Top stories from the Midwest region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service http://www.fws.gov/midwest en May 17 is national Endangered Species Day, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius marked the day by visiting Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge in northeastern Iowa, home to one of the country’s most unique endangered species.  17 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/DriftlessRD2013.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is hosting two public meetings in Joplin and Greenville to provide details and answer questions about a proposal to list two freshwater mussels – the rabbitsfoot and the Neosho mucket – as endangered under the Endangered Species Act and to designate critical habitat. 17 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/646.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's annual Kid's Fishing Day at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge was held at the Bass Ponds in Bloomington, MN on Friday, May 10th. The Bass Ponds are an extension of the refuge itself. Elementary Students from all over the metro area came to the Bass Ponds to learn about fishing and fishing safety. Each group of students traveled around the bass ponds stopping at different stations to learn something new about fishing. 16 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/FishDayMNV2013.html The 8th annual national Endangered Species Day will be celebrated on May 17, 2013, with special events and other programs throughout the country to recognize conservation efforts underway across the nation aimed at helping America’s imperiled species. This year also commemorates the 40th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act. 15 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/645.html Five years ago, the U.S. Senate designated the third Friday in May as Endangered Species Day.  This year, Endangered Species Day is May 17, an opportunity to raise awareness about imperiled plants, animals, and habitats, and to demonstrate ways that others can help conserve these resources.  Lincoln Park Zoo and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will celebrate Endangered Species Day to highlight the conservation programs underway in Northeast Illinois aimed at recovering federally threatened and endangered species and restoring their habitat. 15 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/644.html The stretch of the Mississippi River that winds through Minnesota's Twin Cities is now home to four federally endangered mussel species. This reach of the river wasn't always a suitable place for these animals. 14 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/643.html On May 9, 2013, Randall Todd Walker, a 50 year-old resident of Des Moines, Iowa, was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment for cutting and removing 32 black walnut trees from property under the control of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Klinefeldt. U.S. District Judge John A. Jarvey also ordered Walker to serve three years of supervised release following incarceration. Additionally, Judge Jarvey ordered Walker to pay restitution in the amount of $56,225 and to pay a $100 special assessment for the Crime Victims Fund. 14 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/642.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is releasing the estimated cost and economic impacts and draft environmental assessment of the proposed critical habitat designation of two freshwater mussels, and is seeking public comment. The two mussels, the Neosho mucket and the rabbitsfoot, are found in several Midwestern and southern states, including Missouri, Indiana, Illnois and Ohio.Last year, the Service proposed to list the Neosho mucket as endangered, and the rabbitsfoot as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The Service also proposed to designate critical habitat for these two mussels in 43 critical habitat units encompassing 2,138 river miles of stream channel in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.  9 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/641.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has reopened the comment period on its proposal to list the grotto sculpin, a smallfish found in Perry County, Missouri, as endangered, and to designate critical habitat for the species.  Additionally, the public may comment on a conservation plan that has been developed to address threats identified for the species. The comment period will be open through June 6, 2013. 7 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/640.html The American Bird Conservancy received $134,955 in funding to implement conservation measures for the golden-winged warbler, which has been identified by the Service as a species of concern. The grant will be awarded for a project in Minnesota and will be combined with $1,405 million in partner match dollars to restore nearly 1,200 acres of young forest breeding habitat for the species. The award is part of a $3.5 million investment to conserve declining warblers, sandpipers and other neo-tropical migrant birds by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service via the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act. 7 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/639.html Our law enforcement officers work every day to uphold all sorts of conservation laws, permits and regulations on refuge lands across the Midwest. Sure, you may know that they use GPS technology, surveillance and other high-tech tools to get the job done, but did you know that they have another highly sophisticated tool? Dogs! 7 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/CrabOrchardK9.html Migratory birds and native fish now have more land and waters to thrive in Ohio, thanks to a Great Lakes Restoration Initiative project at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. Deputy Regional Director Charlie Wooley joined Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge staff and Friends, along with conservation partners from The Nature Conservancy and Ducks Unlimited, to mark the completion of the Blausey Tract on Friday May 3, 2013. 6 May 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/OttawaGLRI.html Deputy Regional Director Charlie Wooley joined Seney National Wildlife Refuge staff, Friends and partners in marking the addition of lakeshore acreage to Seney National Wildlife Refuge on April 27, 2013. The 19.85 acres of land known as the Helstrom Addition, was commemorated in honor of Michigan native John J. Helstrom and is within designated critical habitat for the endangered Great Lakes piping plover. A proponent of preserving the natural environment, Helstrom often remarked about the beauty of Whitefish Point and its importance to bird populations. 29 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/WhitefishPoint.html Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released Eagle Conservation Plan Guidance to provide a pathway for the responsible development of wind energy that fosters protection for bald and golden eagles. This new Guidance helps wind energy facilities assess the potential threat to eagles from their operations, and develop comprehensive avoidance, mitigation, and compensation strategies that will help preserve eagle populations across the nation while facilitating the expansion of renewable energy. The Guidance reflects the Service’s approach of supporting renewable energy development that is compatible with fish and wildlife conservation. 26 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/638.html The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) today released its newly designed public Web site GreatLakesLCC.org to promote effective conservation through collaboration and sound science. 23 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/UMGLsite.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Endangered Species Coalition, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the International Child Art Foundation have announced the winners of the 2013 Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest. The art contest is an integral part of the 8th annual national Endangered Species Day on May 17, 2013. 22 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/637.html Working together with the United States Attorney and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement continues their education effort in support of wildlife as they fight the devastating effects of euthanasia drugs. 18 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/EaglePoisoning.html MINNEAPOLIS - Four federal indictments have been filed against a total of 10 individuals in connection with illegal poaching and marketing of walleye and other protected fish on the Red Lake and Leech LakeIndian reservations. All ten people were charged with one count of transportation, sale, and purchase offish taken in violation of the Lacey Act. 17 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/636.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing whooping cranes to eastern North America, reports the 2013 spring migration is well underway.  As of April 3, there were 84 whooping cranes confirmed in central Wisconsin.  Most notably, both wild-hatched chicks from the 2012 season have returned with their parents to the locations where they hatched last spring. W1-12 is a young male whooping crane that hatched on April 30, 2012, and W8-12 is a female that hatched on May 21, 2012. 10 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/634.html ONALASKA, WI– The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's La Crosse Resources Center held a dedication ceremony event in Onalaska, WI on Friday, April 5, 2013 to celebrate the newly constructed Whitney Genetics Laboratory and renovated Resources Center. 7 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/633.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has a message for would-be wildlife traffickers: there’s a new dog in town, and if you try to bring illegal wildlife parts into the country, there’s a good chance he’s going to sniff you out.  And there are more just like him. 4 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/632.html The North American Waterfowl Management Plan Award Committee selected the Ducks Unlimited Great Lakes/Atlantic Regional Office (DU GLARO) to receive the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Blue-winged Teal Award. 4 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/631.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces the availability of a draft Habitat Conservation Plan for Fowler Ridge Wind Farm in northwestern Indiana. The Service is seeking comment on the draft plan as well as a draft environmental impact statement that address impacts to the endangered Indiana bat and the human environment. 4 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/630.html Last month, 18-year-old Cassidy Haggard of Park Rapids, Minn. won best of show honors at the 2013 Minnesota Junior Duck Stamp Contest with her oil painting rendition of a Common Goldeneye. "Quack, quack! Pond Back!" was the winning conservation message submitted by 15-year-old Sophie Olund of St. Paul, Minn. 3 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/629.html In the fight against Asian carp and other aquatic nuisance species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other project partners have turned to environmental DNA as a new fisheries tool. Environmental DNA, also known as eDNA, is a technique that analyzes water samples for traces of genetic material left behind in the water. 1 Apr 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/eDNAvideo.html Minnesota’s wetlands and prairies saw a victory yesterday as James Bosek was sentenced for illegal development activities on a federally protected wetland basin in central Minnesota. Bosek, a 49-year-old man from the central Minnesota community of Garfield was sentenced March 27, 2013 for constructing a road through land that he knew was a federally protected wetland basin. United States Magistrate Judge Leo I. Brisbois sentenced James Bosek to two years of probation on one misdemeanor count of filling a wetland that was subject to a federal easement under the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act. 28 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/wetlandsentence.html Just over 20 years ago, the Karner blue butterfly (Lycaeidis melissa samuelis) and I became fast and inseparable friends. Our relationship began in 1992, after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) proposed listing the butterfly as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Luckily, I was in the right place at the right time—of the seven states where the Karner blue was known to occur, Wisconsin boasted the largest population. So when I became the Service's first Endangered Species Coordinator in Wisconsin in 1993, I also became the Karner blue butterfly Recovery Coordinator. Things haven't been the same since. 26 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/628.html The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) is seeking project ideas for potential funding in 2013.  The LCC identifies, prioritizes, and supports research addressing scientific uncertainties to inform conservation across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes geography. Grant application packages are due by April 19, 2013. 22 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/627.html More than $882.4 million in excise tax revenues generated in 2012 by sportsmen and sportswomen will be distributed to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies to fund fish and wildlife conservation and recreation projects across the nation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today. 21 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/626.html A draft recovery plan aimed at recovering the federally endangered pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus), a bottom-feeding fish considered to be a relic of the dinosaur era, is available for public review and comment from March 15 to April 15, 2013. 15 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/625.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has selected Maumee Bay State Park Conference Center in Oregon, Ohio, as the site for its much anticipated Federal Duck Stamp Art Competition, which will be held on Sept. 27-28. The selection, in part, pays homage to long-time Fish and Wildlife Service employee and acclaimed wildlife artist Bob Hines, who was born in Columbus, Ohio.  The designer for the 1947 Duck Stamp, Hines also worked for the Ohio Division of Wildlife as a staff artist for many years. 15 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/624.html Seven men have been arrested as part of a joint U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Missouri Department of Conservation investigation into the interstate and international trafficking in paddlefish "caviar." The Department of Justice Environment and Natural Resources Division and the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri announced today that the men had been charged in four separate indictments for acts that occurred in 2011 and 2012. 14 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/623.html More than 6 million people visit refuge lands around the Midwest Region each year. Refuges provide many great opportunities to connect with the outdoors. Whether you’re into hunting, fishing, or just getting outside - refuges have something for everyone. Today, more and more people consider refuge lands among their favorite places to visit - both in person and virtually. 14 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/VirtualVisitation.html Earlier today in federal court, a 32-year-old from the northern Minnesota community of Finland was sentenced for violating the Endangered Species Act. United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery sentenced Kyler James Jensen to time served on two counts of violating the Endangered Species Act. Jensen was indicted on July 16, 2012, and pleaded guilty on November 13, 2012. 11 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/WolfConvictions.html The submission deadline for the 2013 Illinois U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Junior Duck Stamp Contest is fast approaching. Administered by the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, the contest requires entries to be postmarked by March 15, 2013. 7 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/622.html Ohio’s entry deadline is today (March 1). March 15 for the rest of the region. 1 Mar 2013 http://go.usa.gov/2rdW The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today confirmed the presence of White-Nose Syndrome (WNS), a disease fatal to several bat species, in four Illinois counties. 1 Mar 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/621.html Due to the threat of inclement weather, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Missouri Department of Conservation have changed the date of a public meeting to discuss a proposed reintroduction of endangered Topeka shiners in northern Missouri. The meeting, originally scheduled for February 21 in Green City, will be held on March 7. 20 Feb 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/620.html In February 2013, the Plains and Prairie Potholes Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) released a comprehensive annual report highlighting the accomplishments of more than 30 agencies and organizations across state and international boundaries committed to healthy ecosystems for current and future generations of fish, wildlife and people. Steering committee and technical committee members representing federal, state and non-governmental entities have worked since 2010 to connect on-the-ground natural resources managers with cutting-edge scientific research on climate change, land-use changes, and other landscape challenges. Click to download annual report as PDF. 13 Feb 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/PPPreport2012.html As we celebrate conservation successes during the Endangered Species Act’s 40th anniversary year, Illinois may not be the place one would expect to find unusual endangered species, one-of-a-kind ecosystems or Cinderella conservation success stories. Yet, all these are here in Illinois where endangered plants and animals are found in unexpected, unique and interesting places. 11 Feb 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/unexpectedspeciesIL.html The Friends of Pendills Creek Hatchery sponsored a Snowmobile Open House at Pendills Creek National Fish Hatchery in Brimley, Michigan on Saturday, February 2, 2013.  The day turned out perfectly; a little cold, but partly sunny with minimal snow flurries.  The Friends Group had a great turnout with approximately 100 guests who arrived via snowmobiles and vehicles.  The guests were greeted by the hatchery staff and were provided a tour of Pendills Creek NFH’s facility, including a debut of the recently hatched sac fry.  After the tour, the guests were invited to grab a bite courtesy of Friends Group.  A wide spread prepared by members of the Friends Group was provided for all who attended and included homemade soups, finger sandwiches, cheese, crackers, and homemade desserts. 05 Feb 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/SnowmobileOpenHouse2013.html Tom Melius, Regional Director of the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service welcomed a host of attendees to the 16th annual Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium on February 2 at the Mall of America Ramada in Bloomington, Minn. The event was sponsored in part by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in partnership with the Minnesota Waterfowl Association and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. After thanking the organizers, greeting dignitaries and acknowledging Hall of Fame honorees, Melius reminded the attendees of the Service’s Federal Duck Stamp Program and its significant contribution as a vital wetland conservation tool. 04 Feb 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/WaterfowlSymposium2013.html Federal and state agents marked the closure of a long-running bear poaching case in Wisconsin this week, as defendants in the case were sentenced. The heart of the case involved illegal guiding and other deceptive practices which were documented over the course of the investigation. 31 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/619.html In concert with the America’s Great Outdoors (AGO) Initiative, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has approved $2.4 Million in funding to Ohio, Wisconsin and Illinois through the National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grant Program (NCWC). The announcement supports the AGO’s initiative, which takes a grass roots approach to conservation, in that it encourages local innovation to push forward its mission. 31 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/618.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment for the divestiture of the Stur-Shan Wildlife Management Area (16.0 acres) in St. Louis County. 25 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/617.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in partnership with the Minnesota Waterfowl Association and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will host the 16th annual Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium next week on February 2 at the Mall of America Ramada at 2300 East American Boulevard, Bloomington, Minn. The one day conference will begin at 9:00 a.m. and run until 4:00 p.m. A host of hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and natural resource managers are expected to attend to network, participate in professional and recreational development sessions and to celebrate waterfowl in the land of 10,000 lakes. 25 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/616.html Since 2011, the Eastern Tallgrass Prairie and Big Rivers Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) has grown into a dynamic partnership committed to delivering practical and pragmatic tools for conservation. The partnership, led by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Deputy Regional Direction Charlie Wooley and Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller, represents more than two dozen agencies and organizations across jurisdictional boundaries, committed to healthy ecosystems for current and future generations of fish, wildlife and people. In January 2013, the LCC released its first ever annual report outlining the partnership’s accomplishments since 2011 including steering committee membership, strategic direction, research progress, communications efforts and future direction. 23 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/ETPBRreport2012.html The U.S Fish and Wildlife Service has released a landmark publication celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program, the cornerstone of fish and wildlife conservation in North America. This vital program provides more than $700 million each year through the sale of hunting and fishing equipment to support habitat conservation and outdoor recreation projects across the nation. 17 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/614.html Check out this fun video we put together to help show you exactly who we are and what we do! If you like it, help spread the word and share it with your friends! 17 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/YIR2012.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will honor the 40th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act with a year-long commemoration of the Act that has been so successful in stabilizing populations of species at risk, preventing the extinction of many others and conserving the habitats upon which they depend. 14 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/613.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced the establishment of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge today in Florida at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. Hackmatack is the 561st national wildlife refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System and is the tenth refuge established during Secretary Salazar’s tenure. 11 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/612.html Since 2010, the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes LCC has grown to represent more than 30 agencies and organizations across state and international boundaries, committed to healthy ecosystems for current and future generations of fish, wildlife and people. In January 2013, the LCC released its first ever annual report outlining the partnership’s accomplishments over the past three years including a break down on spending, steering and technical committee membership, research progress, communications efforts and future direction. 8 Jan 2013 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/UMGLreport2012.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the party responsible for killing a federally-protected Canada lynx near Armstrong Lake in Ely, Minn. A dead Canada lynx was recovered March 15, 2012 in the ice near the public boat ramp on Anderson Lake in St. Louis County, Minn. A forensic examination revealed the cat had been caught in a leg hold trap. Canada lynx are listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act and killing wild lynx is prohibited by the federal law. 31 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/610.html Wildlife-related outdoor recreation increased dramatically from 2006 to 2011. The national details are shown in the final report (Final Report) of the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation (PDF) released today by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service). The Final Report, which follows the August 2012 Preliminary Review and the September 2012 State Overview, provides more information on the types of activities and money spent for fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching. 20 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/609.html Wildlife-related outdoor recreation increased dramatically from 2006 to 2011. The national details are shown in the final report (Final Report) of the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation (PDF) released today by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service). The Final Report, which follows the August 2012 Preliminary Review and the September 2012 State Overview, provides more information on the types of activities and money spent for fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching. 20 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/609.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and The Nature Conservancy today announced the addition of 2,675 acres to Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge in northwest Minnesota. The property is the last large block of habitat acquired by the Conservancy in 2000 that will be added to the Refuge. 19 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/GlacialRidgeTNC.html Cutting edge research funded by Landscape Conservation Cooperatives in the Midwest, coupled with on-the-ground conservation and management through public-private partnerships, is building a future for the lower Missouri River. 17 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/BigMuddyAGOLCC.html Bloomington, Minn. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in partnership with the Minnesota Waterfowl Association and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will host the 16th annual Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium on February 2 at the Mall of America Ramada at 2300 East American Boulevard, Bloomington, Minn. The one day conference will begin at 9:00 a.m. and run until 4:00 p.m. A host of hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and natural resource managers are expected to attend to network, participate in professional and recreational development sessions and to celebrate waterfowl in the land of 10,000 lakes. 6 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/608.html A citizen tip helps bring closure in the case of a whooping crane shooting in Indiana. John Burke and Jason McCarter of Knox County, Ind. pled guilty and were sentenced on November 21, 2012 for their involvement in the shooting of a whooping crane in Knox County, Ind. 6 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/607.html The prairie gray fox and plains spotted skunk, two subspecies found in grasslands of some Midwestern and Great Plains states, may warrant federal protection as a threatened or endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today, following an initial review of a petition seeking to protect the two species under the Endangered Species Act. 5 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/606.html Biologists at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge have determined that the summer drawdown performed on Swan Lake was an overwhelming success based on exceptional amounts of natural seed production by wetland plants and high levels of bird use during the early part of the 2012 fall waterfowl migration. 5 Dec 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/605.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife have confirmed that an endangered Indiana bat was found dead at the Blue Creek Wind Farm near Van Wert, Ohio. Blue Creek Wind Farm, LLC, a subsidiary of Iberdrola Renewables, LLC notified the Service and ODNR that a bat carcass was found at the facility and was preliminarily identified as an endangered Indiana bat. The bat carcass was located during post-construction monitoring that has occurred since April 2012 as part of the company’s evaluation of the facility's effects on birds and bats. The bat was confirmed by the Service to be a female Indiana bat. This mortality is the fifth known mortality of an Indiana bat at a wind facility, to date. Other mortalities of Indiana bats have been documented at wind energy facilities in Indiana, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. 29 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/604.html Five endangered whooping cranes arrived Friday on their wintering grounds at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in Wakulla County, Florida. These cranes are the 12th group to be guided by ultralight aircraft from central Wisconsin to the Gulf coast of Florida. The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership, an international coalition of public and private organizations, is conducting the reintroduction project in an effort to restore this endangered species to part of its historic range in eastern North America. There are now 115 whooping cranes in the wild in eastern North America thanks to WCEP’s efforts. 27 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/603.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that 2012 has been a banner year for endangered Kirtland’s warblers. Survey results of the rare bird in Michigan and Wisconsin scored a new record, with 2,090 singing males, up from 1,828 last year. 21 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/602.html Sunday, November 11, 2012, is Veterans Day. It is a day to honor and remember the sacrifices made by our military men and women, and their families. Even after veterans take off the uniform, they continue to apply the skills and experience they developed in the military toward a life of service here at home. Many of them have chosen to bring their skills here to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 9 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/veteransday2012.html U.S. Army soldiers Randy Aspacher and Jeff Barrett are no strangers to challenging work. Both men are currently recovering and rehabilitating in Northwest Ohio from injuries sustained during active duty. Through the Army’s Warriors in Transition Program, injured military personnel are given the opportunity to recover off-site from their assigned military base so they can spend time with their families and work to help their hometown communities. 9 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/warriorsintransition.html Sycamore Land Trust recently recognized the career-long efforts of one of our own at their Annual Celebration and Membership Meeting on November 2, 2012 in Bloomington, Ind. 8 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/sycamoreland.html Although changes have been made recently to Minnesota State hunting laws to allow regulated wolf hunting, the public is reminded that wolf hunting is currently prohibited on National Wildlife Refuges in Minnesota. These Federal properties, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, are not open to such activities until deemed appropriate and require a public review process. 1 Nov 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/600.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting project proposals to protect, restore and enhance Great Lakes fish and wildlife habitat under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act. 31 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/599.html The Habitat and Population Evaluation Team stationed in Fergus Falls, Minn., conducts scientific evaluation and monitoring projects to support strategic conservation efforts in the Prairie Pothole Region. The team collects and analyzes scientific data and provides critical information for on-the-ground conservation action for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partner agencies. 30 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/HapetFeature.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the nation’s premiere agency dedicated to the protection, conservation and management of fish, wildlife and our natural resources, faces an unprecedented challenge of engaging a generation of tech-savvy, highly diverse, and highly influential young adults between the ages of 18-24. 30 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/YoungAdults.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking proposals from states and U.S. territories interested in obtaining federal financial assistance to acquire land or conduct planning efforts for endangered species conservation. The Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund (CESCF) is authorized under Section 6 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and provides grants to states and territories to support participation in a wide array of voluntary conservation projects for species on the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants, as well as for candidate species. For fiscal year (FY) 2013, the President’s budget request for the annual Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund includes $60 million in grant funding for conservation activities benefitting federally protected species. 25 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/597.html More than 20 Missouri Master Naturalists and their families ranging in age from two to over 70 joined USFWS biologists and staff on an exploration of the Missouri River by boat at dusk this October. The Missouri Master Naturalists volunteer with USFWS throughout the year, providing support to fisheries, refuges and ecological services programs. The Missouri Master Naturalists joined USFWS staff along the banks of the Missouri River to learn about the river's ecology, fish and wildlife and commercial and navigational uses. USFWS communications coordinator Ashley Spratt also provided an overview of Landscape Conservation Cooperatives, conservation partnerships that bridge the gap between science and land management, while touring the river by boat. 22 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/MasterNaturalists.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently finalized the purchase of 19.85 acres of land at Whitefish Point, Chippewa County, Mich. The acreage, which includes 1,200-feet of Lake Superior shoreline, is within designated critical habitat for the endangered Great Lakes piping plover and is adjacent to 33-acres that make up the Whitefish Point Unit of the Seney National Wildlife Refuge. The gravel beaches, sandy beach dunes and stunted jack-pine dominated forests once slated for development will now be protected as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Whitefish Point is renowned for its concentrations of birds during migration. 19 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/RefugeWeek2012MI.html The Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge Partnership was honored today by Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar as part of the Department of Interior’s 2012 Partners in Conservation Awards in Washington, D.C. 18 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/596.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking information leading to the arrest and conviction of the party responsible for killing a federally-protected American bald eagle near Cass Lake, Minn. On Thursday, Oct. 4, 2012, a dead juvenile bald eagle was recovered along the north side of Beltrami County Road 20, approximately 500 feet west of Oman Road. Preliminary investigation showed that the eagle was killed with a shotgun. A forensic examination is currently being conducted to obtain additional information. Bald eagles are protected under both the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The killing of bald eagles is prohibited by both laws.“Wildlife crime affects all of us and we depend on the eyes and ears of the public as we look for those who attack our conservation legacy,” explains Special Agent in Charge Gregory Jackson. 18 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/595.html During National Wildlife Refuge Week visitors to Mingo National Wildlife Refuge in Missouri often get to experience two very different types of migration. The first type of migration is the push of migratory birds that utilize the bottomland hardwood forests and marshes of Mingo Refuge as stopover or wintering habitat. What’s the second type of migration, you ask? Snakes! 18 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/RefugeWeek2012MO.html The lower Missouri River, the largest free-flowing river reach in the United States, encompasses nearly 1.5 million acres of bottomland habitat for fish, wildlife and plants, while providing commercial transportation and recreation opportunities for communities across our nation’s heartland. 17 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/BigMuddyLayers.html Dry grasses and clay are odd places to look for frogs – but biologists are walking Indiana’s grasslands in search of them. For the biologists at Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge, summer droughts may have dramatically changed the landscape, but that has not stopped their efforts to protect the rare crawfish frog. 17 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/RefugeWeek2012IN.html The Department of Justice issued a new policy Oct. 12, 2012 designed to support the cultural and religious practices of federally-recognized tribes and tribal members while protecting native migratory bird populations. The new policy clarifies and expands existing policy protecting the right of tribal members to posess and use feathers and other parts from eagles and other federally-protected migratory birds for cultural and religious purposes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Department of Justice conducted extensive consultation with tribal leaders and tribal groups in developing the new policy. 16 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/FeatherUse.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners have identified mesic tallgrass prairie and wet meadow habitats as high priority for restoration and enhancement in the Lower Iowa River Habitat Complex. These habitats are located in wetter areas of the tallgrass prairie and are typically dominated by big bluestem, indiangrass, switchgrass, prairie cordgrass and sedges. Tallgrass prairie was once the largest ecosystem in the United States, but is now one of the most endangered ecosystems on the planet. 