ARRA Project (WBS)#: LXUAA0290000

Project Title: Lakeview Wind Energy Sage-Grouse Study

Index Map Locator #: 17

State: Oregon

Unit: BLM - Lakeview District

Description:

This project will establish baseline sage-grouse habitat data for consideration by the BLM when reviewing wind energy development proposals. The study area covers 325,000 acres of shrub-steppe grassland in Lake County, Oregon. The primary objective of this research is to determine sage-grouse movement patterns and use areas.

Recovery Act Funding:

Project funding will cover the supplies and labor necessary for a team of biological technicians to radio mark and track sage-grouse throughout the study area for a period of one year.

Benefits:

Six individuals have been hired to complete this work. Four occupy one-year term positions and two occupy 180-day positions. The data they collect will help the BLM better understand sage-grouse habitat requirements. This information will be extremely useful when preparing mitigation and avoidance plans for wind energy development projects.

Updates:

The study team began capturing and radio collaring sage-grouse on September 14, 2009. To date, 146 sage-grouse have been captured and fitted with radio collars. Important data has been collected on study area population numbers, winter habitat use and movements, and lek attendance. Nest habitat and success data is currently being collected as females begin to select nesting sites.