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WILDLIFE Five-Year Report

(reporting period 2007 – 2012)

6/17/2014

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Wildlife Five-Year Report (2007-2012) - Executive Summary The Five-Year Report to the Legislature on Wildlife reviews the period between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2012. Wildlife populations are dynamic and considerable change may be experienced from year to year in a given population. This report reviews the status and trends of wildlife species and the effectiveness of management programs to meet future needs. The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch is committed to carrying out the responsibilities as established in The Wildlife Act and The Endangered Species Act of Manitoba. The branch manages wildlife resources to conserve biological diversity, including species and ecosystems within the context of the principles of sustainable development. During the period covered by this report, two legislative initiatives occurred –The Wildlife Amendment Act and The Polar Bear Protection Amendment Act. Other regulations registered throughout the five-year period include the creation of five new wildlife management areas, the moose conservation closure, and the addition of six species to The Endangered Species Act. Hunter education is an important component of managing hunting programs. In 2007 the Hunter Education Regulation came into force, whereby as of January 1, 2012, all hunters must possess a valid hunter education certificate or equivalent in order to obtain a hunting licence. The department is committed to maintaining healthy and sustainable game populations within the province. Efforts continued for offering new and expanded hunting opportunities for all Manitobans, including initiatives directed at increasing opportunities for youth. The monitoring of bovine tuberculosis and chronic wasting disease continued in the white-tailed deer and elk populations. The Bovine Tuberculosis Management Program is considered a success, but will have to be kept in place for several years to achieve its goal. Fur bearing animals economically benefit many communities and ensures the tradition of trapping continues. Marten continued to be the most harvested and highest value species in Manitoba. Human-wildlife conflicts continued to increase and more resources were required to address these conflicts. As of March 31, 2012, a total of 35 species including 10 plants, four butterflies, one amphibian, three birds and seven mammals have been listed as Extirpated (eight), Endangered (12) or

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Threatened (15) by regulation under Manitoba’s The Endangered Species Act. Species added during this reporting period included three plants, two birds, and one mammal. Several habitat stewardship projects were delivered throughout Manitoba. The Habitat Stewardship Program provided matching support for these projects including several projects delivered co-operatively by Manitoba Conservation and Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation. In 2011, Manitoba celebrated the 50th year of the wildlife management area (WMA) program in Manitoba. The highlight was the designation of the 660 hectare Ewonchuk WMA in the Interlake, which brought the total number of WMAs in Manitoba to 82, encompassing some 2.2 million hectares (or 5.4 million acres). Department staff made a significant contribution to the Watchable Wildlife program by identifying and prioritizing sites for development and ensuring the appropriateness and accuracy of the interpretive material. Inventory and monitoring of Manitoba’s flora and fauna – particularly rare species, or groups of species using similar habitats – provides important baseline information on the status of the species and their habitat. Each year Manitoba Conservation and its partners implement recovery and management efforts for many species of conservation concern. Manitoba citizens are essential to the success of this program because about half of all known occurrences of these species are on private land. The Manitoba Conservation Data Centre (CDC) received the 2011 Conservation Impact Award from the NatureServe network. This international award recognized the Manitoba CDC’s success in maximizing the use of its information on species at risk to contribute to effective, proactive conservation activities that secure, protect, and manage habitat in partnership with conservation organizations, industry, and landowners. Challenges facing wildlife in Manitoba over the next five years include the management of human-wildlife conflict, disease, endangered species, game and fur species, and fostering a greater appreciation of wildlife and their habitat among an increasingly urbanized society.

There are new opportunities to engagement with and learn from First Nations and Metis communities to collaboratively management of wildlife. Youth increasingly learn online therefore the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch will improve its website and better share biodiversity information from its Conservation Data Centre.

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Contents The Five-Year Report (reporting period 2007 – 2012) ................................................................................ 10

Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch Staff and Programs ............................................................. 10

Administration .................................................................................................................................... 11

Game, Fur and Problem Wildlife Management .................................................................................. 11

Habitat Management and Ecosystem Monitoring .............................................................................. 11

Biodiversity Conservation ................................................................................................................... 12

Administration ............................................................................................................................................ 13

Legislation ............................................................................................................................................... 13

Wildlife Licences and Permits ............................................................................................................. 14

Committee on the International Trade of Endangered Species Permits ............................................ 16

Game, Fur and Problem Wildlife Management .......................................................................................... 17

Hunter Education .................................................................................................................................... 17

Hunting Management ............................................................................................................................. 17

Big Game Monitoring Program ............................................................................................................... 20

Aerial Surveys ...................................................................................................................................... 20

Big Game Hunter Questionnaires ....................................................................................................... 20

Biological Specimen Collection ........................................................................................................... 21

Diseases in Wildlife ................................................................................................................................. 21

Bovine Tuberculosis ............................................................................................................................ 21

Chronic Wasting Disease ..................................................................................................................... 23

Furbearer Management .......................................................................................................................... 24

Furbearer Education and Research ..................................................................................................... 27

Problem Wildlife ..................................................................................................................................... 28

Waterfowl Crop Damage Prevention Program ....................................................................................... 30

Biodiversity, Habitat and Endangered Species ........................................................................................... 32

Endangered Species Biodiversity Fund ................................................................................................... 32

Environmental Reviews........................................................................................................................... 32

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Critical Wildlife Habitat Program ............................................................................................................ 32

