HAY-ZAMA LAKES WATERFOWL STAGING AND RAPTOR NESTING MONITORING PROGRAM 2003

Transcription

1 Project Title Year HAY-ZAMA LAKES WATERFOWL STAGING AND RAPTOR NESTING MONITORING PROGRAM 2003 Ken D. Wright 1 1 Alberta Conservation Association, Peace River, Alberta, Canada T8S 1T4

2 Disclaimer: This document is an independent report prepared by the Alberta Conservation Association. The authors are solely responsible for the interpretations of data and statements made within this report. Reproduction and Availability: This report and its contents may be reproduced in whole, or in part, provided that this title page is included with such reproduction and/or appropriate acknowledgements are provided to the authors and sponsors of this project. Suggested citation: Wright K.D Hay-Zama Lakes waterfowl staging and raptor nesting monitoring program, Data report, D2004-xxx, produced by Alberta Conservation Association, Peace River, Alberta, Canada. 25 pp + App. Digital copies of this and other conservation reports can be obtained from: ii

3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Hay-Zama Lakes Wildlife Monitoring project is a cooperative venture implemented by the Hay-Zama Committee. The committee includes a variety of stakeholders including representatives from oil and gas sector, government agencies, First nations and conservation groups. These stakeholders provide advice on operations within the Hay-Zama lakes complex. As a committee member, the Alberta Conservation Association s (ACA) contributes advice on conservation issues and delivers the waterfowl monitoring program. Numerous oil and gas wells are located within the boundaries of the Hay-Zama lakes region. A number of oil and gas wells are situated on man-made islands in the permanent and ephemeral water bodies. Monitoring of waterfowl populations during critical migration periods is a stakeholder strategy designed to identify possible negative environmental impacts on select avian species. These monitoring efforts allow for continued oil and gas production unless a large congregation of waterfowl is present at a well site, at which point well production must be suspended. Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD) defined a threshold of 600 ducks and/or geese within a 30 meter radius of the well site as the criteria for suspension of well production. The alternative, as defined by Alberta Energy and Utilities Board, is a general suspension of production on the complex for the migration periods (approximately 15 April to 31 May and 15 September to 15 October). In addition to monitoring waterfowl populations, the Hay Zama program includes monitoring of bald eagle nesting sites to: i) quantify changes in population size through time and ii) breeding success of this species. During this study period (28 April to 21 May and 25 August to 13 October) migrating waterfowl populations were generally well dispersed throughout the wetland complex. Based on 12 surveys during the study period, densities of waterfowl did not exceed threshold limits during the 2003 migration periods. Consequently no wells were shut-in due to waterfowl presence. Results from surveys of bald eagles identified seven active nesting pairs. Breeding success was not determined, as the adults continued to brood young during the survey period. To avoid undue harassment, eggs or young in the nests were not counted. iii

4 Based on the above, I suggest that the continued monitoring of well sites during waterfowl migration periods is beneficial as a precautionary approach to: i) quantifying densities of waterfowl and ii) density and breeding success of bald eagles. Finally, I suggest that a delay in the timing of the bald eagle nest surveys would be beneficial to obtain accurate counts of young. iv

5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I am grateful to the following individuals, agencies, and corporations for their contributions and assistance in delivering this project. First and foremost, I am grateful to the Hay-Zama Committee who oversaw all activities on the project and who fostered a collaborative and cooperative approach to working with all stakeholders. Funding was provided by the committee s industry members: Nav Energy Trust, Crispin Energy Inc., Devlan Energy Inc. and Atlas Energy Inc. Technical support for aerial surveys was provided by Gerry Beyersbergen (Canadian Wildlife Service), Babtiste Metchooyeah (Dena Tha First Nation), Susanne Butterfield (Alberta Environment), Pat Cabezas (Cabezas Resources Inc.) and Annette Baker, Stephanie Bone, Allysia Book, Mike Doran, John Hallett and Mike Rosendal (Alberta Conservation Association). Dave Moyles, John Hallett and Garry Scrimgeour (Alberta Conservation Association), and an anonymous external reviewer reviewed this report and provided valuable insights and editorial suggestions. v

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7 TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS... v LIST OF FIGURES... viii LIST OF TABLES... ix LIST OF APPENDICES... x 1.0 INTRODUCTION General introduction Study rationale Study objective STUDY AREA Description Ecoregion, forest cover and soils Plant and animal communities MATERIALS AND METHODS Waterfowl monitoring Bald eagle nesting survey RESULTS Waterfowl monitoring Bald eagle nesting Summary LITERATURE CITED APPENDICES vii

