population increases ( ), the 2009 population estimate for the 078, , & 121 Unit Group is relatively unchanged from last year. Despite high fawn ratios observed in previous years in this unit group and good precipitation that occurred in April and May of 2008, observed fawn ratios were well below the long-term average. Low recruitment in 2008 prevented this population from continuing its previously observed growth trend. However, the population is up significantly from past years and demonstrates a positive long-term trend. This trend was bolstered by a high fawn ratio in 2004 and an even higher fawn ratio in Units , 108, portion of 144: South Central Elko and Western White Pine Counties Report by: Tony Wasley Tag Quotas and Harvest Results Sixty-one tags were issued for the rifle pronghorn buck hunt in Seventy five tags were issued for the rifle pronghorn buck hunt in The ten-year average quota for this unit group is 45 tags. These units were surveyed from the ground in early October. A total of 624 animals was observed yielding age and sex ratios of 36 bucks:100 does:18 fawns. The spring of 2008 provided great moisture. However, it appears to have been too little too late to improve fawn weights and survival. The timing and amount of spring precipitation facilitated significant grass and forb growth in May and June. However, summer moisture was lacking and subsequently so was the production of summer forbs and grasses. Despite having good spring moisture in 2008, water availability throughout the year continues to be an issue for both animal water requirements and forage production. Antelope have been especially challenged in areas where they face stiff competition from wild horses for the little water that is available. The current population estimate for the , & 108 Unit Group is up slightly from last year. The long-term pattern is an upward trend, due to pronghorn releases (+86 in 2003) and good to fair levels of fawn recruitment in recent years. The dry range conditions in 2007 likely resulted in the low fawn recruitment observed in The fawn recruitment in 2008 was one of the lowest observed in the last 25 years. Despite the slight increase in this year s population estimate, this unit group s population is likely 36

51 PRONGHORN very similar to last year and so the increase is more indicative of an adjustment in the estimate than actual population growth. Units : Eastern White Pine County Report by: Curt Baughman The 2008 postseason survey was conducted from the ground in late January Survey time and sample size were somewhat limited in both Steptoe and Antelope Valleys. A sample of 976 pronghorn was classified, yielding sex and age ratios of 35 bucks:100 does:16 fawns. The 2007 postseason survey documented ratios of 41 bucks:100 does:16 fawns. Herd composition averaged 35 bucks:100 does:36 fawns for the previous 10 years ( ). The 52 fawns:100 does documented during the 2005 survey was the highest recorded since 1977; while the 16 fawns:100 does observed during both the 2007 and 2008 surveys were the lowest on record. conditions have deteriorated in recent years. During the last 5 months of 2006, precipitation measured at Ely by the National Weather Service totaled 56% of average. This was followed by 65% of normal precipitation during 2007 and 59% in Moisture totals for the April through June period were 47% in 2007 and 28% in In addition to being very dry, the spring of 2008 was colder than normal through the middle of June. This resulted in delayed and modest green-up of grasses and forbs. Reduced cover and nutritional values were again unfavorable for the survival of pronghorn kids. Water distribution has also been reduced and pronghorn are increasingly dependent upon private land. Use of pronghorn habitat by domestic livestock and feral horses further compromised habitat values. During the winter, substantial snow cover developed in areas around Ely and to the south. These conditions were short-lived throughout most of the unit-group and should not have been much of a problem for pronghorn. From October 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009, the precipitation total for Ely stands at 92%. Local mountain Snotel sites have recorded around 120% over the same period. The northern half of the unitgroup received significantly less moisture than the southern half. Overall, spring habitat conditions for pronghorn should be improved over that of recent years, especially if climatic patterns are favorable throughout the remainder of the spring. A wind energy facility with 90+ turbines is being planned for a portion of Spring Valley that is heavily used by pronghorn. At this time it is unknown how long-term use of the area by pronghorn will be affected. This pronghorn herd enjoyed a stable to increasing population trend from 2001 through Precipitation levels were adequate and winters were generally mild. This resulted in increased levels of hunter opportunity and buck harvest. The recent drought brought a reversal of this trend. A second consecutive year with record low fawn recruitment has resulted in a 2009 population estimate that is 8% below the 2008 estimate. This follows a 2008 population estimate that was 12% lower than that of Pronghorn are in less-than-optimum condition coming into the spring season. Climatic conditions throughout the spring and summer will dictate population trend in Although the preseason buck:doe ratio will be high, low 2009 fawn recruitment may result in lower quota recommendations for the 2009 season. In the longer term, habitat restoration projects may result in increased potential for this unitgroup to support pronghorn if the benefits are not offset by negative climatic factors. Drought years have become common over the past 20 years. Thirteen of the past 20 years and 8 of the past 10 have brought below-average moisture to the Ely area. 37

52 PRONGHORN Units 115, 231, 242: Eastern Lincoln and Southern White Pine Counties Report by: Mike Scott Ground surveys were conducted for pronghorn in these units during October A total of 442 pronghorn was classified, consisting of 99 bucks, 251 does, and 92 fawns. These numbers result in a ratio of 39 bucks:100 does:37 fawns. Animals were found distributed throughout Lake, South Spring, Snake, and Hamlin Valleys. conditions were rated as good during the survey due to late summer and fall precipitation. Antelope appear to be distributed in areas away from traditional water sources, likely due to over population of wild horses utilizing most of the forage near free water sources. The wild horses in this area appear to be well above the appropriate management level. BLM recently completed habitat projects for the benefit of sage grouse that will likely benefit pronghorn populations. Multiple water development sites have recently been cleared and materials purchased for installation in pronghorn habitat. NDOW and volunteers are planning to help BLM with the installation of some of these projects. Population Status, and Trend The computer-generated population estimate for 2009 is down slightly when compared to the 2008 estimate. Units 131, 145, 163, 164: Southern Eureka, Northeastern Nye, and Southwestern White Pine Counties Report by: Mike Podborny Post-season herd composition surveys were conducted from the ground in September and October There were 106 antelope classified compared to a sample of 127 antelope surveyed in The age and sex ratio of the 2008 survey was 29 bucks:100 does:23 fawns. In 2007 the survey resulted in a ratio of 31 bucks:100 does:19 fawns. The 10-year-average ( ) fawn ratio was 27 and has ranged from 5 to 40 during that same time period. The Southwest Intertie Project (SWIP) is a large 500 kv power line proposed from Idaho to Las Vegas and will cross through Jakes Valley in Unit 131. This power line when constructed should have minimal impacts to antelope but disturbance of habitat will occur. The fawn production was below-average for the second consecutive year and the computer modeled population estimate indicates a downward trend of 7%. This antelope herd has increased significantly in the past 20 years due to ingress of antelope from other areas, transplants, increasing habitat due to water developments and some favorable weather conditions. The larger population size and associated increased distribution has resulted in an increased use of alfalfa fields by antelope over the years. Fencing of some fields and the installation of guzzlers to provide additional water away from fields has lessened the impacts of antelope on private land. As these antelope populations continue to increase in this area, the challenge will be to employ management that minimizes conflicts with private land 38

53 PRONGHORN Units , 245: Eastern Nye and Western Lincoln Counties Report by: Mike Podborny There were 190 antelope classified during post-season ground surveys in the major valleys in Units 132, 133 and 134. Unit 245 was not surveyed. The survey was conducted in September and October 2008; yielding ratios of 51 bucks:100 does:23 fawns. In 2007, 59 antelope were classified; yielding ratios of 31 bucks:100 does:10 fawns. The previous significant post-season herd composition survey was conducted in 2002 when 238 pronghorn was classified; yielding ratios of 28 bucks:100 does:6 fawns. Four water developments in Garden and Coal valleys that were rebuilt by the NDOW Guzzler Crew in These water developments will secure a reliable water source for antelope and other wildlife. The Caliente Nuclear Train Route proposed by the Department of Energy (DOE) from Utah to Yucca Mountain will bisect Units 132 and 133. There may be some negative effects on the antelope population depending on fencing or other structures that might be associated with the project. The Southwest Intertie Project (SWIP) is a large 500 Kv power line proposed from Idaho to Las Vegas and will bisect several valleys in this unit group. The potential impacts to antelope are anticipated to be minimal. In January 2008, 184 antelope were captured in Unit 068 north of Interstate 80 and released in 2 valleys of Unit 133 (Coal and Garden). Antelope from the release were not located during post-season ground surveys in the valleys where they were released. Reports were received of over a hundred antelope on the agricultural fields at Rachel in Unit 245 with some of these animals having ear tags from the previous winter s release. The lack of a significant sample during post-season surveys the previous 7 years resulted in an under estimation of the buck segment of the population. The model in 2009 was adjusted to better reflect the high buck ratio observed during the survey. Units 141, 143, : Eastern Lander and Eureka Counties Report by: Jeremy Lutz Post-season antelope surveys were conducted from the ground in September, October, November, and January of Areas surveyed included Crescent Valley, Grass Valley, Antelope Valley, Reese River Valley, Monitor Valley and the Simpson Park Mountains. A record 585 animals were classified during postseason surveys. The resulting ratios were 45 bucks:100 does:54 fawns. The previous year s sample (2007) was 348 antelope classified; yielding ratios of 38:100:35. This year 1,700 feral horses were removed from Units 152,154 and 155. This will greatly alleviate grazing pressure on native grasses and shrubs and reduce heavy use on springs and riparian areas in Lander County. If horse management levels are continued to be managed correctly, recovery on key plants and riparian areas will greatly benefit antelope, as well as all wildlife. This year s post-season survey was the largest ever collected for this management unit. Good snow accumulations during December forced antelope to migrate and concentrate onto their wintering grounds. This led to favorable survey conditions with 350 animals being classified in Crescent Valley alone. 39

54 PRONGHORN The population is estimated above 600 animals which is approximately 100 animals higher than last year s estimate. This estimate was adjusted upward due to the larger samples being surveyed during the last 5 years. High fawn ratios in all units will allow for an upward trend of this population to continue. Units 161, 162, Northern Nye, Southeastern Lander, and Southwestern Eureka Counties Report by: Tom Donham A total of 56 pronghorn were classified during a shortened fall ground survey in 2008.The sample included 9 bucks, 34 does, and 13 fawns. Due to the very small sample size, fawn:doe and buck:doe ratios are believed to be biased. Although production rates were somewhat better than those experienced in 2006 and 2007 throughout central Nevada, it is apparent that drought conditions continue to impact the herds. conditions in central Nevada suffered greatly due to severe drought conditions beginning in late 2006 and lasting throughout Some relief was provided to portions of central Nevada when the Bureau of Land Management removed 205 feral horses during January and February The horses were removed from the Stone Cabin herd management area (HMA), a portion of which lies within Unit 162. The removal of these feral horses should help improve forage conditions as well as provide some relief to critical water sources that have been severely impacted by feral horse resource abuse and drought. The completion of 3 water developments in the southern portion of Unit 162 should benefit pronghorn that have been impacted by the downward trend of natural spring sources caused by feral horses and drought. The water development projects were begun in 2005 by the USFS, and to date, only 1 development has been completed. Unfortunately, the USFS has not fenced the water development that was built and feral horses are currently utilizing it. This situation is increasing horse use in the very area where the development was supposed to have provided relief to resident pronghorn. During the mid 1980 s favorable climatic conditions allowed pronghorn populations to expand throughout central Nevada, including Units Drought conditions experienced during most years from the late 1980 s thru the mid 1990 s slowed, and in some instances reversed growth. While pronghorn populations remained relatively stable from the late 1990 s thru the early 2000 s, severe drought conditions experienced during 2002 and 2003 once again took a toll on these herds. Drought conditions can result in poor body condition of adult animals due to reduced nutrition, resulting in under-weight fawns, as well as reducing fawn hiding cover during the time when they are most susceptible to predation. In 2004 and 2005 we saw some improvement in production rates due to slightly more favorable climatic conditions, and the pronghorn herds received a short reprieve. Unfortunately, drought conditions returned to central Nevada in late 2006 and continued throughout 2007 and into The Unit pronghorn herd suffered very low production in 2007, and while 2008 saw some increases, overall the herd continues to experience a downward trend, as climatic conditions remain less that optimal. Although pronghorn continue to struggle due to poor habitat conditions throughout most of Units 161 and 162, an increase in numbers over the past several years has occurred around agricultural areas in Big Smoky Valley, Unit 161. This increase can be attributed to transplants of pronghorn in neighboring units, as well as the availability of higher quality forage and more reliable access to water in these areas during critical periods. The current population estimate for the pronghorn herd is lower than the previous year. 40

55 PRONGHORN Units , Northwestern Nye and Southern Lander Counties Report by: Tom Donham A shortened post-season composition survey was conducted from the ground in Units during the fall of During the survey a total sample of 35 pronghorn was classified as 9 bucks, 21 does, and 5 fawns. Although production in Management Area 17 was noticeably better than that observed in 2007, it remains well below average due to continuing drought conditions. Three wildlife water developments have been installed in Unit 172 over the past several years and pronghorn have benefited from the reduction of competition with feral horses and livestock at natural waters. These waters have allowed pronghorn to utilize habitats and associated forage that are unavailable to feral horses and livestock for a large part of the year due to a lack of natural water. The water developments have become even more important to the population during the recent series of drought periods. Between 1988 and 2003, 173 pronghorn were released into Ione Valley, Unit 172.Following these releases, many animals dispersed into adjoining areas, which slowed the growth of the Management Area 17 pronghorn herd, but at the same time, benefited surrounding areas. While the largest portion of the Management Area 17 pronghorn herd currently inhabits the southern portions of Units 172 and 173, increases in pronghorn numbers occurring in agricultural areas in Unit 184 have begun to stimulate population growth in the northern reaches of 172. The Management Area 17 pronghorn herd has experienced somewhat better production than other central Nevada herds during recent drought periods, which allowed this herd to show moderate growth while others did not. Unfortunately, during 2007 and 2008, this was not the case. Currently, the Area 17 herd is experiencing the same lower production rates as other central Nevada herds. Until climatic conditions and therefore habitat conditions improve, the Area 17 pronghorn herd is expected to continue to struggle. Pronghorn regularly move between Nye, Esmeralda, Mineral, and Churchill Counties, which makes it very difficult to develop a population estimate for this area. Currently, the Unit pronghorn population appears to be experiencing a slightly decreasing trend. Units : Churchill, Southern Pershing, Western Lander and Northern Mineral Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury A total of 231 pronghorn was observed during the 2008 post-season survey. The resulting ratios were 52 bucks:100 does:34 fawns. Areas surveyed included Smith Creek Valley, Edwards Creek, Bell Flat, and Dixie Valley. The Area 18 herd continues to exhibit relatively high buck ratios. This year s survey of 231 pronghorn is a 57% increase in what was surveyed the previous year. This record sample size was the result of an expanded search into new areas not previously surveyed before. This past year s lack of winter precipitation has negatively affected forage quality and has left water developments within Churchill County averaging half full, indicating lack of moisture received in 2008 and Considerable moisture needs to be realized in the spring and early summer months of 2009 to 41