Habitat Stewardship Program ................................................................................................................. 33

Mixed-grass Prairie Habitat Stewardship Project ................................................................................... 33

Mixed-grass Prairie Inventory Component ............................................................................................. 33

Mixed-grass Prairie Grazing Component ................................................................................................ 34

Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve ...................................................................................................... 34

Wildlife Lands Program ........................................................................................................................... 36

Wildlife Management Areas ................................................................................................................... 36

Land Management and Use .................................................................................................................... 37

Watchable Wildlife .................................................................................................................................. 37

Manitoba Heritage Marsh Program ........................................................................................................ 37

The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation .......................................................................................... 40

North American Waterfowl Management Plan .................................................................................. 41

Species at Risk ......................................................................................................................................... 42

Watersheds ............................................................................................................................................. 42

Habitat Mitigation ................................................................................................................................... 42

Biodiversity Conservation ....................................................................................................................... 43

Inventory and Monitoring Program ........................................................................................................ 43

Rare Plant Surveys .............................................................................................................................. 43

Breeding Bird Surveys ......................................................................................................................... 44

Threatened Grassland Birds Monitoring ............................................................................................. 44

Piping Plover Surveys .......................................................................................................................... 45

Nocturnal Owl Surveys ........................................................................................................................ 45

Great Gray Owl Monitoring ................................................................................................................ 46

Manitoba Salamander Surveys ........................................................................................................... 46

Wild Species Conservation Status Assessment Program ........................................................................ 47

Endangered Species Advisory Committee .......................................................................................... 47

Federal-Provincial Initiatives under Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada ............. 47

The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada ...................................................... 47

Report on the General Status of Wild Species in Canada ................................................................... 48

Biodiversity Convention Office ........................................................................................................... 48

Recovery and Management Program ..................................................................................................... 48

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The National Recovery Working Group .............................................................................................. 48

Western Prairie Fringed-orchid Recovery ........................................................................................... 49

Small White Lady’s-slipper Recovery .................................................................................................. 49

Western Silvery Aster Recovery .......................................................................................................... 49

Other Plant Species at Risk Recovery Programs ................................................................................. 49

Piping Plover Recovery Action Group ................................................................................................. 50

Peregrine Falcon Recovery .................................................................................................................. 50

Burrowing Owl Recovery Activities ..................................................................................................... 50

Ferruginous Hawk Recovery Activities ................................................................................................ 51

Boreal Woodland Caribou ................................................................................................................... 51

Wood Bison ......................................................................................................................................... 52

Butterfly and Moth Species at Risk Recovery ..................................................................................... 52

Northern Prairie Skink ......................................................................................................................... 53

Conservation Data Centre ....................................................................................................................... 53

Conservation Data Centre Highlights in the reporting period include: .............................................. 55

Demonstrated benefits of these additions and improvements include: ............................................ 55

Outreach Activities .................................................................................................................................. 56

Adventure Learning Program – Leadership Camp .............................................................................. 56

General Extension ............................................................................................................................... 56

Status of Species Identified in the Wildlife Act ........................................................................................... 58

Big Game Animals ................................................................................................................................... 58

Barren-ground Caribou ....................................................................................................................... 58

Elk ........................................................................................................................................................ 58

Moose ................................................................................................................................................. 59

White-tailed Deer................................................................................................................................ 60

Black Bear ............................................................................................................................................ 60

Gray and Red Wolves .......................................................................................................................... 61

Fur Bearing Animals ................................................................................................................................ 61

Badger ................................................................................................................................................. 61

Beaver ................................................................................................................................................. 62

Bobcat ................................................................................................................................................. 62

Coyote ................................................................................................................................................. 62

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Fisher ................................................................................................................................................... 62

Arctic Fox ............................................................................................................................................. 62

Red Fox ................................................................................................................................................ 63

Lynx ..................................................................................................................................................... 63

Marten ................................................................................................................................................ 63

Mink .................................................................................................................................................... 63

Muskrat ............................................................................................................................................... 63

Otter .................................................................................................................................................... 63

Raccoon ............................................................................................................................................... 64

Red Squirrel ......................................................................................................................................... 64

Prairie Long-tailed Weasel .................................................................................................................. 64

Short-tailed Weasel ............................................................................................................................. 64

Wolverine ............................................................................................................................................ 64

Upland Game Birds ................................................................................................................................. 65

Grouse ................................................................................................................................................. 65

Ptarmigan ............................................................................................................................................ 65

Gray Partridge ..................................................................................................................................... 65

Wild Turkey ......................................................................................................................................... 66

Ring-necked Pheasants ....................................................................................................................... 66

Migratory Game Birds ............................................................................................................................. 66

Ducks ................................................................................................................................................... 67

Geese .................................................................................................................................................. 68

Amphibians and Reptiles ........................................................................................................................ 69

Red-sided Garter Snake ...................................................................................................................... 69

Protected Species.................................................................................................................................... 69

Cougar ................................................................................................................................................. 69

Wood Bison ......................................................................................................................................... 69

Northern Prairie Skink ......................................................................................................................... 70

Status of Species Identified in The Endangered Species Act ....................................................................... 71

Endangered Species: ............................................................................................................................... 72

Baird’s Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii) .............................................................................................. 72

Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) ................................................................................................... 72

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Eskimo Curlew (Numenius borealis) ................................................................................................... 72

Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) ............................................................................................ 73

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) ................................................................................................... 73

Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) .................................................................................................... 73

Ross’s Gull (Rhodostethia rosea) ......................................................................................................... 74

Whooping Crane (Grus americana) .................................................................................................... 74

Uncas Skipper (Hesperia uncas) .......................................................................................................... 74

Small White Lady’s-slipper (Cypripedium candidum) ......................................................................... 75

Western Prairie Fringed-orchid (Platanthera praeclara) .................................................................... 75

Great Plains Ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes magnicamporum) ............................................................... 75

Threatened Species: ................................................................................................................................ 75

Great Plains Toad (Bufo cognatus) ...................................................................................................... 75

Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) ....................................................................................................... 76

Sprague’s Pipit (Anthus Spragueii) ...................................................................................................... 76

Dakota Skipper (Hesperia dacotae) .................................................................................................... 76

Ottoe Skipper (Hesperia ottoe) ........................................................................................................... 76

Boreal Woodland Caribou (Rangifer tarandus Caribou) ..................................................................... 77

Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) ...................................................................................................... 77

Polar Bear (Ursus maritmus) ............................................................................................................... 77

Buffalo Grass (Buchloë dactyloides) .................................................................................................... 78

Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) ............................................................................................ 78

Culver’s-root (Veronicastrum virginicum) ........................................................................................... 78

Hairy Prairie Clover (Dalea villosa)...................................................................................................... 79

Riddell’s Goldenrod (Solidago riddellii) ............................................................................................... 79

Western Silvery Aster (Symphyotrieum sericeum) ............................................................................. 79

Western Spiderwort (Tradescantia occidentalis) ................................................................................ 79

Extirpated Species: .................................................................................................................................. 79

Going Forward — The Next Five Years ....................................................................................................... 81

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List of Tables

Table 1 – Provincial Permits Issued under The Wildlife Act for the Five-Year Period 2007-2011 ............ 15 Table 2 – Hunting Licences Sold 2007/08 – 2011/12 ................................................................................. 19 Table 3 – Combined hunter harvested, active removal and live-captured cervids in GHAs 23 and 23A ... 22 Table 4 - RMEA Elk Population Estimates ................................................................................................ 22 Table 5 - Summary of Samples Tested as Part of Active CWD Surveillance in Manitoba ........................ 24 Table 6 - Average Number of Trapping Licences Issued ........................................................................... 25 Table 7 - Average Annual Trapper-Harvested Fur Species ........................................................................ 25 Table 8 - Average Annual Total Value of Trapper-Harvested Pelts ........................................................... 26 Table 9 - Summary of Problem Beaver Subsidies Paid in 2007/08 - 2011/12............................................ 29 Table 10 - Annual Federal and Provincial Contributions to Program Operating Budget ........................... 30 Table 11 - Manitoba Heritage Marshes ....................................................................................................... 38 Table 12 - Heritage Marsh Program - Project Highlights ........................................................................... 39 Table 13 - Summary of Nocturnal Owl Survey Results 2007 – 2012......................................................... 45

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The Five-Year Report (reporting period 2007 – 2012) The Five-Year Report to the Legislature on Wildlife reviews the period between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2012. The report is a requirement of The Wildlife Act. The Act specifies that the report include: • A review of wildlife management programs and an assessment of their effectiveness • An analysis of trends in, and a forecast of demands for, the use of the wildlife resource • An evaluation of the capability of the wildlife resource in the province to meet anticipated

demands • A review of the status in the province of the animals listed under Schedule A and by

regulation of The Wildlife Act The discussion on the status of wildlife in Manitoba is based on the best available information for each species. For some species, a great deal is known, while for others, very little data may be available. Wildlife populations are dynamic and considerable change may be experienced from year to year in a given population. This report reviews general trends over the past five years and identifies issues that may be of significant concern in the next five years. This report has further included a review of the status of species listed under The Endangered Species Act.

Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch Staff and Programs The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch is committed to carrying out the responsibilities as established in The Wildlife Act and The Endangered Species Act of Manitoba. The branch manages wildlife resources to conserve biological diversity, including species and ecosystems within the context of the principles of sustainable development. Many organizational changes affected the branch during the reporting period, and by the end of the reporting period the branch was comprised of three sections: Administration; Game, Fur and Problem Wildlife Management; Biodiversity, Habitat and Endangered Species. Regional Wildlife Managers and Biologists reported to the Director of the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch starting in May 2010. Also in 2010, the former Biodiversity Conservation Section and the Habitat Management and Ecosystem Monitoring Section were amalgamated. Towards the later part of the reporting period (January 2012) Manitoba Conservation was combined with Water Stewardship, and the branch name was shortened to the Wildlife Branch. However, for this five-year report will use the earlier department, branch and section names.

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Administration The Administration section encompasses the office of the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Director, Legislative Unit, Branch Administrative Unit, and Marketing and Communications Specialist. The section, together with branch section managers, provides direction and leadership to branch policy and procedures, program direction and co-ordination, legislative development, marketing and communication strategies, scientific management and co-ordination and estimate preparation, budget allocation, control and management.

