Upcoming Events

SGI will join more than 650 booths at the sold out exhibit hall.

The Wildlife Society- Montana Chapter presents a one-day forum for private landowners and conservation practitioners to share success stories. Tim Griffiths and Dave Naugle will present the Sage Grouse Initiative.  Join this cutting-edge conversation and learn more about a new Partners for Conservation Inititiative.

The Intermountain West Joint Venture (www.iwjv.org), in partnership with the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies’ (WAFWA) Sage and Columbian Sharp-tailed Grouse Technical Committee (Tech Committee), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service is seeking proposals for the development of a guidance tool for resource managers to utilize when considering whether or not treatment is necessary, and/or justified, in sagebrush habitats for the benefit of Greater Sage-grouse. 

Eastern Montana:

Fergus and Petroleum County Conservation Districts are hosting a workshop entitled “The Birds & The Beef – Livestock & Rangeland Resources” on May 10,starting 3:30 p.m. in Grass Range in the Wrangler Bar: See page 2 of The Montana Conservationist  (MACD) May 7 newsletter for the agenda for the evening. Contact info: 406-429-6646 or 406- 538-7401 x117.

The South Dakota Grassland Coalition invites you to take a journey to view the abundant populations of birds that make their home in sagebrush country near Belle Fourche, SD.

While on the two-day tour, you’ll watch and record bird species, hear presentations from land owners and conservation experts, and you’ll learn first-hand how management practices are benefitting both livestock and wildlife associated with sagebrush landscapes.

 For more information, call Justin “Judge” Jessop (605-280-0127)or email jjessop@sdconservation.org.

The 2012 Biennial Workshop will feature an opening Plenary Session, followed by General Session Technical Papers, a Poster Session, Field Trip, and Banquet at scenic Steamboat Ski Resort. SGI will be showcased at this event.

Purpose

The Intermountain West Joint Venture (www.iwjv.org) is seeking proposals for the development and implementation of a research project to assess Sage Grouse Initiative benefits to mule deer and create spatial tools that guide future conservation actions to maximize benefits to both sage-grouse and mule deer.  

 Background

Launched in 2010, the NRCS Sage Grouse Initiative (SGI) is a highly targeted and science-based landscape approach to delivering enough of the right conservation practices in the right places to elicit a positive sage-grouse population response to management. SGI uses dedicated Farm Bill conservation program funds at appropriately large scales to alleviate threats that otherwise fragment habitats, the primary reason for the species ‘candidate’ designation under the federal Endangered Species Act. SGI targets Farm Bill resources to high sage-grouse abundance centers, or ‘core areas’, to maintain large and intact habitats rather than providing palliative care to small and declining populations.  The SGI Strategic Watershed Action Team (SWAT) was established to strengthen NRCS capacity to implement SGI.  The SWAT builds field capacity, strengthens the science guiding SGI, and bolsters communications capacity – all through partnerships that leverage the NRCS SGI funding and significant contributions from other sources. 

In a recent collaborative effort, SGI and partners developed build-out scenarios to simulate future energy and residential development to measure the efficacy of conservation actions for protecting sage-grouse populations. This approach quantifies how much sage-grouse population loss can be averted through conservation action and how spatial targeting can help maximize return on investment. The analysis reveals that statewide sage-grouse populations will decline by 14-29% without conservation strategies implemented. But findings also show that Wyoming’s core area policy and $250 million in targeted conservation easements cuts anticipated losses by nearly half statewide and reduces losses by two-thirds within sage-grouse high abundance areas. This winning strategy provides a framework to guide the quantity and placement of future conservation work, so that policy makers and practitioners can work together to maintain habitats that support healthy wildlife populations.

While the focus of SGI is the sage-grouse, NRCS fully embraces a multi-species approach and mule deer are the vanguard of public support for landscape conservation in the West.  Similar and overlapping habitat needs make mule deer conservation work an effort on which SGI can reliably expand its partnership. Assessing the outcomes of SGI benefits to mule deer will enhance targeting of existing Farm Bill resources to mutually benefit both deer and grouse.