8 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Location of Hay Zama Lakes study area and aerial survey route used for waterfowl monitoring during spring and fall migration periods, Figure 2. Numbers of geese observed during the 2003 spring migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta Figure 3. Numbers of ducks observed during the 2003 spring migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta Figure 4. Relative abundance of duck species observed during the 2003 spring and fall migrations in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta Figure 5. Numbers of geese observed during the 2003 fall migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta Figure 6. Numbers of ducks observed during the 2003 fall migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta Figure 7. Locations of bald eagle nest sites observed in an aerial survey in the Hay Zama study area May 26, viii

9 LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Summary of numbers of ducks and geese species observed in the Hay Zama study area in spring Species abbreviations: CAGO - Canada goose. GWFG - Greater white-fronted goose. LSCO - Lesser snow goose Table 2. Summary of numbers of ducks and geese species observed in the Hay Zama study area in fall Species abbreviations: CAGO - Canada Goose, GWFG - Greater white-fronted goose, LSGO - Lesser snow goose Table 3. Summary of observations recorded during a survey of bald eagle nest sites in the Hay Zama study area May 26, ix

10 LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix 1. Summary of numbers of waterfowl observed during the 2003 spring and fall migrations in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta Appendix 2. Summary of peak numbers of ducks observed from 1994 to 2003 and peak numbers of geese observed from 1978 to 2003 during spring and fall migration in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta Appendix 3. Summary of relative abundance of waterfowl species observed on the aerial survey route during the 2003 spring and fall migrations in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta Appendix 4. Summary of the results of bald eagle nesting surveys in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta from 1994 to x

11 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 General introduction The Hay-Zama Committee (HZC) has directed the Hay-Zama Lakes Monitoring Program annually since Designed to direct industrial activities within the Hay-Zama Lakes complex, the committee includes members from the oil and gas industry, Dene Tha First Nation, municipal, provincial and federal government agencies, and environmental and conservation organizations. Waterfowl monitoring on the complex began in 1978 and includes most migration seasons however, methods and effort have varied since the inception of the program. In an effort to standardize the monitoring efforts, the HZC delegated this task to the Government of Alberta - Fish and Wildlife Division. In 1997, the newly formed Alberta Conservation Association (ACA) assumed these monitoring responsibilities. The Hay-Zama Lakes complex is an internationally recognized critical staging and nesting area for waterfowl and shorebirds. It was designated as a Wetland of International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat by the Ramsar Convention in 1981, and in 1990 was nominated by the World Heritage Convention as a World Heritage Site. The Province of Alberta designated the complex as a Wetland for Tomorrow and in 1999 the complex was given provincially legislated designation as the Hay-Zama Lakes Wildland Provincial Park. 1.2 Study rationale Corresponding with the re-establishment of the Hay-Zama Committee in 1995 the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (AEUB) revised existing guidelines for oil and gas operations within the Hay-Zama Lakes complex (Alberta Energy and Utilities Board. 1996). One of the more significant amendments was the development of new boundaries for the complex based on hydrological and biological criteria. These new boundaries clearly defined the most sensitive areas to industrial activity as the wetlands and surrounding vegetation. Monitoring of select wildlife species within the new boundaries was developed to comply with the following clause in the AEUB guidelines pertaining to general drilling and production requirements (Alberta Energy and Utilities Board. 1996): 1

12 1. During a 5-week Spring period (commencing mid-april) and an 8-week fall period (commencing mid-august) each year, the company shall: Suspend well production and helicopter operations, or AEP 1 and operators within the Complex will monitor fish and wildlife activity in the Complex and, in consultation with the Fish and Wildlife Division of AEP, determine for which wells, if any, suspension of production and helicopter operations is required 2 and for what period of time. 2. All wells, batteries, compressor stations, satellites, and pipeline routes shall be patrolled within 24 hours of production being suspended. 1 Alberta Environmental Protection presently Alberta Sustainable Resource Division (ASRD). 2 Alberta Fish and Wildlife defined the criterion for suspension of production in 1992 as 600 ducks and / or geese within a 30-meter radius of an active well site. 1.3 Study objective In the present study, I report on findings of surveys of waterfowl and bald eagles in the Hay Zama lakes complex completed in Specifically, the objective of the report is to: i) determine whether congregations of duck and geese in 2003 exceeded previously determined threshold densities that result in a change in management practices and ii) quantify number of nesting bald eagles and, if possible, estimate brood production. 2

