Management and Conservation

Refuges deploy a host of scientifically sound management tools to address biological challenges. These tools help ensure a balanced conservation approach to benefit both wildlife and people.  At this field station, our conservation toolbox includes:

Prescribed Fire

Prescribed burning is primarily used to stop the spread of woody vegetation that has increased over the years without the aid of fire suppression. The many clumps of aspen trees now on the Refuge are a perfect example of this encroachment. Prescribed burning also helps control the spread of non-native plant species.

Refuge staff must keep up on fire qualifications in order to be certified to conduct controlled burns. Safety is key when planning for a prescribed fire. Typically the weather will always play the major factor in planning and executing a controlled burn.

Livestock Grazing

The livestock rotational grazing system replicates the historic effects of bison grazing. This intensive, short duration system is directed primarily at reducing the exotic cool season, sod-forming grasses (e.g. smooth bromegrass and Kentucky bluegrass) while increasing the vigor of native grasses.

As bison herds diminished, the composition of grassland plants and animal species began to change dramatically. Cattle have since replaced bison and they also stimulate native grasses through grazing, trampling, and defecation. Over time, livestock grazing is slowly restoring and sustaining native prairie grassland species and the unique mix of animals that rely on this habitat.

Noxious Weed Control

The control of noxious weeds has been difficult and expensive for refuge managers. Leafy spurge is perhaps the most difficult of all exotic plants on the Refuge. It requires treatment beyond fire and grazing to control. Current techniques include introducing spurge-eating flea beetles, limited herbicide application, and mowing.

Trapping

Trapping is a wildlife management tool used on some national wildlife refuges. Trapping may be used to protect endangered and threatened species or migratory birds or to control certain wildlife populations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also views trapping as a legitimate recreational and economic activity when there are harvestable surpluses of fur-bearing mammals. Outside of Alaska, refuges that permit trapping as a recreational use may require trappers to obtain a refuge special use permit. Signs are posted on refuges where trapping occurs. Contact the refuge manager for specific regulations.