Game, Fur and Problem Wildlife Management The objectives of the Game, Fur and Problem Wildlife Management section are to: • Assess the status of big game, game bird and furbearer populations, conduct consultations

with clients and Manitoba Conservation staff, and recommend hunting and trapping seasons and bag limits to the Conservation Minister

• Develop provincial guidelines and strategies for deer, elk, moose, black bear and wolf management

• Develop and oversee policies and guidelines related to the management of the harvest of big game and game birds by resident and non-resident hunters

• Create an annual hunting guide and a trapping guide, in which the public can find all the necessary information on hunting and trapping seasons and additional related regulations

• Develop and co-ordinate implementation of policies and programs relating to human-wildlife conflicts and captive native wildlife

• Ensure the safety of people and prevent or reduce property damage from wildlife • Prepare recommendations as required relating to legislation, regulations, policy and public

information in all areas of the section’s responsibilities

Habitat Management and Ecosystem Monitoring Habitat Management and Ecosystem Monitoring section is responsible for issues and projects that deal with wildlife habitat. Habitat includes all the life-requirements of a living organism, including food, shelter and water. • Wildlife habitat is present on both Crown and private lands. The economic and social well-

being of Manitobans is dependent on the sustainable use of these habitats. The objective of habitat management is to secure, manage and conserve wildlife habitat on Crown and private lands, through:

: • Recommending and drafting revisions to regulations, policy and legislation

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• Co-operating with government agencies, industry, non-government organizations and individual landowners on management and stewardship programs

• Participating in the environmental assessment review process • Contributing to the land-use rationalization and allocation process • Advising on sustainable development initiatives

Biodiversity Conservation Current objectives mirror the branch’s commitment to the principles of sustainable development, to the conservation of biodiversity and to integrated ecosystem management. The section’s objectives are to: • Develop and maintain an integrated database on the status and occurrence of wildlife, plant

communities and managed areas in Manitoba • Co-ordinate and participate in the inventory and monitoring of species of conservation

concern, species at risk, and plant communities • Assess the status of all Manitoba native animal and plant species in conjunction with other

government and non-government agencies, as well as concerned individuals • Develop provincial and national recovery and management strategies and guidelines for

species of conservation concern • Prepare recommendations as required relating to legislation, regulations, policy and public

information in all areas of the section’s responsibilities • Issue permits under The Wildlife Act, The Endangered Species Act, and the Convention on

International Trade in Endangered Species • Serve as secretariat for the Endangered Species Advisory Committee • Provide biodiversity data and management recommendations to stakeholders, including

landowners and managers, industry, conservation organizations, researchers, provincial and federal government departments and agencies, municipalities and interested members of the public

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Administration

Legislation During the period covered by this report, two legislative initiatives occurred –The Wildlife Amendment Act and The Polar Bear Protection Amendment Act. The Wildlife Amendment Act: In June, 2010, minor amendments were enacted to clean up wording and to also re-define hunters from out of country. In the past, a person from another country was defined as a “non-resident alien”. Through the amendment, they are now referred to as ‘foreign residents’. Other minor amendments were simply done to correct grammatical errors. The Polar Bear Protection Amendment Act: The Polar Bear Protection Act was first proclaimed in 2002. Since that time, the Manitoba government pledged $31 million to the Assiniboine Park Zoo to build a new world-class facility called the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre. In order to establish this state of the art facility, amendments were made to the Act. On December 9, 2011, The Polar Bear Protection Amendment Act received royal assent. These amendments included provisions that identified the operator of the Conservation Centre to be the Assiniboine Park Conservancy. This will be done through an agreement reached between the Province and the Conservancy. The amendments also established an advisory committee to provide recommendations on the centre to the Minister. They also strengthen the legislation so that injured or orphaned polar bear cubs, rescued from the wild in Manitoba, will always remain the property of the province of Manitoba regardless of where they are sent. Provisions were also added to ensure that orphaned polar bears will only be given to a facility through an agreement between the government of Manitoba and the rehabilitator. This will ensure that such bears receive the best care and appropriate enrichment throughout their lives in captivity. Regulating making powers were also added to establish high minimum facility and care standards for captive polar bears. These include educational components to increase public awareness of the effects of climate change on wild polar bears and what actions they should take to address it.

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Regulations: Many regulations have been registered throughout the five-year period. The majority of regulatory amendments involved annual hunting and trapping season setting changes. Below are some highlighted regulations. Regulations under The Wildlife Act: Designation of Wild Animals Regulation: In 2009, grizzly bear, muskox and swift fox were all added as “protected” species under The Wildlife Act. Designation of Wildlife Lands Regulation: In the five-year period, eight regulatory amendments occurred that made changes to wildlife management areas (WMAs) and notably include:

· In 2009, the creation of Observation Point WMA, Whitemouth Bog WMA, Kaskatamagan and Kaskatamagan Sipi WMA

· In 2011, the creation of Ewonchuk WMA in the Interlake

Hunter Education Regulation: Amendments were completed to create the Hunter Education Regulation resulting in a new requirement starting January 1, 2012 for all hunters to possess hunter education certification prior to purchasing a hunting licence. Moose Conservation Closure Regulation: A new regulation was created in June 2011, that closed moose hunting in specific game hunting areas on the east and west side of Manitoba. This closure was required to conserve populations of moose that were rapidly decreasing from disease, predation and hunting pressures. The areas, found in and around the Duck Mountains as well as GHA 26 on the east side, were closed to all hunters (including aboriginal rights holders) to allow moose populations to return to previous levels. Regulations under The Endangered Species Act: Threatened, Endangered and Extirpated Species Regulation: In 2007, one bird and three plant species (Sprague’s pipit, hairy prairie clover, buffalograss and common hackleberry) were added to the “Threatened Species” list and the Ross’s gull was declared as an “Endangered Species.” In 2008, the polar bear was declared as a “Threatened Species.”