13 2.0 STUDY AREA 2.1 Description Hay-Zama Lakes are part of a unique and diverse wetland complex situated approximately 100 km west of High Level (Figure 1). Comprised of over 50,000 ha of open water, wet meadows, rivers and floodplain woodlands, this area is characterized by highly variable water levels both on a seasonal and annual basis (Fearon and Larsen 1986). The complex s major fluvial system, Hay River, meanders through the complex, separated from lacustrine cells by high levees. Other fluvial systems entering the complex include Sousa Creek, Mega River, Amber River, Zama River, Moody Creek as well as several unnamed creeks. Major lacustrine cells include Hay, Zama, Duck and Sand Lakes. Numerous unnamed shallow water bodies (commonly known as sloughs) make up the remainder of the complex s wetted area. During spring runoff high water in the Hay River backs up Omega River and Sousa Creek filling the complex. After peak runoff, the complex slowly discharges via these same drainages. By mid-summer some of the large ephemeral lacustrine cells recede into vast grasslands. Hay Lake, Amber River, and Zama Lake Indian Reserves all border the wetland complex. People of the Dene Tha' First Nation have used and continue to use the complex and surrounding areas for traditional purposes such as hunting, fishing, trapping, gathering and traditional ceremonies. 2.2 Ecoregion, forest cover and soils The Hay-Zama Lakes complex occurs in the mid boreal mixed-wood ecoregion (Strong and Leggat 1992). The climate is characterized by relatively low annual precipitation, cool summers and long, cold winters (Strong and Leggat 1992). Forest cover in the ecoregion is dominated by trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) and balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera) with understories commonly containing species like blue joint (Calamagrostis canadensis), prickly rose (Rosa acicularis), bunchberry (Cornus canadensis), wild sarsaparilla (Arilia nudicaulis), dewberry (Rubus pubescens) and common fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium) (Strong and Leggat 1992). 3

14 Figure 1. Location of Hay Zama Lakes study area and aerial survey route used for waterfowl monitoring during spring and fall migration periods,

15 Soils in the study area include luvisols, regosols, gleysols and organic types (Bentz et al.1994). Luvisolic soils dominate the well-drained, upland sites where glaciolacustrine deposits form the dominant parent material. Regosolic soils are prominent on recently deposited sediments of fluvial origin like the floodplains of the Hay River and its tributaries. Gleysolic soils are very common in poorly drained areas, often overlain by organic layers or peat (Bentz et al.1994). 2.3 Plant and animal communities Fluctuating water levels in the Hay-Zama Lakes complex is an important attribute of the region and profoundly influence the structure and functioning of plant communities. Aspen and balsam poplar dominate the limited upland sites with sporadic occurrence of white spruce (Picea glauca) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera). Fluvial deposits adjacent to watercourses are dominated by balsam poplar, with a dense understory of willow (Salix spp.), red-osier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera) and chokecherry (Prunus virginiana). Dense willow thickets, often associated with thick grass and sedge meadows (Carex spp.), cover the poorly drained transitional areas between the river levees and the ephemeral lacustrine basins. Sedges, slough grass (Beckmannia syzigachne), water smartweed (Polygonum spp.), yellow cress (Rorippa palustris) and small bedstraw (Galium trifidum) cover the ephemeral lacustrine basins once water levels have receded. In addition to abundant migrating waterfowl, several other wildlife species have been observed in past surveys. These include raptors, gulls, terns and numerous songbirds. Ungulates observed include wood bison (Bison bison athabascae), which are considered to be the only free-ranging disease free herd in Alberta, moose (Alces alces) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Larger carnivores observed on the complex include black bear (Ursus americanus), wolf (Canis lupus) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Beaver (Castor canadensis) and muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) have been observed in past monitoring surveys and their dams, lodges and push-ups are evident throughout the complex. Fish species in the Hay River and tributaries include northern pike (Esox lucius), walleye (Stizostedion vitreum), burbot (Lota lota), white sucker (Catostomus commersoni) and longnose sucker (C. catostomus) (Shaffe and Wright 1997). Additionally, flooded grasslands in spring provide critical spawning and rearing habitat for northern pike (Moller and Rosin 1994, Shaffe and Wright 1997, Wright (1998). 5