16 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/RefugeWeek2012IA.html This week the National Wildlife Refuge System is celebrating America’s wildlife heritage across the country with special public events, tours and educational opportunities. We welcome you to get out and enjoy these special places and learn about what wildlife refuge staff and our partners are doing to conserve your wild lands and waters for future generations. 15 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/RefugeWeek2012.html St. Louis, Mo. - Acting Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Rachel Jacobson today joined private landowners, conservation organizations and natural resource agency leaders to celebrate partnership efforts in association with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program in Missouri, recognizing the Missouri/Mississippi Rivers Confluence Conservation Partnership as a signature demonstration of partnering for America’s Great Outdoors Rivers Initiative. 10 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/ConfluencePartners.html Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, located in central Wisconsin, is prime hunting ground with marshes, upland woods, and open meadows. Although changes have been made recently to state hunting laws, the public is reminded that hunting for coyote and wolf is prohibited at Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, a federal property administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. National Wildlife Refuges are, by law, closed to activities until opened after a public review process. The timing and development of this hunt precluded an opportunity to do so. 5 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/594.html Rachel Jacobson, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Fish and Wildlife and Parks, will join private landowners, conservation organizations, and natural resource agency leaders to celebrate successful fish and wildlife habitat conservation efforts for the Missouri/Mississippi Rivers Confluence. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program will host a celebration at the Audubon Center at Riverlands near St. Louis at 10:00 a.m. on October 10. The event will recognize the Missouri/Mississippi Rivers Confluence Conservation Partnership as a signature demonstration of partnering for America’s Great Outdoors. 5 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/593.html A draft Hunting Plan and Environmental Assessment for Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Sumner, MO is available for public review on October 5, 2012. The comment period will extend until November 5, 2012. 5 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/592.html Of 192 entries in this year’s two-day competition of the 2012 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest, 17 entries made it through to the final round of judging.  Paul Bridgeford of Des Moines, Iowa, placed second with his acrylic painting of a pair of northern shovelers. 4 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/591.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has reopened the comment period for accepting information and ideas from the public on a proposal to develop a Habitat Conservation Plan for wind energy facilities in the Midwest. The new comment period ends Dec. 3, 2012. 3 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/590.html Six young whooping cranes began their ultralight-led migration Friday from the White River Marsh State Wildlife Area in Green Lake County, Wis. This is the 12th group of birds to take part in a project led by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing this highly imperiled species in eastern North America, part of its historic range. 3 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/589.html The business of conservation is changing in the prairies. Conservationists recognize that collaborative, science-based management is necessary to ensure a future for our prairies and wetlands, and the unique wildlife these habitats support. 2 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/nativeprairies.html A 14-day comment period for a Refuge Draft Compatibility Determination begins today and will remain open until October 14, 2012. The Compatibility Determination evaluates a request by the City of Chaska to place a portion of a levee on Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge lands to protect the historic Chaska Athletic Park from frequent flood events. The proposed levee would occupy 0.27 acres of refuge lands. A small amount of wet meadow and floodplain forest habitat would be converted to turf grass. Lost habitat values will be replaced nearby. Additional proposed project features will provide enhanced visitor services. 1 Oct 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/588.html Fifty years after Rachel Carson raised a red flag about the extensive use of pesticides and their impacts, contaminants are so pervasive in our natural environment that any evaluation of threats to a species or ecosystem almost always includes some analysis of contaminants. A look at the work being done on the Midwest’s Driftless Area paints a picture of the role that contaminants can play in efforts to assess and protect vulnerable ecosystems and species and the measures that researchers take to tease out contaminants as a factor affecting plants and animals. 28 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/587.html Collaborations with Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge conservation partners in Canada took a major step forward yesterday as Canadian officials announced the Western Lake Erie Watersheds Priority Natural Area partnership on Fighting Island, near LaSalle, Ont., Canada. 28 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/FightingIsland.html Fifty years ago today, Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring appeared on bookshelves, a work that helped shape the world in which we live today. Silent Spring described the potentially devastating impacts of widespread use of chemicals, like the pesticide DDT. Thanks in part to Carson’s work, use of pesticides is now regulated, and the use of DDT is banned in the United States. Birds like the bald eagle and peregrine falcon, once edging toward extinction due to the effects of DDT in the environment, are recovered. 27 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/586.html There is a growing national concern about our population’s disconnectedness with nature, particularly among the younger generations and diverse audiences. As the gap between people and their understanding of the natural world widens, the interest in conserving natural and cultural resources declines. This disconnection threatens people's physical and mental well-being as well as the natural integrity of the planet. 25 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/585.html Early on in her book Silent Spring, Rachel Carson laments the indiscriminate pesticide use "with little or no advance investigation of their effects on soil, water, wildlife..." and the "lack of prudent concern for the integrity of the natural world that supports life." Carson’s work, published 50 years ago this month, alerted the world to the dangers of indiscriminate use of organochlorine pesticides like DDT. 21 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/584.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and community partners across the nation worked together to remove or bypass 158 dams, culverts and other structures in 2011, opening more than 2,180 miles of streams to native fish populations. These efforts, coordinated through the National Fish Passage Program, have also contributed to improved water quality, provided additional recreational and economic opportunities, and even addressed serious threats to human health and safety. 21 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/583.html Rachel Carson’s research in the 1950s on the effects of pesticides to the American robin sparked awareness of and a concern for the risks of chemicals to human and wildlife health. Carson’s research led to the banning of the pesticide DDT and to the Environmental Protection Agency‘s review and regulation of all pesticides. Although regulated, chemicals are widely used in the environment and there is evidence that some chemicals used today can cause a health risk to wildlife, something Carson warned us about decades ago. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service maintains Carson’s legacy of due diligence and continues investigations on the effects of chemicals on wildlife today. 18 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/582.html This week, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approved $2 million in federal funding to help protect, restore and enhance wetlands and associated habitats in Iowa and Missouri under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act Standard Grant Program. The federal grants are matched by more than $8.65 million in partner funds. 17 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/581.html In 1962, when Rachel Carson wrote about the impacts of DDT in her landmark book Silent Spring, many people were skeptical of her warning that future years might bring spring without birds’ songs. How could a product that was so widely used be so dangerous? Today, Carson’s counterparts are asking the same question about products that we use every day. 14 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/580.html The Eastern Tallgrass Prairie and Big Rivers Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) announced today Dr. Gwen White will serve as the partnership’s science coordinator. White will play a key role in collaboratively developing, maintaining, and advancing a strategic, landscape oriented approach to fish and wildlife conservation. 14 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/579.html When modern Americans think about pollution and the environmental movement, they often think of the 1960s and 1970s as the time when “all those pollution issues” were handled. With publication of Rachel Carson’s seminal work Silent Spring, the passage of the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, and the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency during the same time period, it is easy to understand why folks would consider the issue of water, air and land pollution under control. Unfortunately, 50 years after the inception of the environmental movement such is not the case across the nation, and in the State of Missouri, one example of environmental pollution stands out above all others. 12 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/578.html If Rachel Carson walked along the shores of Green Bay today, she would observe Forster’s terns flying overhead, notice egrets and herons foraging in near shore wetlands, and perhaps even witness northern pike migrating into coastal wetlands. The Green Bay shoreline is a far cry from the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean near Carson’s Maine cottage where she found the inspiration for her best-selling book, The Sea Around Us. But, an inspiring shoreline it is, nonetheless. Thanks to clean-up and restoration efforts in recent decades, there are vast improvements in the Bay and the Lower Fox River. 7 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/577.html After years of witnessing American robins dying or dead on her lawn each spring, a St. Louis, Michigan, resident sent two dead robins to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Disease Laboratory. After examining the robins, the Michigan DNR sent the birds to a lab at Michigan State University where concentrations of DDT and its metabolites DDD and DDE were found in the robins’ brain tissue. Soon thereafter, on June 22, 2012, the headline in The Morning Sun, a central Michigan newspaper, read “Dead Robins in St. Louis Poisoned by DDT.” Yes, it was 2012 and, ironically, the same newspaper issue marked the 50th year since Rachel Carson “launched the environmental movement” by explaining the history and effects of pesticides on our nation’s wildlife in her book, Silent Spring. Her work led to a ban on the use of DDT in the United States. 5 Sept 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/576.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is leading development of a Habitat Conservation Plan for the Midwest that will conserve endangered species, promote development of clean energy which in turn will reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide. Partners in the development of this plan are eight Midwestern states, the American Wind Energy Association, representing a consortium of wind energy companies, and The Conservation Fund. The Service is asking the public to help identify issues that are important to them as the plan is developed. The incidental take permit(s) will cover participating wind energy facilities in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin. 29 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/575.html Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius joined staff from Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge this past Saturday to celebrate the grand opening of the La Crosse visitor center in Onalaska, Wis. 27 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/lacrossevc.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced $864,689 in federal funding to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to implement its “Diverse Grassland Complexes for Species of Greatest Conservation Need” competitive grant proposal. The funding total amounts to more than $1.2 million when combined with a $388,500 non-federal match from other partners. 27 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/574.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has released for public review and comment a draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for islands that are part of the National Wildlife Refuge System in Lakes Huron, Michigan and Superior. The CCP will include Gravel Island, Green Bay, Harbor Island, Huron, and Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuges (NWR). 24 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/573.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Fisheries Service (the Services), the two Federal agencies responsible for administering the Endangered Species Act (ESA), are jointly proposing to simplify and clarify the process through which impact analyses are conducted for designations of critical habitat under the ESA. 23 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/572.html Biologists from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service relocated a number of federally endangered mussels in St. Paul, Minnesota at Pool 2 on the Upper Mississippi River on Friday, August 17. Secretary of the Department of the Interior, Ken Salazar, stopped by to get a close-up look at endangered mussels and talk to biologists who are working in the Midwest Region to reestablish mussels in the river. He was joined by Governor Dayton and Minnesota DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr. 22 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/musselrelease.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will grant $1 million in funding to support restoration and conservation projects in the Calumet region of Millennium Reserve, including planting 100,000 trees on 60 acres of park land, restoring native habitat for migratory birds, and restoring coastal wetlands, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced. 20 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/MRevent.html Invasive aquatic plants imported from South America for use in backyard ponds and aquariums have been found for the second year in backwaters of the Mississippi River near Buffalo City, Wis. on the Winona District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. 17 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/571.html On August 15, 2012, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced he has authorized the establishment of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge in southeastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois, eventually providing up to 11,200 acres of habitat for wildlife as well as outdoor recreational opportunities within easy driving distance of millions of people. 15 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/Hackmatack.html The Eastern Tallgrass Prairie and Big Rivers Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) recently announced $50,000 in funding to support research assessing landowner’s attitudes toward and motivations for participating in conservation programs beneficial to wildlife. This research will generate insights on the socio-economic drivers for conservation within the agricultural communities of the nation’s Corn Belt. 15 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/570.html MILWAUKEE, WI – Highlighting the reversal of decades of declining numbers, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced the preliminary results of a comprehensive national survey of outdoor recreation showing a significant increase in hunters and a double-digit increase in anglers over the past five years. 15 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/569.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced nearly $33 million in grants to 21 states to support conservation planning and acquisition of vital habitat for threatened and endangered fish, wildlife and plants. 15 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/568.html State and federal conservation leaders joined arms with the hunting and shooting community today to celebrate a success story 75 years in the making, a story authored by the hunters and conservationists of past, written into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937 as the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act, and central to future wildlife management. 10 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/567.html Yesterday, Illinois River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge Complex celebrated its inclusion in the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance. Deputy Regional Director Charlie Wooley joined staff from Chautauqua and Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge and partners from The Nature Conservancy and The Wetlands Initiative to mark the occasion. 9 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/RamsarEmiquon.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is making available for public review and comment an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the construction of a new visitor center at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. The EA evaluated the No Action Alternative, in which case the refuge administrative offices would continue to be housed in the Large Lakes Research Station on Grosse Ile, Mich. that has no public facilities for environmental education, outreach or interpretation, as well as the Preferred Alternative that constructs a new visitor center at the Refuge Gateway in Trenton, Mich. and another option of a visitor center in Humbug Marsh in Trenton, Mich. 1 Aug 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/566.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) recently announced a proposed 60-day duck hunting season and six-duck daily bag limit for the upcoming 2012-13 late waterfowl season in the Mississippi Flyway, which extends across Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee and Wisconsin. The Service also proposed geese hunting season lengths and bag limits that vary by state and area. 30 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/565.html On Friday, July 27th the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians hosted a Water Celebration to commemorate the recent designation of the Kakagon and Bad River Sloughs in northern Wisconsin as a Ramsar Wetland of International Significance, the Band’s recent receipt of a Blue Globe Award from the World Wetland Network, and the establishment of the Band’s own water quality standards. 30 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/BadRiverCelebration.html For the first time in nearly 40 years, federally endangered American burying beetles produced offspring in Missouri in the wild, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Adult pairs of beetles were reintroduced in June at Wah’kon-tah Prairie in southern Missouri as part of a cooperative recovery project with the Service, the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri Department of Conservation and The Nature Conservancy. 27 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/561.html Dr. Carol Bocetti of the California University of Pennsylvania, who leads the recovery team for the endangered Kirtland’s warbler, was among 56 teams and nine individuals honored as 2011 Recovery Champions by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Dr. Bocetti received her award from Service Acting Midwest Regional Director Charlie Wooley. 27 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/2011championaward.htm Justin Mays, a senior special agent for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement in Iowa, has received the North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association’s (NAWEOA) 2012 Officer of the Year Award. The award, which was presented to Mays by Association President Richard Cramer at the Association’s annual conference in Tucson, Arizona, on July 25, 2012, singles out one conservation officer each year for outstanding “on-the-ground” wildlife law enforcement accomplishments and all-around professionalism. Mays is only the second U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service special agent to receive the award in its 19-year history. 26 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/560.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in partnership with the Boardman River Dams Project Implementation Team (IT), is announcing the availability of the Final Environmental Assessment (EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Brown Bridge Dam Removal Project. 25 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/559.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it will provide $3.3 million to fund 90 projects that will help protect, restore and enhance stream, lake and coastal habitat in 29 states. This funding will be matched by $9.33 million in contributions by non-governmental organizations, state resource agencies, and other partners. 23 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/558.html Natural resource managers today are presented with unprecedented challenges that threaten the continued protection, conservation and management of land, water and wildlife, from impacts of climate change to habitat fragmentation and invasive species. 18 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/umgl.htm Partners from the wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation community hosted the 2012 Federal Duck Stamp Home State Ceremony and Clays Shoot in honor of four-time Federal Duck Stamp artist and Minnesota native Joe Hautman at the South Saint Paul Rod and Gun Club on Saturday, July 14, 2012. 16 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/dshomestate.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is taking steps to ensure the survival of several federally endangered species of freshwater mussels in the Tippecanoe River that have been affected by the summer’s high temperatures and low rainfall. 12 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/557.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced a proposal to open one new refuge to hunting and to expand hunting opportunities at 16 national wildlife refuges in 14 states. If approved, the proposal would provide additional public hunting opportunities in fulfillment of the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997. 11 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/556.html Partners from the wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation community will host the 2012 Federal Duck Stamp Home State Ceremony and Clays Shoot in honor of four-time Federal Duck Stamp artist and Minnesota native Joe Hautman at the South Saint Paul Rod and Gun Club on Saturday, July 14, 2012. 9 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/555.html William Gascoigne with the U.S. Geological Survey is investigating the economic contribution of conserved habitat lands to the economy in the Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) of the U.S. His research shines a light on the linkages between landscape conditions and conditions within surrounding rural communities; linkages that are not always that apparent. This research context has been relatively understudied in the natural resources field, but has emerged due to the current economic climate and competing land uses in the PPR. 2 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/PPPeconomics.htm Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge welcomed four local teenagers to its ranks this month to take part in the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC), a federally funded youth employment program facilitated by the Departments of Interior and Agriculture. The effort is a significant component of the America’s Great Outdoors initiative launched by President Obama to develop a 21st century conservation and recreation agenda. 2 July 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/554.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) is pleased to announce that this year’s group of birds that will follow the ultralight planes to Florida has safely arrived in Wisconsin from the U.S. Geological Survey’s Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Laurel, MD. 27 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/553.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces the availability of a draft environmental impact statement, a draft habitat conservation plan, a draft implementation agreement, and receipt of an application for an incidental take permit under Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act. The HCP was developed by Buckeye Wind LLC for its proposed wind power project in Champaign County, Ohio. 28 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/552.html Freshwater mussels are considered key indicators of water quality and contribute to healthy aquatic ecosystems. However, steep population declines due to habitat degradation and pollution, changing agricultural practices, invasive species and impacts of climate change, have presented conservation professionals with challenges to continued conservation of rare and endangered mussels. 27 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ETPBRmussels.htm Conservation partners including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Missouri Department of Conservation, Kansas City Zoo and Missouri State University have released about 3,000 pink muckets, an endangered species of freshwater mussels, into the Lower Osage River in central Missouri. 21 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/551.html From the Rocky Mountains to the Mid Atlantic, conservationists are joining forces to better understand variables impacting the health of fish populations and their habitats, and, to generate scientific information that can inform land-use decisions and direct conservation efforts across large landscapes. 20 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/lccpartnerships.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is pleased to announced $580,000 is being awarded in 2012 through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) Fish Passage Program to support projects in the Midwest Region – Great Lakes Basin. Funding will support the removal of nine fish passage barriers, reconnecting more than 38 stream miles. These projects are supported by an additional $2.57 million in matching funds. 19 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/550.html Avian rehabilitation and education is a critical component to the conservation and welfare of eagles and other raptors in the Midwest. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (Service) Division of Migratory Bird Management Permits Office works with rehabilitators across the Midwest by issuing rehabilitation permits that authorize skilled and certified rehabilitation facilities to take from the wild or receive from another person sick, injured, or orphaned migratory birds for rehabilitative care. On Wednesday, July 13, 2012 the Permits Office presented staff from the Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota with a Service plaque of appreciation, honoring the facilities' efforts to rehabilitate over 700 raptors each year and conduct conservation education initiatives involving non-releasable eagles and other raptors. 15 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/birdpermitstaff.htm The Wabash River system is a unique natural resource, containing the longest free-flowing stretch of any river in the United States east of the Mississippi River and harbors many of Indiana’s rarest fish, mussels, birds, and plants. The state of Indiana’s Wabash River Healthy Rivers INitiative was identified in 2011 by Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar as one of 50-state projects highlighted under America’s Great Outdoors. 14 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/AGOinitiative.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced more than $1.2 million in federal grants to help protect, restore and enhance wetlands and associated habitats across the Midwest Region under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) Small Grants Program. The federal grants are matched by more than $3.6 million in partner funds. 12 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/549.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today announced more than $688,000 in federal funding to Midwest states under the Clean Vessel Act grant program, which this year celebrates 20 years of keeping waterways clean for recreational boaters. Federal funding will support the construction, replacement, renovation, and maintenance of facilities that assist recreational boaters in properly disposing of on-board septic waste, and, to provide educational programs for recreational boaters in the states of Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin. 12 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/547.html Working side-by-side with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Indiana Department of Environmental Management (DEM), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) celebrated completion of a two-decade project to clean up portions of the Grand Calumet River and Roxana Marsh in Indiana, highly contaminated by heavy metals, oil and man-made chemicals. 09 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/RoxannaMarsh.htm What student, or adult for that matter, does not spend at least a few minutes each day staring out the window wishing they could be outdoors enjoying the beautiful spring weather instead of being stuck inside? That wish actually came true for 43 high school students in Cassville, Wis. on May 10, 2012. 08 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/McGregorCanoe.htm Safety is top of mind for heavy equipment operators every day, but especially true this week at Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. The Midwest Region Heavy Equipment Safety Training program is currently completing its fourth 2012 training session this week near Zimmerman, Minn. and Regional Director Tom Melius was on hand to show his support for this essential training. 07 June 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/safetytraining.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Great Lakes Basin Fish Habitat Partnership are pleased to announce the approval of over $380,000 in grants aimed at supporting on-the-ground fish habitat work in the Great Lakes under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). 30 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/542.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced availability of a draft recovery plan for the threatened dwarf lake iris, a species native to the Great Lakes coastline of Michigan, Wisconsin and Ontario, Canada. 30 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/541.html More than 40 scientists from across the Midwest conservation community gathered this May to establish science priorities as part of a five-year science plan under development by USGS’ Northeast Climate Science Center. The session was led by Rachel Muir, interim director of the recently established Northeast Climate Science Center, and coordinated by the Illinois Natural History Survey, and the Eastern Tallgrass Prairie and Big Rivers Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC), a complimentary natural resources partnership dedicated to identifying and addressing landscape scale stressors on conservation, protection and restoration activities in our nation’s "cornbelt". 24 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/540.html There's a new buzz around the Mississippi River. It's called the Summer of Paddling 2012 and it's more than 200 chances for people to get out on the water this summer. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has partnered with the National Park Service, Army Corps of Engineers and many local and state organizations to create the Summer of Paddling 2012. 23 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/sopevent.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is pleased to announce that $1.48 million in 2012 will be awarded through the National Fish Passage Program to support projects in the Midwest Region – including Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin. Funding will support the removal of 19 fish passage barriers, reconnecting more than 219 stream miles, as well as engineering studies, survey’s and assessments, and monitoring activities. These projects are supported by an additional $7.89 million in matching funds. 23 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/539.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director, Tom Melius, and Northeast Regional Director, Wendi Weber, jointly announced today the approval of more than $850,000 for grants aimed at protecting, restoring, and/or enhancing 621 acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat in Michigan, Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), Joint Venture Habitat Protection and Restoration Program. 22 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/538.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) to redirect Wildlife Restoration Program funding from management of Watline Wildlife Management Area in Watonwan County, Minnesota to alternate, more suitable areas in Minnesota. 21 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/537.html Thirteen young Minnesota artists are winners of the 2012 Minnesota Endangered Species Day Youth art contest, sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The contest is designed to showcase student art and raise awareness of Minnesota’s rarest animals and plants, and to highlight Endangered Species Day on May 18, 2012. 18 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/536.html To show appreciation for those who serve in the U.S. Military, on May 19 – Armed Forces Day – the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will begin issuing an annual pass offering free entrance for active duty military members and their dependents to three national wildlife refuges in the Midwest region and 35 field stations across the Refuge System, as well as National Parks and other public lands. 17 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/535.html On May 18, 2012, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and numerous organizations will honor Endangered Species Day and the nationwide conservation efforts underway protecting America's threatened, endangered and at-risk species. 16 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/534.html An overwhelming percentage of visitors to national wildlife refuges in the Midwest region in 2010 and 2011 were favorably impressed with its recreational opportunities, education and services, according to a peer-reviewed government survey released May 15, 2012. 16 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/533.html Boy Scouts from across the Midwest tested a pilot invasive species merit badge on Saturday, May 12, 2012, testing themselves in the process. This potential merit badge challenged Boy Scouts to think regionally and globally about the natural world and in the case of this Litchfield Wetland Management District based event, it also gave land managers help on the ground, removing eastern red cedar. Testing their biological knowledge, on a local, as well as global scale, this merit badge aims to immerse scouts in understanding why non-native plants and animals are so damaging to native animals and the habitats that they call home. 15 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/litchfieldscouting.htm Genoa National Fish Hatchery in Wisconsin celebrated the 9th year of its annual Kids Fishing Day on May 12. Set to the backdrop of blue skies and sunshine, 190 children and their families came out to enjoy a day of learning, fishing and fun. In the first part of the morning, families rotated between four learning stations that focused on fishing ethics and conservation, fish anatomy, fish behavior and habitats, and jig tying. Kids were then handed fishing poles and set loose on a hatchery pond stocked with 2,500 rainbow trout. 15 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/genoafishday.htm As part of the planning process for the future management of Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service invites the public to attend an open house from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on May 23, 2012, to learn more and to pass along comments and concerns about a draft comprehensive management plan (CCP) and environmental assessment (EA) developed by the refuge. The open house will be held at the Odessa City Hall in Odessa, Minnesota. 14 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/532.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has extended the comment period on the proposed rule, published on April 13, 2012, to revise the regulations governing permits for nonpurposeful take of Bald and Golden Eagles where the take is associated with, but not the purpose of, an activity. The comment period for Changes in the Regulations Governing Eagle Permitting will now close July 12, 2012. 10 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/531.html Regional Director Tom Melius visited Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge May 9 and 10, 2012. On his agenda was an introductory meeting with the new Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, James Zehringer. In addition, the Regional Director took time out to tour the refuge and experience “The Warbler Capital of the World," Magee Marsh Wildlife Management Area just next door to the refuge. Each spring, more than 60,000 birders flock to northwest Ohio to enjoy a migration spectacle that rivals any in North America. On a good day, one can see more than 30 warbler species including Kirtland's, Golden-winged, and Cerulean warblers in a signal day at Magee Marsh and Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. 12 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/rdottawa.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Michigan Audubon Society are again providing opportunities to catch a glimpse of the endangered Kirtland’s warbler in northern Michigan this spring and summer. 10 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/519.html Prevention is key - Working together with the United States Attorney and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement continues their education effort in support of wildlife as they fight the devastating effects of euthanasia drugs. 3 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/529.