Prairie Marsh Research Articles

Distribution and Production of Sago Pondweed (Potamogeton Pectinatus L.) on a Northern Prairie Marsh

Physical and Chemical parameters of soils and water, measured on 140 sites in the Delta Marsh, Manitoba between May 1973 and September 1974, were compared with presence and dry—weight standing crop of sago pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus L.) on those sites. Mean comparisons and discriminant function analyses identified water depth, soil texture and maximum and directional exposure to wave action as important variables affecting plant distribution. Multiple regression analyses suggested that water depth, available soil K, available soil P, soil texture and directional exposure, were important factors affecting growth on colonized sites. A greenhouse experiment demonstrated that sago pondweed grew better on Delta Marsh soils that normally supported the plant, suggesting that some specific edaphic adaptations might exist. Within the euphotic zone of the Delta Marsh, sago pondweed distribution was probably most effected by prevailing winds through their influence on soil distribution and turbulence.

Waterfowl Utilization of Ponds Blasted at Delta, Manitoba

Waterfowl use of 25 ponds blasted in Manitoba's Delta Marsh was studied from 1965-66. Greatest use of the ponds occurred during spring and early summer. In comparison to surrounding wetlands, there were greater fluctuations in annual abundance, less species diversity, and more breeding pairs per unit of shoreline on the ponds. Ducks stayed on the ponds a mean of 15.6 minutes per visit; 86 percent of their time was spent on elevated spoil. Blue-winged teal (Anas discors) comprised 56 percent of the waterfowl counted. These ponds seemingly functioned as isolation and loafing areas for breeding pairs of dabbling ducks. The declining quantity and quality of waterfowl habitats in North America has stimulated many wetland improvement projects. Scott and Dever (1940) were among the first to suggest blasting ponds as one method of improving marshlands for waterfowl. The objectives reported in this paper are: (1) to determine which species of waterfowl respond to blasting potholes; and (2) to describe how ducks use ponds blasted in a prairie marsh long inhabited by wildfowl. I wish to thank M. D. Pirnie, Michigan 1 Supported by Wildlife Management Institute, Michigan State University, Ducks Unlimited, and the Delta Waterfowl Research Station. 2 Present address: Stockbridge High School, Stockbridge, Michigan 49285. State University, for his helpful advice throughout the study; J. Rutledge, D. D. Moore, and D. P. Mossop for assisting with field work; the staff of the Delta Waterfowl Research Station, especially P. Ward and H. A. Hochbaum for their stimulating suggestions and for access to the Bell Estate.

Eggs of Floodwater Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) IX. Local Distribution1

Floodwater mosquitoes are so called because they are products of areas subject to seasonal temporary flooding. Eggs deposited on exposed soil become conditioned and hatch when submerged later. The state of moisture of the soil at the time of oviposition determines largely the number and species of eggs present in each location. The result is that eggs lie in characteristic zones and horizons in relation to the zone of maximum flood. Representative situations were sampled and distribution of eggs is shown for such as prairie marshes, woodland depressions, flood plains, and polluted areas.

The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh

The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh

Vegetation of a Prairie Marsh

Vegetation of a Prairie Marsh

Ducks on a Prairie Marsh The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh H. Albert Hochbaum

Ducks on a Prairie Marsh The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh H. Albert Hochbaum

The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh

The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh

The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh

The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh

Prairie Marsh Wren Wintering near Madison, Wisconsin

Prairie Marsh Wren Wintering near Madison, Wisconsin

Prairie Marsh Wren Wintering near Madison, Wisconsin

Prairie Marsh Wren Wintering near Madison, Wisconsin