Research Project Objectives

 The overarching goal of this project is to assess SGI benefits to mule deer and create spatial tools that guide future conservation actions to maximize benefits to both sage-grouse and mule deer. Specific objectives to be accomplished in reaching this goal include:

(1) Identifying specific landscape attributes that characterize corridor use by migrating mule deer.

(2) Applying landscape attributes used by mule deer to identify predicted migration corridors across Wyoming.

(3) Surveying game biologists to populate newly created corridor maps with estimates of deer abundance.

(4) Quantifying proportion of corridors and mule deer populations likely to be impacted by future energy and residential impacts.

(5) Assessing effectiveness of sage-grouse conservation strategy at reducing impacts to mule deer by quantifying averted losses to migration routes and populations. 

(6) Developing and disseminate GIS databases that describe areas which receive protection under the sage-grouse core area policy and are also important to mule deer.

Tasks/Deliverables & Timeline

Final products are to be completed by August, 2014.  Each applicant should include in its proposal a detailed description of the steps it will take, including timelines and milestones, to meet this deadline.

 Knowledge, Abilities, and Experience

The successful candidate must demonstrate that his or her team has a demonstrated working knowledge of and proven track record in the following:

1)    Sage-grouse and mule deer ecology, landscape ecology, habitat conservation approaches and methods;

2)    Peer-reviewed science, including ability to access and use scientific information as a basis for the decision structure;

3)    Technical and popular writing, with a high level of attention to detail and willingness to proof completed work to ensure accuracy;

4)    GIS, statistical, and biological capability to model large scale mule deer movements;

5)    GIS expertise and proven Random Forests computer programmer to model grow out scenarios necessary to quantify biological costs/benefits of different conservation outcomes;

6)    Wyoming Governor’s sage grouse core area policies so that can be incorporated into scenario planning and outcome assessments;

7)    Oil and gas, wind energy, and subdivision impacts to create realistic short- and long-term grow out scenarios for Wyoming;

8)    Linking resource selection functions with large spatial databases  to identify statewide migration corridors;

9)    USDA conservation easement programs and easement contracting to link easement costs with return on biological investments;

10) Technical background and human relationships necessary to create a statewide database of mule deer abundance for identified corridors;

11) Ability to communicate effectively and maintain a high level of professionalism with members of partner agencies and organizations;

12) Ability to work independently, take initiative, and support a team environment; and

13) Ability to catalyze effective implementation of administrative tasks through team-oriented administrative problem solving and timely completion of assigned tasks;

Contract Information

The Project Contractor will provide services to the IWJV through an approximate 2-year agreement with Pheasants Forever. The successful candidate will be required to maintain liability insurance unless the contractor is a government agency. 

How to Apply

Applicants shall submit the following materials in electronic format (MS Word or PDF) to Dave Smith, IWJV Coordinator, at dave_w_smith@fws.gov, and Dave Naugle, University of Montana, at dave.naugle@cfc.umt.edu, by July 24^th, 2012.

• Cover Letter
• A written description of the contractor’s knowledge, skills, and abilities relative to the primary duties and responsibilities described above. The written responses shall be limited to no more than 3 pages.
• CV for each of the members of the applicants on the project team.
• A detailed project budget outlining partner match and total project costs.

If you have the following knowledge, abilities, and experience, submit your materials to us by September 25th, 2012. The RFP (with the required application process) is attached.

1. Demonstrated skills in popular writing and editing.
2. Experience developing Website, Facebook, or E-Newsletter content.
3. Training in the field of writing or communications.
4. Knowledge of migratory birds, other wildlife, and/or habitat conservation.
5. Ability to communicate effectively and maintain a high level of professionalism with members of partner agencies and organizations.
6. Ability to work independently, efficiently, take initiative, and support a team environment.

Thanks for sharing this post with others-particularly those based in Missoula. 