56 PRONGHORN provide vigor to perennial bunch grasses as well as browse species. Future improvements in water availability will be important to increasing pronghorn numbers in this resource area. The Area 18 antelope herd has been increasing slightly since Observed fawn ratios have declined over the last 2 years due to recent drought conditions experienced in Churchill County but still remain above maintenance levels. Recruitment rates have averaged in the mid thirties and will allow for a stable to slightly increasing trend in this population. The 2009 population estimate for the management area pronghorn herd is 400 animals which represent a slight increase from what was reported last year. Units 202, 204: Lyon and Mineral Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury Post-season antelope surveys were conducted from the ground in February A sample of 87 pronghorn was obtained with sex and age ratios of 33 bucks:100 does:25 fawns. The 2008 fawn ratio was well below the previous 5-year average of 46 fawns:100 does. The winter of has offered little in the way of normal precipitation totals. As of this writing, current range conditions are poor. Spring and summer precipitation will be needed to stimulate growth in bunch grasses and shrubs. Feral horse gathers were conducted in the Bodie Hills and Aurora Peak by the United States Forest Service during A total of 200 horses was removed. These removals from pronghorn summer range should lessen competition for forage and water resources between horses and pronghorn. This was the second consecutive year that fawn production was in the twenties. This year s decreased fawn recruitment is a direct result of below average precipitation levels, which results in poor vegetation conditions on summer and winter ranges. This decline in vegetation quality can account for poor body condition of does resulting in poor fawn recruitment. Units 203, 291: Lyon, Douglas Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury Post season ground surveys resulted in the classification of 49 animals with a ratio of 56 bucks:100 does:24 fawns. Areas surveyed include the Buckskin, Singatse, and the Pinenut Mountain Ranges. Precipitation levels received during the winter of were well below average. Observation of bunchgrass s and brush species in these units indicate a decline in quality and quantity due to low precipitation receipts. Forage at upper elevations was adequate in the spring 2009 but moisture is needed to sustain succulent and nutritious forage through the summer months. Degraded habitat conditions as well as pinyon and juniper invasion still limits pronghorn distribution. Past fires such as the Sunrise fire located in Churchill Canyon has had a positive effect on habitat for pronghorn. Upper elevation basins in the Pinenut Range provide food and water for pronghorn. Dry conditions experienced in 2008 and 2009 may affect the overall water availability during the summer months for the pronghorn occupying Unit 291. Past fires such as the Adrian Valley Fire that burned 18,000 acres occurred in the Pine Nut Mountains in the summer of This fire burned an area dominated by pinyon pine woodland. Of that estimated 42

57 PRONGHORN burned area, 750 acres were seeded with a grass and forb mixture. It is believed that this fire should recover on its own and will be beneficial to the antelope herd. Fawn production in these unit groups from has resulted in a decreasing population trend. Increased fawn recruitment in 2007 allowed for a slight bump in population growth. However, over the long- term the decreased recruitment rates observed from and in 2008 has had a static effect to the herd s population. The unit group s population is now estimated at 60 animals and approximates what was reported last year. Units 205, 206: Eastern Mineral County Report by: Jason Salisbury Harvest Results The 2009 season structure for the any legal weapon hunt 1331 was changed to occur in late September. The justification for the change in the season timing was past conflicts that have been occurring between hunters and the North and South Off-road Race that runs concurrent to the hunting season. The Mineral County Game Board opted to change the season dates to reduce problems between hunters and off-road enthusiasts. Hunters will encounter severely eroded and degraded roads caused by the North and South race while hunting Area 205. Hunters should be prepared to encounter berms and ruts three and half feet deep while hunting the area. Post-season composition surveys were conducted from the ground in September A sample of 65 antelope was classified, which yielded a composition ratio of 42 bucks:100 does:29 fawns. Areas surveyed include Calvada Flat, Whiskey Flat, Rawhide, Huntoon and the Gabbs Valley Range. Future water developments are crucial for addressing the current habitat requirements of this herd and for the occupation of pronghorn into new and varying habitats. The Calvada Summit guzzler is an important water development used by the antelope herd and in 2008 maintenance including new gutters and pipe rail fences replaced old designs. Additionally, in February of 2009 the adjacent Sunrise Flat water development was upgraded and should provide antelope the use of considerable winterfat communities that occur there. As of this writing, new water developments are proposed to the Bureau of Land Management to address future distribution goals for Units 205 and 206. The Area 20 antelope herd occupies varying habitat from upper elevation tables to valley floors, which encompass a large geographic area. New observations of pronghorn were made in Some of these new areas occupied by antelope will be surveyed more effectively in the future to get a larger sample size. The population estimate for the Area 20 antelope herd is 320 animals. Overall, this population appears to be stable. 43

58 PRONGHORN Units , 241: Lincoln and Southern White Pine Counties Report by: Mike Scott Ground surveys were conducted for pronghorn in these units during October A total of 116 antelope was classified consisting of 25 bucks, 62 does, and 29 fawns. These numbers result in a ratio of 40 bucks:100 does:47 fawns. Animals were difficult to locate due to recent precipitation events. They were found distributed throughout the major valleys in all units. conditions were rated as good throughout the hunt units due to late summer and fall rains. BLM recently completed a sage grouse habitat project in Cave Valley that will likely benefit pronghorn. The project cleared a large area of decadent sagebrush in a mosaic pattern leaving patches of sagebrush intact in the interior of the project area. Wild horse numbers remain well above appropriate management levels in the southern portion of Area 22, which has a detrimental effect on pronghorn habitat. Multiple threats to pronghorn habitat exist or are being planned throughout various portions of the area including powerlines, OHV trails, renewable energy facilities, railroad lines, etc. The computer-generated population estimate for 2009 is down from Hunter success (71%) in 2008 was lower than last year s success rate of 91%. High buck ratios, as well as an increase in this population, will result in slightly higher tags for the 2009 hunting season. Unit 251, Central Nye County Report by: Tom Donham Post-season composition surveys were conducted from the ground in Unit 251 during the fall of The survey included south Stone Cabin Valley, south Ralston Valley, and Reveille Valley. A total of 177 pronghorn was classified as 50 bucks, 78 does, and 49 fawns. Although observed production rates in Unit 251 were very good in and around agricultural areas, outlying areas showed the same reduced production as the rest of central Nevada. Due to the existence of the U.S. Air Force s Tonopah Test Range (TTR) along the southern boundary of Unit 251, fluctuations in numbers and variations in buck:doe ratios can occur regularly due to movement of animals onto and off the TTR. This movement has increased as the amount of irrigated land increases near the Range boundary. Pronghorn habitat in Unit 251 has been severely impacted by drought and unreasonable numbers of feral horses for quite some time. Some natural water sources that have been damaged by feral horses for years went dry during the summer of 2007 due to drought. Forage conditions, which have suffered from high numbers of horses, were again severely impacted during 2007 by the drought. While 2008 saw improved precipitation, the amount and timing of the moisture was not sufficient to improve range conditions to any real degree. During January and February 2007, the Bureau of Land Management conducted several feral horse gathers in central Nevada. A total of 461 feral horses were removed from the Stone Cabin, Reveille, and Saulsbury HMA s, as well as the surrounding areas. The majority of these feral horses were removed from Unit 251. The removal of these feral horses should allow habitat conditions to improve as well as provide some relief to critical water sources that have been severely impacted by feral horse abuse. Although the gathers are 44

59 PRONGHORN a step in the right direction, feral horse numbers are still above appropriate levels and impacts to pronghorn, other wildlife, and their habitats will likely continue. The Unit 251 pronghorn population experienced stable population levels for several years during the late 1990 s, as did most pronghorn populations throughout much of central Nevada. These herds experienced decreased production/recruitment during 2002 and 2003 due to extremely dry conditions, resulting in decreasing population trends. Despite improved climatic conditions in 2004 and 2005, the Unit 251 pronghorn herd suffered below average production during those years as well. While high numbers of feral horses have impacted the Unit 251 pronghorn herd as well as those that inhabit the TTR, there have been some increases in pronghorn numbers around agricultural areas. As habitat conditions have degraded, and natural waters suffered, agricultural areas attract more and more pronghorn along the TTR boundary. Presently, due to movements of animals into the Unit from the larger Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) that encompassed the TTR, the Unit 251 population is considered stable to slightly increasing. The pre-hunt population estimate for Unit 251 did not change from last year. 45

60 ELK ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK Units 061, 071, Bruneau River and Merritt Mountain Area: Northern Elko County Report by: Ken Gray Harvest Results Sixty-seven rifle bull elk tags, including incentive and nonresident tags were available for the 2008 season. Hunter success for the resident rifle bull hunt was 56%. A total of 1,466 elk was classified from a helicopter during February of The sex and age ratios of the sample were 38 bulls:100 cows:56 calves (Table 1). The bull ratio was 6 bulls above the past 10-yearaverage and the calf ratio was 14 calves above the past 10-year-average. Table 1. Observed bull ratios, calf ratios and sample size for elk in Units Parameter Average Bulls:100 cows from winter surveys Calves:100 cows from winter surveys Sample size from winter surveys The Murphy fire burned approximately 550,000 acres during the summer of This fire burned most of the Bruneau River drainage, parts of the Mahogany Range and over half of the Diamond A Desert. The grass and forb components showed excellent recovery throughout the burn in In addition, significant aspen sprouting was noted in many of the stands that burned. The recovery of the grass and forb segment of the burn combined with overall good range conditions throughout the unit group helped produce the highest calf ratio ever obtained in this area. A rangeland consultant has been hired and will conduct monitoring for the Forest Service this summer to determine if elk are having any negative impacts on the vegetation within the unit group. In addition, the Idaho BLM will be monitoring some high use elk wintering areas on the Diamond A Desert to measure elk utilization. The population estimate in Unit Group was increased to close to 1,600 elk. This represents about a 700 animal increase from last year s estimate. Most of this increase is due to the large calf crop that was recruited into the population this year. In addition, approximately 100 elk were thought to have moved into Unit 062 as a result of the Murphy Fire and were subtracted from the 2008 estimate. These elk were added back into the current Unit population estimate as it appears they moved back as the fire recovered. Finally, it is believed that adult elk survival was under-estimated in this elk herd during the past several years. The adult survival rates were increased in the model which resulted in additional increases in the population estimate. The recommended tag quotas will be significantly higher in 2009 for both bull and antlerless elk. 46

61 ELK Units 062, 064, , Independence and Tuscarora Ranges: Western Elko and Northern Eureka and Lander Counties Report by: Ken Gray A total of 310 elk was classified from the air during February 2009; yielding ratios 45 bulls:100 cows:38 calves. The calf ratio was slightly lower than the past 5-year-average while the bull ratio was 20 bulls:100 cows higher that the past 5-year-average. Table 1 depicts the survey data obtained for the past 5 years. Table 1. Observed bull ratios, calf ratios and sample size for elk in Units Parameter Average Bulls:100 cows from winter surveys Calves:100 cows from winter surveys Sample size from winter surveys No large fires burned in this unit group during the summer of However, from over 677,000 acres burned within occupied elk habitat. Many of these burns have recovered and are now dominated by perennial grasslands. The shrub component will take years to recover. These types of vegetative communities favor elk but are detrimental habitat for deer. A large fence (.75 miles) was built in northern Boulder Valley to protect an alfalfa stack-yard from elk that winter in the area. The elk population continues to grow in this area with the population being estimated at approximately 440 elk. Last year it was estimated that approximately 100 elk moved into Unit 062 from Unit 061as a result of the Murphy fire during the summer of It appears these elk moved back into Unit 061 this past year as the Murphy burn recovered. Consequently 100 elk were removed from the current population model. Recent surveys have indicated that adult survival has been higher than has been projected in the model; therefore survival rates within the model were increased this year which raised the population estimate. An antlerless hunt will be implemented this year for the first time. The objective of the recommended antlerless quota will be to maintain the elk population between 450 and 500 elk which is consistent with the Western Elko County Elk Plan. Units 072, 074 Jarbidge Mountains: Northern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Harvest Results Unit 074 has been included in this unit group since the 2005 bull hunting season. Eight of the 42 bulls harvested from this unit group were taken in Unit 074 during the 2008 season. For specific 2008 hunting results, please refer to Harvest Tables in the Appendix Section. Post-season surveys conducted in February resulted in the classification of 643 elk with observed sex and age ratios of 51 bulls:100 cows:31 calves. Based on the post-season calf ratio this herd experienced 30% 47

62 ELK lower recruitment than the previous 5-year-average production of 44 calves:100 cows. This herd was impacted by severe fire seasons in 2007 and The Murphy Fire (578,401 acres) burned mostly north and west of the Unit 072 boundary, however the fire had significant impacts in Idaho where this herd often winters. The Scott Creek Fire (55,658 acres) mostly impacted the northern portion of Unit 074. The East Slide Rock Ridge Fire (54,549 acres) burned the northeastern portion of the Jarbidge Wilderness and on out to the north and east towards Idaho. The Jarbidge Mountains Elk Herd Management Plan states that the population objective was 1,000 elk by the year 2010 and that this objective will be evaluated and may be formally adjusted after In order to address this section of the plan, NDOW will be working with the US Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management to monitor elk use on vegetation at current population levels. Fires may have negatively impacted calf survival this winter due to significant portions of their winter range having been burned and forcing the elk to move further than usual during periods of severe weather. These fires may prove to be beneficial to elk in the long term with grasses and aspen communities expanding especially at the higher elevations. This elk herd has continued to expand both in numbers and range to the east and south into Units 073 and 074, due mostly to the positive effects of these recent fires. As a result, antlerless hunts have been added for both the 073 and 074 Units for the 2009 season. The bull hunt will remain combined for the Unit Group and a new bull hunt has been added for Unit 073. The Jarbidge Mountains Elk Herd Management Plan identifies an elk herd population objective of 1,000 elk. In order to slow down the growth of this elk herd and manage it for the population objective, antlerless hunts in Unit 072 have been scheduled for the 2009 hunting season. Although calf recruitment was lower this year, the low success of antlerless elk hunters in this area will require antlerless tag recommendations to increase in order to keep up with population growth. Unit 073 Stag Mountain Area: Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner and Ken Gray Harvest Data The 2009 hunting season will be the first hunting season offered for this herd. Two helicopter elk surveys were conducted in 073 this past fall and winter. The first survey was conducted in the western portion of the unit (west of the main Charleston Road) in November This was the first comprehensive helicopter elk survey conducted in the western part of 073. A total of 308 elk was classified yielding sex and age ratios of 49 bulls:100 cows:49 calves. The second survey focused on the eastern portion of the unit (east of the main Charleston Road) and was conducted in February A total of 301 elk was classified elk with observed sex and age ratios of 11 bulls:100 cows:40 calves. During this survey over 300 elk were also counted on the western portion of the unit. These elk were not classified as they were likely classified in November. Unit 073 has been severely impacted by fire during the past 10 years. The Charleston fire burned nearly 150,000 acres while the Gopher and Sugarloaf fires burned another 35,129 acres in The recovery of perennial grass has been phenomenal in much of the areas that burned. In addition, these fires were heavily seeded with a mixture of plant species which has accelerated the recovery of these burns, 48