Wildlife Licences and Permits Changes continued in the development of permits and licences, standardization of terms, conditions and legislated authority. In addition, regulations continued to be reviewed annually to eliminate obsolete or unnecessary terms.

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A summary of the permit types and the number of permits issued by year during the reporting period is provided below as Table 1. Table 1 – Provincial Permits Issued under The Wildlife Act for the Five-Year Period 2007-2011

Permit or Licence Type Code 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 Amphibian and Reptiles AR 1 1 1 1 1 Dead Wild Animal Possession Permit (educational)

PD 0 5 7 6 8

Dead Wild Animal Possession Permit (personal)

PD 88 113 127 77 108

Applications Denied (dead animal) 3 3 8 2 2 Disabled Hunter Crossbow Permit (permanent)

0 46 52 8 7

Applications Denied (crossbow) 0 14 12 54 33 Disabled Hunter Permit (permanent) DH 32 51 61 20 35 Disabled Hunter Permit (discharge firearm)

DHF 1 7 3 4 4

Disabled Hunter Permit (revoked) 0 0 0 0 0 Applications Denied (disabled hunter)

21 18 13 18 10

Dog Trainer’s Licence (non-resident)

DT 2 2 2 2 2

Dog Training Club Licence DTC 3 2 3 3 2 Exotic Animal Import Permit EIP 0 0 0 0 0 Field Trial Permit FT 1 0 0 0 0 Hunter Education Certificates HEC 0 771 1246 1060 1786 Applications Denied (hunter education)

0 25 86 122 273

Hunting Guide Licence HGL 1667 1373 1283 1262 1210 Applications Denied (hunting guide)

0 0 1 3 1

Live Exotic Animal Possession Permit

EPL 0 0 0 0 0

Live Wild Animal Possession Permit

PL 9 12 9 10 4

Power Boat in Marsh Permit PB 0 1 1 1 0 Serve Meat of Wild Animal Permit WM 3 2 3 4 6

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Species At Risk Permit SAR 4 2 3 5 6 Use Vehicle Off Designated Route Permit

DR 0 0 0 0 0

Wild Animal Capture Permit CP 3 4 4 3 3 Wild Animal Export Permit XP 1748 1308 1071 974 903 Wild Animal Import Permit IP 12 18 12 17 21 Wild Animal Kill Permit KP 1 3 1 1 13 Wild Animal Part Dealer Permit DW 33 33 34 37 33 Wildlife Farm Licence WFL 4 2 1 5 0 Wildlife Management Area Use Permit

WMA 15 25 35 35 32

Wildlife Scientific Permit WSP 27 26 13 20 15 Applications Denied (all others) 0 0 0 0 0 Game Bird Farm Licence GBF 7 8 5 6 2 Game Bird Shooting Preserve Licence

0 0 0 0 0

Taxidermist Licence TX 65 51 62 62 57 Tanner’s Licence TN 8 5 7 8 7 Total (provincial permits): 3758 3931 4166 3830 4584

Committee on the International Trade of Endangered Species Permits Committee on the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) permits are issued under the authority of an international agreement that contributes to the protection of species of animals and plants considered to be endangered and threatened, by regulating and monitoring their use in international trade. Currently, there are more than 171 countries, including Canada, that have become signatories to the CITES agreement. This program is controlled by the federal government in Canada under the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act. In 2007, Manitoba issued 1,123 CITES Export Permits. Manitoba participated in the delivery of this legislation in the interest of providing service to Manitoba citizens. However, effective January 1, 2008, Manitoba Conservation discontinued the issuance of the CITES Export Permits. After that date, they were issued by the federal government CITES Management Authority.

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Game, Fur and Problem Wildlife Management

Hunter Education Hunter education is an important component of Manitoba Conservation’s managed hunting programming and demonstrates the department’s commitment to safe and ethical hunting. The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch assumed responsibility for administering the Hunter Education Program in 2006. Previously, it was administered by Regional Operations. All jurisdictions in North America require prospective new hunters to enrol in a hunter education course. In Manitoba, the requirement for hunters to be graduates of a hunter education course is mandated by provincial law under The Wildlife Act. In 2007, the Hunter Education Regulation came into force, which mandated that beginning January 1, 2012, all hunters must possess a valid hunter education certificate or equivalent in order to obtain a hunting licence. Since 1998, the Hunter Education Program has been delivered, on behalf of the Branch, by the Manitoba Wildlife Federation through a formal agreement with Manitoba Conservation. This arrangement has enhanced Manitoba’s ability to deliver this vital program to interested individuals. Training courses are offered in both rural and urban locations. Each year, more than 2,000 hunters graduate from the program. The Manitoba Wildlife Federation and Manitoba Conservation, in partnership, continues to investigate new and better ways of training and educating youth and new adult hunters about Manitoba’s exceptional outdoor recreational hunting opportunities.