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) is celebrating another success in its efforts to reintroduce a wild migratory whooping crane population in eastern North America. A whooping crane chick hatched yesterday in Wood County, Wis. 2 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/528.html A Greening of Detroit work crew has been hired to assist with restoring coastal habitats at the Refuge Gateway and Humbug Marsh in Trenton and Gibraltar, Mich., including planting trees in riparian and upland habitats, restoring wetlands, monitoring habitats and constructing and maintaining trails. Four Greening of Detroit workers and a work crew leader will be employed for six months on this project for the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. The Greening of Detroit workers have received hands-on training and completed Landscape Industry Technician certification. The work crew leader, Penelope Richardson-Bristol, comes to this project with experience as a biological team leader at Wayne State University for a research project at Lake St. Clair Metropark and with research and monitoring experience at Eastern Michigan University on the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. 1 May 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/detroitrivergreening.htm Spring is coming to the Midwest and so are hundreds of thousands of birds looking for a summer home. Bank swallows - the smallest swallows in North America - are among them and they are actively looking for places to nest and raise their young. You can help protect these gregarious birds by keeping an eye out for their nesting colonies across the region. 23 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/bankswallows.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today a northern pintail was selected to appear on the 2012-2013 Federal Junior Duck Stamp. The design for the new stamp, painted by Christine Clayton, was chosen by a panel of judges at the national Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest, held at the Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, Md. 20 Apr 2012 http://bit.ly/HXrH1d The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and Audubon Minnesota encourage children and their families to attend this year’s Kids’ Bird Watching Fair at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Bloomington, Minn. on Saturday, May 5. 20 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/527.html WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Coalition, Association of Zoos and Aquariums and Ogden Museum of Southern Art/University of New Orleans proudly announce the winners of the 2012 Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest. The art contest is an integral part of the seventh annual national Endangered Species Day on May 18, 2012. 19 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/526.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership, an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing whooping cranes to eastern North America, is pleased to report that last year’s “Class of 2011” whooping cranes have all begun their spring migration north. 18 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/525.html The end of March marks both the beginning of Spring and the anticipation of Federal Junior Duck Stamp Art and Design Contests held across the country. States in the Midwest Region from Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, held state-wide art contests to get kids engaged and interested in the outdoors. The Junior Duck Stamp Program, which began in 1989, offers kids ages k-12 the opportunity to participate in a nationally-recognized art competition while offering a curriculum to teachers to educate students about wetlands, waterfowl and migratory birds and their habitats. Winners from each state art contest advance to a national art contest to compete for their artwork to be made into a collectable stamp. The National Junior Duck Stamp Contest, where Best of Show artwork from each state will compete, will be held April 20 at Patuxent Research Refuge in Laurel, Md. 12 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/jrduck2012.htm The Partners Program is celebrating its 25th anniversary of working with private landowners to restore fish and wildlife habitat. Throughout the years, Pheasants Forever has been a key partner in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service habitat restoration efforts and continues to help leverage resources to restore lands across the country. 5 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/PFWaward.htm American zoos and wildlife officials have long held a dialogue with Chinese counterparts regarding giant panda conservation, but recently China inquired about endangered bird reintroduction efforts in the United States. As a part of the 10-day visit through California, Idaho and Wisconsin, four Chinese wildlife managers visited with Necedah National Wildlife Refuge staff to become acquainted with the tools and techniques used in releasing captive-raised birds successfully to the wild and Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius was there to welcome them today. 3 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/NecedahChineseDelegation.htm JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently received confirmation that a deadly disease in bats called “White-Nose Syndrome” (WNS) has been found in three bats from two caves in Lincoln County. The name describes a white fungus, Geomyces destructans, typically found on the faces and wings of infected bats. WNS spreads mainly through bat-to-bat contact and has not been found to infect humans or other animals. 2 Apr 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/524.html Washington, D.C. – Ten Federal agencies joined with five Great Lakes states to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will streamline the efficient and responsible development of offshore wind resources in the Great Lakes. This effort underscores the President’s commitment to American made energy, increasing energy independence, and creating jobs. The MOU includes the states of Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Pennsylvania. 30 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/523.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in partnership with the Boardman River Dams Project Implementation Team (IT), is announcing the availability of the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Brown Bridge Dam Removal Project for public review. 27 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/522.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will reintroduce the colorful American burying beetle to a natural area in southwest Missouri as part of a partnership with the St. Louis Zoo to recover this native endangered species. The reintroduction will occur at Wah'kon-tah Prairie, a 3,030-acre site in St. Clair and Cedar counties, Missouri, jointly owned and managed by Missouri Department of Conservation and The Nature Conservancy. 21 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/521.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has released for public review and comment an Environment Assessment (EA) for the possible establishment of a national wildlife refuge in two counties along the Wisconsin and Illinois border between Milwaukee and Chicago. 21 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/520.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Michigan Audubon Society are again providing opportunities to catch a glimpse of the endangered Kirtland's warbler in northern Michigan this spring and summer. 21 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/519.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced recipients of the 2011 Recovery Champion award, which honors Service employees and partners for outstanding efforts to conserve and protect endangered and threatened species of fish, wildlife, and plants. Among the honorees is Dr. Carol Bocetti of the California University of Pennsylvania, who leads the recovery team for the endangered Kirtland's warbler. 20 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/518.html The Fish and Wildlife Service, Midwest Region is pleased to announce funding for three Tribal fish and wildlife conservation projects totaling $599,978 through the Service's Fiscal Year 2012 Tribal Wildlife Grant Program. The following Tribes received funding this year the Ho Chunk Nation in Wisconsin the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin; and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians in Michigan. 19 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/517.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest region is home to many programs and employees that bring great innovation in meeting today's conservation challenges. Evidence of this was seen during the annual North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Atlanta, Ga., on March 15, 2012 when two programs were honored with national awards. 16 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/516.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed the sheepnose and the spectaclecase, two freshwater mussels found in river systems in the eastern half of the United States, as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. 12 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/515.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius today announced the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) approved $2 million in federal funding to help protect, restore and enhance wetlands and associated habitats in Michigan and Missouri under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) Standard Grant Program. The federal grants are matched by more than $6.8 million in partner funds. 12 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/514.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for a land transfer between the Whitewater Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and Whitewater State Park in Winona County. 9 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/513.html On March 7, 2012, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar presented U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Region Deputy Regional Director Charlie Wooley with the Distinguished Service Award. 7 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/DistinguishedService.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Ducks Unlimited announced today they will work with the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission to focus resources on wildlife habitat in the Prairie Pothole Region of the northern plains, breeding grounds for a majority of the continent's ducks. 2 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/512.html Join us on the Mississippi River for a Summer of Paddling 2 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/DOIWaterTrails.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Interior, along with its federal, state and tribal co-trustees, today announced its intent to conduct restoration planning to restore natural resources that were lost or injured by the discharge of crude oil from a pipeline in Calhoun County, Michigan, near the town of Marshall. 1 Mar 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/511.html Check out this great news clip about a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service eagle rescue in a Rock Island neighborhood earlier today. 29 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/scripts/exit.cfm?link=http://bit.ly/wmle7i On February 25, 2012, approximately 75 people attended the annual Youth Ice Fishing Event held at the McNally Landing on the Winona District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge near Winona, MN. The event is co-sponsored by the Refuge and the Friends of the Refuge Headwaters. 29 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Winona.htm Charles M. Wooley's active leadership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been marked by his ability to build consensus and inspire members of the conservation community to apply common sense solutions to the Great Lakes' most difficult challenges. His capability in identifying limiting factors affecting fish and wildlife resources has led to significant restoration milestones. 28 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/CharlieWooleyAward.htm The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program was recently recognized by Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever for 25 years of service to America's wildlife resources during the national Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic in Kansas City, Mo. Accepting the award on behalf of the dedicated Partners staff across the country were Mountain-Prairie Regional Partners Coordinator Heather Johnson and Midwest Regional Partners Coordinator Lori Nordstrom. 27 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/PartnersAward.htm Fishery managers in the Great Lakes annually stock over 30 million salmon and trout to diversify sport fisheries, restore native fish populations, and control invasive fishes. However, little is known about how well these fish survive, contribute to the fisheries, and reproduce in the wild. To address these concerns the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service led a cooperative effort under the request of the Council of Lake Committees of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, to develop a basin-wide program to tag all stocked salmon and trout. This effort will provide greater insight into survival of stocked fish, the contribution of stocked adults to restoration of native fishes, the ability to manage harvest away from wild fish, and the opportunity to evaluate and improve hatchery operations. 27 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/MassMarkingVideo.htm The endangered piping plover will soon return to the beaches of the Great Lakes to begin another nesting season. In 2011, there were approximately 55 breeding pairs of piping plover in the Great Lakes region. Plovers nest on wide sand and cobble beaches near where the vegetation starts to grow. Each pair of plovers normally has a clutch of four eggs that both adults incubate for about 28 days. After the eggs hatch, the chicks are extremely vulnerable because they cannot fly for their first four weeks. During this time, any type of harassment can significantly decrease their chances of survival. If adult plovers are chased away because of harassment, the flightless chicks are easy prey for gulls and other predators, as the adults are not there to warn them of danger. Dogs that are not on a leash can easily chase and injure or kill the chicks. 23 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/510.html Great Lakes sturgeon populations have declined dramatically since the late 1800s from overfishing, pollution and habitat loss. Though many sturgeon populations have disappeared entirely, sturgeons can still be found in eight rivers around Lake Michigan, including the Kalamazoo River in Michigan. In an effort to help the Kalamazoo River's naturally spawning lake sturgeon population, the Green Bay Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office and Genoa National Fish Hatchery worked with state partners to build a streamside rearing unit. The streamside rearing unit sits adjacent to the river and helps to protect juvenile sturgeons in their first few months of life. The project was funded in part by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. 20 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/SturgeonNursery.htm A bald eagle nest one mile west of Deer River, Minnesota, visible from Hwy. 2, has been moved because of concern that the nest and nest tree might fall and strike nearby power transmission lines, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The relocation was conducted under provisions of a permit issued by the Service to Otter Tail Power under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. 14 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/509.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed two freshwater mussels – the rayed bean and the snuffbox – as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act. The two mussels are found in river systems in the eastern United States. 13 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/508.html Midwest Regional Director, Tom Melius, announced that Mr. Todd Turner has been selected as the Midwest Region's Assistant Regional Director for Fisheries. Todd has been the Midwest Region's Deputy Assistant Regional Director of Fisheries since 2009 and has been the Acting ARD for the past several months. 7 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/507.html Minnesota youth in kindergarten through grade 12 can be part of the first annual Minnesota Endangered Species Youth Art Contest, designed to showcase student art and raise awareness of Minnesota's rarest animals and plants. 6 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/506.html Despite a lack of snow, Winterfest went on as scheduled with great turnout. Even the Deputy Director was able to join in the festivities. 6 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/winterfest2012.htm Nine juvenile whooping cranes on their first ultralight-led migration south will now be taken to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in northern Alabama in the next few days. 3 Feb 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/505.html Over 250 youths and their parents came out to Genoa National Fish Hatchery to enjoy a short seminar on ice safety tips and ice fishing techniques. They were then set loose on a hatchery pond stocked with 1,500 10-14 inch rainbow trout to test their new found ice fishing knowledge. 25 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/504.html The 3rd Annual celebration of World Wetlands Day will take place on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012 at Gibraltar Carlson High School from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event will feature a Wetlands Exposition that will showcase more than 20 displays dedicated to wetland conservation from a number of environmental organizations. In addition, students and visitors will be treated to a World Wetlands Day program, slated to begin at 12:30 p.m., which will include an appearance by U.S. National Ramsar Committee Chairperson, Suzanne Pittenger- Slear. In addition, Monroe Power Plant Manager Brian Rice will speak on behalf of DTE Energy, Kathy Klein will speak in representation of Waste Management, and special guest, Humbug Marsha, will make her public debut and share wetland adventures with program participants. A short celebration for the Refuge's 10th birthday with the National Wildlife Refuge System mascot Puddles the Blue Goose will follow. The World Wetlands Day event will be open to the public from 12:30pm – 3:00 p.m. 25 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/503.html The 14th annual Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium will be held in conjunction with the Minnesota Decoy Collectors Show from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., on February 4 at the Ramada Mall of America. The symposium will feature presentations by expert waterfowl biologists and leading conservationists from state, federal and non-governmental organizations. It will also offer skill demonstrations on hunting related activities. 23 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/502.html The Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service remind the public that the Service's recent action removing federal Endangered Species Act protection for gray wolves in portions of the Midwest has changed the status of wolves in Illinois north of Interstate 80. While wolves dispersing from northern states into Illinois are rare, any gray wolves in Illinois found north of I-80 are listed as threatened under state law, while those south of the interstate remain federally endangered. The change becomes effective January 27, 2012. 23 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/501.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will be hosting four open houses to request input from the public in developing a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for the Iowa Wetland Management District (District). The District was established in 1979 as part of Union Slough National Wildlife Refuge; however, Iowa Department of Natural Resources shares management responsibilities on many of the District's public lands. The primary purpose for establishment of the Wetland Management District was waterfowl production and migratory bird conservation. 23 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/500.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in what promises to be a historic year, joins partners in celebration of the 75th anniversary of its Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. The mainstay program, based on a user-pay-user-benefit conservation principle, connects outdoor enthusiasts to stewardship of the land. The aptly named "WSFR 75—It's Your Nature" celebration was kicked off by the Service and its partners on January 17 at the 2012 Shot Show in Las Vegas, Nev. There will be a series of events throughout the year to commemorate the program which began with the passing of the Pittman Robertson Act in 1937. 19 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/499.html The Plains and Prairie Pothole Landscape Conservation Cooperative (PPP-LCC) selected five research projects to fund in fiscal year 2012. The PPP-LCC Steering Committee, co-chaired by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius and North Dakota Game and Fish Department Director Terry Steinwand selected the projects during their recent meeting held in conjunction with the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. 13 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/498.html The 11th annual Harpers Ferry Free Family Ice Fisheree will be held on Sunday, Jan. 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Signs will direct people to the parking lot in Harpers Ferry where they will be given a ride to and from nearby Joyce Lake. This ice fishing experience is sponsored by area businesses, Harper's Ferry River Friends, the Booster Club, the Friends of Pool 10 and the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Volunteers will introduce kids and adults alike to ice fishing and the value of connecting with nature, even when the weather turns cold. 12 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/497.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources are seeking comments on a draft plan to restore resources injured by the release of hazardous substances in the Springfield Plateau region of southwest Missouri. The two agencies act as trustees under the Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration (NRDAR) regulations in seeking settlements from responsible parties and planning and implementing restoration activities to restore natural resources injured by the release of hazardous substances into the environment. 12 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/496.html A Skokie, Ill. company pleaded guilty yesterday and was fined $150,000 for illegally exporting African elephant ivory, as well as products made from other protected wildlife, to foreign customers. Through coordinated efforts, this case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Office of Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 11 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/495.html The ultralight-led migration of nine whooping cranes, on hold in Franklin County, Alabama, pending FAA clearance, has been given the green light. 10 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/494.html Wildlife law enforcement agents with the Indiana DNR and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are investigating the most recent shooting in which a whooping crane – known as "Bird 605" – found dead on Dec. 30, 2011 in southeastern Jackson County near Crothersville, Ind. 09 Jan 2012 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/493.html The Nature Conservancy has donated Black Dog Preserve in Burnsville to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service so that it can be added to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The 95-acre preserve was acquired by the Conservancy in 1984 and is adjacent to the refuge. 27 Dec 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/491.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced that gray wolf populations in the Great Lakes region have recovered and no longer require the protection of the Endangered Species Act. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is publishing a final rule in the Federal Register removing wolves in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, and in portions of adjoining states, from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife and plants. 21 Dec 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/490.html Snowy owls originating from the Arctic tundra are migrating south to winter in regions of the Great Lakes and Midwest plains, according to migratory bird biologists with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The species' rare southerly migration may be the result of a decline in its forage base and a productive breeding season. The snowy owl migration began this October and the birds are expected to remain in portions of the United States until late winter/early spring. 7 Dec 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/487.html A 30-day comment period for the Refuge's Draft Hunting Plan began on December 5, 2011, and will end January 4, 2012. 7 Dec 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/486.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar traveled to southern Indiana November 29 to meet U.S. Fish and Wildlife staff from the state's three refuges and other Service programs in Indiana. 30 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/secretarymuscatatuck.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (Service) Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius and the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community's (SMSC) Chairman Stanley Crooks met on Tuesday November 22 at the SMSC in Prior Lake, Minn. to discuss the Native American Youth Conservation Initiative – a recently established collaboration with the Service, the SMSC, the American Indian Institute for Innovation, the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, the University of Minnesota, and other Tribes and organizations in the Midwest. The overall goal of the initiative is to help develop the next generation of Native American fish and wildlife biologists, natural resource managers, and conservation leaders. 23 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/tribal/smsc.html On behalf of the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee (ACRCC), we are pleased to announce that AsianCarp.us is the new home for up-to-date information on ACRCC actions to protect the Great Lakes from bighead carp and silver carp. 22 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/asiancarpsite.htm What do wetlands and prairies have to do with a stamp? Simply put, everything! One of our nation's most efficient and effective conservation programs would not exist without the Federal Duck Stamp. Visitors to the National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) now have to opportunity to learn how their Duck Stamp dollars have been fueling, and continue to fuel, restoration and preservation work across America's heartland. 21 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/swpdisplay.htm The special deer hunt for sportsmen with disabilities was held at the Lost Mound Unit (former Savanna Army Depot) of Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge on Nov. 12 and 13, 2011. Hunters and their assistants were treated to the hunt of a lifetime. Field surveys showed the deer population to be abundant and the rutting season was in high gear. 14 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ilhunt.htm On this Veterans Day, we pause to remember the sacrifices made by our military men, women and family members. For more than two centuries, servicemembers have set aside their daily comforts to defend our nation. There are many of these patriots within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and we honor them for their sacrifices. 10 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/veteransday2011.htm As the morning sun rose over Oak Ridge Lake and Canada geese and trumpeter swans headed out to feed, more than 50 volunteers rallied for Conservation Day on the WPA. 8 Nov 2011 http://go.usa.gov/IOn The fisheries program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in association with state agencies and other conservation organizations, contributes $3.6 billion to the nation's economy and supports 68,000 jobs across the country, according to a new report issued by the agency. 7 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/484.html Trenton, Mich. – Much like the television program called "Extreme Makeover" that showcases efforts to renovate houses and makeover people to achieve remarkable results, an industrial brownfield in Trenton, Mich. is undergoing an extreme makeover into the gateway to North America's only international wildlife refuge. 7 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/483.html Middle River, Minn. – The 200 acre peat fire is not the only problem firefighters are up against in northern Minnesota. All day today, and predicted to continue tomorrow, they are contending with exceptionally windy conditions. Steady south, south-west winds, up to 36 mph with a gust of 46 mph have greatly increased the hazard of fire weakened trees falling down.. 7 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/482.html Due to the current wildfire activity, approximately 1,300 acres in the southwest corner of the Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, (see map), will be closed to all entry and hunting from November 4th, 2011 through the close of the ruffed-grouse season on January 1st, 2012. 1 Nov 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/481.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today celebrates the City of Indianapolis' implementation of the Service's Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds (Urban Bird Treaty), including a $70,000 Federal grant which will be used for on-the-ground, bird-friendly efforts by the partners. 27 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/480.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is seeking proposals from states and U.S. territories interested in obtaining federal financial assistance to acquire land or conduct planning efforts for endangered species conservation. For fiscal year (FY) 2012, the President's budget request for the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund includes $100 million in grant funding for conservation activities benefitting federally protected species. 27 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/479.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host a public information meeting on the proposed removal of Ballville Dam from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 27 at the Vanguard Vocational School Tech Center Lecture Lab, 1220 Cedar St., in Fremont, Ohio. 25 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/477.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today released its Candidate Notice of Review, a yearly appraisal of the current status of plants and animals considered candidates for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Three species have been removed from candidate status, three have been added, and seven have a change in priority from the last review conducted in November of 2010. There are now 244 species recognized by the Service as candidates for ESA protection. 24 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/478.html Ducks Unlimited and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) partners from around the region celebrated the Shiawassee Flats Wetland Restoration project in Michigan on Friday, Oct. 2011. Regional Director Tom Melius and Deputy Regional Director were on hand to mark the special occasion. 24 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/476.html Eighteen young whooping cranes are winging their way south on their first fall migration. This is the 11th group of birds to take part in the project led by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), a coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing this highly imperiled species in eastern North America, part of its historic range. 24 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/475.html Fall marks the time honored tradition of waterfowl hunting. Sept. 24 2011 marked the opening day for nearly 1,000 waterfowl hunters on the Winona District. 19 Oct 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627931354444/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently announced $660,000 in federal funding will support regional fish and wildlife restoration priorities in the Great Lakes basin under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act. 18 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/474.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting project proposals to protect, restore and enhance Great Lakes fish and wildlife habitat under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act. 17 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/473.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has extended the comment period on a draft Environmental Impact Statement evaluating a proposed multi-species, multi-state draft Habitat Conservation Plan and application for an incidental take permit under the Endangered Species Act. Comments will be accepted through December 13, 2011. 14 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/471.html James L. Santelle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that John J. Kellogg has been charged by complaint with two violations of the Lacey Act. 12 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/469.html Deputy Regional Director Charlie Wooley and Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius celebrate with Puddles the Blue Goose. Find out what celebrations are going on in your area! 12 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/happyrefugeweek.htm Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius joins Biologists Ann Runstrom and Byron Karns along with University of MN Researcher Mark Hove during a recent dive to assess the health of native mussels on the St. Croix River. 12 Oct 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627694046341/ Check out these beautiful photos from Wildlife Biologists at Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge in Wapello, Iowa. 11 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/portlouisa.htm Celebrate America's great outdoors with a visit to a national wildlife refuge during National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 9-15. You will see for yourself that refuges conserve some of our nation's most cherished natural treasures: wildlife and wild places. 7 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/468.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today there is not enough substantial information that 11 species from a petition for 404 species of southeastern aquatic, riparian and wetland dependent animals may warrant protection as threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 6 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/467.html WASHINGTON -- America's wetlands declined slightly from 2004-2009, underscoring the need for continued conservation and restoration efforts, according to a report issued today by the Department of the Interior's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The findings are consistent with the Service's Status and Trends Wetlands reports from previous decades that reflect a continuous but diminishing decline in wetlands habitat over time. 6 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/466.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today designated the Ozark hellbender as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and also finalized its decision to list the Ozark and eastern hellbender in Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). In combination, these listings will provide significant protection to hellbenders, both domestically and internationally. 5 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/465.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today it has completed a status review of the Oklahoma grass pink orchid, a plant found in seven states, and concluded it does not require the protection of the Endangered Species Act. 4 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/464.html The northern leopard frog does not warrant federal protection as a threatened or endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today. The announcement is the result of an evaluation of the status of the northern leopard frogs its 19-state western range and throughout the species' entire range, which covers 19 states including Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin. 4 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/463.html With over 1.3 million visitors per year, Chicago's Montrose Beach and Harbor rank among the most heavily used public areas along Illinois' Lake Michigan Coastal Area. Nevertheless, this park land also includes two very important areas for migratory birds. First, and perhaps best known of these to Chicagoans is the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, more popularly known as "The Magic Hedge." 3 Oct 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/montrose.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is supporting Double Up for the Ducks – a new campaign by Ducks Unlimited encouraging duck hunters and all persons who would like to make a difference for wildlife conservation to purchase two federal Duck Stamps this year to help conserve habitat for wild ducks, geese and other waterfowl. 30 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/462.html The American eel may need federal protection as a threatened or endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today, following an initial review of a petition seeking to protect the species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 28 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/461.html The Friends of the St. Croix Wetland Management District (WMD) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) hosted the 2nd Annual Friends and Neighbors Night Out. 26 Sept 2011 http://1.usa.gov/rmtCSy The water-level of the 1300-acre marsh at Union Slough National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) has been lowered or 'drawn down' to improve habitat for wildlife. When wetlands are drawn down, mudflats are created. Mudflats are used for resting areas by ducks and geese. Shorebirds are frequently seen scurrying across these same mudflats as they search for food such as tiny worms and insects. The primary purpose Union Slough NWR is to provide a place of refuge and breeding ground for waterfowl and other migratory birds. Food is an essential part of this equation and lower water levels are key. 26 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/460.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will conduct an in-depth status review of 374 rare southeastern aquatic, riparian and wetland animal and plant species to determine if any or all of them warrant federal protection as a threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 26 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/459.html For nearly a century the sturgeon of Lake Michigan have not been able to return to their Menominee River spawning areas. But that will soon change. A consortium of private, federal, state and nonprofit organizations are working together to create a means for the sturgeon to swim around the dams, owned by project partner North East Wisconsin Hydro. 22 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/458.html Professional duck hunter and guide Jeffrey B. Foiles was sentenced yesterday by a federal judge in Springfield, Ill., to 13 months in prison, the Department of Justice's Environment and Natural Resources Division announced. 