63 ELK especially the grass component. The resulting habitat created by these burns has been excellent for elk and has facilitated high calf production. In 1997 fifty elk were reintroduced into the Stud Creek area of Unit 073. It is estimated that close to 20 of these elk moved over to the Stag Mountain and Mason Mountain areas within the western portion of the unit. In addition, a small number of elk may have moved into the western portion of 073 from Unit 071 in the late 1990s. With good to excellent production rates during the past 10 years this segment of the herd has grown to over 350 elk. The release of elk into the Stud Creek area resulted in the establishment of a resident herd in this area. In addition, it is believed that a significant number of elk are moving into this unit from the Mary s River area (Unit 072) during the fall and winter months. A satellite radio-collaring project is being proposed for this herd for the fall of This project will help determine the seasonal distribution of the elk using Unit 073 and will aid in the distribution of antlerless tags to meet population objectives. The Wells Resource Elk Management Plan provides management guidance for the eastern portion of 073 while the Western Elko County Elk Management Plan provides guidance for the western portion. Unit 073 will be managed as 1 hunt unit for the next 2 years. Population estimates and survey data will be combined in the associated tables. The objective of the recommended harvest strategies will be to reduce the elk herds in this unit. This unit contains a high number of roads per square mile and excessive numbers of antlerless elk hunters could move elk entirely out of the unit before the bull hunters have a chance to hunt. Therefore, it may take a few years to achieve population objectives or it may require a change in harvest strategies by moving the majority of antlerless hunters to the late antlerless season that occurs after the bull hunts are over. Information obtained from these new seasons combined with data from the proposed collaring project will help refine future harvest strategies. Unit 075, Snake Mountains: Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Harvest Results Managing for a population objective of only 100 elk as outlined in the 075 elk sub-plan has been challenging and requires adequate harvest of both sexes in order to be successful. Since the first elk hunt in this unit during the fall of 1999, quotas were significantly increased in response to elk population growth, low hunter success, and NDOW s responsibility to manage for the elk population objective. Both split and longer seasons allowed antlerless elk hunters to be more effective. A portion of Unit 074 was included in the 075 antlerless hunt because the majority of 075 elk were spending part of the time in that area. Future harvest strategies will be designed to meet management objectives. Starting in 2009, both Unit 074 and Unit 075 will have their own separate antlerless hunts in the early season and then be combined with Unit 072 and Unit 073 for a late antlerless hunt. Post-season surveys resulted in the classification of 137 elk yielding age and sex ratios of 35 bulls:100 cows:26 calves. Both bull and calf ratios were lower this year. A 16,720 acre wildfire burned in the Deer Creek portion of this unit in the summer of Although the initial impacts to wildlife were negative, the elk herd is again utilizing this area due to the release of the perennial grasses, forbs, and aspen as the burn recovers. It will be several years until the brush component begins to recover. 49

64 ELK The Unit 075 elk population remains relatively stable just above the population objective but spend part of the fall and winter in Unit 074. Both antlerless and bull quota recommendations will remain aggressive in an attempt to keep this herd within population objective levels identified in the sub-plan. Units 076, 077, 079, 081 Thousand Springs, Goose Creek, and Pequop Mountains Area: Northern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Harvest Results In 2008, bull tags were slightly reduced in this area and antlerless tags were increased again. This was in response to a good bull harvest the previous year and the herd reaching the population objective set for the area. Bull hunter success was up from last year s numbers by any legal weapon, muzzleloader, and archery hunters. The 2008 hunting season was the second year a split antlered elk season was held in this unit group. So far the split seems to be effective as both success and percentage of 6-points or better was consistent for both the early and late seasons. Antlerless hunter success was lower than expected. Because of the lower calf ratios, the antlerless harvest was still effective at maintaining the overall population of the herd near objective levels. Post-season surveys resulted in the classification of 684 elk yielding age and sex ratios of 45 bulls:100 cows:36 calves. The observed bull ratio was above the 5-year average of 35 bulls:100 cows, however the calf ratio was lower than the previous 5-year average of 46 calves:100 cows for the second consecutive year. Nearly 240,000 acres burned in this unit group during the summer of Extensive seeding efforts were expended to rehabilitate these fire ravaged areas. The habitat seems to be responding favorably as it did after the fires in 1999 and The long term outlook is good for elk. Most of the water developments proposed for the area have been built and are currently being used by elk. This increased water availability is helping distribute the elk throughout the unit group. It will be important in the future to replace existing cable fences with pipe-rail fences at the water developments in an attempt to more effectively exclude livestock. A private consultant conducted a habitat monitoring study for the BLM to assess elk use of vegetation at current elk densities since the population objective has been reached. The results of that study indicated that elk were not competing with livestock for forage at the current population level. The study also discovered that use was fairly high in isolated aspen and mixed shrub communities by a combination of cattle, elk, antelope, and deer. A fecal analysis study was conducted to determine which species may be having the most impact. The results showed that mule deer were having the most impact on bitterbrush, whereas the cattle, elk, and antelope were concentrating on grasses. There was some use of serviceberry and snowberry by elk and antelope. With low calf recruitment observed in this unit group for the second consecutive year and an effective antlerless harvest strategy, the 076, 077, 079, 081 elk herd experienced a slight reduction in population this year. A good majority of this unit group is comprised of checkerboard lands, meaning every other section is either public or private. The elk are spending a good deal of time on private lands in this area. There are 50

65 ELK currently 10 landowners that participate in the elk incentive tag program who qualified for 29 elk incentive tags. It should also be noted that Unit 081 was split out from the rest of the unit group for the antlerless season this year. This was due to low hunting pressure in the past and increasing elk numbers attracted to the area by recovering burns that are currently providing excellent elk habitat in this unit. The objective is to reduce elk numbers in this unit. Units 078, 104, , Spruce Mountain: Elko County Report by: Tony Wasley Harvest Results In the eighth year of this hunt, 5 any legal weapon tags were available and 3 hunters were successful. For specific 2008 hunting results, please refer to Harvest Tables in the Appendix Section. Elk surveys were conducted for this unit in early February A total of 161 elk was observed yielding age and sex ratios of 8 bulls:100 cows:28 calves. Consistent with historic trends for this unit group, the calf ratio is exceptionally weak. The calf ratio in this unit group is one of the lowest calf ratios observed in the state and with the exception of 2006 (46) has been low for several years. Weather and Winters have been mild in this area and the adult elk in this unit appear virtually unaffected by them survey data suggests that calf production and recruitment remain low and hinder this population s growth potential. Forage production and quality in this area is largely dictated by spring and summer precipitation. Should favorable conditions exist over the spring and summer of 2009, improved calf production and recruitment should be realized. In the winter of 1997, 146 elk were released in Unit 105 on Spruce Mountain. It has been 12 years since the releases and the elk have established themselves throughout Unit 105. Although production remains low, several mature bulls have been observed and harvested. The herd appears to be expanding its distribution, as elk have been observed moving north into Unit 078. Because of the low levels of calf recruitment observed in this unit, the 2009 population estimate shows a mere 2% increase over Harvest management is designed to promote herd growth towards the population objective of 340 elk. Additionally, several habitat projects in the area, including chainings, seedings, and water developments, should assist the population. Unit 091 Pilot Range, Eastern Elko County Report by: Kari Huebner Harvest Results The elk quota is allocated equally each year between Nevada and Utah. For the 2008 hunting season, Utah hunters harvested 4 bulls and Nevada hunters harvested 4 bulls. Bull quotas for the 2009 season will remain the same. Antlerless harvest has been discontinued for this elk herd at the present time. No survey was conducted in this unit this year. 51

66 ELK Population modeling for Unit 091 predicts a pre-hunt adult elk population approximately 10% higher than last year. This herd has remained fairly stable for the past several years. Unit , East Humboldt and Ruby Mountains: Elko County Report by: Tony Wasley Tag Quotas and Harvest Results Cow tags in this unit group have ranged from 30 in 2005 to 45 in 2006, 60 in 2007, and back down to 40 in The bull tag quota has ranged from 15 in 2005 to 20 in 2006, and 30 in 2007 and Both cow tag and bull tag adjustments were warranted by changes in hunter success. Although very few resident elk exist in these units, elk from adjacent units moving in and out of the area require maximum quota flexibility. Despite 40 cow tags and 30 bull tags in 2008, only 2 cows and 9 bulls were harvested. For specific 2008 hunting season results, please refer to Harvest Tables in the Appendix Section. Specific elk surveys are not conducted this unit group, but intensive helicopter surveys are conducted for deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and pronghorn. Elk observations are documented during these surveys, when hunters and others report sightings, or when landowner complaints are received and investigated. Incidental to other wildlife surveys in the area during 2008 and 2009, 13 elk were observed from the helicopter in these units. Only 5 different landowners have complained of elk use or damage over the past 10 years. This is a depredation hunt with the objective of eliminating elk or keeping elk numbers at a level where depredation on agriculture does not occur and a viable elk herd does not become established. This hunt has been very effective to that end. At this time, it is believed that there are very few if any yearlong resident elk in these units. Observations of individual elk have been reported and small groups of elk have been found, within the unit, crossing the unit boundary, or near the periphery of these hunt units. However, despite these periodic observations, the population remains at extremely low levels throughout most of the hunt units. Units , 221, 222, Schell, Egan, and Snake Ranges: Eastern White Pine, and Northern Lincoln Counties Report by: Curt Baughman Seasons, Tag Quotas and Harvest Results The total quota of 1,268 tags approved for 2008 hunts followed a record 1,630 tags in Management objectives for the 2008 harvest were a stable postseason bull:100 cow ratio and a lower overall harvest of antlerless elk. There were 517 total bull tags and 751 total antlerless tags issued in Bull quotas were the lowest since 2004 while antlerless quotas remained above the average of 711 tags. Elk hunters reported a total harvest of 615 elk in 2008, second only to the record harvest of 692 elk in The 2008 harvest included 286 bulls and 329 antlerless elk. The 2007 harvest consisted of 302 bulls and 390 antlerless elk. The overall success rate for bull elk hunters in 2008 was 55% compared to a record low 48% in Overall success for cow elk hunters was 45% in 2008, up from 40% in The 2008 harvest contained 55% 6-point or better bulls compared to 61% in 2007 and a record 72% in the 2006 harvest. The long-term ( ) average has been 50% 6-point or better bulls in the harvest. In larger herds with ample sample sizes, point class data correlates roughly with the average age of harvested bulls. Changes in hunter success rates and point class data are influenced by a multitude of factors including fluctuations in quotas, male age structure of the herd, weather patterns 52

67 ELK during the hunts, and recently, the influence of poor habitat conditions on body condition and antler growth. Bull Age Avg # of teeth/year = 126 Unit Group , 221, 222 Bull Harvest Age Trend Year Average Age Maximum Age Figure 1. Average and maximum age of elk teeth submitted by bull elk hunters from Unit Group , 221, 222 from , excluding 2004 and The winter survey was flown in combination with a postseason deer survey in December Flight time was more than double that of the survey. The first half of the survey was marked by warm temperatures and scant snow cover. Winter finally arrived in mid-december which improved survey conditions dramatically. A sample of 2,089 elk was classified; yielding BCC ratios of 34:100:35. During the previous survey, 1,817 elk were sampled; yielding BCC ratios of 33:100:29. Survey sample composition has averaged 32B:100C:41C for the previous 10 years ( ). The previous 5-year-average ( ) sample size was 2,124 elk. In 2008, hunters were asked again to provide incisor teeth from bulls for aging. This volunteer effort produced teeth from 35% of harvested bulls. Ages of bulls ranged from yearlings to 16 years. Combined with data on main beam length (obtained for nearly all bulls), the analysis indicates an average age of 6.2 years. Similar studies for bull ages were conducted from and (Figure 1). Figure 2 represents the trend of how the main beam length changes with increasing bull age based on the 2008 data. In 2007, teeth were also collected from harvested antlerless elk. This revealed that the harvest was distribution across age classes from calves to 19 years. quality has declined since mid Since that time, precipitation measured at Ely by the National Weather Service totaled 63% of average. Moisture totals for the April through June period were 47% in 2007 and 28% in In addition, warmer than average temperatures during the spring and summer of 2007, cold and Longest Main Beam in Inches Unit Group , 221, 222 Bull Age vs Antler Length BULL AGE Main Beam Length each Bull 53 Age vs Antler Length Trendline Figure 2. The relationship of bull elk age and its main beam antler length from 2008 Unit Group 111, - 115, 221, 222 harvested bulls. Each dot is a different bull s age and measured main beam length.

68 ELK dry conditions during the spring of 2008 and a cold spring so far in 2009 have all had negative affects on forage quality. Water distribution has also suffered. Body condition has declined and is reflected in the lower elk calf recruitment observed over the past 2 years. On a positive note, precipitation received since October 1, 2008 in the Ely area is near normal levels and mountain Snotel sites have measured roughly 120% of average moisture. conditions for elk should improve over the short term. It will take longer term improvements in climatic conditions to reverse the affects of drought which has dominated the last decade. Elk habitat in White Pine County is under increasing threat from the development of homes. Private parcels are slowly being subdivided and sold, many of which are in prime big game habitat. Avenues for proactive purchases, easements or transfers need to be explored. In 2008 a 3,000 acre chaining was completed in Unit 112 and the Mule Deer Foundation is working with the Ely BLM to achieve the construction of 2 water developments in that unit. Additional habitat projects being planned by the land management agencies should be positive for elk. A summer project to replace cable fence around artificial water developments with pipe-rail fence should solve problems involving livestock use of water meant for wildlife in Unit 114. Short-term habitat improvements in 2009 may lead to higher calf production however it is doubtful that average levels will be exceeded. Recent management has been aimed at controlling elk numbers in some of the larger units while allowing for growth in other units that have not yet reached objectives. The point-class of harvested bulls, as well as age data from tooth analysis indicate a continued presence of mature bulls in the population. Population modeling over the past 6 years has focused on a better accounting of the bull segment within the population. Age data collected during 6 of the last 8 years has forced a higher estimate of the bull to cow ratio. At the same time, modeling shows a weakening in the age structure of mature bulls. Two years of high harvest and below-average calf recruitment have contributed to a lower population estimate for Quota recommendations for both antlered and antlerless elk will be lower in Unit 121 and portion of Units 104 and 108 Cherry Creek, North Egan, Butte and Medicine Ranges: Northern White Pine County Report by: Russell Woolstenhulme No specific surveys were conducted for this unit. However, incidental to post-season helicopter deer surveys a total of 146 elk classified resulting in ratios of 16 bulls:100 cows:33 calves. Precipitation for Unit 121 has been below normal for an extended period. The winter of resulted in a slightly above average amount of precipitation that needs to be followed by good precipitation through the spring and summer to improve drought conditions in Area 12. Small fires north of Piscevich Summit, within the Cove and near Augustine Springs, as well as vegetation modification in Smith Valley in the Egan Range could provide some quality elk habitat in the next few years. Following horse round-ups that were conducted in the Cherry Creek Range and Butte Valley during the summer of 2006, habitat looked to be improving. However, horse numbers seem to be increasing rapidly and range conditions in much of the hunt unit is in poor condition. This elk herd is believed to have realized steady population increases over the last couple of years. If annual precipitation returns to normal or above normal conditions, the herd has the potential of quickly advancing towards the population objective at which time an antlerless elk season will be implemented to more intensely manage the herd. Bull tag quota recommendations are expected to increase over last year. 54

69 ELK Units 131,132, White Pine, Grant and Quinn Canyon Ranges: Southern White Pine and Eastern Nye Counties Report by: Mike Podborny A 1-day helicopter post-season herd composition survey was conducted in Unit 131 in February The survey conditions were excellent with fresh deep snow, calm winds and a clear sky. There were 177 elk classified including several groups of bulls and cows on Kimberly Mountain which was surveyed for the first time. Some of the elk on Kimberly may be moving into Unit 131 from Unit 221. There were additional elk classified in Units 131 and 132 during spring deer surveys for a total sample of 207 elk; yielding ratios of 54 bulls:100 cows: 26 calves. On the previous survey there were 160 elk classified in January 2007; yielding ratios of 28 bulls:100 cows:50 calves. The 2009 calf ratio was the lowest reported for this unit group. There have been 5 water developments built for big game in Unit 131 in the last 10 years with additional projects scheduled for These projects have been built with volunteer labor from sportsmen working with the Forest Service and funding from RMEF. Elk, deer and other wildlife have been documented using these projects. Work is continuing on several aspen fencing projects in the Aspen Spring area of Unit 131 with the Forest Service. A proposed 2009 fencing project in the Grant Range will protect a spring source from all ungulate grazers that use the area. Some range fences in the White Pine Range will be modified to reduce impacts from elk. A water development project is planned near the Robinson Mine in an attempt to attract elk use away from the mining activity. This is a cooperative project between the Robinson Mine, BLM, NDOW, RMEF and local sportsman. There is a tremendous opportunity to improve habitat for elk and other wildlife through vegetation projects in the extensive Pinion/Juniper forests that exist throughout both of these units. The high number of bulls observed from the helicopter this winter was a direct result of excellent survey conditions that made it possible to locate bulls in thick tree cover. Bull survival rates were increased in the model to closer reflect the observed number of bulls on survey. This resulted in a slight increase in the population estimate with a higher bull ratio compared to The 2009 population estimate is 300 elk. The revision of the White Pine County Elk Management Plan, which began in December 2003, was approved by the Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners in This document provides guidance for management of elk in Units 131 and 132 with a single population objective of 300 elk. Five adult cow elk were captured and radio collared in January 2009 in the north end of Unit 131 along Highway 50. This project is intended to document the movement of elk between Units 131 and 108 to determine future management of elk in this area. Units : North-Central Nye and Southern Lander and Eureka Counties Report by: Tom Donham An aerial composition survey was conducted in late January 2009, in Unit 162. Mechanical failure of the helicopter caused the survey to be cut short, not allowing time to locate mature bull groups in traditional use areas. Due to this fact, the observed bull ratio is considered very biased. Cow-calf-young bull groups were located in normal winter use areas in southern portion of Unit 162. During the survey, 362 elk were observed. The sample included 59 bulls, 247 cows, and 56 calves. While elk appear to have withstood recent drought conditions more successfully that many species for the past few years, the latest observed calf ratio indicates that the Area 16 elk population has finally succumbed to the same lowered production and recruitment rates as many other big game species. The 2009 observed calf:cow ratio of 23:100 was the lowest on record. The previous survey took place in February 2008 when at total of 372 elk was 55