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17 3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS 3.1 Waterfowl monitoring Waterfowl numbers at all active well sites within the wetland complex were monitored at weekly intervals during spring and fall migration periods for a total of 12 surveys. Four spring surveys were completed from 28 April to 21 May and eight fall surveys from 25 August to 13 October. Aerial surveys were flown in a Bell 206 or R-44 rotary wing aircraft at an altitude of approximately 30- meters with ground speed of 100 km/h. The survey route was patterned after previous surveys (Saxena et al. 1995, Schaffe and Wright 1997) and included all active wells in addition to general coverage of the complex to monitoring overall migration periods (Figure 1). Flight speed was reduced at well sites to minimize disturbance of waterfowl and to facilitate accurate counts. Waterfowl counts at the well sites encompassed a radius of 30 meters around the well with a threshold level of 600 ducks or geese within this area. For monitoring of overall migration periods, all waterfowl observed within 200 meters of the survey route were recorded and, where practical, identified to species. Exceedence of threshold numbers of ducks and geese results in an immediate call to the High Level office of Alberta Energy and Utilities Board who determine whether well suspension procedures should be initiated. Suspended wells are patrolled within 24 hours and production is resumed as soon as waterfowl numbers fall below threshold levels. 3.2 Bald eagle nesting survey Nesting sites of bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) on the complex were monitored in a single aerial survey on 26 May, The survey route covered areas of the complex with large mature trees suitable for nesting, and included all nesting sites identified in previous surveys (Saxena et al. 1995, Schaffe and Wright 1997, Wright 2002). Locations of nests were geo-referenced using a Global Positioning (GPS) system. If possible, numbers of adults, young, or eggs were recorded and nest status was reported as: 1. Brooding, if eggs or brooding adults were observed 2. Rearing, if young were observed in the nest 3. Empty, if no evidence of nesting observed 7

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19 4.0 RESULTS 4.1 Waterfowl monitoring Well-site monitoring Results from monitoring activities showed that exceedences of threshold densities of duck and geese were not recorded at any of the well sites monitored during 2003 migration periods. In comparison with past surveys, waterfowl numbers at all well sites within the complex were relatively low. Maximum number of ducks and geese recorded at a well site was 340 birds for 2003 compared to a maximum of 620 for 2002 and of 600 for This difference was possibly related to recent fluctuations of water levels typical of this area (Fearon and Larsen 1986). Waterfowl and shorebirds were often observed in past surveys loafing on the man-made islands, constructed for the offshore wells. High water levels during the spring monitoring period reduced the area of the loafing sites at offshore wells where high concentrations of waterfowl had been observed in past surveys. During fall monitoring periods, ducks avoided wells in the ephemeral marshes as water levels had receded considerably. However, geese often congregate in these areas to feed on exposed vegetation that emerges as the water recedes. Brief summaries of observations of waterfowl and general habitat descriptions for each of the 19 well sites monitored in this study are provided below. Appendix 1 lists the actual numbers of waterfowl, shorebirds and other avifauna (e.g., gulls, coots, raptors) observed and recorded during the monitoring surveys. Well location 1. Grid reference = W6. This gas well is operated by Devlan Exploration Inc. Waterfowl were not observed at this site during either the spring or fall monitoring periods. The well is located near the south bank of the Hay River in an ephemeral sheetwater area. Well location 2. Grid reference = W6. This oil well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. Waterfowl were present at this site in relatively low numbers (3 26) for the spring monitoring period and in moderate numbers (40 175) for the fall monitoring period. This well site is situated in the permanent lake basin of North Zama Lake. 9

20 Well location 3. Grid reference = W6 This oil well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. One observation of 33 ducks was recorded in the spring monitoring period (May 12 th ). For the fall monitoring period, waterfowl were present in low to moderate numbers (9-131) on all of the monitoring surveys except September 8 th when oilfield personnel were on site during the survey. The well site is situated in a marsh area dominated by emergent vegetation to the north of North Zama Lake. Well location 4. Grid reference = W6. This oil well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. There were no waterfowl observed at this site in either the spring or fall monitoring periods. This site is located on the edge of a willow-covered levee adjacent to an ephemeral marsh to the northeast of North Zama Lake. Well location 5. Grid reference = W6 This oil well is operated by Crispin Energy Inc. There were no waterfowl observed at this site in either the spring or fall monitoring periods. This site is located within the Hay Lake Indian Reserve (I.R. 209) in a willow thicket adjacent to an ephemeral sheetwater area. A small marsh to the west of the well site generally contains an abundance of waterfowl, but is outside of the 30 metre zone established for inclusion in the threshold tally. Well location 6. Grid reference = W6 This oil well is operated by Atlas Energy Inc. One observation of 12 Canada geese (Branta canadensis) was recorded in the spring monitoring period. The site is located in an ephemeral marsh that typically dries up by the end of the spring monitoring period. A causeway connects the well site to the upland south of the complex providing year-round access. Well location 7. Grid reference = W6 This oil well is operated by Crispin Energy Inc. Canada geese were observed at this site periodically during both the spring and fall monitoring periods. Numbers ranged from 10 to 125 geese, well below the threshold. The site is located in an ephemeral marsh that typically dries up by the end of the spring monitoring period. Well location 8. Grid reference = W6 Oil well operated by Crispin Energy Inc. There were no waterfowl observed at this site in either the spring or fall monitoring periods. The site is located in a willow thicket adjacent to an ephemeral watercourse 10