Hunting Management Hunting is an important part of Manitoba’s rich natural heritage. Manitoba Conservation is committed to maintaining healthy and sustainable game populations and to provide new and expanded hunting opportunities for all Manitobans. During the reporting period, initiatives such as the introduction of new or extended seasons for big game and game birds, reduced licence fees for youth, expansion of Sunday hunting for big game and increased youth hunting opportunities (Youth Wild Turkey Season and Youth Muzzleloader Deer Season) were introduced. Resident game bird license sales have remained relatively stable; recovering from the precipitous declines of the past two decades. Efforts to generate a positive growth trend continued through expanding hunting opportunities and the formation of partnerships to deliver hunter recruitment programs. Initiatives directed at increasing opportunities for youth continued. Young hunters aged 12 to 17, who had graduated from the Hunter Education Program, were able to purchase a special Youth Hunting Licence Package for $10.00. The package entitles them to harvest one deer, in any deer

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season, until the tag is filled, and to harvest and possess upland game birds in accordance with bag limit and season restrictions. More than 3,000 Youth Hunting Licence Packages are purchased annually (see Table 2). Youth hunting provisions were extended to big game draw seasons. This allowed a qualifying young hunter, not named on the draw application, to hunt and share the bag limit with an adult supervisor who was successful in the draw. The Manitoba Mentored Hunt Program continued and expanded greatly in distribution and number of hunts over the last five years. This program, delivered by several conservation partners, provides qualifying resident youth and adults with an opportunity to learn about the traditions of game bird and big game hunting. Early in 2012, a survey of past mentored hunt events was conducted. Results show that 76 percent of participants have continued to hunt waterfowl since they attended the program, and 58 percent of these participants have gone on to recruit an average of three other hunters making this a very effective hunter recruitment program. In 2011, due to declining populations, moose conservation closures were implemented for First Nation, Métis and licenced hunting in GHAs 13, 13A, 14, 14A, 18, 18A, 18B, 18C. In GHA 26, a moose conservation closure was implemented, due to declining populations, for licenced hunting. A partial closure was implemented for First Nations in GHA 26. The provincial white-tailed deer population declined in 2011 as a result of severe winter mortality. Manitoba Conservation responded to this decline by removing the second deer licence in deer hunting zones that were significantly impacted. Big game and game bird hunting licences sales declined from 88,000 to 75,000 over the reporting period (see Table 2). Declines in resident moose licence sales and foreign resident game bird and deer licence sales were the most notable. Resident licence sales have remained stable over the five-year period, with the exception of moose licences sold. The location of outfitting activities and the foreign resident big game harvest in each Game Hunting Area (GHA) are regulated by policies and procedures for allocating foreign resident deer, bear, moose and barren-ground caribou hunting licences. These policies and procedures help to create stability in the non-resident hunting industry, while ensuring that the demands of priority users are met. These policies and procedures were amended to further help stabilize the industry and provide more opportunity for First Nations people interested in wildlife outfitting to enter the non-resident hunting industry. By the end of the reporting period, some 5,000 deer, bear, moose and caribou licences were allocated to lodges and outfitters for sale to foreign resident clients.

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Table 2 – Hunting Licences Sold 2007/08 – 2011/12

Type of Licence 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 Game Bird Resident 11,752 11,450 10,861 11,354 11,257 Non-resident 654 737 737 673 639 Foreign resident 5,326 4,658 4,236 3,996 3,550 Wild Turkey

Resident 799 1,109 1,066 971 825 Resident – Youth 73 92 82 74 75 Moose

Resident 4,410 4,393 4,243 3,500 3,353 Resident – Conservation 261 151 146 115 107 Non-resident 20 20 13 14 21 Foreign resident 182 170 151 124 129 Elk

Resident 2,675 2,693 2,718 2,694 2,684 Caribou

Resident 529 497 509 547 571 Resident – Second 257 229 282 334 340 Foreign resident / Non-resident 251 291 234 200 184 Black Bear

Resident 1,454 1,546 1,630 1,650 1,632 Non-resident 61 61 49 74 61 Foreign resident 2,078 1,919 1,593 1,499 1,453 Deer

Resident 41,979 42,800 42,499 42,075 41,743 Resident – Second 9,242 9,579 5,725 5,582 1,851 Resident – Third 205 222 193 218 200 Non-resident 795 790 777 781 774 Foreign resident 1,253 1,099 1,593 703 570 Youth Hunting Licence Package

Resident 3,623 3,600 3,337 3,436 3,269 Replacement 133 121 112 114 69 Grand Total 88,012 88,227 81,993 80,614 75,364

Notes:

1. Statistics are as reported by March 31 of the licensing year.

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2. Non-resident caribou licences, valid for both Canadian and non-Canadian hunters, are included with the foreign resident totals.

3. Resident Conservation moose licences are issued as a 2 Licence/1 Tag Package (107 packages = 214 licences/107 tags).

Big Game Monitoring Program Understanding population dynamics is essential to managing big game. Manitoba Conservation conducts surveys to better estimate wildlife populations. The survey methods used in Manitoba include:

• Winter aerial inventories to estimate animal abundance, sex and age composition, recruitment and distribution

• Mail-out questionnaires to licensed hunters to estimate legal harvest levels • Biological specimen collection to assess relative health, reproductive status and disease

condition of some species

Aerial Surveys Advances in technology over the reporting period have allowed improvements to the aerial inventory program resulting in greater efficiencies and accuracy. The cost of each big game aerial-survey budget varies annually according to the size of the areas and species surveyed. These variables determine to number of surveys conducted each year. The budget is provided primarily from the Wildlife Enhancement Initiative. Over the reporting period, 30 surveys were flown (northwest region – four moose, and two white-tailed deer; northeast region – three barren-ground caribou; western region – six moose, one elk; three white-tailed deer and two gray wolf; central region – two moose, one elk; eastern region – four moose, one gray wolf and one elk ).