70 ELK observed. The sample included 35 bulls, 242 cows, and 95 calves. The Unit 162 elk population is the result of a release of 50 elk in January Following the 1979 release, the population increased steadily, and the inaugural elk hunt in Unit 162 took place in From 1984 to 2000, tag quotas remained conservative in order to allow the population to expand. During that period, the population was being managed under guidelines set in place by the Central Nevada Elk Interagency Elk Agreement. The agreement limited the population s size to approximately 425 adult animals. In an effort to remain in compliance with the population objective set forth in the agreement, tag quotas were increased significantly for the season. At about this same time, the Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners asked the Nye County Advisory Board to Manage Wildlife to take the lead in creating an elk sub-plan covering all of central Nevada in accordance with the Nevada Elk Species Management Plan. Following a long and arduous process, the plan was completed and approved by the Commission in January The CNEP provides management direction for Management Areas 16, 17, 21, and 25. Management Areas 21 and 25 were not considered for establishment of elk herds in the new plan. During the planning process, new population objectives were set in place, allowing for growth in the Management Area 16 elk population. During the elk season, reductions in tag quotas reflected this change in harvest strategy. Reduced antlerless elk harvest and good production have resulted in an increasing trend for the Management Area 16 elk population since. As the population moves towards the new objective, the NDOW will continue to recommend tag increases in order to control and keep up with growth of the population. By recommending quotas that keep up with population growth, a drastic increase in the quota, such as that seen in , may be avoided when the population nears the new objective. The majority of the Management Area 16 elk population continues to occupy the Monitor Range, Unit 162. The population in Unit 162 consists of 2 core herds. The Table Mountain herd, which is the larger of the 2 herds, spends much of the year on Table Mountain, and winters in the southern half of the Monitor range. The Butler/Willow herd spends much of the year in the Butler Basin/Willow Creek area and winters in the northern portion of the Monitor Range. In recent years, a small herd has established itself in Unit 163 in the Hot Creek Range, and observations of both bulls and cows have become more common in the Toquima Range, Unit 161. Elk movement from Management Area 16 into Management Area 17 to the west has also resulted in an established herd there. In December 2007, 5 cow elk were fitted with radio collars in Unit 173 in order to determine seasonal use areas and movement patterns of this newly established herd. The population model for Unit Group predicts a pre-hunt adult population estimate a bit higher than Unit 231, Wilson Creek Range: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Aerial surveys were conducted during January 2009 and resulted in a total of 429 elk observed. The classification of these elk was 171 bulls, 176 cows, and 82 calves. This results in a ratio of 97 bulls:100 cows:46 calves. Of the 171 bulls observed, 62% were classified as spikes to 4-points. The previous survey was conducted during February 2008 in Unit 231 and resulted in the classification of 353 elk. These included 121 bulls, 161 cows, and 71 calves, for a ratio of 75 bulls:100 cows:43 calves. 56

71 ELK Multiple threats to wildlife habitat exist throughout Area 23. Renewable energy in the form of wind power installed across the entire high elevation summer use areas will likely have a detrimental effect on elk and other wildlife. NDOW and Lincoln County residents are urging BLM and proponents to find a more suitable area in Lincoln County for this project. Massive numbers of wild horses have over utilized many of the traditional areas where elk have been found. Forage for elk is now unavailable throughout some of the burned areas due to excessive numbers of wild horses over the appropriate management level. Large expanses of dense pinyon-juniper with little or no understory vegetation still exist through much of Area 23, limiting forage for elk. BLM has recently cleared sites and purchased materials for several water developments in elk habitat. NDOW and volunteers will be needed to assist BLM with installation of many of these water developments. Higher-than-average harvest resulted in a total of 196 elk removed by hunters during all seasons. This included 127 antlerless and 69 antlered elk being harvested. Numbers of elk continue to climb despite the high numbers of tags. Elk appear to be utilizing the wilderness areas to avoid hunters. Hunters are precluded from many of these areas simply due to the distance they would need to travel on foot to harvest and pack out animals. Adjacent areas with higher numbers of elk are likely adding to the population of elk in Area 23. The population objective for Area 23 remains at 350 despite the 30,000 acres of PJ that has burned over the past decade. The quotas recommended will reflect NDOW s commitment to adhere to the population objective set in the Lincoln County Elk Management Plan. The computer-generated population estimate for 2009 is 515 animals, compared to 430 in Unit , Delamar and Clover Mountains: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Surveys were conducted during January 2009, but did not result in any elk being observed. No elk have been observed since the 2005 survey. NDOW plans to attach radio-telemetry collars to elk in the near future in an attempt to discover seasonal use areas. appears to be suitable for elk across broad acreages in Area 24. Fires have opened up large areas of PJ that elk tend to favor. Elk appear to be using private lands in Area 24 during the summer months, then migrating to unknown areas to winter. Return card data indicate that no elk were harvested from Area 24 in Reports and sightings indicate that there may be up to 80 elk in the area during the summer months. Unit 262, Spring Mountains: Clark and Southern Nye Counties Report by: Patrick Cummings No aerial survey was conducted in early In February 2008, a 4.1-hour aerial survey conducted in the Spring Mountains yielded a sample of 108 elk. The observed sex and age ratios were 13 bulls and 14 calves per 100 cows. The noted calf-to-cow ratio was among the lowest on record. As in past years, the aerial 57

72 ELK survey was focused in the area around the Cold Creek Community. Elk were encountered north of Mack s Canyon, on the north side of Willow Peak and in the Willow Creek Drainage. No elk were encountered on the McFarland Burn. Severely degraded vegetative conditions on the McFarland Burn were noted in 7 aerial surveys conducted between 2002 and 2008, and likely the reason fewer elk have been encountered in the area. Degraded habitat is largely the result of an over population of feral horses superimposed on effects of drought conditions. In December 2005, the Las Vegas District, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued a Decision Record and Finding of No Significant Impact for establishment of Appropriate Management Levels (AML) in the Johnnie, Muddy Mountains, and Wheeler Pass Herd Management Areas (HMA). The established AMLs for horses in the Johnnie HMA and Wheeler Pass HMA are 0 and 47-66, respectively. The established AMLs for burros in the Johnnie HMA and Wheeler Pass HMA are and 20-35, respectively. In January 2007, BLM and United States Forest Service (USFS) conducted gathers of feral horses and burros in the Johnnie HMA and Wheeler Pass HMA. Through these efforts, 368 horses and 400 burros were captured. In the Wheeler Pass HMA, of the 289 horses gathered 240 were removed and 45 were released back into the Spring Mountains. BLM has indicated 61 horses were left in the Wheeler Pass HMA. Thirtyseven burros captured in the Wheeler Pass HMA were removed, resulting in an estimated burros remaining in the HMA. In the Johnnie HMA, of the 79 horses captured 49 were removed and 30 were released back into the Spring Mountains. BLM has indicated 41 horses were left in the Johnnie HMA. All of the 363 burros gathered in the Johnnie HMA were removed, resulting in an estimated burros remaining in the HMA. In an inter agency coordination meeting held on 13 March 2008, the BLM horse specialist in the Las Vegas District indicated horse numbers were well above AML in Johnnie HMA and Wheeler Pass HMA, and that the next gather will not occur for another 5 years. Evidence of elk avoidance of roads and decrease in habitat use adjacent to roads is abundant in literature. Moreover, avoidance behavior becomes exacerbated in roaded areas adjacent to openings (burns) and meadows. Based on well-documented findings, another factor that has influenced elk distribution has been increased off-highway vehicle (OHV) use. In recent years, recreational use of OHVs in the Cold Creek area and on the McFarland Burn has increased substantially. In June 2004, the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest issued a Decision Notice and Finding of No Significant Impact for Spring Mountains National Recreation Area Motorized Trails Designation Project. The decision to implement alternative five (with modifications) as summarized in the respective Environmental Assessment involves minimal closure of newly established roads on the McFarland Burn. Thus, the recently authorized management prescription for motorized trails ensures the status quo on the McFarland Burn for the near future. The population estimate for elk inhabiting the Spring Mountains is 130, and approximates the estimate reported last year. Elk habitat quality throughout most of Unit 262 is marginal. Elk have existed on a low nutritional plane limiting reproduction and recruitment. Calf recruitment in recent years has been below levels necessary to maintain the population. Formerly, under ideal conditions marked by lower horse numbers and normal precipitation receipts, the McFarland Burn afforded early seral, quality forage necessary for maintenance, growth, and reproduction. In the near future, meaningful efforts to improve elk habitat must entail management of horse and burros numbers consistent with AMLs and completion of habitat improvements. Elk habitat in the Spring Mountains can be enhanced through seeding areas recently burned, increasing water availability and decommissioning/restoring newly created roads and trails. As of this writing in March 2008, environmental conditions have improved due to near normal precipitation receipts in late 2008 and early In its seasonal outlook, the NWS does not forecast drought conditions to develop in the first half of

73 DESERT BIGHORN DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP Units 044, 182: East and Stillwater Ranges: Pershing and Churchill Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury An aerial composition flight was conducted in Units 044 and 182 during late October 2008 resulting in the observation of 109 sheep, including 26 rams, 64 ewes, and 19 lambs. The lamb ratio of 30 lambs:100 ewes will maintain herd stability. The last aerial survey occurred in 2006 and resulted in 59 lambs:100ewes which is the highest lamb ratio ever observed in the Stillwater Range. This lamb ratio did allow for a modest increase in overall populations size resulting in an increasing population trend followed by the current static trends. The areas predominantly surveyed include the East Range and the east and west sides of the Stillwater s from McKinney Pass to Box Canyon. One positive note during survey was the absence of large groups of horses that are usually observed on the northeast side of the Stillwater s. The Bureau of Land Management rounded up 400 horses in the summer of 2008 which should alleviate some congestion and competition between bighorn sheep and feral horses that utilize the Fencemaker area. The Stillwater bighorn sheep herd is considered to have a static population trend. In 2008 we surveyed for sheep for the first time on the west side starting in the central part of the Stillwater s and north to Dago Pass. Increased observations of bighorn sheep have been reported on the west side. No bighorn sheep were encountered at this time. The lamb ratios of 30 lambs:100 ewes observed in 2008 will result in a static population trend. Unit 045, Tobin Range, Pershing County Report by: Kyle Neill An aerial desert bighorn sheep composition survey was conducted in late October 2008 in conjunction with Area 18 bighorn surveys. Cottonwood Canyon to Miller Basin was surveyed during the 25 minutes expended, which yielded a sample of 19 bighorns that provided ratios of 18 rams:100 ewes:55 lambs. The 2008 lamb ratio is near the 5-year average of 56 lambs:100 ewes. The 2007 aerial composition survey resulted in the classification of 27 bighorns comprised of 9 rams, 11 ewes and 7 lambs with a ratio of 82 rams:100 ewes:64 lambs. The 2007 survey was successful in locating older age class rams that were represented in the population model. In the fall of 2008, a big game guzzler was built near the upper elevations of Little Miller Basin in the Tobin Range. This unit was intended to be utilized by wintering mule deer. However, the guzzler s location is in close proximity to the growing bighorn herd, which suggests future use by bighorns. Population Estimate and Trend The initial release of desert bighorn sheep into Unit 045, Tobin Range occurred in Thirty four bighorns from the River Mountains were released into Miller Canyon. An augmentation of 18 bighorns from the Black Mountains was released into Indian Canyon in For a multitude of reasons, bighorns failed 59

74 DESERT BIGHORN to establish themselves in the Tobin Range. However, 23 bighorns from the Toquima Range, Unit 161 were released into Golconda Canyon in Follow up telemetry surveys and sightings have indicated that some bighorns had moved into the Mount Moses Area, Unit 151(12 bighorns were observed in the fall of 2008). Composition surveys and sightings from 2004 through 2009 imply that the majority of the released bighorns have stayed in the Tobin Range and prospered. Additionally, an augmentation of 22 bighorns from the Toquima Range was released into Golconda Canyon in the fall of The release complement consisted of 20 ewes, 1 female lamb and 1 ram lamb. Of those, 4 ewes were fitted with GPS collars and 4 ewes were fitted with VHF collars. Monitoring data to date indicates that 2 GPS collared ewes initially moved into Unit 151. They were subsequently captured and returned to Golconda Canyon Unit 045. One GPS collared ewe was killed by a mountain lion approximately 8 miles south of Golconda Canyon. The remaining 7 collared ewes are alive and are utilizing the area from Bushee Creek to Miller Basin. Desert bighorns in Unit 045 have been utilizing the area from Miller Basin north to Cottonwood Canyon, preferring the area around Little Miller Basin to Bushee Creek. This area contains excellent escape and thermal cover as well as good water sources. The population continues to be performing well with all age classes represented, which will allow for a limited ram harvest during the 2009 season. The 2009 population estimate for Unit 045 is 70 bighorns. Units 131 & 164 White Pine Range: Southern White Pine and Eastern Nye Counties Report by: Mike Podborny Harvest Results The 2008 Desert bighorn sheep hunt was the second hunt in Unit 131 and the first since it was combined with Unit 164. An eight-year-old ram was harvested on opening day near Currant in Unit 131 while the second hunter spent 12 days and had the opportunity but chose not to harvest. In January and February 2009 a ground survey was conducted with 89 bighorns classified; yielding ratios of 73 rams:100 ewes:30 lambs. The record sample of bighorns was obtained from 3 distinct areas: The White Pine Range near Currant, the Duckwater Hills and the Pancake Range north of Highway 6. In February 2008, 42 bighorns were classified; yielding ratios of 140 rams:100 ewes:40 lambs. The habitat ranges from rocky ridges of low sage and bunchgrasses with very little trees to big steep mountains with thick tree cover of Pinion Pine, Utah Juniper, Mountain Mahogany, White Fir and Bristlecone Pine to sheer granite cliffs above 11,000 feet. Bighorns inhabit all of these habitat types. Snow at higher elevations and springs at lower elevations provide water for bighorns in the some areas while water is lacking in other areas now occupied by bighorns. An artificial water development was built by the Forest Service and sportsman volunteers in 1989 near White Pine Peak. This guzzler is now in the Currant Mountain Wilderness and a 2004 inspection indicates the guzzler is only partially functioning with maintenance needed. There were 2 releases of bighorns into the White Pine Range of Unit 131 since 1999.The first release of 25 bighorns from the Monte Cristo Range resulted in animals leaving for adjacent ranges. The second release in October 2007 of 24 bighorns from Mt. Jefferson resulted in bighorns living in the high elevations of the White Pine Range. Several groups of bighorns in outlying areas are in close proximity to domestic sheep during the winter. The potential for contact and disease transmission between domestic sheep and bighorns in these areas has existed for 10 years but no disease outbreak has occurred. In 2009, increased survey effort resulted in a record sample of bighorns in these 2 units. The population model was updated to account for these additional bighorns. 60