21 Well location 9. Grid reference = W6 This gas well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. One observation of 25 ducks was recorded in the spring monitoring period (May 5 th ). The site is located in an ephemeral marsh. Well location 10. Grid reference = W6 This gas well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. One observation of 2 ducks was recorded in the spring monitoring period (May 5 th ). The site is located in an ephemeral marsh. Well location 11. Grid reference = W6 This oil well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. The highest number of waterfowl observed during the spring monitoring surveys was 210 ducks at this site on May 5 th. The following week 2 ducks were observed and on all other survey events waterfowl were absent. The site is located in an ephemeral marsh. Well location 12. Grid reference = W6 This gas well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. There were no waterfowl observed at this site in either the spring or fall monitoring periods. The well is located in an isolated ephemeral sheetwater area in the southeast part of the wetland complex. Well location 13. Grid reference = W6 This gas well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. Waterfowl were absent at this site for the spring monitoring period but present in low to moderate numbers (20-300) for the fall monitoring period. The site is located on the west end of an unnamed permanent lake body north of Sand Lake. Well location 14. Grid reference = W6 This gas well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. Waterfowl were present at this site in relatively low numbers (6-30) for the spring monitoring period and in moderate numbers (80 340) for the fall monitoring period. The highest number of waterfowl observed on the fall surveys was 340 ducks at this site on September 15 th. The well site is situated in a permanent marsh north of Sand Lake. Well location 15. Grid reference = W6 Oil well operated by Nav Energy Trust. There were no waterfowl observed at this site during either the spring or fall monitoring periods. The well is located in a heavily wooded area separated from the Hay River by a Balsam poplar dominated levee and from the ephemeral marsh to the south by a thicket of willow and willow/sedge. Well location 16. Grid reference = W6 This oil well cluster (4 wells) is operated by Nav Energy Trust. Waterfowl were present at this site in low to 11

22 moderate numbers for both spring and fall monitoring periods. Numbers observed ranged from 20 to 100 ducks. The well cluster is situated in the permanent lake basin of Duck Lake. Well location 17. Grid reference = W6 This oil well cluster (2 wells) is operated by Nav Energy Trust. Waterfowl were present at this site in low numbers for both spring and fall monitoring periods. Numbers observed ranged from 4 to 10 ducks. The well cluster is situated in the permanent lake basin of Duck Lake. Well location 18. Grid reference = W6 This oil well cluster (3 wells) is operated by Nav Energy Trust. There were no waterfowl observed at this site in either the spring or fall monitoring periods. The well cluster is located in an ephemeral sheetwater area between the Hay River and Duck Lake. Well location 19. Grid reference = W6 This gas well is operated by Nav Energy Trust. Waterfowl were present in relatively low numbers at this site during the two earliest spring monitoring surveys (8 and 30). On all other survey events waterfowl were absent. The site is located in an ephemeral marsh between Duck Lake and West Hay Lake. Water in this area typically draws down rapidly after peak spring water level General waterfowl migration Waterfowl numbers reported in this document represent observations on the survey route. These migration data are presented as a comparison to migration numbers observed in past surveys (see Appendix 2) and are not intended to represent a population estimate. Peak goose migration data have been recorded since 1978, and may provide some insight into general trends in migration patterns; however I am cautious in interpreting these numbers as survey methods have varied through the last decades (Appendix 2). Historical data on duck migrations are somewhat less comprehensive. Peak duck migration data from 1994 to 2003 are included in Appendix 2. In 2003, spring goose migration peaked April 28 th with 7,879 Canada and Greater white-fronted geese (Table 1, Figure 3). Compared to the average of the migration peaks (5,989), this peak was similar but occurred a week earlier (Appendix 2). 12

23 Canada geese were the most common goose species observed in the spring monitoring (Table 1). Greater white-fronts (Anser albifrons) were present, but fewer in number, and snow geese (Chen caerulescens) were absent for all of the spring monitoring surveys. Swans were present on all spring survey dates, however it was unknown whether they were trumpeters (Cygnus buccinator) or tundras (C. columbianus). The similarities of these two species make accurate identification from the air difficult without undue harassment of the birds. Table 1. Summary of numbers of ducks and geese species observed in the Hay Zama study area in spring Species abbreviations: CAGO - Canada goose. GWFG - Greater white-fronted goose. LSCO - Lesser snow goose. DATE DUCKS CAGO GWFG LSGO SWANS April 28 14,695 7, May 5 16,564 2, May 12 16, May 21 6, TOTAL 53,829 9, NUMBER OBSERVED Apr 5-May 12-May 21-May DATE Figure 2. Numbers of geese observed during the 2003 spring migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta. 13