22 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/457.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) applauds the approval of $4 million in federal funding for projects benefiting wetlands and associated habitat in the Midwestern states of Iowa, Michigan, Missouri and Ohio under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). The federal funding, recently approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, is supplemented by more than $12 million in matching and non-matching funds from conservation partners to support the projects to benefit ducks, geese and other migratory birds. 16 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/456.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for a proposed public roadway easement along the northern boundary and through northern sections of the Beaches Wildlife Management Area (WMA) located in Kittson County, Minnesota. The draft EA evaluates the proposed action and alternative actions including no action as required under the National Environmental Policy Act. 15 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/455.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today more than $1.2 million in federal funding has been awarded under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act (Act) grant program to restore sustainable populations of fish and wildlife resources and their habitats in the Great Lakes Basin. The six projects funded will provide $475,522 in non-federal partner match contributions. 12 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/454.html Prairie Wetlands Learning Center hosted the Enter into the Prairie environmental education pageant during the 2011 Return to Prairie Days 8 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/pwlcpageant.htm The talks cover a wide range of topics in an effort to appeal to a broad audience. All presentation are free and open to the public. 8 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/bigmuddyspeakers.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will provide more than $548,000 to support fish habitat projects in the Midwest under the National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP). More than $640,000 in partner contributions, nearly $1.2 million in total, will go toward restoring and enhancing stream, lake and coastal habitat, as well as improving recreational fishing and helping endangered species. 6 Sept 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/453.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded more than $1.5 million in 2011 through the National Fish Passage Program to support projects in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio and Missouri. Funding will support the removal of 20 fish passage barriers, reconnecting more than 545 stream miles, as well as survey and monitoring activities. These projects are supported by an additional $3.2 million in matching, non-federal funds. 26 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/452.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service hosted an open house and building dedication ceremony at Jordan River National Fish Hatchery in Elmira, Mich., on Thursday, August 18. The event marked the completion of hatchery improvement projects including construction of two fish rearing facilities, a geothermal heating system, and improvement of the fish hatchery effluent treatment system funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The Jordan River Hatchery Friends Group offered kids fishing and a BBQ luncheon at the event. 26 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/jordanrivertrout.htm On August 23, 2011 the Service and partners celebrate the conservation success of Clough Island 26 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/federalaid/cloughisland/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today announced the reopening of the comment period on the May 5, 2011, proposed rule to delist the gray wolf population in the Western Great Lakes and revise the listing to remove all or parts of 29 eastern states where the listed species did not historically occur. The action will allow for additional public review and the inclusion of any new information. 25 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/451.html WASHINGTON -- Secretary of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar today announced more than $53 million in grants to 17 states to support conservation planning and acquisition of vital habitat for threatened and endangered fish, wildlife, and plants. Missouri and Wisconsin will receive a total of $1.4 million to acquire and protect more than 1,400 acres of high quality habitat supporting endangered and threatened species. 24 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/450.html Refuge Officer Darryn Witt works on the Upper Mississippi River Fish and Wildlife Refuge on the Savanna District in Northern Illinois. On July 29, 2011 he and his canine partner 'Rudi' received a request to help in a neighboring county in the search of two people that had gone missing when the vehicle in which they were driving was swept away in a flash flood. Officer Witt and partner Rudi assisted as a part of a large team of responders that scoured the area in search of the two victims in Jo Daviess County, Illinois. Ultimately, the 86 year-old male, one of the two flood victims, was found alive and in good condition. The 73 year-old passenger, unfortunately, did not survive the accident. 23 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/k9rudi.htm Practice those duck calls, and check your decoys. Waterfowl hunting season is almost here, and signs point to a good year on national wildlife refuges. 23 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/449.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy and the state natural resources agencies of Wisconsin and Minnesota today celebrate the restoration and permanent protection of the largest island in the St. Louis River Estuary. 23 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/448.html Ducks Unlimited has added 60 acres and 3,000 feet of shoreline to the Pelican Lake Waterfowl Production Area with the first land DU purchased using dollars from the Minnesota Outdoor Heritage Fund. 22 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/447.html View photos 16 Aug 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627447093076/ WASHINGTON — Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (the Service) removed the Lake Erie watersnake, a harmless species found on offshore islands in western Lake Erie in Ohio and Ontario, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. The snake becomes the 23rd species to be delisted due to recovery. Under the Endangered Species Act, the Service has worked to successfully stabilize our nation's most imperiled species in part by fostering partnerships, employing scientific excellence, and developing a workforce of conservation leaders who promote conservation programs that help species recovery. 15 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/446.html The Upper Midwest and Great Lakes Landscape Conservation Cooperative, or UMGL LCC, has named Bradly Potter as the new science coordinator for the LCC. 12 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/445.html 8 Aug 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627385096814/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will host an open house and building dedication ceremony at Jordan River National Fish Hatchery (NFH) in Elmira, Mich., on Thursday, August 18. The event marks the completion of hatchery improvement projects including construction of two fish rearing facilities, a geothermal heating system, and improvement of the fish hatchery effluent treatment system funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Invited guests include Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Senator Carl Levin (D-MI), Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Service Regional Director Tom Melius, and multiple Great Lakes conservation partners. 1 Aug 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/444.html CHICAGO- The Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee (ACRCC) today announced intensive monitoring action will begin in Lake Calumet and surrounding areas on Monday, August 1st, after three consecutive rounds of Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling yielded positive results for Asian carp DNA. The ACCRC's 2011 Monitoring and Rapid Response Plan calls for a Level 1 response to three consecutive rounds of positive eDNA results in one area. While Lake Calumet is regularly monitored for the presence of Asian carp, a level 1 response adds commercial fishing crews as well as additional electrofishing boats, larger sweeping nets, called seines, and additional sampling gear to the area during an intensive four day fishing period. 29 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/443.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Midwest Region, in partnership with the Great Lakes Basin Fish Habitat Partnership (GLBFHP), announced today that approximately $500,000 of Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding will support on-the-ground fish habitat restoration in the Great Lakes region. 28 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/441.html Thousands of years ago the Red River Basin in northwest Minnesota, like many tributaries of the Upper Mississippi River and Great Lakes region, teemed with "king of fish" - known by most as the lake sturgeon, a prehistoric freshwater fish that can grow to nine feet and weigh up to 300 pounds. 27 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/kingoffish.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that a status review of the frigid ambersnail indicates protection of the snail under the Endangered Species Act is not warranted. The Service published its finding in the July 26, 2011 Federal Register. 27 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/440.html A year after more than 800,000 gallons of oil spilled into Talmadge Creek and the Kalamazoo River near Marshall, Michigan, tribal and government agencies, acting as trustees for injured natural resources, continue to conduct studies and surveys to assess the amount of damage to fish, wildlife and habitat. The trustees' activities are part of a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) that will result in restoration of the resources and resource services lost to the public as a result of the spill. 25 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/439.html View Photos 25 Jul 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627109514525/with/5954788755/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Ohio, is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) of proposed control actions for invasive Phragmites australis, a non-native plant, in wetlands in the coastal region of western Lake Erie. The draft EA evaluates the proposed action and alternative actions including no action as required under the National Environmental Policy Act. 22 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/438.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to reintroduce the colorful American burying beetle to a natural area in southwest Missouri as part of a partnership with the St. Louis Zoo to recover this native endangered species. The proposed reintroduction would occur at Wah'kon-tah Prairie, a 3,030-acre site in St. Clair and Cedar counties, Missouri, jointly owned and managed by Missouri Department of Conservation and The Nature Conservancy. 21 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/437.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will host an open house at Pendills Creek National Fish Hatchery (NFH) in Brimley, Mich., on Saturday, August 13 to celebrate completion of new fish rearing facilities that support the rehabilitation of lake trout in Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. 19 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/436.html The Service celebrates Minneapolis and Saint Paul's implementation of a new Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds and first City Bird Day. 14 Jul 2011 http://www.flickr.com//photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627195526588/show/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the City of Minneapolis, in partnership with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, City of Saint Paul and Audubon Minnesota, today celebrate Minneapolis and Saint Paul's implementation of the Service's Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds (Urban Bird Treaty). 14 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/435.html On July 20 and 21, 2011, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will meet with the Wind Turbine Guidelines Federal Advisory Committee to continue to receive Committee members' advice and recommendations about the responsible development of renewable wind energy and effective measures to avoid and minimize impacts to wildlife and their habitats. 13 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/434.html The Department of the Interior's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today that it is further strengthening a work plan that will allow the agency to focus its resources on the species most in need of protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 13 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/433.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces the availability of a draft Environmental Impact Statement evaluating a proposed multi-species, multi-state draft Habitat Conservation Plan and application for an incidental take permit under the Endangered Species Act. The HCP was developed by NiSource Inc., primarily a natural gas transmission, distribution and storage company, as it seeks an incidental take permit for operating and maintaining its network of pipelines in 14 northeastern, Midwest and southeastern states. 13 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/432.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the City of Minneapolis, in partnership with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, City of Saint Paul and Audubon Minnesota, will announce establishment of an Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds on Thursday, July 14, 2011, at the BF Nelson Park in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 12 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/431.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife, is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for Phase III of proposed management actions for invasive, non-native plants in wetlands of the Lake Erie watershed in Ohio. The draft EA evaluates the proposed action and alternative actions as required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). 07 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/430.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Congressman John Dingell and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe were in Michigan yesterday to announce land acquisitions of the Blanchett and Holloway tracts intended to enhance the first international Wildlife Refuge in North America, the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. 07 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/429.html Join FWS volunteer and citizen scientist Ian Drobney as he explores 15 of the Midwest Region's field stations and learns about conservation efforts. 01 Jul 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/iandrobney.htm 28 Jun 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157627029249072/with/5863598356/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today announced the eastern small-footed and northern long-eared bats may warrant federal protection as threatened or endangered species, following an initial review of a petition seeking to protect the species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 28 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/428.html Keystone Hatcheries, a division of Robinson Wholesale Inc., located in Illinois, was sentenced June 21, 2011 by Federal Judge Philip Simon to pay restitution in the amount of $35,000 to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (INDNR) after pleading guilty to an Information charging the corporation with the sale and transport of fish into Lake County, one of 15 counties in Indiana from which they were prohibited to do so. 28 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/427.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will not list the Ozark chinquapin, a chestnut tree, under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) because it is widespread in the interior highlands of Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. 27 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/426.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated 25 acres in southwestern Missouri as critical habitat for the endangered Tumbling Creek cavesnail. The designation includes Tumbling Creek and associated springs located near Protem, Missouri. 27 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/425.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius, and Northeast Regional Director Marvin Moriarty, jointly announced today the approval of $930,000 for grants aimed at protecting, restoring, and/or enhancing 791 acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat in Michigan, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), Joint Venture Habitat Protection and Restoration Program. 24 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/424.html Working together with state wildlife enforcement agents in Illinois and Iowa, and internationally with counterparts in Canada, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) agents close illegal duck hunting case. Professional duck hunter and guide Jeffrey B. Foiles pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Springfield, Ill., to wildlife charges arising from the illegal sale of guided waterfowl hunts, the Department of Justice announced June 23, 2011. 24 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/423.html In 2010, Fishers and Farmers Partnership for the Upper Mississippi River Basin became a partnership of the National Fish Habitat Action Plan. On June 28, 2011 its charter will be signed on the site of its inaugural Minnesota project - Seven-Mile Creek in Nicollet County. 22 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/422.html DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge is working in partnership with private landowners, volunteers and partners to protect areas of the Missouri River flood plain threatened by rising Missouri River levels. 22 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/421.html The 2011 Federal Duck Stamp goes on sale this Friday, June 24th 21 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/duckstamps Federal agencies have released the final Decision and Findings of No Significant Impact (FONSIs) for an Environmental Assessment (EA) on Double-crested cormorant damage management in Michigan. The EA replaces one completed in 2004 and supplemented in 2006. 17 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/420.html View all Midwest stories from the series exploring the many ways accelerating climate change is impacting or may impact fish and wildlife across America 16 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/climate An account from Neosho National Fish Hatchery staff after an EF-5 tornado struck the neighboring town of Joplin, Missouri on May 22 16 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/afterthestorm.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced the selection of Glen Salmon as the new Eastern Tallgrass Prairie and Big Rivers Landscape Conservation Cooperative coordinator. For the last two years, Salmon has served as U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Deputy Assistant Director for the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. Prior to this, Salmon spent 32 years working for the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, retiring as the Division of Fish and Wildlife Director in 2009. 16 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/419.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Region announced today the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) approved more than $930,000 in federal funding to help protect, restore and enhance wetlands and associated habitats across Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Illinois under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) Small Grants program. The Federal grants are matched by more than $1.8 million in partner funds. 16 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/418.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is working in partnership with private landowners, volunteers and partners to protect areas of the Missouri River flood plain threatened by rising floodwaters. Due to current flood conditions, all areas of the DeSoto Refuge including the visitor center are closed to the public. 16 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/417.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) is pleased to announce that new release sites have been chosen for this year's whooping crane reintroduction efforts. This will be the 11th group of endangered whooping cranes to take part in a project conducted by WCEP, a coalition of public and private organizations that is reintroducing a migratory flock of whooping cranes in eastern North America, part of their historic range. Thanks to WCEP's efforts, there are now over 100 wild cranes in this population. 14 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/416.html Partners gathered June 8, 2011 to raise a timber frame structure that will serve as an environmental education classroom at the Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). Many partners are joining forces to complete the project including : The Perham Alternative Learning Center, Perham High School, Rural Minnesota CEP, Minnesota Youth Build Grant, Herzog Roofing, Toad River Timber Frames, LLC., the Friends of the Detroit Lakes Wetlands Management District, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Hamden Slough NWR is seeking volunteers who would like to help complete the project. Please see contact information below for more details. 13 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/415.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in partnership with the Boardman River Implementation Team (BRIT), will host an open house from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on June 21, 2011 at the Civic Center in Traverse City, Mich., to receive input and comments from the public as part of an Environmental Assessment (EA) on the environmental impacts of the proposed removal of Brown Bridge Dam. 13 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/414.html The Fish and Wildlife Service, Midwest Region is pleased to announce funding for four Tribal fish and wildlife conservation projects totaling $794,797 through the Service's Fiscal Year 2011 Tribal Wildlife Grant Program. The following Tribes received funding this year: the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians in Minnesota the Menominee Indian Tribe the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians and the Forest County Potawatomi in Wisconsin. 10 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/413.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in partnership with state wildlife agencies in Wisconsin and Minnesota, will restore 4,750 acres of Driftless Area habitat to benefit up to 79 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) through the Service's State Wildlife Grants (SWG) Competitive Program. 03 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/412.html The golden-winged warbler, a small songbird found in the north-central and eastern United States, may warrant federal protection as a threatened or endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today. The announcement follows an initial review of a petition seeking to protect the golden-winged warbler under the Endangered Species Act. 02 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/411.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host a public information meeting about its recent proposal to remove Endangered Species Act protection for the gray wolf in the western Great Lakes region, including Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. The meeting will take place on June 14, 2011, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Davies Theater in Davies Hall at Itasca Community College, 1851 East Highway 169, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. 02 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/410.html The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announce a public information meeting about the Service's recent proposal to remove Endangered Species Act protection for the gray wolf in the western Great Lakes region, including Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. The meeting will take place on June 16, 2011, from 6 pm to 9 pm at Northern Michigan University's University Center, Michigan Room, 540 West Kaye Avenue, in Marquette, Michigan. 02 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/409.html The largest and most successful rescue of poisoned eagles ever recorded has come to a dramatic completion today at Antigo, Wis. with the release of seven American bald eagles into the wild by the Raptor Education Group 01 Jun 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/408.html The Midwest regional office will be relocated to the Norman Pointe II Office Building 26 May 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/romove.htm Birdwatchers enjoyed the 2011 Detroit Lakes Festival of the Birds May 19 - 22 23 May 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157626625086669/with/5751448423.html Tom Melius visits St. Croix Wetland Management District, Iron River National Fish Hatchery, the Ashland Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office and Whittlesey Creek National Wildlife Refuge 23 May 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157626648840347/ More than 100 veterans and 100 7th graders from Tomah Middle School enjoyed a morning of fishing, food and friendship 23 May 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157626662145333/with/5750360157/ 1,050 trees planted overall 20 May 2011 http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157626572258335/ The U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources have signed a memorandum of agreement pledging to continue conservation efforts for the endangered Kirtland's warbler regardless of the warbler's status under the Endangered Species Act. The MOU, signed at Kirtland Community College's annual Kirtland's Warbler Wildlife Festival, is a first step toward eventually removing the Kirtland's warbler from the list of endangered and threatened species. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/407.html 21 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT View all Midwest stories from the series exploring the many ways accelerating climate change is impacting or may impact fish and wildlife across America 19 May 2011 http://www.fws.gov/midwest/climate/ GROSSE ILE, MICH. May 18, 2011 – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) today announced an expansion of its partnership with ITC Holdings Corp. (ITC) to control invasive Phragmites (common reed) in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (IWR). ITC, the nation's largest independent electricity transmission company, based in Novi, Mich., today contributed $70,000 to the USFWS for use in expanding Phragmites control efforts within the refuge. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/406.html 18 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and Friends of the Upper Mississippi River Fisheries Services will host more than 250 kids and their parents or guardians at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery in Wisconsin on Saturday, May 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/404.html 17 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT Grosse Ile, Mich. – Partners and friends of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge will celebrate the 10th anniversary of refuge establishment with an annual benefit dinner on Saturday, May 2, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. on Fighting Island in LaSalle, Ontario. The benefit dinner will include the release of the annual report that highlights 10 years of progress, presentation of the "John D. Dingell Friend of the Refuge Awards," silent and live auctions and live music. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/403.html 17 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT In a report released this month under the National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP), large regions of the Upper Mississippi River Basin are shown to be at high-risk for loss of key fish habitat if current patterns of land use in the watershed continue unchanged in the coming years. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/402.html 17 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT More than 150 students from the Twin Cities enjoyed a day of fishing 13 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157626579438553/ INDIANAPOLIS – The Indianapolis Airport Authority (IAA) and Hendricks County Parks and Recreation (HCPR), in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), are pleased to announce the official launch of the Sodalis Nature Park in Hendricks County. The park, which will hold dedication ceremonies at 10 a.m. on May 13, represents IAA's commitment to the residents of Hendricks County and the surrounding area, offering visitors the chance to enjoy direct participation in a conservation area. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/401.html 12 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) and the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) are celebrating another success in efforts to reintroduce a wild migratory whooping crane population in eastern North America. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/400.html 12 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT Residents along the Mississippi River and travelers of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway will soon benefit from a new education and interpretive center that will showcase the unique natural, historical and cultural resources of the Upper Mississippi River basin. http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/398.html 12 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT Read More http://www.fws.gov/midwest/MNgobirding.htm 12 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's proposal to remove Endangered Species Act protection for wolves in the western Great Lakes region will publish in the Federal Register Thursday, May 5, 2011, initiating a 60-day public comment period. 11 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/397.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Region applauds the release of the 2011 State of the Birds Report, the nation's first assessment of birds on lands and waters owned by the American people. 05 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/396.html Washington, DC - The Department of the Interior's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that it is proposing to delist biologically recovered gray wolf populations in the Western Great Lakes, and - in accordance with recently enacted legislation - reinstating the Service's 2009 decision to delist biologically recovered gray wolf populations in the Northern Rocky Mountains. 04 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/395.html Report Shows Public Lands and Waters Crucial to Birds One Out of Four Birds Species on Public Land in Peril 03 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/394.html Necedah welcomed the community to celebrate the grand opening of the state-of-the-art refuge visitor center with a day of educational programs, activities and workshops that covered topics including birding, fishing, tree planting http://www.fws.gov/midwest/necedahVC.htm 02 May 2011 15:46:46 GMT The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge is soliciting public comments on a draft compatibility determination relating to commercial wildlife-dependent recreation. This use involves guided wildlife observation and photography, as well as environmental education and interpretive programs conducted by non-refuge organizations that are offered to the public for a fee and occur on Refuge property. 27 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/393.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Sport Fish Restoration program recently awarded more than $670,000 in federal funds to support clean waterway projects in Indiana, Michigan, Missouri and Ohio in 2011. The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) grant program, established in 1993, has awarded more than $187 million to States for projects funding construction, replacement, renovation, and maintenance of facilities that assist recreational boaters in properly disposing of on-board septic waste, and, to provide educational programs for recreational boaters. 27 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/392.html View all Midwest stories from the series exploring the many ways accelerating climate change is impacting or may impact fish and wildlife across America http://www.fws.gov/midwest/climate 26 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT Trenton and Gibraltar, Mich. – The Wyandot of Anderdon, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wayne County Parks and the International Wildlife Refuge Alliance will be hosting a Sacred Land Restoration Ceremony on Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at the Refuge Gateway in Trenton, Mich. This ceremony, led by the Wyandot of Anderdon, will include a blessing of the wetlands and uplands being restored at the Refuge Gateway. More than 200 high school students from Southgate Anderson High School, Gibraltar Carlson High School and Trenton High School, and chaperones, will be participating in this ceremony and learning opportunity. 26 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/391.html The National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP) Awards were presented to representatives from community partnerships that work to protect and conserve fish habitat at the Jim Range National Casting Call on Friday, April 15 on the grounds of the C and O Canal National Historic Park, along the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, DC. Representatives from Fish Habitat Partnerships from across the Midwest Region were honored for their work in protecting and conserving fish habitat through collaboration and creativity. 22 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/390.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife, is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for Phase II of proposed management actions for invasive non-native plants in wetlands in the Lake Erie watershed in Ohio. The draft EA evaluates the proposed action and alternative actions including no action as required under the National Environmental Policy Act. 21 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/389.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and Audubon Minnesota encourage children and their families to "Go Wild! Go Birding!" at the third annual Kids' Bird Watching Fair at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge's (NWR) Rapids Lake Unit near Jordan, Minn. on Saturday, May 7. 19 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/388.html Closure comes in the case of matriarch whooping crane shooting because of a citizen tip. Wade Bennett of Cayuga, Ind. pled guilty and was sentenced on March 30, 2011, for his involvement in the shooting of a whooping crane in Vermillion County, Ind. Bennett and a juvenile were charged and sentenced in Indiana State Court, in Vermillion County, Ind. Bennett and the juvenile received probation, fines and fees for their involvement in the shooting of the crane. Voluntary information from a local citizen was instrumental in closing this case. 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/387.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Necedah National Wildlife Refuge will host a Ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening of its state-of-the-art visitor center on Saturday, April 30, 2011, from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm. Refuge Manager Doug Staller is hosting Saturday's events, which begin in front of the Visitor Center at 10:00 am with a short formal ceremony and ribbon cutting event. Special activities and programs for the entire family will be available beginning at 11:00 am. 19 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/386.html Starting this Earth Day, April 22, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will launch a series of 50 stories for 50 consecutive weekdays that will explore the many ways accelerating climate change is impacting or may impact fish and wildlife across America. No geographic region is immune. 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/385.html The Euclid Creek East Branch Dam in Cuyahoga County, Ohio was successfully removed this past December, restoring stream flow for the first time since the dam was constructed in the early 1930s. 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/euclidcreek.htm The second mass marking season for hatchery raised fish is underway in the Great Lakes 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/massmarking042011.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and wind energy industry companies, along with the American Wind Energy Association, have signed a memorandum of understanding pledging to work together to develop a wind energy habitat conservation plan for the Service's Midwest Region. Such a plan would outline measures to conserve threatened and endangered species that may be affected by wind energy facilities in eight Midwestern states. 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/384.html The Lake Erie Marshlands Museum and the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (DRIWR) are joining forces for a two-day welcome home party to celebrate the return of our tropical migrant birds. 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/383.html Genoa National Fish Hatchery has completed and deployed a sturgeon streamside rearing unit purchased with GLRI funding 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/382.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today announced a proposal to remove gray wolves in the Western Great Lakes area -- which includes Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin -- from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife because wolves have recovered in this area and no longer require the protection of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/380.html Two young artists from the Midwest placed first and third today in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2011 National Junior Duck Stamp Art and Design Contest. 18 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/381.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge announces that a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for construction of a new office building is available for public review and comment. The location for the proposed office is on the same site as the current office complex at 10728 County Road X61 near Wapello, Iowa in Louisa County. The new office would incorporate office space for ten employees, a visitor and reception area, and an environmental education/meeting room. 12 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/379.html Learning from the Minnesota Hunting and Fishing Manufacturing Community 12 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/WSFR.htm Many are familiar with the benefits that our wildlife lands provide, but did you know that these lands also help alleviate flooding in our region? 6 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/378.