75 DESERT BIGHORN The ram harvested in 2008 appeared to have the body confirmation of the Rocky Mountain sub-species. Subsequent genetic testing proved the ram to be a Rocky Mountain bighorn. There are other rams in the population that also appear to have Rocky Mountain bighorn characteristics. These bighorn rams are believed to have moved south from the Ruby Mountains. This ingress of rams into the population from the Ruby s and possible Desert bighorns moving north from the main Pancake herd may explain the high ram numbers and increasing population. There is still some question whether bighorn rams harvested from these units will be accepted into official record books because of the mixing of sub-species that has occurred. Unit 133, 245, Pahranagat and Mount Irish Ranges: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Aerial surveys were conducted in August 2008 and resulted in a total of 52 sheep observed. These included 17 rams, 24 ewes, and 11 lambs which results in a ratio of 70 rams:100 ewes:46 lambs. Population Estimate, and Trend This population appears to be stable to slightly increasing. Each of the water developments appears to have moderate use, although sheep were distributed differently than in previous surveys. The computergenerated population estimate for this area is 109, compared to 97 in Unit 134, Pancake Range: Nye County Report by: Tom Donham No composition survey was conducted in Unit 134 during the 2008 survey period. During the previous survey, conducted in September 2007, a total of 176 sheep was observed including 42 rams, 98 ewes, and 36 lambs. During the 2007 survey period, sheep were found to be widely spread in Unit 134. Sheep were observed in the Twin Springs Slough area, in many areas on Palisade Mesa, along the Citadel, and along The Wall. In addition to being widely spread, the size of the groups detected during the survey was below average. This phenomenon was likely due to drought conditions having impacted the availability and quality of forage resources, forcing the normally large groups to disperse. The next survey is scheduled to take place during the fall of The desert sheep population that now inhabits Unit 134 is the direct result of a reintroduction effort that occurred in 1984 with the release of 26 animals. Following the initial release, the herd quickly established itself. The herd has done so well since, that it has been used as a source of transplant stock on 3 different occasions. Capture operations conducted in 1996, 1998, and 2003 have resulted in the translocation of 78 animals into other mountain ranges of the state. Following the 1998 capture effort, the Unit 134 sheep population experienced a decline in numbers. Shortly after this decline however, the herd exhibited steady growth until Beginning in 2003, the herd began to experience below average production, which resulted in a decreasing trend for the herd. Drought conditions as well as high sheep densities were likely the contributing factors. While no survey was conducted in 2008, 2007 survey data indicate that the herd experienced fair production despite continuing drought conditions, which should allow the population to remain relatively stable, at least in the short-term. The population model for Unit 134 predicts a pre-hunt adult male population of approximately 67, and an overall population estimate of approximately 200 adult animals. 61

76 DESERT BIGHORN Unit 161, Toquima Range: Northern Nye County Report by: Tom Donham An aerial composition flight was conducted in Unit 161 during early October A total of 244 sheep was observed in the Mount Jefferson area including 75 rams, 120 ewes, and 49 lambs. A comparatively small amount of time was spent flying the more rugged, precipitous terrain around the perimeter of Mount Jefferson, which is believed to have resulted in the somewhat low observed ram ratio. During the previous survey, conducted in mid September 2007, a total of 238 sheep was observed in the Mount Jefferson area including 64 rams, 118 ewes, and 56 lambs. Although lamb production and recruitment levels have remained fair to good for this herd, recent drought conditions have impacted forage conditions even at high elevations. During both the 2007 and the 2008 surveys, sheep were observed to be more widely scattered and in smaller groups than is typically the case on Jefferson due to reduced forage quality and quantity. A reintroduction effort was initiated in Unit 161 in 1982, with the release of 22 desert sheep. In 1983, an additional 4 animals were released. Following the releases, the herd quickly increased to a level much higher than originally anticipated. The Mount Jefferson herd has done so well since, that it has served as a source of transplant stock on five occasions. A combined total of 123 sheep has been captured and relocated during trapping operations occurring in 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, and most recently in Animals from Mount Jefferson have been relocated to the Clan Alpine and Tobin Ranges of Churchill and Pershing Counties, respectively, and to the Grant/Quinn and southern White Pine Ranges of Nye County. The core herd in Unit 161 occupies Mount Jefferson, within the Alta Toquima Wilderness, but recently a small herd has established itself in the area near Northumberland, north of the main herd. The core herd on Mount Jefferson experienced lowered production from 2003 to 2006 likely due to a combination of drought conditions and high sheep densities. Recent production and recruitment rates have been sufficient enough for the herd to have experienced moderate increases in the past several years if not for the trapping and transplanting projects designed to maintain the herd at current levels. Due to the recent projects, the herd is considered stable. The population model for Unit 161 predicts a pre-hunt adult male population of approximately 133, and an overall population estimate of 270 adult animals. Units 162, 163, Monitor and Hot Creek Ranges: Nye County Report by: Tom Donham During early October 2008, an aerial composition survey was conducted in Unit 163. During the survey, a record total of 110 sheep was classified as 24 rams, 69 ewes, and 17 lambs. The previous composition flight occurred in 2006 when a total sample of 77 sheep was classified. The sample consisted of 19 rams, 45 ewes, and 13 lambs. The survey was conducted from Warm Springs on the south end of the Unit to Morey Peak to the north. The desert sheep population in the Hot Creek Range was re-established through releases occurring in 1994 and Following the releases, the herd quickly established itself and increased to a comparatively moderate level. Due to drought conditions and resultant low production rates, the herd exhibited a decreasing trend beginning in Improved climatic conditions benefited the herd in 2004 and 2005, and increased production in 2005 stabilized the herd. Despite continuing drought conditions in central Nevada, the Unit 163 sheep population has managed to slowly increase in the face of below average 62

77 DESERT BIGHORN production and recruitment rates. Unit 162 was combined with the Unit 163 desert bighorn sheep hunt for the first time in 2005 due to an increasing number of sheep being observed in the southern portion of the Monitor Range. The Unit 162 sheep population is not considered large enough to warrant its own hunt, but potential exists for some limited opportunity in the unit. The population model for Unit 163 predicts a pre-hunt adult male population of approximately 35 rams and an overall population estimate of 110 adult animals. A population model for Unit 162 has yet to be developed. Unit 173, Toiyabe Range: Northern Nye County Report by: Tom Donham An aerial composition survey was conducted in Unit 173 during early October A total of 86 sheep was observed including 17 rams, 54 ewes, and 15 lambs. The survey took place from Peavine Canyon on the south end of the Toiyabe Range to the Twin Rivers area. The previous aerial composition flight was conducted in Unit 173 during late September A total of 69 sheep was observed including 19 rams, 34 ewes, and 16 lambs. The 2006 surveys took place predominantly on the south end of the Unit where the majority of the herd exists. Due to human impacts, the historically substantial desert sheep population of the Toiyabe Range was reduced to a mere estimated 50 animals by the early 1980 s. In an effort to augment and stimulate growth in the herd, a total of 21 desert sheep from southern Nevada was released in 1983 and An additional release of 9 rams from southern Nevada took place in Due to the success of the initial releases, the desert sheep season was reopened in Unit 173 in The Unit had been closed to sheep hunting since The Unit 173 sheep population was used as transplant stock in 2005 due to increasing densities in the Peavine Canyon area as well as continued private land depredation problems. During the fall of 2005, a total of 12 sheep was captured from the Seyler Peak area of Unit 173 and combined with sheep captured from the Monte Cristo Range and the Gabbs Valley Range to be released in the Grant/Quinn Range of eastern Nye County. The Peavine Canyon and Seyler Peak areas of the southern Toiyabe Range contain the largest segment of the Toiyabe herd. For several years, frequent bouts with drought conditions have caused increasing depredation problems in Peavine Canyon. Drought conditions lure sheep into pastures and fields where water and better quality forage occur. Due to improved range conditions in 2004 and 2005, sheep use on private lands eased somewhat, but 2007 saw a return to heavy sheep use in private fields and meadows. Desert sheep do occur throughout much of the Toiyabe Range, but densities are significantly lower north of Seyler Peak, and groups of animals are much smaller and more dispersed. Sheep also occur as far north as Bunker Hill north of Kingston Canyon, but growth of this portion of the herd will not be encouraged until such time as a domestic sheep use in that area is discontinued and the risks of a disease event are reduced. Due to drought conditions, reduced production and recruitment rates have resulted in a slight downward trend of the Toiyabe sheep herd over the past 2 years. The computer population model predicts a prehunt adult male population of approximately 59 and an overall population estimate of approximately 140 adult animals. 63

78 DESERT BIGHORN Unit 181, Fairview Peak, Slate Mountain, and Sand Springs Range: Churchill County Report by: Jason Salisbury Aerial surveys of the Sand Springs and Fairview Ranges occurred in October of 2008 and resulted in the classification of 171 sheep. This resulted in a lamb ratio of 20 lambs:100 ewes and a ram ratio of 50 rams:100 ewes. Water availability in the Fairview Peak area is limited. In order to secure adequate water within this portion of Unit 181 a large capacity water development will have to be constructed. This site is proposed on Navy land within the Bravo 17 bombing range, close to the Bureau of Land Management boundary. Positive aspects of constructing a water development on Navy lands include securing adequate water for the future growth of this bighorn herd, maintaining genetics of the herd, and providing an opportunity to trap and transplant bighorn sheep from this population in future years. In December of 2007 a satellite collar was placed on 1 ewe located on Fairview Peak. The collar was placed to determine where sheep obtain water during the hot summer months on Fairview Peak. At the current time it is relatively unknown. Further analysis of the satellite collar data collected will be examined to determine probable watering sites. While surveying Fairview Peak as well as Slate Mountain, the collared ewe was located with 11 rams, 22 ewes, and 4 lambs for a lamb ratio 17 lambs:100 ewes. The proportion of lambs to ewes encountered during the 2008 survey was well below the 10 year average of 45 lambs:100 ewes. This type of lamb recruitment was expected with a previous known die-off. Following many disease outbreaks population of bighorn sheep will maintain no lamb recruitment up to 3 years following the outbreak. While surveying the Sand Springs Range the survey crew observed the lowest recorded lamb ratio since the reintroduction of the herd in 1996 and is a direct result of poor range conditions. These range conditions contributes to bighorn ewes foraging on a lower nutritional plane. This lower nutrient intake affects offspring of the adult ewes as well as the quality of parental care provided to the lambs. Another possibility that may have attributed to the low overall numbers observed in the Sand Springs Range was the disease outbreak that occurred on Slate Mountain and Fairview Peak. The disease event may have exhibited itself in the Sand Springs segment reducing lamb survival. The Monte Cristo s, which are located to the southeast of Slate Mountain, seem unaffected by the diseases outbreak. Although the sample size in the Monte Cristo s was small (14 animals), the lamb production was 55 lambs:100 ewes. It seems the isolated case of pneumonia outbreak will hopefully work its way out of the population allowing for a viable and productive herd to once again roam Fairview and Slate Mountain. Future surveys in the upcoming years will give us a picture of how well the Unit 181 herd coped with this disease event. There are sufficient rams in the population to warrant a hunting season. Future lamb production will determine the sustainability of ram harvest into the future. Unit 183, Clan Alpine Range: Churchill County Report by: Jason Salisbury An aerial composition survey was conducted in the Clan Alpine Range of Unit 183 in October During the Clan Alpine survey 47 rams were classified along with 97 ewes and 38 lambs for a computed lamb ratio of 39 lambs:100 ewes. 64

79 DESERT BIGHORN During the survey the Busboom water development was observed as being in good shape with adequate water but was not being used intensively. Also we surveyed the Little Angel Spur and encountered large groups of bighorn north and south of the Little Angel water development. Since adding additional apron, another tank, and new pipe rail fence to the Little Angel unit, new trails have become established documenting heavy use. At this time it is believed up to 100 bighorn sheep are using the water development in the summer months. Additional water developments to the north and south are required for the future sustainability of the herd as well as adding more apron and storage to the Little Angel unit. The Dummy Canyon water development was rebuilt with new tanks, gutters, apron, and fencing. This water development has been exposed to limited use in its lifetime because of its low overall storage capability. Increased observations of bighorn in 2008 were made in and around the Dummy water development. Time will tell if this unit will distribute more sheep use in-between Grover Canyon and Horse Creek. Additionally future plans exist to replace fence and gutters at Hercules and Lauderback water developments. The maintenance provided on these units will enable the herd to utilize them with full efficiency. Overuse by feral horses in the Deep Creek drainage north of Cow Creek has negatively impacted bighorn sheep habitat. The removal of these feral horses would help to improve forage conditions in the Deep Creek drainage as well as the adjacent Cow Creek Drainage. The lamb ratio for the Clan Alpines was 39 lambs:100 ewes which is normally sufficient to result in a stable to increasing population trend. The lamb ratio of 39 lambs:100 ewes is a 35% decrease of what was reported last year. Over the long term this lamb ratio is the lowest it has been for the past 10 years. This lower lamb ratio may be attributed to the drought conditions that occurred during in These conditions result in ewes not being in the best physical condition to give birth and raise offspring. Hopefully, adequate precipitation will be received during the spring and summer of 2009 to improve habitat conditions. The desert sheep population inhabiting the Clan Alpine Range is projected to grow in It is estimated that the population is around 280 animals and reflects a 12% increase relative to the estimate of 250 sheep reported last year. Observations on lambing grounds in 2009 in Unit 183 indicate good lamb numbers. The poor forage conditions exhibited in are a direct result of decreased precipitation received, and will be detrimental to lamb survival. The habitat landscapes and the immense expanses of adequate bighorn sheep habitat coupled with above maintenance level recruitment should allow for the population to increase density and distribution into additional habitats. Unit 184, Desatoya Range: Churchill and Lander Counties Report by: Jason Salisbury Seasons In 2009 an early and late season framework was initiated for the first time. The justification was to provide early opportunity for the upper elevations of the Desatoya s as well as to split up the quotas between the early and late seasons to reduce hunting pressure within the Eastgate Hills. A late October 2008 survey resulted in the observed total of 58 bighorns with a ratio of 61 rams:100 ewes:46 lambs. Areas surveyed included the Desatoya Mountains, the Eastgate Hills, and the Greyback and Broken Hills. The Greyback hills water development was upgraded in the summer of 2007 with new pipe rail fence 65