24 The peak of the spring duck migration with 16,564 birds on May 5 th, occurred one week after the geese (Table 1, Figure 3). Timing of the duck migration peak was consistent with the average reported in Appendix 2, but with considerably lower numbers. All duck species common to Alberta were represented on the wetland complex for the spring migration (Figure 4, Appendix 3). Northern pintails (Anas acuta) were the most abundant species observed, accounting for 38 % of the spring total. Mallards (A. platyrhynchos) American widgeons (A. americana), northern shovelers (A. clypeata), and blue-wing teals (A. discors ) were abundant as well, accounting for 11%, 9%, 8% and 8% of the total respectively. Other duck species observed, in order of abundance, were canvasbacks (Aythya valisineria), scaups (A. marila or A. affinis), redheads (A. americana), green-wing teals (Anas crecca), gadwalls (A. strepera), common goldeneyes (Bucephala clangula), ruddy ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis), ring-necked ducks (Aytheya collaris), buffleheads (B. albeola), cinnamon teals (Anas cyanoptera),and white-winged scoters (Melanitta fusca) (Figure 4). Other waterfowl species of note include common merganser (Mergus merganser) and grebes (Aechmophorus occidentalis, Podiceps grisegena). During the spring surveys, on average 65 % of ducks were unidentifiable NUMBER OBSERVED Apr 5-May 12-May 21-May DATE Figure 3. Numbers of ducks observed during the 2003 spring migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta. 14

25 SPRING FALL SPECIES Merganser Grebe spp. White-w ing Scoter Ring-necked Duck Cinnamon Teal Ruddy Duck Bufflehead Redhead Scaup American Widgeon Goldeneye Northern Shoveller Canvasback Green-w ing Teal Northern Pintail Blue-w ing Teal Mallard Gadw all PERCENT Figure 4. Relative abundance of duck species observed during the 2003 spring and fall migrations in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta. Fall goose migration peaked September 15 th with 5,035 birds (Table 2, Figure 5), consistent with the average date but with fewer birds than the mean of 7,565 (Appendix 2). Fall duck migration also peaked on the same date as geese with 87,830 birds. This date was consistent with the average peak on September 17 th, but numbers observed were roughly double the 9 year average reported in Appendix 2. Canada goose was the most common goose species observed in the fall (3,823 individuals). Snow geese were a close second with 3,367 observations during the fall monitoring period (Table 2). These numbers of snow geese have not been recorded since 1994 when Saxena et al (1995) reported a fall total of 3,553. In the past (1995 to 2002), snow geese on the complex have numbered fewer than 500 during both spring and fall surveys (Shaffe and Wright 1997, Wright 2003). Greater white-fronts were abundant during the fall migration peak, with 1,371 observed, but were either absent or present in relatively low numbers during the rest of the fall monitoring period (Table 2). During 2003, swans were present throughout fall monitoring, peaking in the latter survey dates typical of past observations. 15

26 Table 2. Summary of numbers of ducks and geese species observed in the Hay Zama study area in fall Species abbreviations: CAGO - Canada Goose, GWFG - Greater white-fronted goose, LSGO - Lesser snow goose. DATE DUCKS CAGO GWFG LSGO SWANS Aug 25 34,701 1, Sep 1 59, Sep 8 53, Sep 15 87,830 1,222 1,371 2,442 2 Sep 22 21, Sep 29 58, Oct 6 25, Oct 13 41, TOTAL 382,039 3,823 1,847 3, NUMBER OBSERVED Sep 8-Sep 15-Sep 22-Sep 29-Sep 6-Oct 13-Oct DATE Figure 5. Numbers of geese observed during the 2003 fall migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta. Gadwall (Anas strepera) was the predominant duck species recorded in the fall surveys, accounting for 32% of the total (Figure 4). Mallards (A. platyrhynchos), northern pintails (A. acuta), blue-wing teals (A. discors) and green-wing teals (A. 16

27 crecca) were also abundant, accounting for 16%, 14%, 13% and 13% of the total respectively. Other duck species observed (Appendix 3), in order of abundance, were American widgeon (A. americana), northern shoveler (A. clypeata), scaup (Aythya marila or A. affinis), canvasback (A. valisineria), common goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), redhead (Aythya americana), ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis), bufflehead (Bucephala. albeola), white-winged scoter (Melanitta fusca), cinnamon teal (Anas cyanoptera),and ring-necked duck (Aytheya collaris). Other waterfowl species of note include common merganser (Mergus merganser) and grebes (Aechmophorus occidentalis, Podiceps grisegena). During the fall surveys, on average 57 % of ducks were unidentifiable. NUMBER OBSERVED Aug 1-Sep 8-Sep 15-Sep 22-Sep 29-Sep 6-Oct 13-Oct DATE Figure 6. Numbers of ducks observed during the 2003 fall migration in the Hay Zama study area in Alberta. 4.2 Bald eagle nesting Bald eagle nesting success has been monitored annually on the Hay-Zama Lakes complex since 1994 (Appendix 4). Saxena et al. (1995) reported 6 active nesting pairs in a June 1994 survey of the treed areas along the Hay River. The survey area was expanded in 1996 to include other suitable nesting habitat within the wetland complex boundaries, specifically the small aspen upland east of Sand 17

