Endangered Species Monitoring on Private Lands, Socorro County

Project Type: Monitoring

BBMP Recommendations Met: 17, 19

Purpose/Objectives: The purpose of this project is to complete endangered species monitoring in suitable habitat sites along the Rio Grande in Socorro County. Endangered species surveys are essential to determine that endangered species will not be affected by exotic tree species clearing.

Background: Over the next five years, the Flood Plain Management Group and the Socorro Save Our Bosque Task Force hope to complete a long-term habitat plan and secure funding sources for floodplain management and habitat restoration on the active flood plain of Socorro County. Fires threaten existing habitat for the Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus). Spring flooding promotes native tree species establishment and growth over that of exotics. If flooding occurs at other times throughout the growing season, exotic species will become established. These exotic tree species grow in dense monotypic stands that increase the intensity of wildfires in the area. In order to assure that no endangered species are impacted, it is necessary to complete endangered species monitoring in suitable habitat sites for at least one year prior to any disturbance.

Scope: Surveys for Southwestern willow flycatcher were done in fiscal year 2001. Surveys were conducted at one firebreak area (an arroyo mouth), and one restoration project site. Sites are surveyed based on the following criteria:

Land owner permission
Suitable habitat area distinction
Funding requirements for project completion

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this project's location.

Benefits: This information will help address the serious fire danger that threatens local landowners and riparian habitats in the area. The restoration project mentioned above will serve as an example of habitat improvement to other citizens. It will also help efforts of larger scale restoration on the river reach around Socorro County.

General Project Location: Socorro County, New Mexico

Approximate Project Size: 25 acres

Period of Performance: 2001

Sponsoring Agency: Socorro Save Our Bosque Task Force

Primary Contact Information:
Gina Dello Russo, Ecologist
Bosque del Apache
National Wildlife Refuge
P.O. Box 1246, Socorro
New Mexico 87801
Phone: 505-835-1828
Fax: 505-835-0314
gina_dellorusso@fws.gov

Project or Agency Website:
http://www.friendsofthebosque.org
http://southwest.fws.gov/refuges/newmex/bosque.html

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