80 DESERT BIGHORN designs as well as gutters, additional apron, and a drinker. The Broken Hills water development was built in the south-western portion of Unit 184 in This water development provides a water source at the southern most end of Unit 184 and should enable the bighorn to occupy habitat surrounding the water development as well as encourage sheep movement between the Greyback Hills, the Broken Hills, and the Monte Cristo Range. Considerable moisture needs to occur in the spring and early summer months of 2009 to provide vigor to perennial bunch grasses as well as browse species. Upper elevational snow pack seems adequate in the Desatoya s and should allow for prolonged moisture and more advantageous range conditions going into the hot summer months. The survey crew started surveying the top of the Desatoya Mountains which resulted in no observed animals. Bighorn sheep hunter s observations indicate 100+ sheep located on the top of the Desatoya s in November The bighorn sheep that live on the top of the Desatoya s are usually in groups of 60 to 70 animals, so missing a group really affects your survey numbers. The avoidance of sheep on the top could be attributed to the fact that deer hunters may have pushed the bighorn off the top into the trees located on the west slope. The only bighorn sheep encountered during surveys were located on the Eastgate Hills. This year s lamb recruitment rate of 46 lambs:100 ewes provides for an above maintenance level recruitment. This type of birth pulse has been observed for the last 4 consecutive years and will enable this herd to provide hunter opportunity as well as future transplant stock well into the future. The highest ever observed lamb ratio for Unit 184 occurred in 2004 and was represented by 68 lambs:100 ewes. Lamb recruitment has averaged between 40 and 63 lambs:100 ewes since The 5-year average for lamb ratios has been 52 lambs:100 ewes. The 2009 desert bighorn sheep population estimate for the Unit 184 Herd is 200 animals and reflects a 5% increase relative to 190 animals reported last year. Unit 202, Wassuk Range of Mineral County Report by: Jason Salisbury Seasons The season dates were changed for the upcoming 2009 season. An earlier October time frame was enacted to allow for increased ram availability as well as easier access for the hunters to the mountain. Aerial bighorn sheep surveys were conducted on October 23, 2008 in Unit 202. A total of 66 animals was classified as 15 rams, 30 ewes and 21 lambs. This resulted in a calculated lamb ratio of 70 lambs:100 ewes and a ram ratio of 50 rams:100 ewes. The sample size was the highest on record. Areas were surveyed for 30 minutes and include Mount Grant, Cottonwood Canyon, and the Cliffs as well as the Dry Creek Drainages. For now the only recommendation for Unit 202 is to construct a new water development above the cliffs in the saddle that borders the Army Depot and the Bureau of Land Management land. The location of the water development just inside the Army Depot land with open terrain and adequate escape cover should allow for reduced predation by lions on bighorn sheep within the Cottonwood Canyon Drainage. Bighorn Sheep were located in 2 sizable groups for Unit 202. One group of sheep was located on the Cottonwood Canyon side and the other group was located on the Dry Creek side with approximately thirty animals in each group. This was the first aerial survey since the December 2007 release of twenty-eight sheep into Cottonwood Canyon. Interesting to note is that the sheep observed in Cottonwood Canyon did not have ear tags. The Dry Creek side had twenty observed ear tags from the 2007 release. We know of 1 collared bighorn ewe that succumbed to lion mortality in March of Follow up of the other collared 66

81 DESERT BIGHORN ewes indicated they made attempts to utilize the upper elevations of Mount Grant but as of this report the collared ewes as well as the remaining sheep occupy principally the Cottonwood and Dry Creek Drainages located to the south of Mount Grant. The observation of ear tagged sheep is promising to see as well as the observed lamb ratio of 70 lambs:100 ewes. Since the first establishment of bighorn sheep into Unit 202 this was the largest recorded survey number as well as the highest recorded observation of lambs ever made. Unit 204, Pine Grove Range: Lyon County Report by: Jason Salisbury An aerial composition survey was conducted on the East Walker of Unit 204 in October of A sample of 53 animals was obtained including 12 rams, 32 ewes and 10 lambs. The composition ratio consisted of 38 rams:100 ewes:31 lambs. The East Walker River drainage was surveyed for 90 minutes. Bighorn sheep were located in small groups associated primarily with the Elbow and Rough Creek areas of the Walker River drainage. Extensive trailing was observed in and around the hot springs in the central part of the canyon but no sheep were observed. The environmental conditions following the winter of 2008 to 2009 were less than ideal. Currently bunchgrass as well as browse species for bighorn are in a degraded state. Spring and summer precipitation must occur to improve the decadent state of vegetation that exists as of this reporting. Population Estimates and Trend The Unit 204 desert bighorn sheep population was established through the initial release of 21 sheep in A second augmentation of 21 sheep occurred in The 2007 population estimate for the Pine Grove herd is 60 animals. Currently, production is allowing the herd to experience a stable to increasing trend. The total overall outlook for expansion of the bighorn herd is minimal though. The bighorn sheep currently occupy a considerable amount of the best habitat in the East Walker drainage. Limited opportunity for expansion exists if there is opportunity to convert domestic sheep allotments to cattle allotments. Overall, even if allotment conversions happen, the bighorn sheep population occupying the East Walker will need to be held in check through trap and transplant and hunting activities. Late October surveys are not recommended in the future. During this later time frame it has been observed that ram groups as well as ewe and lamb groups are dispersing from water and in general are harder to locate. Additionally larger age class rams are not represented as well with ewe groups as they are in August and September. Unit 205, Gabbs Valley Range, Gillis Range, Pilot Mountains: Eastern Mineral County Report by: Jason Salisbury In October of 2008, a 7.5-hour aerial survey in Unit 205 yielded a sample of 216 bighorn sheep. The sample provided a composition ratio of 55 rams:100 ewes:46 lambs. The areas surveyed included the Gabbs Valley Range, Pilot Mountain, and the Gillis Range. Starting in the summer of 2009, maintenance will be conducted on several large capacity water developments in Unit 205. Some of the projects involved will be replacement of plastic plasmo gutters with deep trough style gutters and other various projects where maintenance is needed. The Volcano water development was rebuilt in March of Additional water storage capability was increased from 2,500 gallons to 5,000 gallons of storage availability. The Volcano water development is heavily used by bighorns when water is available. The renovations made to this unit will allow for more 67

82 DESERT BIGHORN transitional movement between Pilot Mountain and the south Gabbs Valley Range. Furthermore the Butte Water development was upgraded with additional storage and collection. Spring sources within the boundaries of Unit 205 are currently in a degraded state. The cattle are devastating the water sources in the Gabbs Valley Range. Most watering areas are devoid of vegetation and most of the surrounding area around the water is barren. This increased pressure by livestock results in bighorns being forced to use less desirable water sources. One key observation made was the absence of sheep from the Volcano Canyon area and associated habitat. The flight crew was able to locate only a handful of sheep in and area that usually supports 100 bighorn sheep. The late October surveys may have contributed to the dispersal of sheep from the area. Another observation made in Volcano Canyon and the surrounding area was numerous vehicle tracks that crisscross up and down the drainages sides of the mountains and valleys. This observation indicates that significant activities were causing devastation to the environment and a direct effect could have been the avoidance of bighorn sheep in the area. After talking to a Hawthorne resident as well as a sheep hunter that had been on the ground in the Volcano Canyon area, it is evident that the vehicles were Humvees with hundreds of rounds of spent casings on the ground. The suspected organization that is located out of Hawthorne, Nevada is a private company that trains for military and law enforcement scenarios. The company is currently being questioned about the incident. Also during survey we encountered fewer feral horses mainly because of a BLM roundup that took place in early summer of The survey time was broken down into approximately 1 ½ hours in the Gillis Range, 3 hours on Pilot Mountain, and 3 hours in the Gabbs Valley and Volcano areas. During the flights many observations were made in relation to the overall range conditions. The range conditions were fair to good. Many water developments observed were more than half full. During a late October time frame it has been observed that ram groups as well as ewe and lamb groups are dispersing from water and in general are harder to locate. The lamb ratio of 46 lambs:100 ewes is consistent with the 10-year average of 45 lambs:100 ewes. This will continue to allow for a stable population trend with opportunity for growth. To date this survey is the second largest recorded number of sheep observed in Unit 205. Unit 206, Excelsior Range: Mineral County Report by: Jason Salisbury An aerial composition flight was conducted in Unit 206 during late October A total of 62 animals were observed during the 2008 survey including 22 rams, 30 ewes, and 23 lambs. The composition ratio consisted of 73 rams:100 ewes:32 lambs. Areas surveyed include Thunder Mountain, Camp Douglas, Silver Dyke Canyon, Storm Canyon, and Moho Mountain. 2 ½ hours were expended surveying sheep in the Excelsior Mountains. A new spring used by sheep was located and recorded during the survey. This past year the Excelsior water development was rebuilt. Since this time the sheep have really become accustomed to the new drinker and pipe rail fence. New trails and increased use is very evident. Future projects that would increase forage availability and bighorn range would involve fire prescription in the densely wooded pinyon pine forests to allow for robust and vibrant bunch grass communities. Future plans will call for increasing the distribution of the core population towards Marietta and the California border. surrounding the core population including the Candalaria Hills and Miller Mountain may increase the overall density and distribution of bighorns creating a metapopulation. 68

83 DESERT BIGHORN Population Estimates and Trend This survey was the largest recorded observation since 2000 during the peak of herd numbers. Having the time to survey efficiently enabled us to locate some of the ram groups that live in the thick pinyon and juniper woodlands. In the years prior to this survey the sheep have been difficult to locate. Lamb production for 2008 is consistent with a long term average of 32 lambs:100 ewes. From 1999 to 2002 lamb production was in the teens. Only in 2006 do we see lamb production increase into the seventies and then drop off in 2008 into low thirties. The population estimate for Excelsior Range is currently 90 animals and is an 11% increase of what was reported last year. The bighorn population in the Excelsior Mountains is stable to a slight increase in overall population size. The 11% increase according to the population model could be contributed to 3 years of above maintenance level recruitment. Hunter observations for the 2008 season indicate harvestable rams available for the 2009 season. Successful hunters that draw the Unit 206 hunt should be cognizant that older age class rams during the season utilize the upper elevations of the Excelsior Mountains as well as the pinyon pine tree cover for concealment. Unit 211 North, Monte Cristo Range: Esmeralda County Report by: Tom Donham During early October 2008, an aerial composition survey was conducted in Unit 211N. The survey took place entirely in the Monte Cristo Mountain Range in Esmeralda County. During the survey, a record sample of 287 sheep was classified as 77 rams, 149 ewes, and 61 lambs. The previous aerial composition flight was conducted during late September 2006 when a total of 216 desert sheep was classified as 52 rams, 100 ewes, and 64 lambs. Although 2008 saw a decrease in production and recruitment rates compared to the past several years, the Monte Cristo herd continues to maintain rates somewhat above the rest of central Nevada sheep populations. During the spring of 2005, a new water development was constructed in the Monte Cristo Range in order to augment natural water sources on the south end of the range that have been impacted by drought conditions. Recent interest by some groups in establishing a State Park in the Monte Cristo Range may have the potential to negatively impact the sheep resource, sportsman access, and the Nevada Department of Wildlife s ability to manage the resource if the effort is successful. Fortunately, recent events appear to have lessened the likelihood of the park becoming a reality. Based upon past survey data and random observations of sheep movement between the Silver Peak Range, Lone Mountain, and the Monte Cristo Range, it is thought that the Monte Cristo Range historically served primarily as winter range. In more recent years, this movement has ceased and the 3 ranges support separate and distinct populations of desert sheep. Production has been very good in the Monte Cristo Range over the past several years, and the population is showing an increasing trend. Some sportsmen have voiced concerns about a high occurrence of mountain lion predation in the Monte Cristo Range. Based on recruitment rates and the overall rate of increase of the herd in the past several years, it is apparent that lions are not negatively impacting this population. The population model for Unit 211N predicts a pre-hunt adult male population of approximately 99 rams and an overall population estimate of 270 adult animals. 69

84 DESERT BIGHORN Unit 211 South, Silver Peak Range and Volcanic Hills: Esmeralda County Report by: Tom Donham No composition flight was conducted during the 2008 survey period. The last aerial survey was conducted in Unit 211S during mid September A total of 148 sheep was observed during the 2007 survey including 43 rams, 83 ewes, and 23 lambs. The sample size obtained was the highest on record. During the spring of 2004, 2 existing wildlife water developments in the Silver Peak Range were completely rebuilt. A third development was repaired during the spring of 2008 and should help increase the amount of available habitat in the Silver Peak Range even more. Historically, survey data and random observations indicated that sheep movement regularly took place between the Monte Cristo Range and the Silver Peak Range. At that time, it was believed that the Monte Cristo Range served primarily as winter range for the Silver Peak herd. This movement has ceased, and the 2 herds are considered distinct populations. In Unit 211S, sheep inhabit the Silver Peak Range, as well as the Volcanic Hills. Numbers of animals using the Volcanic Hills portion of the Unit have increased due to the installation of 2 water developments several years ago, and movement between the 2 ranges occurs on a regular basis. Good production from 2001 through 2005 allowed this herd to experience noticeable growth. Due to poor production in 2007 and 2008, caused by drought conditions and resultant impacts to habitat, the herd s growth has been curbed and the population is currently considered to be stable. The population model for Unit 211S predicts a pre-hunt adult male population of approximately 48 rams and an overall population estimate of 140 adult animals. Unit 212, Lone Mountain: Esmeralda County Report by: Tom Donham No composition survey was conducted during the 2008 survey period. The previous aerial composition survey was conducted in Unit 212 during mid September A total of 157 sheep was observed including 34 rams, 93 ewes, and 30 lambs. Although very little time was spent surveying the more heavily treed areas searching for rams, the total sample obtained during the 2007 survey was the highest since While many other desert sheep herds in central Nevada were entirely wiped out due to human impacts during the late 1800 s and early 1900 s, a small portion of the desert sheep population that inhabits Lone Mountain survived. No doubt, the rugged inaccessible nature of much of Lone Mountain served to protect the herd from unregulated hunting and mining impacts and allowed them to avoid complete extermination. The Lone Mountain herd also survived a different type of threat during the prohibition era. It is well known that all of the accessible and available water sources on Lone Mountain were used for making whiskey during this period, which likely impacted the herd s access to water. Having struggled through these setbacks, the Unit 212 population increased dramatically once regulations were put into place protecting them and their habitats, and by the 1980 s the herd was estimated at over 200 animals. During the latter half of the 1980 s, the herd served as a source of transplant stock on 2 occasions. A total of 58 sheep was removed during the 2 projects. Following the 1988 capture, the Lone Mountain population experienced a sharp decline, and by 1991, the herd was estimated to total approximately 50 animals. Following several years of remaining static at lowered levels, the herd began to show a slow, but steady recovery due to increased production and survival of adult animals. 70

85 DESERT BIGHORN Although production has been hampered somewhat due to drought conditions during the past few years, the population appears to be relatively stable. The population model for Unit 212 predicts a pre-hunt adult male population of approximately 48 and an overall population of 150 adult animals. Unit 221, South Egan Range: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Aerial surveys were conducted in the South Egan Range in August 2008 and resulted in a total of 8 sheep classified as 5 ewes and 3 lambs. High winds prevented a thorough survey from being completed. In April 2009, a total of 18 sheep were observed in conjunction with spring mule deer surveys. Of the 18 observed, only 13 were classified due to high winds. These were classified as 7 rams, 4 ewes, and 2 lambs., Population Estimate, and Trend The 2008 bighorn sheep tag-holder reported the presence of a domestic goat in the area. This follows reports by the 2007 bighorn sheep tag-holders of domestic sheep in close proximity to bighorns. Only 2 of the 5 water developments installed for wildlife appear to be functional. Poor survey results combined with reports of domestic sheep and goats make it unlikely that this population would be on an upward trend. The current computer-generated population estimate is 60 animals, similar to the 2008 estimate. Unit 223, 241, Hiko, Pahroc, and Delamar Ranges: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Aerial surveys were conducted in the Hiko, Pahroc, and Delamar Ranges in August 2008 and resulted in the classification of 130 sheep. These included 23 rams, 78 ewes, and 29 lambs which results in a ratio of 29 rams:100 ewes:37 lambs. Some areas of these hunt units are threatened by development, wildfires, and off-road vehicles. Bighorn distribution has changed due to rock-crawling trails and wildfires. The bulk of the habitat is still intact, however, and sheep are typically found throughout the 3 ranges in relatively low densities. Seventy-five sheep were captured from the Muddy and River Mountains and released in the Delamar Mountains in November These included 18 rams and 57 ewes. This made a total of 128 sheep released into the Delamar Mountains since November The idea was to get as many sheep as possible into this range in a short time frame in an effort to get the population above the threshold where they will sustain themselves. Some of the sheep released into the Delamars have dispersed into adjacent ranges or been killed by predators. The ongoing predator project resulted in the removal of 2 lions in December of The computer-generated population estimate is 200 animals, compared to 160 in