28 Lake and the aspen uplands on the west end of the complex (Figure 6). From 1995 to 2002 active nesting pairs observed on the complex have ranged from 3 to 7 (Shaffe and Wright 1997, Wright 2002) with the lowest count of 3 being attributed to a wildfire in late May 2001 that burned through several nesting sites along the Hay River. During the May 26, 2003 survey (Table 3), seven active nests were observed that were classified as brooding, containing adult eagles that were very reluctant to flush from the nest. Consequently, eggs or young in the nests were not counted. Completing the nesting survey a little later in the year after young have hatched is recommended for a more accurate count of hatching success. Incidental observations of bald eagles were greatest in the fall, with up to 19 individuals recorded per survey (numbers observed ranged from 11 to 19). Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), short-eared owl (Asio flammeus), red-tailed hawk (Buteo swainsoni), peregrine falcon ((Falco peregrinus), and numerous northern harriers (Circus cyaneus) were observed as well during waterfowl surveys and other field activities but numbers of these were not recorded. 18

29 Figure 7. Locations of bald eagle nest sites observed in an aerial survey in the Hay Zama study area May 26,

30 Table 3. Summary of observations recorded during a survey of bald eagle nest sites in the Hay Zama study area May 26, SITE NO. LOCATION (UTM) NO. OBSERVED STATUS EASTING NORTHING ADULTS YOUNG EGGS COMMENTS empty Nest in disrepair brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest empty Nest in good shape, but empty absent Area burnt absent Not found in this survey brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest brooding Brooding adult Bald Eagle in nest absent Not found in this survey TOTAL 7 active Eagle nests Summary Migrating waterfowl populations were relatively low during the spring monitoring study period (28 April to 21 May) and relatively high during the fall monitoring study period (25 August to 13 October) in comparison to past surveys. Maximum number of waterfowl observed at a well site during all of the 12 aerial surveys was 340 birds, well below the threshold number of 600 birds 20

31 defined by ASRD. Consequently, AEUB did not require any of the oil and gas companies operating within the study area to suspend production at any of the well sites. As in past surveys, northern pintail was the most common duck species observed during spring surveys. Gadwall was the predominate duck species observed during fall surveys. Past observations have reported either gadwall or mallard as the most abundant species present for the fall migration period. Seven active bald eagle nesting pairs were observed during the May 26, 2003 survey. This observation is within the range of three to seven nesting pairs recorded in past surveys. All nests contained brooding adults and no effort was made to flush them from the nests. Consequently, no young were observed. I recommend that monitoring of waterfowl at well sites continue during migration periods to ensure that well production is suspended expediently in the event of the presence of a threshold concentration of waterfowl. I also recommend that the timing of the bald eagle nest surveys be delayed to obtain accurate counts of young. 21

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33 5.0 LITERATURE CITED Alberta Energy and Utilities Board Interim Directive ID96-1, Hay-Zama Lake Complex - special requirements. Alberta Energy and Utilities Board. Calgary, Alberta, Canada. 9 pp. Bentz, J.A., A. Saxena, and D. O Leary Biophysical inventory of shoreline areas of the Hay-Zama Lakes, Alberta. Prepared by Geowest Environmental Consultants Ltd. for Resource Information Division, Alberta Environmental Protection. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. 105 pp. Fearon, P.W. and G. I. Larsen Hay-Zama Lakes survey report. Unpublished report produced by Ducks Unlimited Canada. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. 10 pp + app. Moller, K. and J. Rosin Preliminary investigation of pike spawning potential on the Hay-Zama Wetland complex. Unpublished report. Alberta Environmental Protection. Peace River. Saxena, A.J., A. Bentz, and D. O Leary Wildlife monitoring program, 1994, Hay-Zama Lakes, Alberta. Prepared by Geowest Environmental Consultants Ltd. for Granisko Resources Inc. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. 99 pp. Strong, W.L. and K.R. Leggat Ecoregions of Alberta. Alberta Forestry, Lands and Wildlife. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. 55 pp + app. Schaffe, C. M. and K. D. Wright Hay-Zama Lakes Biological Study. Unpublished report by Alberta Environmental Protection. Peace River, Alberta, Canada. 16 pp. Wright, K.D Hay-Zama Lakes Complex fisheries and wildlife monitoring 1997 / 98. Unpublished report by the Alberta Conservation Association. Peace River, Alberta, Canada. 17 pp. Wright, K.D Hay-Zama Lakes Complex wildlife monitoring Unpublished report by the Alberta Conservation Association. Peace River, Alberta, Canada. 15 pp. 23