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Wildlife Refuge Association are looking for youth ages 15-24 to tell us what they think about the future of the National Wildlife Refuge System! Last summer, USFWS and NWRA launched a year-long process called "Conserving the Future: Wildlife Refuges and the Next Generation" to build a new, bold strategic vision for the National Wildlife Refuge System. We believe that youth need to be an integral part of the vision process, but we need your help to get them involved in the conversation! 5 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/377.html Denis Mudderman of Rochert, Minn. has been selected as the 2011 Refuge Volunteer of the Year by the National Wildlife Refuge Association and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. 4 Apr 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/375.html Join the Conversation at www.AmericasWildlife.org 30 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/374.html Join the Conversation at www.AmericasWildlife.org 29 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT Join the Conversation at www.AmericasWildlife.org COLUMBUS, OH - Wildlife officials have confirmed the first case of White-nose Syndrome in bats hibernating in an abandoned mine on the Wayne National Forest in Lawrence County. 29 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/373.html Trenton, Michigan – The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge will welcome Boy Scout Troop # 802 of the Huron District within the Boy Scouts of America Great Lakes Council to undertake a shoreline habitat restoration project at Wayne County's Refuge Gateway in Trenton. Local scout Nathan Lewis has organized this restoration project in order to obtain his Eagle Scout badge. Nathan has been raising money to fund the project, which will be matched by funds donated by the Downriver Walleye Federation. 25 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/372.html Birders from around the region are flocking to the south shore of Lake Superior! The Fifth Annual Chequamegon Bay Birding and Nature Festival based at The Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland, Wis., May 20-22, 2011, will draw casual and avid birders, as well as nature lovers alike, to the south shore of Lake Superior to enjoy some of the best birding hot spots and the most breathtaking scenery the Midwest has to offer. 25 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/371.html Ducks Unlimited honored a retired U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service district manager from Minnesota with a Wetland Conservation Achievement Award for his exceptional, long-term contributions to wetlands and waterfowl conservation. Kevin Brennan's leadership during his 24 years as manager of the Fergus Falls Wetland Management District resulted in the improvement and protection of more than 26,000 acres of wetland and associated upland habitat in a key portion of the Prairie Pothole Region of Minnesota. 22 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/370.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will publish a final rule in the Federal Register on March 22, officially adding the bighead carp to the federal injurious wildlife list. The final rule codifies the Asian Carp Prevention and Control Act (S. 1421), signed into law by President Obama on December 14, 2010. The injurious wildlife listing means that under the Lacey Act it is illegal to import or to transport live bighead carp, including viable eggs or hybrids of the species, across state lines, except by permit for zoological, education, medical, or scientific purposes. 21 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/369.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced 29 recipients of the 2010 Recovery Champion award honoring Service staff members and their partners-in-mission for conserving endangered and threatened species. 18 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/368.html From April through mid-June and mid-October through mid-November, fire crews and specialized equipment from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Leopold Wetland Management District, in Portage, Wis., will assemble at Waterfowl Production Areas and/or Conservation Easements to safely set prescribed fires that will restore and improve wildlife habitat while reducing the risks of wildfires across south-central Wisconsin.  17 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/367.html The Midwest Torch Award has been passed on to another well-respected individual in the wildland fire profession. On March 10, 2011, Leopold Wetland Management District (WMD) Career Seasonal Range Technician Ben Halverson was recognized as the recipient of the 4th Annual Midwest Region Torch Award during the Midwest Region Awards of Excellence. 17 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/365.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which manages the country's 553 national wildlife refuges, hopes to hire more than 2,000 young people this year, as it did in 2010. Apply now for a job this summer on a national wildlife refuge or other public land. A commitment to youth hiring is part of President Obama's America's Great Outdoors initiative. 16 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/364.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will soon be conducting the 12th National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation. Hunters, anglers and other wildlife enthusiasts across the nation will be asked to participate in interviewing set to begin April 1. The survey, which has been conducted every five years since 1955, will involve 53,000 households. 15 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/366.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today the Service's Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program will fund a transient boat dock at the existing Schweibert Riverfront Park in the City of Rock Island, Illinois, situated at the midpoint between St. Louis, Mo., and St. Paul, Minn., on the Mississippi River. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources, in cooperation with the City of Rock Island, will receive $1,500,000 and match that amount with $565,000 to add a floating dock system that will accommodate 23 transient boating slips. 15 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/363.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today the Service's Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program will fund a transient marina at the existing North Coast Harbor in downtown Cleveland. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, in cooperation with the City of Cleveland and partners will receive $1,450,400 and match that with $509,600 to build new floating docks for 53 transient boat slips including 3 ADA accessible slips and ramp, a new shower, restrooms, laundry building, and amenities. 15 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/362.html Early March is a great time to view snow geese at Squaw Creek NWR. Currently there are about 500,000 snow geese on the refuge! Learn more about the best ways and times to view them, as well as other activities the refuge has to offer. 16 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/snowgeesesquawcreek.htm Hundreds of people across the country have provided bold ideas to the Conserving the Future web site or voted on their favorites. Each person who registers on the web site may cast 20 votes for favorite ideas. Join the conversation about the future of the Refuge System. 15 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/conservingthefuture.htm Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius visited Squaw Creek NWR to present the Midwest Region's "Sense of Wonder" award to Amanda Griffin. 15 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/tomsquawcreekaward.htm Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and the Friends of Crane Meadows welcomed visitors to the 11th Annual Habitat Day event held on Sat. March 12, 2011. 14 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/cmnwrhabday2011.htm Visitors to Edward M. Golson Boat Launch and Nature Preserve will find that a portion of the preserve's nature trails have been closed to the public to protect a pair of nesting bald eagles. The eagles have constructed a nest on the site, and the posted closure is intended to prevent disturbance to the eagles and any young they produce. 14 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/361.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius announced recently the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission (MBCC) approved $5 million in Federal grants to help protect, restore and enhance more than 22,000 acres of wetlands and associated habitats across Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and North Dakota under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). The Federal grants are matched by more than $13 million in partner funds. 14 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/360.html These individuals have promoted the use of the Junior Duck Stamp Program curriculum in the classroom to teach children about the importance of conservation, science and America's great outdoors. 11 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/jrduckschedule2011.htm Returning birds and melting snow are sure signs of spring in the Midwest. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service natural resource professionals are also preparing for another spring ritual, the start of the controlled burning season. From late March to mid June, staff at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's St. Croix Wetland Management District in New Richmond, Wis., will be mobilizing crews of firefighters and equipment for scheduled burns at 12 Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA) in Wisconsin's St. Croix and Polk Counties. 10 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/359.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife, is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for proposed management actions for invasive non-native plants in wetlands in the Lake Erie watershed in Ohio. 08 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/358.html The second year of mass marking in the Great Lakes will begin March 15th. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Green Bay Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office will travel to four states and eight state fish hatcheries to code-wire tag and fin-clip millions of Chinook salmon for stocking in the Great Lakes. 07 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/357.html States across the Nation host the Junior Duck Stamp Art and Design Program this month 2011 Contest Schedule - Midwest Region 07 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/jrduckschedule2011.htm The 9th Annual Youth Ice Fishing Event co-sponsored by the Friends of the Refuge Headwaters and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides a winter outdoor experience for 60 youth and their families. 02 Mar 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/uppermissfishing.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has concluded that a petition to list the wild plains bison under the Endangered Species Act does not contain substantial scientific data to indicate that the petitioned action might be warranted. Despite this announcement that the bison will not receive further consideration for listing under the ESA at this time, the Service will continue to work with our partners to conserve and protect wild plains bison throughout its remaining range. 24 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/356.html Federal investigators have discovered the remains of a second whooping crane at Weiss Lake on the Alabama-Georgia border. The second crane, identified as #22-10, a crane released last year in Wisconsin in the company of other older cranes, was found less than a quarter-mile from whooping crane #12-04. Investigators believe #12-04 was shot sometime before January 28, and consider the deaths linked. Laboratory results are still pending. 18 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/355.html In an effort to reduce the risk of accidental lead poisoning for wildlife and minimize impacts on the environment, the Fish and Wildlife Service is requiring the use of non-toxic shot for turkey hunting on Waterfowl Production Areas (WPAs) in Wisconsin. 17 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/353.html ecretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today the distribution of more than $749 million in excise tax revenues generated by sportsmen and women to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies through the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration and Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Programs. 16 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/354.html Youngsters around the country will celebrate Endangered Species Day 2011 by entering the Endangered Species Art contest. The art contest is part of the sixth annual national Endangered Species Day, celebrated on and around May 20, 2011. 16 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/352.html The President's FY 2012 budget request of $1.7 billion for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will focus funding on the agency's highest priority conservation initiatives, such as the America's Great Outdoors initiative, while containing costs through management efficiencies and other savings. The requested $1.7 billion is a net increase of $47.9 million compared to the FY 2010 enacted budget. The budget also includes approximately $1 billion available under permanent appropriations, most of which will be provided directly to States for fish and wildlife restoration and conservation. 15 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/351.html Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District Refuge Officer Chuck Melvin was recognized by the Minnesota Chapter of The Wildlife Society for his contributions to the field of conservation during the Society meeting this past December 2010. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/350.html Governmental, industrial and nonprofit organizations in southeast Michigan and southwest Ontario are working to make waterfront shorelines friendly to fish, wildlife and people. Indeed, these partners are rapidly becoming North American leaders in the use of soft shoreline engineering techniques. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/detroitIWR.htm Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced the launching of an open, online process to solicit ideas for a renewed and bold 10-year vision to guide the growth and management of the National Wildlife Refuge System. A draft vision document is now available for public comment until Earth Day, April 22, 2011. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://bit.ly/fMNOI5 Neosho National Fish Hatchery Visitor Center achieves Gold LEED rating 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/neosholeed.htm The Department of the Interior is uniquely positioned to help millions of young Americans reconnect with our natural and cultural heritage, put thousands of young people to work in the great outdoors, and inspire the next generation of conservation leaders. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/AGO.htm On Wednesday, President Barack Obama announced the Administration's action plan, under the America's Great Outdoors initiative, to achieve lasting conservation of the outdoor spaces that power our nation's economy, shape our culture, and build our outdoor traditions. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/AGO.htm Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge doesn't let the weather or lack of Visitor Services facilities stop them from getting kids outside to enjoy nature. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/sherburnewinter.htm Word Wetlands Day was celebrated on Feb. 9, 2011 at Gibraltar Carlson High School in Gibraltar, MI. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/wwd2011.htm More than 500 area children and parents enjoyed a day on the ice at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery in Wisconsin this February. 10 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/genoakidsfishing.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is investigating the death of a whooping crane reported by an Alabama conservation officer at Weiss Lake, in Cherokee County Ala., on Jan. 28, 2011. The lake is located midway between Atlanta, Birmingham, and Chattanooga. Investigators believe the crane was shot. 09 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/349.html Regular feeding can cause dependency on people for food, conflicts with people, and spread of disease. 09 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/feedingwaterfowl.htm WASHINGTON, DC – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced a number of initiatives designed to encourage rapid and responsible development of renewable energy on public lands. The proposals from the Department's Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the policy guidance from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provide clarity and guidance to stakeholders, including developers and employees, about smart siting and effective mitigation for renewable energy projects. 08 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/348.html Are you itching to get outside? Do you want to get your kids unglued from the TV and video games? Come to the Curing Cabin Fever III Geocaching Event (GC2MWQJ) on March 26, 2011 at Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center located at 7071 Riverview Road, Thomson, IL. Some folks are versed in Geocaching while others don't even know how to pronounce it. For those not familiar, it's pronounced (JEE-oh-CASh-ing). It is a high-tech treasure hunt using a hand-held Global Positioning System receiver (GPSr) to find a treasure or cache. A typical cache is a small waterproof container containing a logbook and "treasure," usually toys or trinkets of little monetary value. 08 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/347.html Gibraltar, Michigan, USA - World Wetlands Day will be celebrated on February 9th at Gibraltar Carlson High School with a Wetlands Expo (featuring displays from organizations dedicated to wetland preservation) from 9 AM-3 PM and a program that begins at 1 PM, featuring U.S. National Ramsar Committee Chairperson Suzanne Pittenger-Slear, Ms. Lynette Dowler, Plant Director of DTE Energy's Trenton Channel and River Rouge Power Plants, and Andrew Hartz, District Supervisor of Land and Water Management Division of Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. This event is open to the public from 1-3 PM. 08 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/346.html Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius joined MN Commissioner Tom Landwehr and MN DNR Director Dave Schad to welcome members of the waterfowl conservation community to the 2011 Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium. 07 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/waterfowlsymposium.htm Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius joined MN Commissioner Tom Landwehr and MN DNR Director Dave Schad to welcome members of the waterfowl conservation community to the 2011 Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium. 07 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/waterfowlsymposium.htm For more than seventeen years the Friends of Sherburne and staff of Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge have celebrated winter together with a day-long event filled with fun and educational activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. 07 Feb 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/sherburne020511.htm The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) today announces the release of a comprehensive Five Year Strategic Plan for the reintroduction of a migratory population of Whooping Cranes to the eastern United States. 01 Feb 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/345.html The Indiana Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have received confirmation that a bat found in a southern Indiana cave has tested positive for the fungus that causes white-nose syndrome. The case is the state's first for the WNS fungus, believed to be responsible for the deaths of more than one million bats in the eastern United States. 01 Feb 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/344.html The Paul E. Stry Foundation of La Crosse, Wis. has awarded funds to Fishers and Farmers Partnership to implement communications strategies in 2011. The funds will expand the reach of the Partnership and its impact on farm health, the Mississippi River, and its tributaries. 01 Feb 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/343.html The Plains and Prairie Potholes Landscape Conservation Cooperative (LCC) has named Michael M. Olson as the new science coordinator for the LCC. 31 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/342.html SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. (Jan. 27, 2011) – The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Board passed a resolution today supporting the investigation of the recent killing of three whooping cranes in Calhoun County, Ga. 26 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/341.html Gibraltar, Michigan, USA – World Wetlands Day will be celebrated on February 2nd at Gibraltar Carlson High School with a Wetlands Expo (featuring displays from organizations dedicated to wetland preservation) from 9 AM-3 PM and a program that begins at 1 PM, featuring U.S. National Ramsar Committee Chairperson Suzanne Pittenger-Slear, Congressman John Dingell, and DTE Energy Vice President Paul Fessler. This event is open to the public from 1-3 PM. 26 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/340.html Media are invited to enjoy a day on the ice with excited youth as they gain ice fishing tips from the experts, and then put them into practice in a frozen stocked hatchery pond at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery in Genoa, Wisconsin. 19 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/339.html The thirteenth annual Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium will be held in conjunction with the Minnesota Decoy Collectors Show from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 5, 2011 at the Ramada Mall of America. 19 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/338.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed Endangered Species Act protection for the sheepnose and the spectaclecase, two freshwater mussels found in river systems in the eastern half of the United States. 19 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/337.html The Fish and Wildlife Service's Midwest Region recently developed a new video as a tool to help our employees better understand our trust responsibilities as a federal agency for working with Indian Tribes. 19 Jan 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Tribal/tribevideo.htm After 10 years of leadership Nick Rowse from the Twin Cities Ecological Services Field Office is stepping down as the Regional Dive Officer and handing the regulator over to Scott Yess from the La Crosse Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office. 19 Jan 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/diveteam.htm Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius spent time discussing partnership efforts with Iowa DNR Director Roger Lande, during a January Trip To Iowa 19 Jan 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/MeliusIowaDNRDirector.htm Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius took a closer look at history during a visit to DeSoto NWR, home of the 1865-era Steamboat Bertrand discovery site and it's treasure of artifacts 19 Jan 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/sets/72157625871544702/ Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius visited Neal Smith NWR in Jan. 2011 to learn more about the important management actives happening in the winter season and learned that for the staff and community schools, there is no "quiet" time of the year! 19 Jan 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/MeliusNealSmith.htm Jason Mercado has always had an affinity for the outdoors, whether playing sports during his eight years in the military, or hiking Minnesota's trails. But he never knew his love of outdoor hobbies would ever lead to a career in conservation. 19 Jan 2011 15:46:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/migbirdpermits.htm The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS), the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have expanded their efforts to restore common tern habitat on Belle Isle. In 2008, approximately 3,200 square feet of crushed limestone and cobble substrate were placed on DWSD property on the northern tip of Belle Isle where as many as 1,200 nesting pairs of common terns were found in the early 1960s. In November 2010, this common tern nesting habitat was expanded to about 9,600 square feet. This site now has 100 decoys and a solar-powered sound system to broadcast mating calls to help attract this threatened migratory bird species back to Belle Isle. 12 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/336.html Wildlife scientists at the National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Laboratory in Ashland, Oregon, have concluded through preliminary testing the cranes found dead near Albany, Georgia, on Dec. 30, 2010, sustained injuries consistent with gunshot wounds. 12 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/335.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has reopened the public comment period on its June 2010 proposal to designate 25 acres as critical habitat in Taney County, Missouri, for the endangered Tumbling Creek cavesnail. The Service also made available a draft economic analysis that examines the potential economic impact of designating critical habitat for the species. Comments on the proposed designation and the draft economic analysis will be accepted through February 11, 2011. 12 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/334.html The Euclid Creek East Branch Dam in Cuyahoga County, Ohio was successfully removed this past December, restoring stream flow for the first time since the dam was constructed in the early 1930s. The project was the first of six dam removal projects identified in the watershed to be removed in the Euclid Creek Watershed Action Plan, endorsed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Ohio EPA in 2006. Financial assistance for the project was provided through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Fish Passage Program (NFPP), and through other Federal and State funding. 12 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/333.html The Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is inviting public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment that considers two issues: 1) the use of row crop farming as a technique to manage National Wildlife Refuge System lands in the Midwest Region, and 2) the use of glyphosate-tolerant corn and soybeans on these lands. 10 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/332.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with The Nature Conservancy, is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for proposed management actions for common weed (Phragmites australis), an invasive plant species in the coastal region of western Lake Erie. The draft EA evaluates the proposed action and alternative actions including no action as required under the National Environmental Policy Act. 10 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/331.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources are investigating the suspicious deaths of three whooping cranes in south Georgia. 6 Jan 2011 14:47:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/330.html 828FD24D-D33F-4A13-AEF7-441FEE6037E3 Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge Manager Maggie Anderson was recognized by the Minnesota Chapter of The Wildlife Society for her contributions to the field of conservation and received the 2010 Minnesota Award at the 2010 Society meeting Dec. 10, 2010. 3 Jan 2011 20:26:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/329.html 89FF85DC-C384-4B26-93FF-231FE6B69AC7 Start the New Year off with a bang by investing in your National Wildlife Refuges through Federal and Junior Duck Stamps! 30 Dec 2010 15:46:46 GMT http://www.duckstamp.com/mm5/ The Service and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) applaud the release of the Illinois Natural History Survey’s Illinois Birds: A Century of Change, a publication summarizing changes to bird populations and habitats across the state of Illinois over the past century. 30 Dec 2010 15:45:22 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/328.html Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge staff, volunteers and community partners welcomed crowds for the 32nd Annual Eagles event, Dec. 3-5, 2010. 29 Dec 2010 13:07:41 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/eagledays.htm Jay Steele of Missouri Department of Conservation discussing cave management with Tom Melius and Ben Mense. Photo by Ryan Aylesworth/USFWS. 29 Dec 2010 13:06:23 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ozarkcavefish.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department are offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for the shooting of an adult bald eagle two miles south and one-half mile west of Ravinia, South Dakota, in Charles Mix County. The eagle was shot and wounded prior to December 18, 2010. 22 Dec 2010 13:06:02 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/327.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius announced today the award of $250,000 to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to conserve coastal wetlands along the northern Door Peninsula in Wisconsin. The grant will help the Wisconsin DNR acquire a 2.4 acre parcel of coastal wetlands and 200 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline, habitat which is home to both the Federally endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly and Federally threatened Dwarf lake iris. 22 Dec 2010 13:05:42 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/325.html LANSING, MICH. - The Service and Michigan DNRE urge drivers to use caution this travel season as bald eagles may be present on or near roadways. Bald eagle mortality rates due to vehicular collisions in Michigan have risen in the last six years, accounting for 222 out of 774, or 29 percent, of recorded eagle mortalities between 1987 and 2008. 29 Dec 2010 13:05:24 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/324.html Five endangered whooping cranes and their surrogate parents, three ultralight aircraft, arrived on Wednesday at their wintering grounds in Florida after a trek of more than 1,000 miles through seven states. 29 Dec 2010 13:05:05 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/323.html After thirty-six years, Kevin Brennan is retiring from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) as the Project Leader for the Fergus Falls Wetland Management District. Ever-present as the prairie wind, Brennan has been a motivating force for conservation in the North Country for more than two decades. The District will be hosting a retirement celebration for Brennan December 29, 2010, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center, 602 State Highway 210, Fergus Falls, Minnesota and the public is welcome to attend. 15 Dec 2010 13:04:37 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/322.html The Hoosier Environmental Council (HEC) recognized Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge Manager Bill McCoy as their Land Steward of the Year during its Third Annual Green Policy Forum Nov. 6, 2010 in Indianapolis, Ind. 13 Dec 2010 13:08:31 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/321.html Based on the success of the Endangered Species Act in helping the gray wolf population in the Western Great Lakes region recover to healthy levels, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is continuing to move forward toward removing the species from the list of threatened and endangered species. 13 Dec 2010 13:07:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/320.html A beagle club based in Underwood, Ind., paid $9,450 in fines to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to satisfy federal violations of the illegal take and attempted take of migratory birds, through the use of metal leg hold traps. This form of illegal trapping has a profound impact on migratory birds and occurs across the country in hunting club operations and game bird farms. 13 Dec 2010 13:07:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/319.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force (ANS Task Force) recently recognized the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) for their leadership in the fight against aquatic invasive species. On behalf of the ANS Task Force, USFWS Midwest Regional Deputy Director Charlie Wooley, presented the award to MNDNR Commissioner Mark Holsten on Dec. 2, 2010 at the MNDNR Central Offices in St. Paul, Minn. 13 Dec 2010 13:07:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/318.html The 2009 Photo Contest Best of Show was awarded to Mic Barnes of Clinton, Iowa for her photo, Indigo Berries. 13 Dec 2010 13:07:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/315.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking public comment on a draft Hunt Plan addressing the opening of newly acquired properties within the Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) located in western Minnesota and northwestern Iowa. The accompanying Environmental Assessment examines the cumulative impact of the Refuge’s public hunting program and ensures the program fully complies with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). 13 Dec 2010 13:06:45 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/314.html WASHINGTON, D.C.—Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today praised President Obama’s nomination of Dan Ashe to be the next Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Ashe currently serves as the agency’s deputy director. 13 Dec 2010 13:05:36 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/313.html A 30-day comment period for Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge’s Draft Hunting Plan begins Dec. 3, 2010, and will run until Jan. 4, 2011. The hunting plan is being revised to include land owned or managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service between Jordan, Minn. and Henderson, Minn. 3 Dec 2010 20:15:15 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/312.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service celebrates today the completion of a new bridge within the Osage River Basin that will enhance habitat for the Federally threatened Niangua darter and improve driving conditions for Missouri drivers. The Service's Columbia Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office (FWCO) worked cooperatively with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to replace the Benton Branch river crossing over the Niangua River in Dallas County using funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. 3 Dec 2010 14:58:53 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/311.html Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) Commissioner Mark Holsten and six other MNDNR employees, Wayne Edgerton, Tabor Hoek, Kevin Kotts, Curt Vacek, Dennis Simon and Dave Schad have been recognized for their conservation efforts by the U.S. Department of Interior. Today the Midwest Regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Tom Melius presented the awards at the MNDNR Central Offices in St. Paul, Minn. on behalf of the Secretary of the Interior. 3 Dec 2010 14:58:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/310.html Whooping crane (Federally endangered) pair feed and rest at Patokah River National Wildlife Refuge in Indiana on their migration south. 30 Nov 2010 15:53:12 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/cranespatokahriver.htm Clough Island is a haven for the lake sturgeon, migratory birds and native wildlife where the St. Louis River meets Lake Superior. 29 Nov 2010 16:09:13 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/cloughisland.htm Join Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge on Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010 for an Arctic Blast! Staff will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Arctic National Wildlife Refuge right here in Bloomington from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Come by and learn about the National Wildlife Refuge System's largest and most famous refuge. Enjoy educational booths, exhibits, kids activities, kite making and kite flying, videos, and wildlife hikes. 24 Nov 2010 15:30:12 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/309.html HAMMOND, Ind.—On Nov. 17, 2010 Keystone Hatcheries (KSH) agreed to plead guilty to one count of violating the Lacey Act in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Indiana, for illegally transporting fish into Indiana after a documented outbreak of Whirling Disease at their facility. Based in Richmond, Ill., KSH is the hatchery division of Robinson Wholesale, Inc. (RWI) of Genoa City, Wis. 24 Nov 2010 15:29:58 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/308.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host an open house Tuesday, December 7, 2010, to gather comments and answer questions about development of a Habitat Conservation Plan for the proposed High Prairie Wind Energy Facility near the town of Queen City in Schulyer County. The open house will be from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Days Inn in Kirksville. 23 Nov 2010 15:29:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/307.html Eleven young whooping cranes have completed more than one-third of their migration from Wisconsin to Florida. They flew into Kentucky from Illinois today, landing in Union County, Ky. Only six to seven months old, the cranes have now traveled 463 miles and have another 795 miles to go. 23 Nov 2010 15:29:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/306.html Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is losing a vital part of its visitor services program, as the Old School House has been closed. A health and safety audit was conducted on Nov. 3, 2010 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Found during the audit were a sagging roof, mold, the potential for histoplasmosis and other health-related deficiencies. 22 Nov 2010 15:28:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/305.html David Ellis, Instructional Systems Specialist for the Fergus Falls Wetland Management District’s Prairie Wetlands Learning Center (PWLC), was honored with the 2010 Sense of Wonder award by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for his efforts in place-based and student-led model for education. Ellis received the award at the National Association of Interpretation annual meeting, Nov. 18, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nev. 19 Nov 2010 15:28:34 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/304.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Neosho National Fish Hatchery (NFH) in southwest Missouri will host the grand opening of its state-of-the-art visitor center on Thursday, December 9, 2010. The visitor center is expected to accommodate more than 100,000 visitors per year, enhance environmental education and interpretation opportunities, and generate economic benefits for Newton County and surrounding areas. 19 Nov 2010 15:29:45 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/303.html 4.2 million Lake trout and 1.1 million Chinook salmon were tagged this year at Federal and state fish hatcheries in the Great Lakes region thanks to two new automated tagging trailers owned and operated by the Fish and Wildlife Service's Fisheries program. 