86 DESERT BIGHORN Unit 243, Meadow Valley Mountains: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Aerial surveys were completed during August 2008 and resulted in a total of 39 sheep observed. These were classified as 8 rams, 24 ewes, and 7 lambs which results in a ratio of 33 rams:100 ewes:29 lambs. One new water development is scheduled to be constructed in the south end of the Meadow Valleys which should allow for increased use of that portion of the range by sheep. The northern portion of the range burned in 2005 and it appears that at least some additional areas are suitable for bighorns. Much of the burned area has been invaded by exotic annual grasses, however, native shrubs and bunch grasses are also present in these areas. Motorized access into the Meadow Valleys remains extremely limited, which may be problematic for tag-holders. A total of 32 bighorns were captured from the Muddy and McCullough ranges and released into the north end of the Meadow Valleys in November These included 3 rams and 29 ewes. The Meadow Valley and Delamar Mountain bighorn releases should both benefit the Meadow Valley Mountain sheep herd and result in higher numbers of sheep observed. The computer-generated population estimate is 107 animals, compared to 70 in Unit 244, Arrow Canyon Range: Northern Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings In September 2008, a 5.1-hour aerial survey yielded a sample of 98 bighorn sheep. The observed sex and age ratios were 69 rams and 35 lambs per 100 ewes. Bighorn sheep were encountered throughout much of the interior of the Arrow Canyon Range, and within 2.25 miles of available water. No sheep were observed on northern and southern extensions of the range. Five ewes and 4 rams were encountered in the adjacent Battleship Hills. Bighorn sheep inhabiting the Arrow Canyon Range and Meadow Valley Mountains will likely be impacted by impending construction and other influences emanating from the Coyote Springs master planned community. The 42,000-acre parcel is situated northeast of the junction of U.S. 93 and State Route 168, and is the largest privately held property for development in Southern Nevada. Construction of the master planned community commenced in Severe drought conditions from 2000 through 2002 impacted the bighorn sheep population inhabiting the Arrow Canyon Range. Successive years of drought resulted in lowered recruitment and reduced survivorship. Improved environmental conditions brought about by above average precipitation receipts in 2003 and 2004 allowed the herd to expand. Subsequently, drought conditions prevailed in 2006 and In 2006, an aerial survey reflected 17 lambs per 100 ewes. Aerial survey data collected in 2002, 2004 and 2006 coupled with population model projections suggested the bighorn population declined. Thus in early 2008, the population estimate was reduced from 100 adults to 90, and the hunt quota was reduced from 3 to 2. However, a larger than expected survey sample later in 2008 necessitated refinement of the population model. In 2009, the Arrow Canyon bighorn sheep population estimate is 130 adults, and rather than reflect a large and rapid population increase, the 72

87 DESERT BIGHORN current estimate accounts for more moderate population decline and increased ram survivorship. Unit 252, Stonewall Mountain: Nye County Report by: Tom Donham An aerial composition survey was conducted in Unit 252 during early September A record total of 301 sheep was classified as 91 rams, 147 ewes, and 63 lambs. The 2 highest previous sample sizes were obtained in 2006 and 1995, and consisted of 175 and 174 sheep respectively. The 2008 survey was limited to Stonewall proper and a small portion of Pahute Mesa. The Unit 252 desert sheep population is another success story for the Nevada Dept of Wildlife s Big Game Trapping and Transplanting program. The population was re-established through 3 transplant efforts conducted in 1975, 1978, and Following the establishment of the herd in the Stonewall Mountain area, the herd increased steadily until During 1996, the population experienced a major decline in the Stonewall Mountain area. The decline appeared to have been due to a major movement of sheep out of the area, as opposed to a disease related die-off. The herd has exhibited a steady increase in the area since, and the trend continues. The herd has reached a level nearly identical to where it was when the decline occurred in Due to reduced numbers of feral horses in the Stonewall proper area, the habitat is in somewhat better condition than in the mid 90 s and it is not anticipated that another movement away from Stonewall will occur. The Unit 252 population is a difficult one to monitor due to the regular movement of sheep into and out of the Stonewall Mountain area from some of the more inaccessible areas of the Tonopah Test Range. Numbers of sheep as well as herd structure can vary on nearly a day-to-day basis on Stonewall Mountain and survey data is considered to be a seasonal snapshot of the desert sheep population in the area. It is likely that the huge number of sheep observed during the latest survey was influenced by recent severe drought conditions. A reduction in available water and poor forage conditions may have forced sheep into the Stonewall Mountain area from surrounding areas within the Tonopah Test Range. Stonewall Mountain is being scheduled to be surveyed again in 2009 in order to determine whether these animals have remained in the Stonewall area, or have returned to more interior areas of the TTR. Currently, the population model is based upon a portion of the additional sheep remaining on Stonewall. If the 2009 survey indicates this is not the case, the model will be adjusted accordingly. Unit 253, Bare Mountain and Specter Range: Southern Nye County Report by: Patrick Cummings Seasons and Hunt Quotas Separate quotas have been allotted to Bare Mountain and Specter Range since The objectives in splitting Unit 253 were to disperse harvest pressure and potentially increase hunter opportunity. In 2008, interest remained high among recipients of Wildlife Heritage Tags and Partnership in Wildlife Tags to hunt rams on Bare Mountain. Thus, the total ram harvest, unchanged from 2006, was 6. Included in the Bare Mountain harvest was a ram taken by a hunter in possession of a tag applied for and issued under the Specter Range portion of Unit 253. Since 2005, at least 2 other Specter Range tagholders have hunted bighorn rams on Bare Mountain. Although it has not been determined that confusion has played a role in some tagholders hunting in the wrong area, a recommendation in the forthcoming big game season setting process will be to adopt separate unit designation numbers. 73

88 DESERT BIGHORN No survey was conducted on Bare Mountain in In October 2007, an aerial survey on Bare Mountain yielded a sample of 103 bighorn sheep. The sample was the largest recorded and reflected sex and age ratios of 50 rams and 22 lambs per 100 ewes. In the Specter Range, a 2.8-hour aerial survey was conducted in early September During the brief survey, 70 bighorn sheep were observed. The sample reflected sex and age ratios of 42 rams and 42 lambs per 100 ewes. Southern Nye County experienced generally dry conditions over a ten-month period from late January 2008 through late November The recent winter of was wetter than the 3 preceding winters. Beginning in late November 2008 and extending into March 2009, storms produced precipitation generally in brief and localized events. In the short term, vegetative conditions in early 2009 are improved relative to spring conditions in the preceding 3 years ( ). Overall dry conditions in 2006 and early 2007 resulted in inadequate recharge of many water developments in the Specter Range and on Bare Mountain. In early March 2007, water development inspections revealed 6 projects in the Specter Range were collectively charged to 57% of capacity. On Bare Mountain, available water stores among 3 projects equated to 19% of collective capacity. In May 2007, the prevailing drought conditions prompted water haul activities. In a collaborative effort, critical funding support from Fraternity of the Desert Bighorn, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited Reno Chapter and Foundation for North American Wild Sheep enabled payment for contract helicopter services. In the course of 94 sorties, a helicopter delivered 7,500 gallons to 2 water developments on Bare Mountain. In the Specter Range, nearly 3,000 gallons were delivered to 1 water development. In February 2008, the Eagle Basin water development in the Specter Range was upgraded. The water storage capacity of the new, cross-leveling system was expanded from 6,900 gallons to 9,000+ gallons. The Bare Mountain bighorn sheep population appears stable at 110 adults. The bighorn herd is comparatively small while the level of ram harvest since 2002 is relatively high. The population model portrays the high harvest rate of large, older age-class rams is not possible under the assumption that the herd is a discrete closed population. Thus, the availability of mature rams is likely due to ingress from adjacent areas administered by Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Energy (DOE). Hunt quota recommendations will continue to be primarily based on aerial surveys inputted into a closed population model with little if any consideration of ram ingress from DOE and DOE lands. Presently, a research project is being discussed to investigate bighorn sheep movements and distribution along possible movement corridors that include several areas: Beatty Wash, Yucca Mountain, Timber Mountain, Fortymile Canyon, Thirsty Canyon and Pahute Mesa. Overall, the objective of this collaborative effort between the U.S. Air Force and NDOW is to obtain information on bighorn sheep movements and distributions on and between Stonewall Mountain and Bare Mountain. Already, an impending land use decision may jeopardize continued bighorn sheep use of the Beatty Wash west Yucca Mountain area. The area may be characterized as hills bisected by washes. Due to relatively low topographic relief and lack of water, bighorn sheep use of the area is reasoned to be during cooler months of the year. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Tonopah Field Station is completing an environmental assessment for the proposed TSCO Vegas to Reno Race. The event has been billed as the greatest long-distance, off-road event in this decade on U.S. soil. It is anticipated up to 350 motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, high clearance SUVs, 4x4 trucks, and dune buggies will compete. 74

89 DESERT BIGHORN Indications are that BLM officials are minimally concerned that the race route will entail establishment of a new road segment through a roadless area in the hills south of Beatty Wash and will traverse the 2006 Beatty Fire area. NDOW is highly concerned the environmental assessment will fail to adequately analyze the near-term and cumulative impacts of the annual race and newly created thoroughfare in the Beatty Wash area. The Beatty Wash area is arguably within an OHV collateral damage zone due to the near proximity of Big Dune situated less than 17 miles to the south. Irrespective of the proposed race and course, bighorn sheep use of the Beatty Wash area should already be viewed as tenuous. Though the Beatty Wash area is not high quality bighorn habitat, its value as a movement corridor and a fragile conduit through which bighorn sheep on Bare Mountain maintain connectivity with wild sheep in adjacent mountains could be immeasurable. It is anticipated that should BLM sanction the race event and course through the Beatty Burn, that subsequent road-related disturbance will ultimately result in bighorn sheep avoidance. In this event, the level of bighorn ingress and egress to and from Bare Mountain will be minimized, and the herd will more closely resemble a discrete population. It is hoped that BLM will ultimately render a decision that will divert the race from the Beatty Wash west Yucca Mountain area. In the Specter Range, events beginning at least as early as Fall 2002 suggest the population had been impacted by disease. Available evidence suggests bacterial pneumonia may have been a factor in high mortality among lambs. Recruitment in 5 consecutive years ( ) was negligible. In spring 2008, several observations were made of ewes with attendant lambs. Remote cameras installed at water developments in late spring and summer documented lamb survival through summer Lamb survival was further noted in the subsequent aerial survey conducted on September 5, The observed lamb to ewe ratio in the aerial survey was 42 lambs per 100 ewes. The Specter Range bighorn sheep population may no longer be on a downward trend. However, due to successive years of poor recruitment, age cohorts 2 through 7 are thinly represented in the population. In the near future, hunt quotas will need to be adjusted to account for underrepresented age cohorts. The population estimate for the Specter Range herd is 70, and represents a modest increase over the estimate reported last year. Unit 261, Last Chance Range: Southeastern Nye County Report by: Patrick Cummings No aerial surveys were conducted in Unit 261 in 2007 and In October 2006, an aerial survey yielded a sample of 133 bighorn sheep. The observed sex and age ratios were 58 rams and 22 lambs per 100 ewes. To date, the aerial survey was the most extensive in duration and coverage, and resulted in the largest recorded sample. Bighorn sheep were encountered on all the major ridges and mountains that comprise the Last Chance Range. Southern Nye County experienced generally dry conditions over a ten-month period from late January 2008 through late November The recent winter of was wetter than the 3 preceding winters. Beginning in late November 2008 and extending into March 2009, storms produced precipitation generally in brief and localized events. In the short term, vegetative conditions in early 2009 are improved relative to spring conditions in the preceding 3 years ( ). Overall dry conditions in 2006 and early 2007 resulted in inadequate recharge of several water developments in the Last Chance Range. In early March 2007, water development inspections revealed 7 projects were collectively charged to 45%. In May and June 2007, the prevailing drought conditions prompted water haul activities. In a collaborative effort, critical funding support from Fraternity of the Desert Bighorn, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited Reno 75

90 DESERT BIGHORN Chapter and Foundation for North American Wild Sheep enabled payment for contract helicopter services. In the course of 107 sorties, a helicopter delivered nearly 8,000 gallons to 2 water developments. In 2003, bighorn sheep habitat improvements entailed construction of a seventh water development, and upgrade of an existing unit. The new water development is situated on the prominent ridge north of Pahrump. On the north end of the range, the upgrade of a unit involved added water storage capacity and installation of a steel apron. A consequence of the expanding human population in the Pahrump Valley is habitat degradation resulting from dispersed recreational use of off-highway-vehicles (OHV), and in the recent past, permitted OHV races. The 2009 bighorn sheep population estimate is 120, and approximates the estimate reported last year. In October 2007, 2 Pahrump residents encountered an undetermined number of bighorn carcasses at and near the Last Chance #5 water development. Based on the initial report and follow up investigation, it was believed that 10 bighorn sheep died during summer In the absence of rain, the 2 central water developments were expected to go dry in early summer It was deemed cost prohibitive to haul water to LC #5 and LC #4, and reasoned that sheep under hydration stress in the central areas would move to water developments situated to the north or south. Unit 262, Spring Mountains (La Madre, Red Rock and South Spring Mountains) and Bird Spring Range: Western Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings No aerial surveys were conducted in the Bird Spring Range or in the Spring Mountains north of State Route 160 in 2007 and In October 2007, an aerial survey conducted south of State Route 160 from Potosi Mountain to the southern terminus of the Spring Mountains yielded a sample of 38 bighorn sheep. The sample included 18 rams, 16 ewes and 4 lambs. Unit 262 tends to receive more precipitation from year to year than most other areas in Clark County. Bighorn sheep generally benefit from adequate range conditions on a consistent basis; however, due to proximity to Las Vegas, recreational pursuits (e.g., OHV and mountain bike use/proliferation of roads and trails), feral horses and burros, and suburban sprawl serve to degrade habitat. On June 22, 2005, lightning strikes in the higher elevations near Potosi Peak ignited the Goodsprings Fire. The heavy accumulation of fine fuels coupled with high winds allowed the fire to spread along ridgelines and ultimately consume 33,484 acres. The Goodsprings Fire consumed plants within 3 vegetative associations: Creosote-Bursage Flats, Mojave Desert Scrub, and Pinyon-Juniper Woodland along a 3,940 - elevation gradient. Landmark areas within the Goodsprings Fire included: northern portion of the Bird Springs Range; eastern portion of Cottonwood Valley, northern portion of Goodsprings Valley, eastern and southern Potosi Mountain and Shenandoah Peak. Severely and extensively burned areas with little to no remaining vegetation included: northern portion of Goodsprings Valley, Double Up Mine canyon, Cave Spring canyon and Shenandoah Peak. Areas burned that contained few small mosaics of remaining vegetation included: northern portion of the Bird Spring Range, Ninety-nine Spring canyon, and areas southwest, south and east of Shenandoah Peak. In addition, vegetation associated with approximately 3 springs and numerous wash complexes were impacted by fire. North of State Route 160, bighorn sheep inhabit the Red Rock Escarpment and La Madre portions of the 76