34 Wright, K.D Hay-Zama Lakes Complex wildlife monitoring Unpublished report by the Alberta Conservation Association. Peace River, Alberta, Canada. 15 pp. 24

35 6.0 APPENDICES Appendix 1. Summary of numbers of waterfowl observed during the 2003 spring and fall migrations in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta. Spring Apr 5-May 12-May 21-May Well Site wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot 2 of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of wf = waterfowl sb = shorebirds ot = other (coots, gulls, raptors) 25

36 Fall, Aug 1-Sep 8-Sep 15-Sep 22-Sep 29-Sep 6-Oct 13-Oct Well Site wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot wf sb ot 2 of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of wf = waterfowl sb = shorebirds ot = other (coots, gulls, raptors) 26

37 Appendix 2. Summary of peak numbers of ducks observed from 1994 to 2003 and peak numbers of geese observed from 1978 to 2003 during spring and fall migration in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta. Ducks (1994 to 2003) SPRING MIGRATION FALL MIGRATION YEAR DATE OF PEAK TOTAL DUCKS DATE OF PEAK TOTAL DUCKS May 18,417 8-Sep 35, May 11, Sep 53, May 19, Sep 28, May 13, Sep 29, May 32, Sep 62, May 49, Sep 63, May 29,307 2-Oct 32, Apr 39, Sep 43, May 52, Sep 43, AVERAGE 6-May 29, Sep 43, May 16, Sep 87,830 Geese (1978 to 2003) YEAR SPRING MIGRATION FALL MIGRATION DATE OF PEAK TOTAL GEESE DATE OF PEAK TOTALGEESE Apr 5, Sep 13, May 2, Sep 39, May 6, Sep 8, May 20, Aug 6, May 22, Aug 7, May 4,599 6-Sep 3, May 3, Sep 5, May 5, Sep 7, May 8, Aug 3, May 15, Sep 1, Apr 6,398 2-Sep 1, May 1, Sep 2, May Sep 4, May Sep 21, May 1, Sep 4, Apr Oct 4, May 9,082 8-Sep 7, May 3, Sep 8, May 3,973 2-Sep May Sep 10, Apr 6,975 9-Sep 7, May 5, Sep 4, Apr 4, Sep 4, May 5,056 4-Sep 1, AVERAGE 4-May 5, Sep 7, Apr 7, Sep 5,035 27

38 Appendix 3. Summary of relative abundance of waterfowl species observed on the aerial survey route during the 2003 spring and fall migrations in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta. Spring 28-Apr 5-May 12-May 21-May Geese and Swans Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) Snow Goose (Chen caerulescens) Swans (Cygnus columbianus, C. buccinator) Ducks, Grebes and Mergansers Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Gadwall (Anas strepera) Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors) Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca) Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) American Widgeon (Anas americana) Scaup (Aythya marila or A. affinis) Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) Redhead Aythya americana) Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris) Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) Cinnamon Teal (Anas cyanoptera) White-winged Scoter (Melanitta fusca) Grebes (Aechmophorus occidentalis, Ppodiceps grisegena) Common merganser (Mergus merganser) Unidentified Ducks TOTAL

39 Fall Aug 25 Sep 1 Sep 8 Sep 15 Sep 22 Sep 29 Oct 6 Oct 13 Geese and Swans Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) Snow Goose (Chen caerulescens) Swans (Cygnus columbianus, C. buccinator) Ducks, Grebes and Mergansers Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) Gadwall (Anas strepera) Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors) Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca) Canvasback (Aythya valisineria) Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata) American Widgeon (Anas americana) Scaup (Aythya marila or A. affinis) Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) Redhead Aythya americana) Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris) Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) Cinnamon Teal (Anas cyanoptera) White-winged Scoter (Melanitta fusca) Grebes (Aechmophorus occidentalis, Podiceps grisegena) Common merganser (Mergus merganser) Unidentified Ducks TOTAL

40 Appendix 4. Summary of the results of bald eagle nesting surveys in the Hay Zama study Area in Alberta from 1994 to YEAR NUMBER OF ACTIVE NESTS COMMENTS Source: Saxena et al (1995) Source: Schaffe and Wright (1997) Survey area expanded none none none none Wildfire burned through east portion of study area 2 days prior to survey none none MEAN