16 Nov 2010 15:13:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/massmarking2010.htm The Midwest Region welcome fellow biologists from China for an Information Exchange and Capacity Building (Wildlife Without Borders Program) visit Nov. 1-12, 2010. 16 Nov 2010 15:12:33 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/chinesedelegation.htm MISSOURI VALLEY, IOWA - DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge will host its 11th Annual Art of the Wild Show and Sale, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 20 and 21 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Visitor Center. More than twenty outstanding exhibitors will be displaying and selling wood-carvings, photography, gourd and feather art and a variety of other mediums. All work exhibited and sold will focus primarily on the regional wildlife of the Missouri River Basin and Great Plains. Exhibitors will be present both days. The event is sponsored by the Friends of Boyer Chute and DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. 15 Nov 2010 15:29:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/301.html During the Minnesota Muzzleloader deer season, Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge will be open to public hunting for deer with legal muzzleloader in accordance with State law. The public will be allowed to hunt for deer with Muzzleloader from November 27 – December 12, 2010. Hunters must be in accordance with state season and license requirements. In addition to the State laws the following Federal rules will be enforced. 17 Nov 2010 15:29:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/300.html The U.S. Fish Wildlife Service’s Coastal Program is celebrating its 25th year of conserving coastal wetlands and habitats for fish and wildlife across the country. The Coastal Program focuses the Service’s efforts in bays, estuaries and watersheds around the U.S. coastline, including the Great Lakes. 16 Nov 2010 15:28:39 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/299.html Lois Lawson’s "outstanding skills, positive 'can do' attitude, responsiveness and a true sense of customer service" helped her win the 2010 Rudolph Dieffenbach Award. Lawson is a senior realty specialist in the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The national award is given annually to an employee who exhibits outstanding accomplishments in the field of land acquisition. 16 Nov 2010 15:11:54 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/298.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is seeking proposals from states and U.S. territories interested in obtaining federal financial assistance to acquire land or conduct planning efforts for endangered species conservation. For fiscal year (FY) 2011, the President’s budget request for the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund includes approximately $85 million in grant funding for conservation planning activities and habitat acquisition benefiting federally protected species. Proposals must be submitted to the appropriate Service regional offices by January 18, 2011. 16 Nov 2010 15:11:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/297.html Anne Sittauer, Refuge Manager for Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, received the Department of Interior’s (DOI) most prestigious safety and health award Nov. 10, 2010, for her leadership and outstanding contributions to the DOI watercraft safety program. The 2010 Safety Award of Excellence was presented to Sittauer by Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Hayes during the 67th Honor Awards Convocation held in Washington, D.C. 12 Nov 2010 15:10:57 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/295.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) has opened a new vehicle parking area at the Cora Island Unit in St. Charles County. Previously only accessible by boat from the Missouri River, the area now contains a parking area and information kiosk off Cora Island Rd. 10 Nov 2010 15:11:13 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/296.html Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Future Thursday, December 9, 2010 8 Nov 2010 18:23:49 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/neoshoopening.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed Endangered Species Act protection for the rayed bean and the snuffbox, two freshwater mussels found in river systems in the eastern United States. 3 Nov 2010 15:51:49 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/292.html Bob Adair, Sea Lamprey Control and Management Program, accepts award on behalf of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Partners in Conservation Award is a Department of the Interior Honor Award established to recognize conservation achievements that include collaborative activity among a diverse range of entities that may include Federal, State, local and tribal governments, private for-profit and nonprofit institutions, other nongovernmental entities, and individuals. 3 Nov 2010 15:51:33 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/291.html Life in a Missouri River Chute. Tuesday November 9th at 7PM at Les Bourgeois Bistro Rocheport, MO 3 Nov 2010 15:52:57 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/BigMuddySessions.htm Iowa Guide Sentenced to Prison for Wildlife, Fraud and Tax Violations 3 Nov 2010 15:52:42 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/wildlifecrimes.htm Sixteen lake sturgeon that were raised from eggs collected at the Fighting Island constructed spawning reef in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge will be tagged for science and released by the high school students into the Detroit River to celebrate this successful restoration effort. 3 Nov 2010 15:52:30 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/iwrsturgeon.htm Discovery Channel star Mike Rowe visits the region to help control the noxious predator When: November 2, 2010, 9:00 EST/8:00 Central Where: Discovery Channel Who: Host Mike Rowe 28 Oct 2010 15:51:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/289.html White-nose syndrome has killed more than a million bats in the Northeast and has spread to 11 or more states in less than four years since its discovery near Albany, N.Y. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in collaboration with other federal and state agencies, and tribal governments, is proposing a coordinated national management plan to address this critical environmental issue. The proposed plan is available for review and comment beginning October 28, 2010. 27 Oct 2010 15:50:24 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/288.html Eleven young whooping cranes yesterday began their ultralight-led migration from central Wisconsin's Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). This is the tenth group of birds to take part in a landmark project led by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing this highly imperiled species in eastern North America, part of its historic range. There are now approximately 96 whooping cranes in the wild in eastern North America thanks to WCEP's efforts. 25 Oct 2010 20:18:19 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/287.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today it is accepting 2011 project proposals to protect, restore and enhance Great Lakes fish and wildlife habitat under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act (Act). 25 Oct 2010 16:09:01 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/286.html The 4th annual deer hunt by persons with disabilities was held at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge, McGregor, Minn. Oct. 7 – 10, 2010. Seventeen hunters participated this year and were rewarded with beautiful fall weather. 22 Oct 2010 19:00:13 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ricelakehunt2010.htm St. Louis, MO: The United States Attorney's Office announced today that two Scotland County men have been sentenced on multiple federal wildlife violations, including illegally shooting a bald eagle and illegally trapping and shooting a great horned owl, and trapping a yellow shafted flicker. 19 Oct 2010 20:02:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/285.html On Oct. 18, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Deputy Regional Director Charles Wooley signed off on the Camp Atterbury/Putnamville Land Exchange Project in a recognition ceremony with Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, Major General R. Martin Umbarger, and other State and Federal officials at Camp Atterbury in Indiana. 19 Oct 2010 18:38:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/284.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Park Service (NPS), in coordination with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Military Department of Indiana (MDI) announce the availability of the Final Environmental Assessment (EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for an exchange that will transfer 1,250 acres at Atterbury Fish and Wildlife area to the MDI. To compensate the IDNR as required by the Pittman-Robertson Act and other Federal laws, the Indiana Department of Corrections (IDOC) will transfer 1,990 acres of land to IDNR as replacement. 15 Oct 2010 16:32:04 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/283.html Wetlands around the globe were hubs of small celebrations as people came out in support of working wetlands and the special designation for the Upper Mississippi River Floodplain as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. 13 Oct 2010 19:45:36 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/101010.htm On September 25 Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge hosted a Nature Rocks Day (Public Lands Day) event for families and youth naturalists. 13 Oct 2010 19:45:25 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/naturerocks.htm The Neosho National Fish Hatchery in southwest Missouri will hold the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art Visitor Center in December 2010. 13 Oct 2010 19:45:13 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/neoshocenter.htm 1,000 "swan diverters" have begun being installed on several miles of high-voltage "transmission" power lines that cross the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary on the Mississippi River. 13 Oct 2010 19:44:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/trumpeterswans.htm Eleven young whooping cranes were released October 25 on central Wisconsin's Necedah National Wildlife Refuge. The cranes are part of the Direct Autumn Release (DAR) project conducted by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing this highly imperiled species in eastern North America, part of its historic range. There are approximately 107 whooping cranes in the wild in eastern North America thanks to WCEP's efforts. 6 Oct 2010 15:51:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/290.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's responsibility of implementing control efforts in the Great Lakes is shared by the Marquette Biological Station on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and Ludington Biological Station on the south shore of Lake Superior. 5 Oct 2010 18:28:58 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/tommeliuslbs.htm Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge in Middle River, Minn. also sponsored a mentored youth waterfowl hunt Sept. 17 and 18th, partnering with Ducks Unlimited and the MN DNR. 5 Oct 2010 13:14:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/agassizyouthhunt.htm Ameren Missouri, with oversight from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), have begun installing 1,000 swan diverters on several miles of high-voltage transmission power lines that cross the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary on the Mississippi River, near West Alton, Mo. in an effort to protect Trumpeter Swans. 5 Oct 2010 13:10:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/282.html Find out how you can keep up with the Midwest Region on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube, and more! 30 Sep 2010 16:14:33 GMT http://www.fws.gov/home/socialmedia/hub/midwest.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be hosting several open house events to request input from the public on the possible establishment of a national wildlife refuge in several counties along the Wisconsin and Illinois border between Milwaukee and Chicago. The refuge study area encompasses 350,000 acres within the Illinois counties of Lake and McHenry and the Wisconsin counties of Kenosha, Racine and Walworth. However, this area is much larger than a refuge would be. If a refuge is established, it could improve or restore from 10,000 to 30,000 acres of drained wetland basins, historic prairie and forest habitats as well as linking existing conservation lands. Conserving habitat corridors between existing protected parcels would enhance the conservation value of those individual parcels. Two open houses are scheduled in Illinois. The first will be on Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2010, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the McHenry County Government Center Administration Building, which is located at 667 Ware Road in Woodstock, Ill. The second open house in Illinois will be on Wednesday, Oct. 13, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood, Ill. 28 Sep 2010 16:13:53 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/281.html Area residents and everyone interested in the future of Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is invited to attend an open house centered on the Refuge’s comprehensive conservation plan (CCP). 24 Sep 2010 13:58:51 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/280.html Join us for a day of bird and wildlife seminars, youth activities, arts and crafts, raffles, silent auctions, food and live entertainment. 22 Sep 2010 16:39:33 GMT http://www.fws.gov/scripts/exit.cfm?link=http://www.whooping-crane-festival.com/ Young hunters, mentors and parents came out for a morning of duck hunting at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge. 22 Sep 2010 16:39:19 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/hamdenyouthhunt.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Region announced today nearly $4 million in federal grants will support four projects to benefit wetlands and associated waterfowl habitat in the Midwest. Additional funds from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, which includes proceeds from the sale of Federal Migratory Bird and Hunting Conservation Stamps (Federal Duck Stamps), and this year, a new Gulf of Mexico Commemorative Silk Cachet, will support the acquisition of waterfowl habitat as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, including 4,400 acres near the Gulf Coast where many Midwest birds winter or use along their migratory path. 16 Sep 2010 16:37:20 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/279.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that four petitions to remove Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin contain substantial information indicating that delisting may be warranted. The Service will begin an in-depth review of the species status in order to determine whether to propose gray wolves in the western Great Lakes region for delisting. 14 Sep 2010 16:23:57 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/277.html September 29th, 2010 at University of Minnesota, Crookston Campus 14 Sep 2010 16:21:16 GMT http://www.fws.gov/scripts/exit.cfm?link=http://blog.lib.umn.edu/umcweb/news/2010/08/connecting-children-with-natur.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today more than $4.7 million in federal funding has been awarded under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act (Act) to restore sustainable populations of fish and wildlife resources and their habitats in the Great Lakes Basin. The ten projects funded will provide $4,107,067 in non-federal partner match contributions. 13 Sep 2010 16:23:43 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/276.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today it is accepting 2011 project proposals to protect, restore and enhance Great Lakes fish habitat under the Great Lakes Basin Fish Habitat Partnership (Partnership). Project funding has been made available to support on-the –ground fish habitat work. Local watershed associations, municipalities, tribes, states and non-governmental organizations are encouraged to apply. Deadline for proposal submission is October 15, 2010. 13 Sep 2010 16:23:09 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/275.html Last year, 1105 students participated in the Junior Duck Stamp program in Minnesota, more than any other state in our Region, and Minnesota’s participation was third highest in the nation! 13 Sep 2010 16:23:08 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/274.html Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge staff, Friends of Rice Lake Refuge and members of the Ojibwe band celebrated the 75th anniversary of Rice Lake Refuge. 10 Sep 2010 14:10:03 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ricelake75.htm Fans and supporters of wetlands came together to honor the work of Grady Mann, father of the US Fish and Wildlife Service's Small Wetland Acquisition Program. 10 Sep 2010 14:09:44 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/gradymann.htm Citing threats that could lead to extinction of one of the world’s largest salamanders, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today proposed to protect the Ozark hellbender as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act. The Ozark hellbender, which grows to lengths up to 2 feet, inhabits the White River system in southern Missouri and northern Arkansas. 8 Sep 2010 15:14:04 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/273.html Workers will begin evaluating Grassy Island to determine the effectiveness of various measures in containing contaminated material on the island, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today. Work is expected to begin as early as Tuesday, September 7, and is anticipated to finish in November 2010. 7 Sep 2010 13:25:20 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/272.html he U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a new preferred alternative for future management of Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) as part of the comprehensive conservation plan, or CCP, being developed for the Refuge. A public review and comment period for the new alternative begins Sept. 2, 2010, and closes on Oct. 4. 2 Sep 2010 13:27:09 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/271.html The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has determined it is necessary to treat the shovelnose sturgeon as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (Act) due to its similarity of appearance to the endangered pallid sturgeon. The Service is also enacting a special rule that would prohibit harvest of flesh or roe of shovelnose sturgeon and shovelnose–pallid sturgeon hybrids when associated with a commercial fishing activity. 1 Sep 2010 13:26:33 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/270.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) is celebrating another success in its efforts to reintroduce a wild migratory whooping crane population in eastern North America. Two wild-hatched whooping crane chicks have recently fledged, or become capable of flight. This is only the second time in over a century that naturally produced whooping cranes have fledged in the wild in the Midwest. 1 Sep 2010 13:25:55 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/269.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will provide $400,000 under its Coastal Program as part of a partnership to conserve fish, wildlife and habitat across the Great Lakes basin. Funding will support habitat and wildlife management projects in Michigan and Wisconsin. 30 Aug 2010 13:25:33 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/268.html The Oklahoma grass pink orchid may warrant federal protection as a threatened or endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today, following an initial review of a petition seeking to protect the plant under the Endangered Species Act. 24 Aug 2010 19:45:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/267.html Midwest Regional Director, Tom Melius, congratulates racers at the official wader race at the grand re-opening of the Bloomington Visitor Center at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 24 Aug 2010 19:46:04 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/MNValleyReopening.htm Midwest Regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Tom Melius, recently announced more than $3.2 million in Federal funding under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act to support Regional Projects that will expand mass marking capabilities for lake trout and salmon, and protect important habitat surrounding state and federal wildlife refuges of southwest Lake Erie. Both projects are supported by an $8 million allocation from the administration’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). 23 Aug 2010 20:44:58 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/266.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE), is seeking comments from the public on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for major renovations and improvements at Detour State Harbor. The draft EA evaluates the proposed action, a scaled down alternative, along with the “no action” alternative as required under the National Environmental Policy Act. 20 Aug 2010 20:54:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/264.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today in the Federal Register it is seeking public comment on a proposed rule to reintroduce the endangered whooping crane into habitat in its historic range on the state-owned White Lake Wetland Conservation Area in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. 19 Aug 2010 18:23:37 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/263.html The location of an August 26 open house for Boyer Chute NWR has been moved to the Fort Calhoun City Hall. The open house was originally scheduled at Boyer Chute NWR’s Refuge Office but was moved due to flooding in the area over the past several weeks. 19 Aug 2010 14:31:31 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/262.html Through the Blair/DeSoto Environmental Education Partnership, students meet curriculum standards in core and exploratory subject areas while learning in an authentic, place-based experience at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. 18 Aug 2010 13:47:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/desotoblairschools.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that Mr. Richard Leopold has been selected as the Midwest Region’s Assistant Regional Director for Science Applications. Leopold is currently the Director of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Leopold is tentatively scheduled to report for his new position on Sep. 12, and will be stationed at the Midwest Regional Office in Ft. Snelling, Minn. 17 Aug 2010 13:46:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/261.html On August 9, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) organized a site visit and boat tour of a section the Illinois River near Starved Rock State Park at the request of U.S. Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson (D-IL-11). The event was organized in coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and commercial fishermen engaged in ongoing Asian carp population control efforts. The tour allowed both Members of Congress to get a firsthand glimpse of the threat that invasive Asian carp pose to the aquatic systems. From their boat, Durbin and Halvorson were able to observe Service and DNR biologists apply electro-fishing techniques that force Asian carp to breach the surface, as well as gill-netting and other standard sampling practices. 10 Aug 2010 13:46:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/260.html The first group of rehabilitated birds, rescued from the oil spill on the Kalamazoo River, will be released at the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta. Depending on weather conditions and health status of wildlife, the release is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 11, at 11 a.m. Media interested in attending should call the Michigan Oil Spill Media Center at 888-363-8632 by 9 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 11, to confirm the release has been approved. 10 Aug 2010 13:45:57 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/259.html Refuge staff at Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) near Fort Calhoun, Neb., are beginning work on a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP). The first step of the 2-year planning process is to ask neighbors, local communities, and others interested in the Refuge’s future for comments on the issues and opportunities the Refuge will encounter over the next 15 years. 9 Aug 2010 13:45:44 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/257.html Community residents from around Pelican Lake, along with US Fish and Wildlife Service staff, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Wright County Commissioners shared in the good weather and pride for this new wildlife area. 4 Aug 2010 15:29:27 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/pelicanlakewpa.htm The Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District is hosting a celebration of the prairie on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 10:00am – 2:00 pm at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge, located 2 miles northeast of Audubon, Minnesota. 5 Aug 2010 15:38:08 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/256.html Two rehabilitated soft-shell turtles will be released today into their new home at Binder Park Zoo. The turtles were recovered by wildlife crews as part of the Kalamazoo River/Enbridge oil spill response and stabilized at a wildlife rehabilitation center in Marshall, Mich. 2 Aug 2010 15:39:22 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/255.html In the initial stages of the Enbridge oil spill response, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service specialists were among the first wave of responders. While proximity and availability allowed these biologists and agents to recover numerous affected wildlife, they now transition to their federally mandated role. 30 Jul 2010 15:36:58 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/253.html The Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District is hosting a celebration of the prairie on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 10:00am – 2:00 pm at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge, located 2 miles northeast of Audubon, Minnesota. 28 Jul 2010 15:37:25 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/254.html Members of the Wildlife recovery operations flush a Canada Goose at the recovery center in Marshall, MI. 28 Jul 2010 15:28:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/oilspill/ Members of the Wildlife recovery operations flush a Canada Goose, at the recovery center in Marshall, MI, July 28, 2010. 28 Jul 2010 15:34:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/252.html A rare fish in need of better habitat and a Dallas County road in need of a better bridge have become entwined in a unique project that will benefit both. 27 Jul 2010 15:32:36 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/250.html Memphis, TN— Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar will be in Memphis, Tennessee to highlight efforts undertaken by the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and partners to help conserve and restore migratory bird habitats along the Gulf Coast and preview a new duck stamp product at Ducks Unlimited National Headquarters. The new duck stamp product will help raise money to enhance and provide alternative habitats for migrating birds outside of the oil spill affected areas. 26 Jul 2010 15:34:05 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/251.html Migratory birds at risk from the Gulf Coast Oil Spill. 24 Jul 2010 15:28:02 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/MidwestBird/oilspill.htm Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius announced today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will provide $548,571 to support 13 fish habitat projects in eight Midwestern states under the National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP). An additional $640,923 in partner contributions will go toward restoring and enhancing stream, lake and coastal habitat, improving recreational fishing and helping endangered species, and supporting long-term protection against the effects of climate change. 23 Jul 2010 15:32:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/249.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is seeking comments from the public on a draft generic Environmental Assessment (EA) for the construction of public water access (boat launching) sites in Wisconsin. The draft generic EA evaluates two action alternatives, along with the “No Action” alternative as required under the National Environmental Policy Act. 21 Jul 2010 15:32:09 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/248.html A Compatibility Determination for commercial filming on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is available for a 14-day public review beginning July 20th, 2010. Comments must be received in the refuge offices by close of business August 2nd, 2010. 21 Jul 2010 15:31:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/247.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is responding to community concerns about the Swan Lake NWR Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) by creating a new alternative for future management of the Refuge. Details about the new alternative will be available later this summer. 19 Jul 2010 16:45:20 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/246.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has approved Wisconsin’s updated conservation plan and request to renew the state’s incidental take permit for the endangered Karner blue butterfly. The Wisconsin Statewide Karner Blue Butterfly Habitat Conservation Plan was first approved in 1999. Under the administration of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, partners to the statewide habitat conservation plan have grown from 26 in 1999 to 41 today. Current partners include county forest departments, utility companies, forest industry, county and township highway departments and the departments of Transportation and Agriculture. 15 Jul 2010 18:36:50 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/241.html For the first time since 2005, the Fish and Wildlife Service is hosting the Duck Stamp Challenge -- a fun competition among regions that gives all of us the opportunity and incentive to contribute to conservation through the purchase of a Federal Duck Stamp and to environmental education through the purchase of a Junior Duck Stamp. 15 Jul 2010 17:56:57 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/DuckStampSales.htm Cheers may have echoed as the Region learned it would receive $28.5 million for more than 70 ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) projects, but those likely also included some initial gasps. Gasps from the soon-to-be-formed regional team that realized the mountain to be climbed to get that bulk of projects contracted for the work to begin meant sprinter paced turnaround times. 12 Jul 2010 14:28:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/240.html WASHINGTON — In a few weeks, millions of waterfowl and other migratory birds will soon begin their fall migration to wintering and stopover habitat along the Gulf Coast. In anticipation of this event, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with partners to anticipate and minimize the impacts of the Deepwater Horizon/BP oil spill on these birds. The Service will continue to monitor the impact of the ongoing spill on waterfowl, and will take those impacts into account when establishing waterfowl hunting frameworks for the upcoming season. 1 Jul 2010 16:29:42 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/239.html Nancy Haugen, recently retired Visitor Services Manager from Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, received national recognition June 10, 2010 for her 15 year commitment to recreation, visitor services and public education as the American Recreation Coalition’s 2010 Legends award winner for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Each June, the American Recreation Coalition recognizes individuals from major recreation-related federal agencies during their Washington, D.C.-based Great Outdoors Week. One of six exemplary employees, Haugen was recognized for her actions to significantly enhance recreation opportunities for the American people. Recipients ranged from senior national officials to creative and dedicated field-level staffers... 1 Jul 2010 16:29:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/238.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to designate 25 acres in southwestern Missouri as critical habitat for the endangered Tumbling Creek cavesnail. The proposal includes Tumbling Creek and associated springs located near Protem, Missouri. 23 Jun 2010 15:04:22 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/237.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host the First Day of Sale for the 2010-2011 Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp on June 25 at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World retail store at the Arundel Mills Mall in Hanover, Maryland. Doors open at 9:00 a.m., and the ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. 22 Jun 2010 21:03:56 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/236.html This technique that has been successfully used in the Northwest for marking hatchery-reared Pacific salmon, and is known as “mass-marking" since millions of fish are rapidly tagged and marked each year. 21 Jun 2010 19:20:24 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/massmarking.htm Midwest Regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Tom Melius announced today more than $665,000 in funding under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) Small Grant Program for 13 projects, which will benefit a total of more than 4,200 acres of wetlands and associated habitat in the Midwest. Partners will contribute more than $2 million to support these projects... 17 Jun 2010 19:07:40 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/235.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partn ership’s efforts to establish a self-sustaining population of migratory whooping cranes in the Eastern Flyway had a great boost this year with the successful hatching of whooping crane chicks into the wild. Three late-sea son nests and four renests have left us with six whooping crane chicks on and around Necedah Na tional Wildlife Refuge (NWR) . 16 Jun 2010 20:17:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/234.html Nearly 200 people ventured out to Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge on Friday, June 4th for the fourth annual Family Fun Day celebration. Visitors braved the rainy weather, joining Refuge staff and volunteers in various activities aimed at getting youth outdoors. 16 Jun 2010 16:24:30 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/ricelakefamilyfun.htm Whooping Crane nesting season has officially ended here in Wisconsin. Three late-season nests and four renests have left us with six Whooping Crane chicks on and around Necedah National Wildlife Refuge. 15 Jun 2010 20:24:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/233.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Midwest Region announced recently that nearly $1.6 million in grants will be going to state fish and wildlife agencies in Iowa and Michigan to help conserve and recover Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) through the State Wildlife Grants (SWG) Competitive Program. Priority is given to multistate, cooperative conservation projects that demonstrate measurable performance results and benefits SGCN. This federal funding will be matched by more than $700,000 in non-Federal funds provided by states and their partners for projects helping SGCN and their habitats. 15 Jun 2010 17:51:29 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/232.html A public scoping meeting will be held to discuss use of glyphosate tolerant corn and soybeans on National Wildlife Refuge lands in 16 States in the Mountain-Prairie and Great Lakes-Big Rivers Regions and the use of farming as a management tool in the 8 Midwest states. This public scoping meeting pertains to local units of the National Wildlife Refuge System including Hamden Slough and Tamarac NWR’s and Waterfowl Production Areas administered by the USFWS’s Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District. 15 Jun 2010 14:11:29 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/231.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is pleased to announce the approval of over $850,000 in grants under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) aimed at supporting actions and activities that protect and restore habitats for species listed or proposed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, candidate species, or other at-risk species within the Great Lakes Watershed. 14 Jun 2010 21:00:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/230.html Two whooping crane chicks hatched Monday June 3rd at Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Wisconsin. This is only the third time in over a century that naturally produced whooping cranes have hatched in the wild in the Midwest. 14 Jun 2010 15:56:08 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/226.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Great Lakes Basin Fish Habitat Partnership are pleased to announce the approval of over $1 million in grants aimed at supporting on-the-ground fish habitat work in the Great Lakes under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). 11 Jun 2010 16:40:02 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/229.html POPLAR BLUFF, MO—The Conservation Fund, in partnership with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Environmental Synergy Inc. (ESI), announced today that its forest-based carbon sequestration project in southeastern Missouri received Gold validation, the highest level available, under the standards of the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Alliance (CCBA). The Conservation Fund is the first group in the nation to receive Gold validation under the CCB Standards Second Edition. 10 Jun 2010 15:11:54 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/228.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is developing an Environmental Impact Statement to evaluate the effects on endangered Indiana bats of issuing an incidental take permit under the Endangered Species Act for a wind energy project in Champaign County, Ohio. The incidental take permit, requested by EverPower Wind Holdings, Inc., would cover take of the Indiana bat that is incidental to activities associated with the construction and operation of EverPower’s Buckeye Wind Energy project. 4 Jun 2010 18:54:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/227.html The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) is celebrating another success in its efforts to reintroduce a wild migratory whooping crane population in eastern North America. Two whooping crane chicks hatched Monday at Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Wisconsin. This is only the third time in over a century that naturally produced whooping cranes have hatched in the wild in the Midwest. 3 Jun 2010 18:54:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/226.html The Lake Erie watersnake, a harmless species once threatened with extinction, has rebounded to the point that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to remove the snake from the list of federally endangered and threatened species. Lake Erie watersnakes inhabit offshore islands in western Lake Erie in Ohio and Ontario. 