91 DESERT BIGHORN Spring Mountains. South of State Route 160, bighorn occur in lower densities throughout the Bird Spring Range, Potosi Mountain, Table Mountain, Little Devil Peak and Devil Peak. In 2009, the population estimate is and approximates the estimate reported last year. Desert bighorn sheep in the Spring Mountains face a host of challenges with respect to habitat degradation, fragmentation and loss. In the La Madre Ridge area, human encroachment in the form of suburban sprawl and OHV use has eliminated and degraded bighorn sheep habitat. Increasingly, land management emphasis in the Red Rock area is to accommodate human recreational pursuits that are often incompatible with habitat and wildlife conservation. Future large-scale projects include upgrade of Sandy Valley Road and the likely development of a wind energy power generation plant in the Table Mountain area. In the late 1990s, the Las Vegas District Bureau of Land Management (BLM) administratively designated a large area (approximately 3,641 acres) east of La Madre Ridge as Lone Mountain Community Pit (LMCP). The intent of the designation was to accommodate local demand for an additional source of sand and gravel to support development in Southern Nevada. However, the BLM designated LMCP without adequate evaluation of environmental impacts or review of existing documents. In the 1960s, BLM identified much of the area now within the boundary of LMCP as seasonally important for bighorn sheep. Unit 263, McCullough Range and Highland Range: Southern Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings In October 2008, aerial bighorn sheep surveys were conducted in the Highland Range and McCullough Range. In the Highland Range, 4 rams, 7 ewes and 5 lambs were encountered. In the McCullough Range, 167 sheep were classified reflecting sex and age ratios of 66 rams and 24 lambs per 100 ewes. The number of bighorn sheep encountered in the Highland Range was below expectation. In the McCullough Range, bighorn sheep were widely distributed and loosely tied to water sources. Cogentrix Solar Services, LLC is proposing to develop two 300-megawatt solar thermal power generating facilities on sites located immediately west of McCullough Pass and west of Sheep Mountain. Based on project applications submitted to BLM, the surface areas applied for equated to 19,840 acres west of McCullough Pass and 9,760 acres west of Sheep Mountain. Several projects to construct trails are in planning phase. The City of Henderson intends to construct trails on the north end of the McCullough Range, and BLM will ultimately construct trails in Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area and in 2 wilderness areas. An unresolved issue centers on relocation of a segment of the local helicopter scenic tour operations from McCarran International Airport. The widely supported project is intended to direct helicopters enroute to and from the Grand Canyon to an unpopulated area. One proposal identifies a heliport south of Sloan. Under this scenario, tour helicopters departing and arriving at a heliport south of Sloan would necessarily fly over the McCullough Range. The direct routes to and from the proposed heliport would entail potentially low-level flights over the central portion of the McCullough Range within 1 mile of 2 water developments. The issue and details will be resolved through federal legislation. The population inhabiting the Highland Range and McCullough Range is estimated at 310 adults, and reflects a modest contraction from 330 reported last year. The decline is attributed to lowered lamb recruitment, capture and translocation activities and ram harvest. Based on aerial survey data, the majority of the bighorn sheep in Unit 263 remain distributed north of McCullough Pass. 77

92 DESERT BIGHORN In early November 2008, 14 ewes and 2 male lambs were captured from the south central and north central portions of the McCullough Range to achieve an augmentation of the herd inhabiting the Meadow Valley Mountains. In October 2006, 27 sheep comprised of 22 ewes, 2 female lambs and 3 male lambs were captured from the northeast and central portions of the range to achieve an augmentation of the herd inhabiting the Virgin Mountains. In October 2003, the first capture and removal of bighorn sheep in the McCullough Range was conducted to achieve an augmentation of the herd inhabiting the Delamar Range. Fifteen sheep comprised of 14 ewes and 1 male lamb were captured from the east-central portion of the range. In an isolated incident in late July 2005, 22 bighorn sheep were found to have died in proximity to the Roy water development. An extensive investigation ensued into what caused the deaths of 11 rams, 6 ewes and 5 lambs. Dr. Dan Crowell, a veterinarian with Nevada Department of Agriculture, coordinated the investigation. Bighorn sheep tissue and water samples were submitted to California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratories at University of California, Davis. The considered possible causes of death included: lightning, dehydration, toxic compounds and metals and disease. Diagnostic findings were inconclusive as to the cause of death of the 22 bighorn sheep. Lightning was reasoned as not a causative factor. A confounding aspect that limited the scope of testing was extreme high temperatures prior to and during the narrow timeframe within which the bighorn sheep died. The record high temperatures in late July served to hasten decomposition. The rapid decomposition of the carcasses limited the number and types of tissue samples collected. All tissue samples were autolyzed and unsuitable for bacteriology tests. Additional critical factors that likely hampered detection of a toxin in the drinker were the dismantled float valve at the drinker and heavy rainfall that occurred the night before and early morning of the day the sheep were discovered. The inoperable float valve resulted in an open, flow-through system that when it rained the drinker was thoroughly flushed. Thus, if a toxin were present in the drinker it likely would have been eliminated through prolonged flushing action shortly after rainfall began the night prior to discovery. Bighorn sheep in the northern portion of the McCullough Range face a variety of human imposed challenges in the near future. On the west flank of the range, suburban sprawl and flood control measures have already claimed much of the lower elevation habitat. To the north, the movement corridor between the River Mountains and the McCullough Range across US 93/95 at Railroad Pass has been effectively eliminated. Additional urban sprawl southward along I-15 is expected to degrade bighorn sheep habitat in the Hidden Valley area. Unit 264, Newberry Mountains: Southern Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings Seasons and Hunt Quotas Units 264 and 265 have constituted a bighorn sheep hunt unit group since In October 2008, an aerial survey in the Newberry Mountains yielded the highest recorded sample of 51 bighorn sheep. The sample was comprised of 23 rams, 17 ewes and 11 lambs Table 1. Duke Energy has proposed to build about 160 wind turbines east of Searchlight, across about 24,000 acres. The $500 million plant could generate 370 megawatts of power. The apex of the blade sweep for each structure would stand 415 feet tall. The BLM expects to have a final environmental impact statement and decision by April NDOW is concerned that if constructed under the latest wind turbine array configuration, bighorn sheep will be impacted by turbine structures, appurtenances and human activity 78

93 DESERT BIGHORN during construction and operational phases. Structures and roads will span the movement corridor linking the Eldorado Mountains and Newberry mountains. Table 1. Bighorn composition obtained through aerial surveys in the Newberry Mountains. Year Rams Ewes Lambs Total Rams:100 Ewes:Lambs :100: :100: :100: :100: :100: :100: :100:0 The population in the Newberry Mountains is estimated at 50-60, and approximates the estimate derived last year. Population data over the long term suggest the small herd is stable. Unit 265, South Eldorado Mountains: Southeastern Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings Seasons and Hunt Quotas Units 264 and 265 have constituted a bighorn sheep hunt unit group since No aerial survey was conducted in In October 2003, 2 rams, 6 ewes and 4 lambs were observed during a 4.5-hour survey (Table 1). The next aerial bighorn sheep survey in the south Eldorado Mountains is scheduled for fall Table 1. Bighorn composition obtained through aerial surveys in the south Eldorado Mountains. Year Rams Ewes Lambs Total Rams:100 Ewes:Lambs :100: :100: :100: :100: :100: :100:0 Since 1969, survey sample sizes have varied widely; samples have ranged from 0 to 50 animals. In some years, aerial survey data portray a disproportionate number of rams in the unit. In many of the 20 aerial surveys conducted since 1969, the number of rams observed either equaled or far exceeded the number of ewes. Duke Energy has proposed to build about 160 wind turbines east of Searchlight, across about 24,000 acres. The $500 million plant could generate 370 megawatts of power. The apex of the blade sweep for each structure would stand 415 feet tall. The BLM expects to have a final environmental impact statement and decision by April NDOW is concerned that if constructed under the latest wind turbine array 79

94 DESERT BIGHORN configuration, bighorn sheep will be impacted by turbine structures, appurtenances and human activity during construction and operational phases. Structures and roads will span the movement corridor linking the Eldorado Mountains and Newberry mountains. The southern Eldorado Mountains support a low-density resident bighorn herd as well as a fall migrant segment from the northern portion of the range. The 2009 population estimate for the herd inhabiting the entire Eldorado Mountains (Units 265 and 266) is 180, and approximates the estimate reported last year. Unit 266, North Eldorado Mountains: Southeastern Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings In October 2008, an aerial survey conducted in the northern portion of the Eldorado Mountains yielded a sample of 99 bighorn sheep. The observed sex and age ratios were 56 rams and 35 lambs per 100 ewes. Bighorn sheep were encountered along the prominent east-west oriented ridge situated northeast of Boulder City and south of US 93, and north of US 93 on Hemenway Wall and west of Lakeview Point. The 5.5-hour aerial survey terminated south of Burro Wash. On the northern end of the Eldorado Mountains, the herd has coped not only with persistent drought conditions ( and ), but also periodic deaths consequential to collisions with vehicles along U.S. 93. The highway traverses through a bighorn sheep core use area and likely represents a population sink. The magnitude of the problem is somewhat unclear as it is expected only a fraction of bighornvehicle collisions are reported. The bighorn sheep herd in the Eldorado Mountains has and will continue to face additional human imposed challenges. Two massive projects, one of which is underway, are intended to divert highway traffic from traveling along existing U.S. 93 over Hoover Dam and through Boulder City. The Hoover Dam Bypass is nearing completion, and entails construction of a bridge that will span the Colorado River as well as a new U.S. 93 alignment. The Hoover Dam Bypass Project is a 3.5-mile corridor beginning at approximately milepost 2.2 in Clark County, Nevada and crossing the Colorado River approximately 1,500 feet downstream of the Hoover Dam, then terminating in Mohave County, Arizona near milepost 1.7 on U.S. 93. Construction on the nearly 2,000 foot long bridge began in late January 2005 and the completion of the entire Hoover Dam Bypass Project is expected in June The second bypass project will extend the new U.S. 93 alignment east of Boulder City through the northern portion and western flank of the Eldorado Mountains. In October 2003, in efforts to better understand how the Hoover Dam Bypass project will impact bighorn sheep, the Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service and Nevada Department of Wildlife cooperated in capture of 20 bighorn sheep subsequently fitted with GPS and VHF telemetry subsystems. The near-term objective is to monitor bighorn movements and distribution before and during construction phases. Ultimately, as the project nears completion, bighorn movement and distribution data are anticipated to illuminate impacts that may be addressed and mitigated, as well as impacts that may be irreversible. The southern Eldorado Mountains support a low-density resident bighorn herd as well as a fall migrant segment from the northern portion of the range. The 2009 population estimate for the herd inhabiting the entire Eldorado Mountains (Units 265 and 266) is 180, and approximates the estimate reported last year. 80

95 DESERT BIGHORN Unit 267, Black Mountains: Eastern Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings In October 2008, an aerial survey yielded a sample of 198 bighorn sheep. The observed sex and age ratios were 58 rams and 29 lambs per 100 ewes. Given generally higher bighorn sheep density, the majority of the aerial survey was focused between Echo Bay and Boathouse Cove Road. In the interval between 1986 and 2004, aerial survey sample sizes and encounter rates generally trended downward. Over this period, greater than 75% of observed ewes were without attendant lambs. The recent survey sample was similar in size and encounter rate to the sample obtained in In October 2005, an aerial survey yielded a sample of 98 bighorn sheep. The observed sex and age ratios were 33 rams and 45 lambs per 100 ewes. The Black Mountains experienced generally dry conditions in calendar year However, the recent winter of was wetter than the 3 preceding winters. Beginning in late November 2008 and extending into March 2009, storms produced precipitation generally in brief and localized events. In the short term, vegetative conditions in early 2009 are improved relative to spring conditions in the preceding 3 years ( ). Over the long term, recruitment of young animals into the bighorn sheep herd inhabiting the Black Mountains appears below levels necessary to maintain the population. Aerial survey data (i.e., lamb-toewe ratio, sheep per hour, total observed) portray a steady population decline that began in the latter half of the 1980s. Desert bighorn sheep occupying the Black Mountains and Muddy Mountains comprise a single population given the high degree of movement between ranges. However, environmental conditions and local population dynamics have differed markedly. Over the long term, aerial survey data portray a decline in the number of bighorn sheep inhabiting the Black Mountains, while data reflect an increase in sheep numbers in the adjacent Muddy Mountains. The 2009 population estimate for bighorn sheep inhabiting the Black Mountains and Muddy Mountains is 850, and approximates the estimate reported last year. Unit 268, Muddy Mountains: Clark County Report by: Patrick Cummings In October 2008, 10.7 hours of flight time were expended over a 3-day period to conduct aerial bighorn sheep surveys in the Muddy Mountains. The survey efforts yielded a sample of 459 bighorn sheep. The observed sex and age ratios were 74 rams and 45 lambs per 100 ewes. Bighorn sheep were widely distributed and encountered throughout much of the survey route south of S.R. 169, which included the main portion of the Muddy Mountains and Muddy Peak. The Muddy Mountains experienced generally dry conditions in calendar year However, the recent winter of was wetter than the 3 preceding winters. Beginning in late November 2008 and extending into March 2009, storms produced precipitation generally in brief and localized events. In the short term, vegetative conditions in early 2009 are improved relative to spring conditions in the preceding 3 years ( ). Overall dry conditions in 2006 and early 2007 resulted in inadequate recharge of 3 water developments in the Muddy Mountains. In a collaborative effort, critical funding support from Fraternity of the Desert 81

96 DESERT BIGHORN Bighorn, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited Reno Chapter and Foundation for North American Wild Sheep enabled payment for contract helicopter services. In May, July and September 2007, in the course of 186 sorties, a helicopter delivered 11,350 gallons of water to 3 water developments. Eighty-five percent of the water was delivered to the Five Ram water development. The Bureau of Land Management will conduct an auction of oil and gas leases on federal land in June In the Muddy Mountains, the competitive lease auction involves nearly 36 sections (Figure 1). In a March 2009 response letter to BLM, NDOW stated that no surface occupancy is strongly recommended...should exploration be allowed, a one-mile buffer should be placed around the water development [Five Ram]. Population Status and Trend Figure 1. Oil and gas parcels available in June 2009 lease auction. The Desert sheep occupying the Black Mountains and Muddy Mountains comprise a single population given the high degree of movement between ranges. However, environmental conditions and local population dynamics have differed markedly. Over the long term, aerial survey data portray a decline in the number of bighorn sheep inhabiting the Black Mountains, while data reflect an increase in sheep numbers in the adjacent Muddy Mountains. The 2009 population estimate for bighorn sheep inhabiting the Black Mountains and Muddy Mountains is 850, and approximates the estimate reported last year. In early November 2008, a bighorn sheep capture and removal operation was conducted in the Muddy Mountains to achieve augmentations of herds inhabiting the Delamar Mountains and Meadow Valley Mountains. In the course of 2 days, a total of 41 bighorn sheep was captured and translocated. In the first day, 25 sheep comprised of 20 ewes, 4 female lambs and 1 male lamb were captured and later released in the Delamar Mountains. On the second day, 15 ewes and a single male lamb were captured and subsequently released in the Meadow Valley Mountains. In December 2007, a bighorn sheep capture and removal operation was conducted in the Muddy Mountains to achieve an augmentation of the herd inhabiting the Delamar Mountains. Twenty-five sheep comprised of 22 ewes, 2 female lambs and 1 male lamb were captured from the eastern portion of the Muddy Mountains. Unit 271, Mormon Mountains: Lincoln County Report by: Mike Scott Aerial surveys were completed in August 2008 and resulted in the classification of 170 sheep. These were classified as 52 rams, 83 ewes, and 35 lambs. This results in a ratio of 63 rams:100 ewes:42 lambs. This is the highest total observed since 1995, despite the survey being scaled back to 6 hours instead of the usual 9 hours. 82