Big Game Hunter Questionnaires Over 10,000 questionnaires are mailed out annually to resident hunters to estimate the number of days hunted and the number of animals taken in each game hunting area for each hunting season. In 2008, in an effort to reduce cost and the use of paper, an on-line reporting system was introduced. The mail-out questionnaire was re-instated in 2011 due to low on-line response rates. Information on abundance of black bears and white-tailed deer is also collected, using an application of new analytical methods. This has been extremely useful in documenting (at no

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additional cost) the gradual increase in black bears and the variability of white-tailed deer numbers in Manitoba.

Biological Specimen Collection Improvements in the procedures for attaining direct information on the status of big game populations by means of aerial surveys have proven to be most effective in evaluating the health of deer, elk moose and wolves. However, specific information about the health of animal populations is often sought through a big game sample collection program. This is especially true for elusive species like black bears. A biological specimen collection program was used to evaluate the reproductive status of female black bears for many years. This program was discontinued in late 2010 because data gathered yielded consistent results over the long-term study. To better understand what percentage of the wolf diet is represented by moose, the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch has partnered with the University of Manitoba to determine the diet of wolves through stable isotope analysis. The information obtained from this four-year study will be invaluable in better understanding what impact wolves are having on moose populations in multi-prey systems. The study may be expanded in the future to include black bears.

Diseases in Wildlife

Bovine Tuberculosis Seven outbreaks of bovine tuberculosis (TB), involving 12 cattle herds, have occurred since 1991 in the Riding Mountain region. Forty-five wild elk and eleven wild white-tailed deer have also tested positive for the disease during that time. While bovine TB has little long-term effect on wild populations, wildlife may act as a reservoir host. A Bovine TB Task Group was formed, comprised of Manitoba Conservation, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI), Parks Canada Agency (PCA), with representation from the Manitoba Wildlife Federation and Manitoba Beef Producers following the discovery of bovine TB in several area cattle herds and wildlife in 2000. A Manitoba TB Management Program and implementation plan were developed by the group. The task group’s goal is to eradicate Bovine TB from the Riding Mountain region ecosystem.

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CFIA established the Riding Mountain TB Eradication Area (RMEA) consisting of game hunting areas (GHA) 23 and 23A. CFIA undertook active measures to detect and eliminate TB in livestock and reduce the spread of the disease to other areas. As a result of the suite of activities undertaken by all partners, CFIA upgraded the status of livestock in the RMEA from tuberculosis-accredited advanced (very low prevalence) to tuberculosis free as of August 31, 2006. The Bovine TB Management Program has been a success, but will have to be kept in place for several years to achieve its goal. Manitoba Conservation has participated in the following activities to address Bovine TB in the Riding Mountain area:

· Hunters have been required to submit heads and lungs from all harvested deer and elk in the area. PCA staff have been involved with active removals and live capture and blood testing of cervids within Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP). Analysis of elk and white-tailed deer samples have revealed an apparent geographic cluster or “Core Area” of bovine TB in a discreet region situated in the western portion of RMNP and GHAs 23 and 23A.

Table 3 – Combined hunter harvested, active removal and live-captured cervids in GHAs 23 and 23A

YEAR Elk - RMEA Elk - Core Area Bovine TB Positive Elk

White-Tailed Deer - RMEA

2007/08 218 99 5 323 2008/09 227 90 2 360 2009/10 172 40 0 300 2010/11 160 160 3 382 2011/12 121 70 0 352

· The Riding Mountain area elk population has been reduced through liberalized hunting opportunities (520 elk tags available per year). Active bovine TB testing (live-capture) within RMNP has also assisted in a targeted reduction within the Core Area. Both activities have helped to lower the prevalence of bovine TB in wildlife and reduce transmission of the disease between wildlife and domestic livestock. Table 4 summarizes annual aerial survey data collected by RMNP staff.

Table 4 - RMEA Elk Population Estimates

YEAR 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 Population (Elk) 2,280 2,009 2,010 1,358 1,573

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3. Barrier protection fencing for stored hay One hundred and sixty-five (165) hay-storage fence enclosures have been constructed on susceptible cattle farms in the RMEA with funding from Manitoba Conservation, MAFRI, and PCA. 4. Field Research In 2009, a PhD candidate at the University of Manitoba initiated research to understanding urban white-tailed deer movements in the greater Winnipeg area and RMNP. 5. RMNP Wildlife Laboratory Operations All biological samples collected for the bovine TB program are processed at a laboratory in RMNP operated by PCA with assistance from Manitoba Conservation. 6. Regulations Manitoba Conservation amended regulations to strengthen the prohibitions on baiting and feeding of deer and elk in the Riding Mountain area; and to require producers to remove any farm produce that is attracting cervids. Officers were also given the authority to prohibit hunting within 800 metres of an attractant.