PLEASE DOWNLOAD POSITION DESCRIPTION

In February 2013, the Alberta Prairie Conservation Forum (PCF) and the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) will jointly host the 10^th Prairie Conservation and Endangered Species Conference (PCESC) in Red Deer, Alberta.   The PCESC is a forum to discuss the latest issues, information, research and trends in maintaining or enhancing prairie and species conservation. The conference will bring together decision-makers, researchers, community and grass-roots groups including farmers, ranchers, First Nations and other private citizens who have an abiding interest in sustaining prairie environments. 

The conference theme, “Engaging People in Conservation”, recognizes past efforts, supports the identification of current issues, and identifies future opportunities to achieve success with prairie conservation and endangered species management.   The PCF and ASPB invite you to submit abstracts that describe recent challenges and new approaches to research, conservation and stewardship in the prairies. The PCESC aims to address the science and socio-economic factors in prairie conservation and apply these to decision making.

Share your successes and challenges, facilitate new ideas, and contribute to the discussion!  Contributions could focus on, but are not limited to, the following:

1.                  Socio-economic (e.g., ecological goods and services, stakeholder engagement, etc.)
2.                  Biophysical (e.g., land, plant communities, species at risk, water, wetlands, etc.)
3.                  Land Management and Restoration (e.g., easements, reclamation, etc.)
4.                  Industrial/Agricultural Perspectives (e.g., ranching, oil and gas, wind, etc.)
5.                  Policy, Current Regulations and Professional Practice
6.                  Land Use/Regional planning

The 2013 PCESC Conference Committee welcomes presentation and poster abstract submissions for review. Acceptance of the contributions will be based on originality of the work, relevance to the conference topic(s), and overall submission quality. 

An abstract should follow the format outlined below and be submitted electronically to 10th.pcesc@gmail.com  by October 29, 2012 for review. If you do not receive email confirmation that your submission was received within five business days, please contact the abstract coordinator at ManageWise at (780) 434-5765.  

Please note that the cost of preparing the presentations and attending the conference will be at the applicant’s expense.

Abstract Format for the 10^th PCESC

SMITH VALLEY, Sept. 13 – Improved habitat management to protect sage-grouse will be the topic at a symposium hosted by the Nevada Section, Society for Range Management (NvSRM), Oct. 30-31, in Minden, Nev.

“We’re inviting everyone interested in what is being done to protect sage-grouse to attend,” said Chris Jasmine, NvSRM president.

The forum will showcase conservation efforts by landowners, stimulate discussion and exchange of information and technology, and create an opportunity to increase public awareness of the status of the sage-grouse. The Bi-State Local Area Working Group will present the 2012 Bi-State Action Plan and discuss the September 2013 listing deadline. Biologists from Nevada and California will present their research findings. Representatives from agriculture and conservation organizations, federal and state agencies, including the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, Nevada Department of Wildlife, California Department of Fish and Game, US Geological Service and others will be on hand.

“You’ll be amazed at the proactive efforts ranchers and private landowners are making to keep the sage-grouse from being listed as an endangered species,” said Jasmine. “In the bi-state area alone, which is along the Nev./Calif. border, 86 separate habitat improvement projects that cover an area of 33,400 acres have been installed. Over 14,000 acres pinyon and juniper trees have been removed on invaded rangelands. Numerous miles of fence have been retrofitted with fence markers. Land exchanges and conservation easements have preserved over 18,000 acres just to protect the bird and its habitat for decades to come.”

The two-day symposium starts at 8:00 am at the Carson Valley Inn. Registration is $35.00 and includes refreshments. No advance registration is required.

The NvSRM Awards Banquet will be held on Oct. 31, for an additional cost of $30. Banquet reservations must be made by Oct. 15.

For more information, call Cub Wolfe at 775-465-9099 or e-mail cubwolfe@yahoo.com.

Overview

The Intermountain West Joint Venture is seeking a graphic designer for the Sage Grouse Initiative (SGI) 2012 annual report.  The designer will work with Deborah Richie, SGI Communications, who will write text, edit, and supervise the project through completion.  The annual report will be highly visual, with compelling photographs and eye-catching fonts.  The report will circulate at high levels – in Congress, among directors of agencies, corporations, nonprofits and more.  It must be professional and rise to the top of the array of reports that come through their doors.