1 Jun 2010 20:17:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/225.html In celebration of Endangered Species Day 2010, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will host an interactive display at the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley Friday, May 21 and Saturday, May 22. Service staff will be on hand to present information, host activities and answer questions about threatened and endangered species. Hours are 9 am to 4 pm. 19 May 2010 20:16:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/223.html Five years ago, the U.S. Senate designated the third Friday in May as Endangered Species Day. This year, Endangered Species Day is May 21, an opportunity to raise awareness about imperiled plants, animals, and habitats, and to demonstrate ways that others can help conserve these resources. The following is an example of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working with others to recover endangered plants, animals and habitats. 19 May 2010 15:46:01 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/222.html Five years ago, the U.S. Senate designated the third Friday in May as Endangered Species Day. This year, Endangered Species Day is May 21, an opportunity to raise awareness about imperiled plants, animals, and habitats, and to demonstrate ways that others can help conserve these resources. The following is an example of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working with others to recover endangered plants, animals and habitats. 19 May 2010 15:45:47 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/221.html Five years ago, the U.S. Senate designated the third Friday in May as Endangered Species Day. This year, Endangered Species Day is May 21, an opportunity to raise awareness about imperiled plants, animals, and habitats, and to demonstrate ways that others can help conserve these resources. The following is an example of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working with others to recover endangered plants, animals and habitats. 19 May 2010 15:45:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/220.html Five years ago, the U.S. Senate designated the third Friday in May as Endangered Species Day. This year, Endangered Species Day is May 21, an opportunity to raise awareness about imperiled plants, animals, and habitats, and to demonstrate ways that others can help conserve these resources. The following is an example of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working with others to recover endangered plants, animals and habitats. 19 May 2010 15:45:16 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/219.html Five years ago, the U.S. Senate designated the third Friday in May as Endangered Species Day. This year, Endangered Species Day is May 21, an opportunity to raise awareness about imperiled plants, animals, and habitats, and to demonstrate ways that others can help conserve these resources. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its wildlife management partners will observe Endangered Species Day to recognize the conservation programs underway nationwide aimed at protecting America's threatened and endangered species. 19 May 2010 15:45:04 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/218.html Federal agencies are requesting public input on a new Environmental Assessment (EA) regarding Double-crested Cormorant damage management in Michigan. The new analysis will replace an EA completed in 2004 and supplemented in 2006. 17 May 2010 16:56:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/217.html The Jordan River National Fish Hatchery in (NFH) Elmira, Mich., broke ground on Friday, May 14 to to mark the beginning of hatchery improvement projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects include the construction of two fish rearing buildings covering outdoor raceways, modernizing the fish hatchery effluent treatment system and installation of a geothermal heating system. 17 May 2010 13:34:25 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/jordanriverevent.htm Media are invited to enjoy a day alongside the Mississippi River with excited youth as they gain fishing tips from the experts, and then put them into practice in a stocked hatchery pond. Interested media should contact Doug Aloisi, Genoa National Fish Hatchery (Genoa, Wisconsin) manager, at 608-689-2605, to arrange a site visit. The event will be from 8:30 am to 12 pm. 17 May 2010 16:44:48 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/216.html Quick response and thorough detective work by Refuge Officers and Missouri Department of Conservation Agents built a case that ended March 23, 2010 with the conviction and sentencing of Raymond J. Trice, age 26, on federal firearms charges. 13 May 2010 14:27:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/trice.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for an Addendum to the Environmental Assessment (EA) for Asian carp control in the Chicago Area Waterway System. The proposed actions are targeted to prevent the establishment of Asian carp in the Great Lakes via the Cal-Sag Channel. The actions proposed in the Addendum include a rotenone treatment of the 2-mile stretch of the Cal-Sag Channel (CSC) below T. J. O’Brien Lock and Dam during May 20-27, 2010, and, support for commercial fishing activities, electrofishing, netting and water sampling in up to a 6-mile stretch of the CSC below T. J. O’Brien Lock and Dam. 6 May 2010 14:00:03 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/215.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius and Northeast Regional Director Marvin Moriarty jointly announced today the approval of $1.8 million in grants aimed at protecting and/or restoring 1,566 acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat in Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, New York and Pennsylvania under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). 1 May 2010 20:16:54 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/224.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today a single hooded merganser was selected to appear on the 2010-2011 Federal Junior Duck Stamp. The design for the new stamp, painted by 18-year old Rui Huang of Columbus, Ohio, was chosen by a panel of judges at the National Junior Duck Stamp Design Contest held at the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul... 28 Apr 2010 16:31:22 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/214.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently decided it would conduct a study to determine if the establishment of a national wildlife refuge in several counties along the Wisconsin and Illinois border between Milwaukee and Chicago would be appropriate. The area authorized for consideration includes 10,000 to 30,000 acres within the Illinois counties of Lake and McHenry and the Wisconsin counties of Kenosha, Racine and Walworth... 27 Apr 2010 16:30:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/213.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employees Dan Dearborn and Jeff Gosse are among federal employees selected as Civil Servants of the Year in Minnesota by the Federal Executive Board. Dearborn serves as the Service’s Midwest Region zone fire management officer, and Gosse is the region’s energy coordinator... 21 Apr 2010 16:29:53 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/212.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments on applications for permits from the states of Michigan and Wisconsin to conduct research, monitoring and management of gray wolves. The Service published a notice of availability of the permit applications and a draft environmental assessment in the April 20, 2010, Federal Register... 20 Apr 2010 16:29:19 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/210.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will hold the 2010 National Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest at 10:00 a.m. on April 23, 2010 at the Science Museum of Minnesota. The event is free and open to the public. A link to a live online broadcast of the contest will also be available at http://fws.gov/Midwest/news. “The Junior Duck Stamp Program and Contest provide children an opportunity to express their creativity through art while teaching them the underlying importance of wetlands and wildlife conservation,” says Tom Melius, Midwest Regional Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service. “The more teachers and parents engage students in the outdoors through art, the more interested they will be in conserving it for the future.” ... 20 Apr 2010 16:28:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/209.html More than 400 attendees explored the new Alpena Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office in Michigan on Friday, April 9 during a ribbon cutting and open house event. 13 Apr 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/alpenaevent.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today published a revised designation of critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act for the endangered Hine's emerald dragonfly. That revised designation includes 26,532 acres in Illinois, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin. The Service originally designated critical habitat for the Hine's emerald dragonfly in 2007. This revision adds an additional 13, 311 acres of National Forest Service lands in Michigan and Missouri. The areas designated as critical habitat in Illinois and Wisconsin, are unchanged and remain the same as the 2007 designation... 3 Apr 2010 16:30:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/211.html The Jordan River National Fish Hatchery in (NFH) Elmira, Mich., invites the public and media to an open house and groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, May 14 to mark the beginning of hatchery improvement projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects include the construction of two fish rearing buildings covering outdoor raceways, modernizing the fish hatchery effluent treatment system and installation of a geothermal heating system. Invited guests include Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI-1), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Rowan Gould... 3 May 2010 16:28:05 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/208.html Climate change threatens to further imperil hundreds of species of migratory birds, already under stress from habitat loss, invasive species and other environmental threats, a new report released recently by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar concludes. The State of the Birds: 2010 Report on Climate Change, follows a comprehensive report released a year ago showing that that nearly a third of the nation's 800 bird species are endangered, threatened or in significant decline... 13 Apr 2010 16:27:08 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/207.html More than 400 school children, educators, community members and congressional staffers explored the new Alpena Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office in Michigan on Friday, April 9 during a ribbon cutting and open house event celebrating the completion of its new energy-efficient, LEEDS certified facility. For more information: http://www.fws.gov/midwest/alpena/ 13 Apr 2010 16:25:29 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/alpenaevent.htm Poplar Bluff, MO—One Midwest Region National Wildlife Refuge is getting a big boost toward its habitat restoration goals with the donation of more than 100,000 native trees this month. The event marks a milestone for The Conservation Fund's voluntary carbon offset program, Go Zero®—the planting of its one millionth tree—made possible by a mix of donations from corporations, foundations and individuals. Together with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Environmental Synergy Inc. (ESI), the partners are restoring 367 acres of walnut, hickory, oak and cypress trees at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge (Mingo NWR), near Puxico, Missouri. As the forest matures, it is expected to trap an estimated 100,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere... 12 Apr 2010 16:23:56 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/News/gozero.htm Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced nearly $66 million in grants to enable 25 states to work with private landowners, conservation organizations and other partners to protect and conserve the habitat of threatened and endangered species. A total of $5,575,910 will fund conservation projects in Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin... 12 Apr 2010 16:22:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/206.html Actions needed to recover the endangered scaleshell mussel are outlined in a recovery plan now available from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Once a wide-ranging species, scaleshell mussels are now found consistently in only three streams in Missouri. The recovery plan provides federal, state and tribal natural resource managers and their partners with a blueprint of actions needed to prevent the extinction of the mussel and recover it to the point that protection under the Endangered Species Act is no longer needed. Recovery actions focus on conserving existing habitat and restoring degraded habitat, along with addressing threats to the scaleshell’s aquatic habitat immediately adjacent to and upstream of occupied watersheds. Other actions include artificial propagation to increase and stabilize populations, and research on the biology, ecology, and genetics of the species... 7 Apr 2010 14:23:38 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/204.html Kraig McPeek, former project leader for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Iowa Private Lands Office, is one of 18 winners of a national award recognizing achievements in endangered species recovery. McPeek was recognized for his hugely successful efforts to recover the endangered Topeka shiner, a small fish, in Iowa’s Raccoon River watershed... 6 Apr 2010 16:23:23 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/203.html The Alpena Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office (FWCO) in Michigan will open its new facility to the public and media on Friday, April 9, for a ribbon cutting and open house event with Interior Department, congressional, and Fish and Wildlife Service officials. Invited guests include Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI-1), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Rowan Gould... 6 Apr 2010 15:00:16 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/202.html Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin will receive grants The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced $1 million in grants that will be distributed to 10 states under a new demonstration program designed to help livestock producers undertake proactive, non-lethal activities to reduce the risk of livestock loss from predation by wolves, or to compensate livestock producers for livestock losses caused by wolves... 6 Apr 2010 14:59:54 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/201.html CHICAGO - Over the last six weeks, field crews from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers intensively sampled throughout the entire Chicago Area Waterway System and no Asian carp were observed or collected. A total of 25 biologists have been involved in the effort that began on February 16, which has included sampling with both electrofishing and nets. A commercial fishing vessel supplemented the netting effort... 29 Mar 2010 20:37:31 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/200.html The Conservation Fund reaches milestone donation to US Fish and Wildlife Service with restoration of 367 acres in Missouri 27 Mar 2010 14:58:17 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/News/gozero.htm U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Rowan Gould today announced the 18 recipients of the 2009 Recovery Champion award. Among them are the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, Wisconsin; two Ohio conservationists working with the threatened Lake Erie watersnake; and a Service biologist who encouraged Iowa landowners to create and conserve habitat for the endangered Topeka shiner... 26 Mar 2010 19:41:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/199.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced Nick Buchal, age 16 of Mahtomedi today won Best of Show in the Minnesota Junior Duck Stamp Contest out of more than 1,100 entries from across the state. His artwork, an oil painting of a pair of Green-wing teals, will advance to the National Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest to be held at the Science Museum of Minnesota on April 23. 25 Mar 2010 16:55:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/198.html The Midwest Region is both preparing for and participating in flood recovery efforts with other national and state agencies. 25 Mar 2010 15:06:11 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/flood2010/ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service natural resource professionals are preparing for the start of the controlled burning season. From late March to mid June, staff at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s St. Croix Wetland Management District in New Richmond, Wis., will be mobilizing crews of firefighters and equipment for scheduled burns at 17 Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA) in St. Croix and Polk Counties. 25 Mar 2010 16:55:39 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/197.html Poplar Bluff, MO—One Midwest Region National Wildlife Refuge is getting a big boost toward its habitat restoration goals with the donation of more than 100,000 native trees this month. The event marks a milestone for The Conservation Fund's voluntary carbon offset program, Go Zero®—the planting of its one millionth tree—made possible by a mix of donations from corporations, foundations and individuals. Together with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and Environmental Synergy Inc. (ESI), the partners are restoring 367 acres of walnut, hickory, oak and cypress trees at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge (Mingo NWR), near Puxico, Missouri. As the forest matures, it is expected to trap an estimated 100,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere. 17 Mar 2010 19:55:45 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/196.html From April through mid-June and mid-October through mid-November, fire crews and specialized equipment from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Leopold Wetland Management District, in Portage, Wis., will assemble at Waterfowl Production Areas and or Conservations Easements to safely set prescribed fires that will restore and improve wildlife habitat while reducing the risks of wildfires across south-central Wisconsin... 15 Mar 2010 16:43:37 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/195.html The Fish and Wildlife Service, Midwest Region recently announced funding for four Tribal fish and wildlife conservation projects totaling $683,927 through the Service’s Fiscal Year 2010 Tribal Wildlife Grant Program. The following Tribes received funding this year: the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians in Wisconsin; the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians; the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians; and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians in Michigan... 11 Mar 2010 13:29:41 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/194.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission has approved $2 million in grants aimed at protecting and restoring 7,107 acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat in Indiana and Iowa under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA)... 10 Mar 2010 19:37:45 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/193.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments on a draft environmental assessment and revised statewide habitat conservation plan for the endangered Karner blue butterfly in Wisconsin. The Service is evaluating changes to the existing conservation plan, and has made its draft assessment available for review. The deadline for comments is May 4, 2010... 10 Mar 2010 15:55:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/192.html Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced recently that $13.4 million will be distributed to the fish and wildlife agencies of the Midwestern states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin to help conserve and recover imperiled fish and wildlife through the State Wildlife Grant Program. Nearly $76.5 million will be distributed to the 50 states, territories and commonwealths across the nation, a significant increase in funding over the 2009 levels. Since the program’s inception, Congress has provided over $573 million for conservation work on state and private lands across the country... 9 Mar 2010 20:43:24 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/191.html The Alpena Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office (FWCO) in Michigan will open its new facility to the public and media on Friday, April 9, for a ribbon cutting and open house event with Interior Department, congressional, and Fish and Wildlife Service officials. Invited guests include Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI-1), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Rowan Gould... 9 Mar 2010 20:42:53 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/190.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced recently nearly $164 million will be distributed to the fish and wildlife agencies of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR). The funding will support hunting, sport fishing, and fish and wildlife conservation and education programs conducted by state fish and wildlife agencies... 4 Mar 2010 16:48:15 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/189.html Youngsters around the country will celebrate Endangered Species Day 2010 by entering the Endangered Species Art contest. The art contest is part of the fifth annual national Endangered Species Day, celebrated on and around May 21, 2010. The Endangered Species Day Art Contest is organized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Endangered Species Coalition, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art/ University of New Orleans. The deadline to enter is March 26... 4 Mar 2010 15:45:26 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/188.html A prairie chicken viewing blind is available to the public on Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge. From the blind, observers can see the spectacular annual mating ritual of the Greater Prairie Chicken, in an activity known as “booming”. This primitive ceremony pits bird against bird as male chickens stake out territory to attract hens for mating. The most dominate and aggressive males will hold the center of the “booming ground”, which is called a lek. Younger males on the edge of the lek will challenge the older males. Males confront each other aggressively, jumping high in the air and striking each other with feet, wings, and bill in ritualistic fighting. Prairie chickens have a distinctive pinnae or long feathers on each side of their neck. While on the booming ground, the males raise these feathers exposing bright yellow air sacs along the neck. The air sacs expand while making their distinctive low booming sounds. The blind is located 10 miles northwest of Detroit Lakes and can seat 4 adults. The public may make a reservation for use of the blind by calling the Wetland Management District office at 218-847-4431. Reservations are required, but are no cost to the public. A confirmation letter, information package and map will be sent after reservations are made. The best time for viewing the booming ground activity is during the month of April... 4 Mar 2010 15:45:06 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/187.html Maryville, MO. – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in association with the Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (MAFWA) and Midwest Fish Habitat Partnerships, has awarded a $141,075 contract to Downstream Strategies to assess fish habitat conditions in the Midwest. The $141,075 contract awarded today will provide the first critical scientific component necessary for strategically conserving fish habitat at a regional scale. The environmental consulting firm based in Morgantown, West Virginia will create a spatially explicit data analysis and modeling system for use by Fish Habitat Partnerships in the Midwest to assist in prioritizing habitat restoration and preservation actions and to track the success of those actions in increasing fish populations over time... 1 Mar 2010 20:54:36 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/186.html "Visionary" Leader a Career 30-year Service Employee. 22 Feb 2010 14:59:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/SamHamilton.htm The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a reward of $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) who recently shot an immature bald eagle near Good Hope, Ill. On Feb. 10, 2010, an injured immature bald eagle was discovered near the intersection East 1100th Street and North 2000th Road in Good Hope. The eagle was transferred to Treehouse Wildlife Center in Brighton, Ill., for emergency care and rehabilitation. Examination of the eagle revealed it had been shot and sustained a fractured wing and other injuries... 1 Mar 2010 20:39:51 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/185.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Rowan Gould today announced revisions to the list of bird species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Species appearing on this list are governed under migratory bird hunting and permitting regulations concerning most aspects of possession, transportation, sale, purchase, exportation, and importation of protected species. The list, last updated in 1985, incorporates the latest taxonomic and scientific data for migratory birds. The changes include 186 new additions and 11 subtractions, bringing the total number of species protected under the MBTA to 1007. “This update to the list of federally protected birds reflects the best available science on bird taxonomy and distribution and will help us improve management of our nation’s migratory birds,” said Gould. “The new list benefits researchers, hunters, conservationists, state agencies, tribal governments, and birdwatchers by extending federal protection to all migratory bird species native to the United States while highlighting advances and changes in bird taxonomy that have accumulated since the list was last published.”... 1 Mar 2010 20:01:06 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/184.html “Visionary” Leader a Career 30-year Service Employee The conservation world lost one of its most dynamic leaders Saturday, as U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Sam D. Hamilton died suddenly while skiing in Colorado following a Service regional leadership meeting which ended Friday. Hamilton, 54, was a career Fish and Wildlife Service employee whose vision and commitment to wildlife conservation was unmatched. He will be sorely missed by his friends and colleagues in the Service and across the conservation community. The thoughts and prayers of Fish and Wildlife Service employees go out to Sam’s family. 22 Feb 2010 19:05:11 GMT http://www.fws.gov/ The La Crosse District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge recently celebrated the award of a contract to Arrowhead Contracting Inc. for the construction of an Office and Visitor Center Facility. The celebration, “Unveiling the Future”, took place on February 12, 2010 at Sand Lake Elementary, in front of members of the public and more than 200 elementary school children. Recently Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded a $4.9 million contract for an Office and Visitor Center construction project to Arrowhead Contracting Inc. This facility will be constructed on Brice Prairie near La Crosse, Wisconsin during 2010-11 and will implement Leadership in Energy and Environmental standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council. This project is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 which represents an important component of the President's plan to help the economy and address challenges facing the country. 22 Feb 2010 19:04:50 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/182.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced that effective February 22, 2010, the rules governing possession of firearms on National Wildlife Refuges will change as a result of legislation enacted by Congress. After this date, the law allows an individual to lawfully possess a firearm within the boundaries of a National Wildlife Refuge in accordance with federal, state and local firearms laws. As directed by this new law, the Service will look to the laws of the state and locality in which the refuge or refuge unit is located to govern possession of firearms on the refuge. Visitors will be allowed to possess firearms on National Wildlife Refuges provided they comply with applicable provisions of federal, state and local law. Persons with so-called firearm “carry” permits will be able to possess firearms on a refuge in accordance with the provisions of the state issued permit. The new law applies to all 551 units of the National Wildlife Refuge System, as well as the National Monuments and the 392 units of the National Park System... 22 Feb 2010 19:04:36 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/181.html DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 16, 2010 – Ford Motor Company and Automotive Components Holdings LLC today announced the donation of 242 acres of unique coastal wetlands in Monroe County, Mich., to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be included in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. This donation of the land follows nearly five years of joint management under a cooperative agreement between ACH, a Ford affiliate, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Ford Marsh is located adjacent to Lake Erie in Monroe County and bordered by Sterling State Park and the River Raisin... 17 Feb 2010 15:30:15 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/180.html IDNR, USFWS to begin traditional searching near warm water discharges CHICAGO - Fisheries biologists from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will begin intensive sampling operations in multiple locations within the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS) this week. The sampling efforts will include using commercial fishing nets and electro fishing gear in an attempt to locate either silver or bighead Asian carp above the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Electric Fish Barrier System. The sampling operation will also include the use of commercial fishermen and is scheduled to take place in the CAWS over the next 2-3 weeks... 16 Feb 2010 18:46:38 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/179.html WASHINGTON – Federal officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of the Interior, and the U.S. Coast Guard today unveiled a strategy that outlines over 25 short and long-term actions and $78.5 million in investments to combat the spread of Asian carp. The draft Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework (Framework) is an unparalleled effort to control the invasive species, unifying Federal, state, and local action, and introducing a multi-tiered defense of the Great Lakes to prevent Asian carp from developing self-sustaining populations while longer term biological controls are being developed. “As with many great eco-systems across the country, invasive species have harmed the Great Lakes, and an invasion of Asian carp threatens to be particularly ecologically and economically damaging,” said Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality. “Today, we have an opportunity to work together to prevent environmental and economic damage before it happens. This Framework utilizes the best available science and its multi-tiered strategy will ensure coordination and the most effective response.”... 9 Jul 2010 16:57:02 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/178.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the owners of the Fowler Ridge I Wind Farm in Benton County, Ind. have announced they are working together to develop a plan to reduce the potential impacts of wind power generation on bats. The effort follows the discovery of a dead Indiana bat at the wind facility. The bat was discovered late last year. After a preliminary identification, the facility operator, BP Wind Energy, reported the discovery to the Fish and Wildlife Service. Subsequent examination by the Service and genetic tests at independent labs confirmed the species as an Indiana bat, a federally endangered species... 9 Feb 2010 15:48:58 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/177.html Gibraltar, Michigan – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. National Ramsar Committee are pleased to announce that Humbug Marsh will become Michigan's first Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty that was signed in Ramsar, Iran in 1971 that provides a framework for voluntary international protection of wetlands. Countries that sign the treaty demonstrate their commitment to the conservation and wise use of wetlands as a contribution toward sustainable development throughout the world. Humbug Marsh is considered an internationally important wetland because of its ecological importance in the Detroit River corridor and the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem. It will be the 27th Ramsar site to be listed in the U.S. and will join approximately 1,880 sites listed worldwide... 8 Feb 2010 17:34:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/176.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is gathering information for a review under the National Environmental Policy Act of a proposed wind power project in Ohio, and of a proposed Habitat Conservation Plan developed by EverPower Wind Holdings, Inc., to conserve the endangered Indiana bat. EverPower is planning to develop a wind energy facility spread over about 80,050 acres in Champaign County, Ohio. Development would include installation up to 100 wind turbines and associated collection lines, access roads, utility lines, substations, operation and maintenance facility buildings. Within the 80,050-acre project area, about 500 acres would be disturbed by construction. Following restoration, the permanent operating footprint will be approximately 100 acres... 2 Feb 2010 17:25:43 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/174.html Ten endangered whooping cranes arrived yesterday on their wintering grounds at the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Citrus County, Florida. The other 10 “Class of 2009” ultralight-led cranes reached their final wintering destination at St. Marks NWR in Wakulla County, Florida on January 13. These 20 cranes are the ninth group to be guided by ultralight aircraft more than 1,200 miles from Necedah NWR in central Wisconsin to the Gulf coast of Florida. The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private organizations, is conducting the reintroduction project in an effort to restore this endangered species to part of its historic range in eastern North America. At 89 days, this was the second longest ultralight-led migration since WCEP began reintroducing whooping cranes. Unsuitable flying weather caused delays along the migration route... 22 Jan 2010 14:00:09 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/171.html We have really big news for the Refuge and our region. Humbug Marsh will become Michigan's first Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The Ramsar Convention (Convention) on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty that was adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. The Convention provides a framework for international action and cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands. There are presently 158 contracting parties to the Convention. The United States became a member in 1987. Contracting Parties seek to achieve the Convention’s goals by recognizing that wetlands are extremely important for biodiversity and human health, and by promoting local, regional and national stewardship and cooperation... 21 Jan 2010 14:24:32 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/170.html Sentenced to 30 days imprisonment, 500 hours community service, five years probation, and $150,326 restitution in case involving more than 13,000 artifacts A Union County man was sentenced Tuesday for knowingly removing thousands of historical artifacts from a Southern Illinois National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). Leslie Jones, (50), of Creal Springs, was sentenced to 30 days imprisonment, 500 hours community service, five years of probation, and to pay $150,326.06 in restitution to Cypress Creek NWR, for excavating, collecting, and transporting illegally taken archaeological resources from a prehistoric Native American site on the southern Illinois refuge. In his plea agreement, signed October 2009, Jones admitted selling the articles to interested collectors to supplement his income. Jones case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Southern District of Illinois. 21 Jan 2010 14:24:12 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/169.html (Chicago) – The multi-agency Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee (RCC) has received information from the University of Notre Dame about one positive environmental DNA result for silver carp in Calumet Harbor approximately one-half mile north of the Calumet River and one more at a location in the Calumet River north of O’Brien Lock. These samples were collected on December 8 and recently processed. Two previous tests of multiple water samples from this area were negative. 19 Jan 2010 20:15:54 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/168.html Comment Period Extended Until February 4, 2010 The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service will reopen on January 13, 2010, the public comment period for the proposal to treat the shovelnose sturgeon as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (Act) due to its similarity of appearance to the endangered pallid sturgeon. The Service is also reopening the comment period regarding the proposed special rule that will prohibit the harvest of any shovelnose sturgeon or shovelnose–pallid sturgeon hybrids, and their roe associated with or related to a commercial fishing activity. A public hearing will be held in Cape Girardeau, Missouri to provide an opportunity for the public to comment on the proposals. 14 Jan 2010 13:40:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/165.html The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, is investigating 16 incidents of wolves being killed illegally in November and December of 2009 in Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Two wolves were killed in Minnesota, eight were killed in Wisconsin and six were killed in Michigan in the last two months of 2009. It isn’t uncommon to see a spike in the number of wolves killed in the fall, according to Greg Jackson, special agent-in-charge for the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 12 Jan 2010 20:13:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/164.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar has announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded Barry Larson & Son Inc, Omaha, Nebraska, a $960,000 contract for the energy efficient window replacement (existing windows pictured here) for the Desoto NWR, Iowa, Visitor Center. The contract awarded is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) which represents an important component of the President's plan to jumpstart the economy and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so the country can thrive in the 21st century. 