 In addition to the annual report, the designer will produce a template for a two-sided, one-page, full color insert for state accomplishments.  The template will have the same look as the annual report, with boxes for graphics and text.  Some generic text will be part of the template.  Deborah Richie will provide any necessary logos or generic photos and oversee this project as well.

The IWJV is looking for a designer willing to work with the writer early on in the project and to be involved through production to assure high quality printing.

Design Style

Please see http://www.nature.org/media/california/california-annual-report-2012.pdf; this is the model for the SGI annual report.

 The IWJV will strive for a similar look with bold, big and colorful photos that reflect the sagebrush ecosystem and the feel of the western prairies, working lands, and wildlife; please see http://wsgalt.org/ for a western feel example.

One two-page spread will feature statistics and will require a readable layout for acreages, fences, etc.

 Publication Length:

36 pages, including front and back covers

 IWJV will provide:

• All photographs in high resolution
• Any other graphics (logos)
• All text
• Proofing of text
• Proofing of layout

Graphic Design Contractor will provide:

• Electronic files delivered to IWJV in both low-resolution “file-share” that matches The Nature Conservancy design shown via this link:  http://www.nature.org/media/california/california-annual-report-2012.pdf
• High-resolution format for hard-copy printing

Projected Timeline

• December 17, 2012 – January 7, 2013:  Designer to work on a mock-up of the design, based on initial outline & low-resolution photos, working closely with writer
• January 7, 2013:  Final text/photos delivered to designer for layout
• January 14, 2013:  Draft layout ready for client to review
• January 18, 2013:  Review/changes sent to designer for final
• January 22, 2013:  Final printer-ready version of annual report and template for two-page insert completed; final version provided to printer; sharable PDF provided to IWJV

Knowledge, Abilities & Experience

1)   Ability to efficiently and professionally design and produce annual reports with conservation or wildlife themes.

2)   High level of attention to detail and willingness to proof completed work to ensure optimum accuracy.

3)   Experience working with agencies and conservation organizations on publications that showcase their work and reach high-level audiences.

 Contract Information

The funds for this contract are of federal origin, managed by the IWJV through a Cooperative Agreement with Pheasants Forever, Inc.  As such, the Contractor will provide services to the IWJV through a Consultant Agreement with Pheasants Forever, Inc.  The agreement(s) will specify that the relationship between the Contractor and Pheasants Forever, Inc., is that of an independent contractor.  The IWJV encourages applications by entities registered as a Minority Business Enterprise and/or Women-owned Business Enterprise (MBE/WBE).

Proposal

Applicants shall submit a proposal in an electronic format (MS Word or PDF) to Ali Duvall, IWJV Assistant Coordinator, at ali.duvall@iwjv.org, and Deborah Richie, SGI Communications, at info@sagegrouseinitiative.com by December 11, 2012.  Please contact Ali Duvall at (406) 329-3186 if you have any questions.

Please include:

• Cover letter
• Cost proposal
• Resume with a minimum of three (3) references
• Two (2) to three (3) samples of relevant work, including at least one annual report

Sage Grouse Conservation Coordinator: Deadline Dec. 21, 2012

Located in Bend, implement a sage grouse conservation strategy for Oregon, in consultation with the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife agencies. 

For more information, see job posting at www.dfw.state.or.us/hr. 

Contact: Apply online at: www.dfw.state.or.us/hr 

You must apply online. E-mailed, mailed, faxed or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.

The SRM 2013 Annual Meeting will be held, Feb. 2-8, 2013, in the heart of Oklahoma City, specifically in Bricktown, a progressive, culturally diverse part of Oklahoma City. The slogan for OKC is: "Native America,Native Rangelands," with the theme being "The Future of Rangeland Fire in a Changing World."

Please visit the website and download the program for details. 

The Mule Deer Foundation and Sportsmen for Fish & Wildlife are converging in Salt Lake for the Western Hunting & Conservation Expo: featuring 500 guides, outfitters and manufacturers, free seminars, and for music- The Oak Ridge Boys.