7 Jan 2010 19:39:25 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/163.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar has announced that the USFWS has awarded two grants for Visitor Center construction projects. One at Mingo NWR, Missouri (pictured), and the other at the Upper Mississippi River NW&FR LaCrosse District, Wisconsin. These projects are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). 7 Jan 2010 15:02:02 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/mingo.htm Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar has announced that the USFWS has awarded Barry Larson & Son Inc, Omaha, Nebraska, a $960,000 contract for the energy efficient window replacement for the DeSoto Visitor Center as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). 7 Jan 2010 15:02:34 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/desoto.htm Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar has announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded two grants for Visitor Center construction projects. One of those projects is construction of a new energy efficient and accessible Refuge Headquarters and Visitor Center to replace the current facility (pictured here) at Mingo NWR, Missouri. Arrowhead Contracting Inc. of Lenexa, Kansas, was awarded a $3.57 million contract for the project. Arrowhead Contracting Inc. was also awarded the $4.9 million contract to construct an energy efficient Headquarters and Visitor Center at the Upper Mississippi River NW&FR LaCrosse District, Wisconsin. Both contracts awarded are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) which represents an important component of the President's plan to jumpstart the economy and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so the country can thrive in the 21st century. 7 Jan 2010 19:36:21 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/162.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently awarded $1,000,000 to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to support the acquisition of 468 acres of coastal wetlands adjacent to Lake Michigan in Door County, Wisconsin. The federal funds are provided through the 2010 National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, and will supplement $ 1,001,300 in non-federal contributions from the State’s Knowles- Nelson Stewardship Program and project partners including The Nature Conservancy and Door County Land Trust. 6 Jan 2010 14:49:23 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/161.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently awarded $266,853 to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to support the restoration of wetland habitat in Cook County adjacent to the Grand Calumet River, a tributary of Lake Michigan. The federal funds are provided through the 2010 National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, and will supplement a non-federal contribution from the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. The Friends of the Forest Preserves is partnering with the DNR to complete the coastal wetland restoration. 6 Jan 2010 14:48:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/160.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) recently announced a request for project proposals to protect, restore and enhance Great Lakes fish habitat under the Great Lakes Basin Fish Habitat Partnership (Partnership). Projects will receive up to $1 million in total funding, made available through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, to support on-the-ground fish habitat work. Local watershed associations, municipalities, tribes, states and non-governmental organizations are encouraged to apply. Deadline for proposal submission is February 12, 2010. 4 Jan 2010 19:46:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/159.html The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, is offering up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for killing two gray wolves in Northern Minnesota. The Service is investigating the wolf killings in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Leech Lake Conservation Enforcement Department. Both wolves were killed on or around Nov. 9, 2009. One wolf was shot northwest of Grand Rapids, Minn., in the Ball Club area; the second was killed northwest of Two Harbors. The wolf killed near Two Harbors had been fitted with a radio tracking collar. The gray wolf is currently listed under the Endangered Species Act as threatened in Minnesota. Killing a gray wolf is a violation of the Act, punishable by imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of up to $25,000. 28 Dec 2009 20:47:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/158.html A private citizen has pledged an additional $2,500 to the reward offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who shot a whooping crane near Cayuga, Ind., between Nov. 28 and Dec. 1, 2009. With that contribution, the total reward now stands at up to $10,000. The citizen, who asked to remain anonymous, expressed sadness and frustration with the loss of the crane and said that the offer is an effort to help wildlife law enforcement officers find the perpetrator. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering $2,500 for information leading to an arrest and conviction. On Dec. 15, Defenders of Wildlife and the Indiana Turn in a Poacher or a Polluter Program (TIP) pledged $2,500 each toward the reward. Wildlife law enforcement agents with the Service and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources are investigating the shooting of the crane. The crane was last observed by an International Crane Foundation staff member on Saturday, Nov. 28. An ICF volunteer found the carcass on and Tuesday, Dec. 1, along West County Road 310 North, just west of North County Road 225 West. 21 Dec 2009 20:11:57 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/157.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today the results of a 90-day finding on 192 species from a petition to list 475 species, mostly found in the southwestern United States, as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. For 125 of the 192 species, the Service found that the petition did not present substantial information indicating that listing may be warranted. The Service did find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing may be warranted for 67 of the 192 species. Among the 67 species that may warrant listing under the ESA is the rattlesnake master-borer moth. The moth at one time occurred in portions of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and maybe Missouri. As of 2004, the species is believed to exist in parts of Illinois, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kentucky. The moth’s range in Illinois includes the northeastern part of the state. 16 Dec 2009 17:35:51 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/156.html Contributions from two organizations have tripled the amount of a reward offered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who shot and killed a whooping crane near Cayuga, Indiana. Defenders of Wildlife, a national non-profit conservation organization, and the Indiana Turn in a Poacher or a Polluter Program are each donating $2,500 to the reward for information that leads to an arrest. The total reward is now $7,500. 16 Dec 2009 13:56:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/155.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Offers $2,500 Reward for Information on Shooting Wildlife law enforcement agents with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources are investigating the shooting of an endangered whooping crane near the town of Cayuga in central Vermillion County, Indiana. The crane was shot sometime between Saturday, Nov. 28, when it was observed by an International Crane Foundation staff member, and Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, when an ICF volunteer found the carcass along West County Road 310 North, just west of North County Road 225 West. 10 Dec 2009 15:05:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/153.html Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) in Mound City, Mo. is restoring the fragile loess hills with the assistance of several colleges, universities and the local community. Major portions of the hills have been re-established to native loess prairie and loess savannah habitats on the Refuge. Corey Kudrna, Wildlife Refuge Specialist said, “The groups have almost completed the removal of unwanted woody vegetation on one of the historically managed hills. Now our efforts have moved toward hand seed collecting and planting of grasses and forbs. Being able to work on nearly flat land to steep hills in all stages of restoration, offers projects that everyone can participate in year round.” 4 Dec 2009 22:26:06 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/152.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has completed a report recommending closing human access to caves and mines where bats with white-nose syndrome are hibernating in an area more than 250 miles from other WNS-affected caves and mines. The report also recommends limiting human access to unaffected caves and mines. These recommendations presume that WNS spreads not only from bat-to-bat, but also is spread by human activity. The recommendation is aimed at controlling the spread of WNS while scientists work to better understand the cause and find a way to stop the mysterious disease. WNS has devastated bat populations in the Northeast and appears poised to continue its rapid spread south and west in coming months. 4 Dec 2009 22:25:44 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/151.html The twelfth annual Minnesota Waterfowl Symposium will be held in conjunction with the Minnesota Decoy Collectors Show from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the Ramada Mall of America. This year’s theme, “A Waterfowler’s Workshop,” will feature presentations by leading waterfowl and wetland experts from Minnesota, neighboring states and provinces, and members of the migratory bird hunting community The symposium is free and open to the public; however, limited seating will be available. 4 Dec 2009 22:25:19 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/150.html A 30-day comment period for Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge’s Draft Hunting Plan will begin on December 4, 2009, and run until January 2, 2010. The hunting plan is being revised to include land owned or managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service between Carver, Minn., and Henderson, Minn. The Refuge is conducting a Listening Station to make it more convenient for people to comment on the Draft Hunting Plan. The Listening Station will be conducted at the Rapids Lake Education & Visitor Center on Thursday, December 17, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. People who want to comment on the draft plan or who are seeking more information are invited to stop by to drop off written comments, give oral comments or ask questions one-on-one with a Refuge employee. Copies of the Draft Hunting Plan are available on-line on the Refuge website: http://www.fws.gov/midwest/minnesotavalley. Paper copies are available at both the Rapids Lake Education & Visitor Center, located at 15865 Carver Highlands Drive in Carver, and the Bloomington Main Office at 3815 American Blvd. East in Bloomington. 4 Dec 2009 18:15:43 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/149.html Canal will be closed beginning December 2 in support of electric barrier maintenance ROMEOVILLE, IL – The Asian Carp Rapid Response team will begin its work this week on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (CSSC) to control the movement of Asian carp. The project is in support of required scheduled maintenance of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Barrier IIA, one of two electric barriers currently in operation on the CSSC. The barriers were constructed to prevent the movement of Asian carp into Lake Michigan. The canal will to be closed to all traffic beginning December 2 (weather permitting) for a period of four to five days during which workers will apply a fish toxicant, known as rotenone, to a 5.7-mile section of the CSSC between the barrier and the Lockport Lock and Dam. During the closure, the USACE will perform routine maintenance work on Barrier IIA. No bank fishing or other activities will be permitted at the canal during the operation. 2 Dec 2009 21:38:41 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/147.html Regional Director Tom Melius (center), joined members of the Twin Cities Field Office and Genoa National Fish Hatchery in a search for freshwater mussels in Minnesota this fall. 2 Dec 2009 15:02:59 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/climate/mussels.htm A Missouri reptile dealer was sentenced on Nov. 30, 2009, in U.S. District Court, Western District of Missouri, Springfield, Mo., for making false statements to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Special Agents relating to the unlawful exportation of protected turtles. John F. Richards, 51, of Strafford, Mo., owner of Loggerhead Acres Turtle Farm, was investigated by agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Missouri Department of Conservation for activities that involved the commercialization of Missouri native reptile species, including state-endangered Blanding’s turtles and Western chicken turtles. The investigation revealed that Richards unlawfully shipped state endangered and native species of turtles from the United States to Japan. In 2004, search warrants were executed by agents on the Loggerhead Acres Turtle Farm and evidence showed the commercialization of Missouri native species such as Mississippi map turtles, Ouachita map turtles, river cooters, alligator snapping turtles and others. 2 Dec 2009 18:06:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/146.html It’s been a busy week in northwestern Minnesota with the final weekend of the deer hunting season coinciding with completion of the Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge solar heating system renovation, funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). During FY 2008, Department of Interior bureaus reviewed 1,766 on-site renewable energy projects, including installation of a photovoltaic system on the maintenance building at Agassiz NWR. The review was part of an effort to fulfill the renewable energy goals of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. 25 Nov 2009 18:56:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/144.html After more than 22 years of working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in California, Kevin Foerster is migrating to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Foerster will be settling in at refuge headquarters in Winona, Minnesota in early November. In addition to managing the "Upper Miss" Refuge, he will serve as the Refuge Supervisor for Trempealeau, Port Louisa, Great River, Two Rivers, Middle Mississippi River and Illinois River National Wildlife Refuges. 23 Nov 2009 21:18:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/143.html Twenty juvenile whooping cranes reached Illinois today on their ultralight-guided migration from Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in central Wisconsin to Chassahowitzka and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuges along Florida's Gulf Coast. These majestic birds, the tallest in North America, left Necedah refuge on October 23 following Operation Migration’s four ultralight aircraft. Illinois is one of the seven states the ultralight-guided migration will fly over before reaching Florida. The Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups conducting this project, is now in its ninth year, in an effort to reintroduce this endangered species in eastern North America. 5 Nov 2009 17:31:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/141.html A summer filled with beach cleanups, trimming trails, habitat restoration for the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly, and banding egrets and great blue herons is just the beginning for high school students at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) provided funding allowing these experiences to happen. “I now know how much damage Spotted Knapweed does to the beaches,” stated a YCC enrollee who gathered 100 garbage bags full of this invasive plant from the Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge beach. 5 Nov 2009 14:47:37 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/140.html It’s a crisp calm autumn morning while gathering program materials for a class of inner-city 1st graders. They are eagerly awaiting their morning field trip to Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). This will be their first time out to the Refuge for this school year. Their program is on the scientific study of changes in nature-phenology. Prior to their field trip I went into their classroom with myriad of items that signify change; snowpants, colored leaves, umbrella, nuts, picture of a snowflake, sunglasses, model of emerging green grass. The students had to categorize these items into three groups: plant, animal, or weather. Once this was completed we then reorganized the items into the seasons of when they would be used or seen. 5 Nov 2009 14:47:20 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/139.html Morris Wetland Management District (District) will be renovating their headquarters to a more effective and environmentally friendly heating and cooling system. The headquarters is one of first buildings in the Morris area to go “green” besides the University of Minnesota, Morris Campus. Geothermal heating and cooling, solar panels, and energy efficient windows are part of this renovation. 5 Nov 2009 14:47:01 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/137.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and The Conservation Fund announce grants to protect important wildlife habitat using funds from Rockies Express Indianapolis, IN (November 2, 2009) – Across Indiana, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Conservation Fund and industry partners have launched a landmark conservation effort to meet growing energy demand while conserving wildlife habitat. Today, the team announced seven energy industry-funded grants totaling $1.1 million that will protect more than 1,300 acres of migratory bird habitat in the state. 2 Nov 2009 19:43:45 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/136.html Barry Christenson is returning home to the prairie to become the new District Manager for Windom Wetland Management District. Christenson will manage 13,000 acres of Waterfowl Production Areas, the Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge and wetland habitat easements critical to waterfowl and other prairie wildlife. “We are very excited to have Barry coming back to the Region,” said Rick Schultz, Chief of Refuges for the Midwest Region. “He has a passion for habitat restoration and brings with him strong experiences with partnerships.” 29 Oct 2009 19:50:18 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/135.html Bruce Freske recently began duties as the new manager of the Morris Wetland Management District. Bruce began his career with the Fish and Wildlife Service as a student trainee at Green Bay Ecological Services in 1987, followed by assignments at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, Illinois River National Wildlife Refuge, Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District, and Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge. Freske most recently transferred from the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge Complex located in Swan Quarter, North Carolina, where he served as the manager for the past 5 1/2 years. 29 Oct 2009 19:49:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/134.html Mark Vaniman, a 26-year veteran of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is the new refuge manager at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge, Michigan. He began his new duties on September 14, 2009. “His variety of work assignments and his passion for refuges will serve him well at Seney National Wildlife Refuge.” says Rick Schultz, Chief of Refuges for the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In his previous position, Vaniman served as Project Leader at Windom Wetland Management District. 29 Oct 2009 19:48:49 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/133.html Rick Schultz has returned to the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as the Chief of Refuges after a career move that took him to Washington D.C. Schultz will oversee the management of 54 National Wildlife Refuges, 12 Wetland Management Districts and more than 300,000 acres in waterfowl production areas. 29 Oct 2009 14:12:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/132.html Nine young whooping cranes were released October 24 on central Wisconsin’s Necedah National Wildlife Refuge. The cranes are part of the Direct Autumn Release (DAR) project conducted by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing this highly imperiled species in eastern North America, part of its historic range. There are approximately 77 whooping cranes in the wild in eastern North America thanks to WCEP’s efforts. 27 Oct 2009 18:58:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/131.html Frank accredits his interest in conservation to his family, but also to the generation he grew up with on the West coast. As a teenager in the 1960s, Frank was immersed in an unprecedented conservation movement. "It was a time when more and more kids were becoming attuned to natural resources," he said. 26 Oct 2009 15:03:11 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/frankstone.htm Twenty young whooping cranes have begun their ultralight-led migration from central Wisconsin’s Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). This is the ninth group of birds to take part in a landmark project led by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP), an international coalition of public and private groups that is reintroducing this highly imperiled species in eastern North America, part of its historic range. There are now 77 whooping cranes in the wild in eastern North America thanks to WCEP’s efforts. 23 Oct 2009 18:44:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/130.html A collection of youth in the Midwest found that banding geese and wading in a river collecting aquatic plants qualified as a summer job. “I had always admired them from a far, but actually getting a chance to hold one was an amazing experience,” wrote one Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) enrollee about their goose banding experience on Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge in Wisconsin. Another enrollee wrote, “That experience will last me a lifetime!” 22 Oct 2009 18:44:15 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/129.html For disabled persons and the seemingly endless flow of community volunteers that eagerly offer their services and wares, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest National Wildlife Refuge disability hunts are more than just a harvest of game, it's an exercise in the best of human nature-respect, dignity, joy and compassion. 20 Oct 2009 15:03:30 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/disabledhunters.htm A tentative departure date of Oct. 10, 2009 has been set for the 2009 ultralight-led migration of twenty-one juvenile whooping cranes from Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Wisconsin to their wintering destinations in southern Florida. The public and media are invited to observe the Class of 2009 departure at the Ducks Unlimited (DU) Wetland located off Headquarters Road between Hwy. 21 and the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge Office. Public and media are encouraged to arrive no later than 6:45 a.m on Saturday, Oct. 10. The departure is weather-dependent. For the most up-to-date departure status please call the Whooping Crane Migration Hotline at (904) 731-3293. 8 Oct 2009 17:07:52 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/127.html A portion of Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge will be open for the first time for the Youth Deer Hunt on October 17 and 18. Pre-hunt scouting is allowed on Friday October 16; 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. No registration is required. The Northeastern section of the Refuge will be open to youth hunters. Access to the area is from the north on 270th Ave. N.E. (Northgate Road) and from the south on County Road 7 (290th St N.E.) and intersection with the Lost Bay Habitat Drive and the east boundary road. The area is adjacent to and west of the state Eckvoll Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which is also open to youth deer hunting. See attached map. Maps are available at the Refuge Office, kiosks, and on the web at http://www.fws.gov/midwest/agassiz/. 1 Oct 2009 14:24:34 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/126.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in coordination with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the Southeast Aquatic Resources Partnership and private landowners, will host a congressional tour of aquatic habitat restoration projects within the Meramec – Lower Bourbeuse watersheds in Franklin and Crawford Counties on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009. Congressional staff from the offices of Sen. Bond, Sen. McCaskill, Rep. Leutkemeyer and Rep. Emerson will tour the projects supported by the National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP) and its associated fish habitat partnerships (FHPs) that work to recover, restore, and protect populations of fish, mussels, and other aquatic species. 29 Sep 2009 22:52:09 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/125.html The Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to treat the shovelnose sturgeon as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (Act) due to its similarity of appearance to the endangered pallid sturgeon. The Service is also proposing a special rule that would prohibit harvest of flesh or roe of shovelnose sturgeon and shovelnose–pallid sturgeon hybrids when associated with a commercial fishing activity. 22 Sep 2009 19:20:27 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/119.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today published a final rule in the Federal Register acknowledging that Endangered Species Act protections are reinstated for the gray wolf in the western Great Lakes. The rule complies with a court order and settlement agreement which effectively restored ESA protections on July 1, 2009. 16 Sep 2009 15:04:30 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/118.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced a new program to issue two new types of permits that will be used to improve the management of bald and golden eagles under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The two permits are designed to protect public safety and manage activities or projects that may disturb or otherwise incidentally “take” bald or golden eagles or their nests, while maintaining stable or increasing populations. Permits will only be granted when they are compatible with this goal. 10 Sep 2009 18:54:01 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/117.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public input on a draft plan that would address potential impacts from Quad Cities Nuclear Station to two at-risk species in the Upper Mississippi River near Cordova, Illinois – the federally endangered Higgins eye pearlymussel and the sheepnose mussel, a candidate for Endangered Species Act listing. 10 Sep 2009 16:26:28 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/114.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius announced today that the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission voted to approve more than $6 million in federal funding and more than $12 million in matching grants for wetland conservation in Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa and Missouri under the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. 9 Sep 2009 14:15:04 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/113.html WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced the availability of coal mining guidelines developed to conserve and protect the endangered Indiana bat. The bat’s habitat stretches from the eastern United States through the Midwest, including 13 states with coal mining operations. “These guidelines provide coal mining companies a set of consistent and reasonable protective measures they can use when their proposed operations could impact the Indiana bat and its critical habitat,” Secretary Salazar said. “This technical guidance was developed through extensive state and federal collaboration and will assist companies in complying with the requirements of the Endangered Species Act.” 3 Sep 2009 16:29:46 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/112.html The first ever Midwest Jack Pine Symposium was held on August 25 and 26, 2009 in Odanah, Wisconsin and was attended by approximately 180 people from Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Canada, representing Federal, State and County agencies, private industry, and non-profit conservation organizations. Christie Deloria and Joel Trick of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Marquette and Green Bay Ecological Services Field Offices led the effort to organize the symposium, with the goal of integrating forestry and wildlife in jack pine management to benefit the numerous declining species found in this ecosystem. The meeting also served as one of the semi-annual meetings of the Wisconsin Society of American Foresters, bringing together a diverse mix of forestry and wildlife related disciplines. 2 Sep 2009 20:25:07 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/111.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul will host the 2010 Junior Duck Stamp Contest on April 23, 2010. This is only the second time in the program’s history that the event has been held outside of Washington D.C. “The Midwest Region is proud to host the Junior Duck Stamp Contest in 2010,” said Tom Melius, Midwest Regional Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service. “This is not just an art contest; it’s a program that can help instill environmental stewardship in young minds.” 31 Aug 2009 20:31:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/110.html Watch the unveiling of the architectural drawings and the ground breaking of the new Necedah National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. 27 Aug 2009 20:20:14 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in coordination with the Wisconsin DNR and Trout Unlimited, hosted Congressman Ron Kind (WI-3) and congressional staff with Senators Kohl (WI) and Feingold (WI) on a tour of an aquatic habitat restoration project at Big Spring Branch in southwestern Wisconsin (Iowa County) on August 25, 2009. Prior to restoration activities, heavy agricultural pressure had contributed to severe erosion of stream banks and high sediment loads to the stream, which negatively impacted habitat quality and the local trout fishery. 28 Aug 2009 19:38:51 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/109.html Watch the video of Secretary Salazar's visit to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refgue on August 9th, 2009. 28 Aug 2009 19:01:30 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced more than $300,000 will support fish habitat projects in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin and Iowa. An additional $899,589 in partner contributions, over $1.2 million in total, will go toward restoring and enhancing aquatic stream habitat and improve recreational fishing. Funding is provided for priority projects identified through the Driftless Area Restoration Effort (DARE) Fish Habitat Partnership established under the National Fish Habitat Action Plan (NFHAP). The Driftless Area Restoration Effort (DARE) partnership formed to address habitat degradation, loss, and alteration that are the primary factors contributing to the decline of fish populations in this unique region. 26 Aug 2009 23:00:41 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/108.html "St. Paul, Minn. — Minnesota has some new research efforts to find natural methods that will control invasive plants and insects. Slowing the spread of exotic plants and insects with chemicals is expensive and often has negative environmental side effects. Finding a natural enemy to kill a plant or insect is often more efficient and more sustainable." 25 Aug 2009 22:58:37 GMT http://www.fws.gov/scripts/exit.cfm?link=http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2009/08/21/natural-plant-killers/ Watch the interview with Heidi Keuler as she speaks about Asian Carp and the impact they could have on our ecosystem. 24 Aug 2009 23:00:25 GMT http://www.fws.gov/scripts/exit.cfm?link=http://www.hybridcarstore.com/video/video79.php Today Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that the Ozaukee-Washington Land Trust has received $454,000 in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The funding supports the restoration and enhancement of coastal wetlands, forests, shrublands, and grasslands on a 116-acre tract in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin, which will provide critically needed stopover habitat for birds that migrate over Lake Michigan. “The economic recovery investments that the Department of the Interior is making will create jobs by building trails, restoring habitat, upgrading visitors’ centers, and protecting national treasures in communities across America, while leaving a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren,” said Secretary Salazar. 13 Aug 2009 14:25:00 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/106.html Jerry Kronable, 26, of Hardin, Ill., pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court, in East St. Louis, Ill., to one violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act yesterday. Kronable was sentenced to pay a $5,000 fine, serve one year probation, and forfeit the rifle he used to shoot the eagle. Kronable admitted that on Jan. 17, 2009, he noticed a bald eagle feeding on a deer carcass in a field on Degerlia Hollow Road, near the intersection of Illinois Route 100, in Hardin, Ill. Kronable stopped his vehicle and shot at the eagle, from his vehicle, with a .22 caliber rifle. The eagle was struck by at least one .22 caliber bullet. The eagle was able to fly to a nearby tree limb, but died soon after, and fell onto the roadside where it was discovered. 13 Aug 2009 14:24:29 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/107.html Chicago - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it plans to increase the operating parameters for the electric fish dispersal barrier system in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal near Romeoville, Ill. The barrier system is designed to deter the passage of invasive species, especially Asian carp, between the Great Lakes and Illinois River watersheds. "As part of a continuing review process of Asian carp migration and the barrier system, the Army Corps of Engineers developed a multi-pronged strategy we have been applying since this spring," said Maj. Gen. John Peabody, Commander of the Corps of Engineers Great Lakes and Ohio River Division. 12 Aug 2009 14:22:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/105.html Three tiny chicks, rescued before hatching from the first piping plover nest found in Illinois in 30 years, were released August 7, 2009, at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan, representing new hope for the recovery of this endangered shorebird.. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources confirmed that a pair of piping plovers constructed a nest and tended four eggs this summer on a remote stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline in northern Illinois. This is the first piping plover nest found in Illinois since 1979. 12 Aug 2009 15:33:10 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/104.html BLOOMINGTON, Mn – Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today highlighted more than $286,000 in projects at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge funded under President Obama’s economic recovery package that will create jobs and economic growth in Minnesota. Overall, the Department of the Interior is investing more than $11 million across Minnesota in projects in wildlife refuges, national park units, and on tribal lands. 9 Aug 2009 14:30:05 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/103.html Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced that Neosho National Fish Hatchery in Missouri will receive $3.75 million in funding to support the construction of a two-story, 9,200 sq. ft., energy-efficient visitor center. A portion of the construction costs ($109,105) will be funded by the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The $3,753,627 contract was awarded to Kansas-based Crossland Construction Co., Inc. at a recent groundbreaking ceremony of the hatchery visitor center. 7 Aug 2009 14:16:53 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/101.html Getting people involved in outdoor activities in a world filled with Wii's and PS2's is getting more and more challenging. And it may be harder still for people with limited mobility and access to the resource. In order to provide access to some of the best the Upper Mississippi River basin has to offer, the Genoa (WI) hatchery had plans to convert one of the hatchery's rearing ponds to an accessible fishing pond and provide an accessible fishing dock. 22 Jul 2009 18:26:39 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/100.html Glup earned the award from Take Pride in America®, a nationwide partnership program authorized by Congress to promote the appreciation and stewardship of our nation's public lands. The Take Pride in America program is administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior for the benefit of all public lands at all levels of government nationwide. 20 Jul 2009 18:25:54 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/99.html John Rogner, long-time field supervisor of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Chicago Ecological Services Field Office has accepted an appointment as the assistant director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn announced his appointment of Rogner earlier today. 20 Jul 2009 18:25:20 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/98.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Genoa National Fish Hatchery in Wisconsin will host a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, August 7th for a newly constructed handicap-accessible fishing dock on hatchery grounds. 8 Jul 2009 18:24:40 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/95.html The donation was the result of a Wild Cats promotion, in which Guests could earn giveaways and donate to an important cause. “We found in our research that two of the most urgent environmental problems confronting our state are species extinction and habitat destruction,” explained Joseph Nayquonabe, interim corporate vice president of marketing for Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Grand Casino Hinckley. “We know that our Guests, as a group, enjoy donating money to worthy causes.” 7 Jul 2009 18:23:35 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/97.html The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Neosho National Fish Hatchery (NFH) in southwest Missouri, the nation’s oldest operational federal fish hatchery, hosted a ground breaking ceremony today to celebrate the construction of a new visitor center. The 9,200 sq. ft. visitor center is expected to accommodate more than 100,000 visitors per year, enhance environmental education and interpretation opportunities, and generate economic benefits for Newton County and surrounding areas. 1 Jul 2009 18:22:10 GMT http://www.fws.gov/midwest/news/94.html