Chronic Wasting Disease Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has been found in captive deer and/or elk in ten states in the United States – Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New York, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming, and in two Canadian provinces – Alberta and Saskatchewan. The disease has also been found in wild elk and/or deer herds in ten states – Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and in two Canadian provinces – Alberta and Saskatchewan. CWD has not been found in Manitoba. The number and distribution of infected wild and captive animals is slowly increasing in North America. Without preventative measures, there would have been a greater risk that CWD would spread to Manitoba. CWD is most effectively managed when efforts are applied before or at the time that the disease emerges, rather than after it becomes established in a given area. Manitoba Conservation does not permit the importation of any live cervid nor the possession and use of a substance that contains urine, faeces, saliva or scent glands of a cervid (i.e. attractants and scents). Enforcement of regulations restricting the import of cervid parts from other jurisdictions continued in the reporting period. Special provisions for allowing the entry of caribou and moose carcasses taken in areas of northern Saskatchewan and Ontario, Nunavut and Northwest Territories are set out in regulation.

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Manitoba Conservation, in co-operation with Manitoba Agriculture, Food, and Rural Initiatives and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, continued to implement an enhanced CWD surveillance program. Hunters were requested to submit the heads of white-tailed deer harvested in south western and southern Manitoba. This surveillance program collected and tested approximately 700 samples per year. CWD surveillance has involved the testing of approximately 300 elk and white-tailed deer samples per year. These samples were collected under the Bovine TB program in the Riding and Duck Mountain areas. Manitoba Conservation has also been involved in collecting and testing any wild cervids exhibiting signs or symptoms that may be consistent with CWD. To date, all wild cervids Manitoba Conservation has collected and tested in Manitoba have been negative for CWD. Table 5 - Summary of Samples Tested as Part of Active CWD Surveillance in Manitoba

YEAR Elk Moose Deer Mule Deer Total 2007/08 68 0 199 0 167 2008/09 48 0 168 0 216 2009/10 60 2 211 30 273 2010/11 79 1 294 0 374 2011/12 69 0 315 0 384

Furbearer Management Furbearing animals remained important to the economic well-being of many Manitobans. Trapping seasons are established annually and the furbearer management programs ensure that furs are harvested sustainably. The annual harvest of furbearers is variable and is influenced by raw fur prices, weather, environmental disturbances and the cyclic population dynamics of species like lynx and arctic fox. During this reporting period, over 7,000 licensed trappers harvested pelts totalling an annual average value of $2.1 million. This was down from the annual average of $2.9 million in the previous reporting period. In Manitoba there are two types of trapping areas: the Open Trapping Area (primarily the southern agricultural regions) and the Registered Trapline Area (the boreal forest and sub-arctic regions). Both the number of open area and registered trapline trappers increased from the previous reporting period. In most areas, beaver and raccoon could have sustained much higher harvests. The gray (timber) wolf season remained closed in Open Trapping Zone 2A to protect the packs in Riding Mountain National Park. The season for lynx trapping was not closed at their cycle low as trapping

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pressure was much reduced, in contrast to the previous two decades. Close monitoring of this and other cyclic species and species with narrow habitat tolerances will continue. The Furbearer Management Policy and Procedure Directive was revised in January 2002. Developed by trappers and department staff, the policy contains the historic elements of the Registered Trapline Program (first developed in the 1940s) and incorporates traditional community practices with contemporary sustainable furbearer management. On-going reviews and changes to the policy will address new opportunities such as alternate forms of trapline allocation and the use of trapline cabins. The registered trapline harvest accounted for about 60 percent of provincial pelt sales. The average annual sales were $938 per registered trapline and only slightly higher than that in the last reporting period ($928). This slight increase was attributed to higher prices in general and an increase in coyote harvest, despite lower harvest levels for beaver and muskrat. It should be noted that only about two-thirds of trappers who purchase licences actually sell fur in a given year. Harvest and value statistics are based on the complete fur year, which runs from September 1 to August 31 of the following year. Table 6 - Average Number of Trapping Licences Issued

Type of Licence 2006/07 – 2010/11 2001/02 – 2005/06 Open Trapping Area Licence (OA) 6,059 5,390 Registered Trapline Area Permit (RTL) 1,594 1,707 Total 7,653 7,097 Table 7 - Average Annual Trapper-Harvested Fur Species

Fur Bearing Animal Species 2006/07 – 2010/11 2001/02 – 2005/06 Badger 147 159 Bear, Black 33 39 Beaver 13,076 21,055 Bobcat 16 17 Coyote 7,835 7,460 Fisher 1,508 1,807 Fox, Arctic (including blue phase) 34 182 Fox, Red (including cross and silver phases) 1,865 2,362 Lynx 695 902 Marten 16,819 19,200 Mink 3,263 3,931 Muskrat 25,231 20,162

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Otter 983 2,331 Raccoon 2,723 2,845 Squirrel 3,695 4,570 Weasel+ 4,296 3,081 Wolf 352 301 Wolverine 42 40 + includes short-tailed, long-tailed and least weasels Table 8 - Average Annual Total Value of Trapper-Harvested Pelts

Fur Bearing Animal Species 2006/07 – 2010/11 2001/02 – 2005/06 Badger $6,501 $5,991 Bear, Black $2,787 $2,957 Beaver $277,864 $519,934 Bobcat $1,973 $3,031 Coyote $262,761 $331,291 Fisher $91,758 $79,144 Fox, Red/ Cross/ Silver $44,218 $70,976 Fox, Arctic/Blue $736 $4,012 Lynx $92,639 $138,866 Marten $997,932 $1,125,687 Mink $53,161 $75,722 Muskrat $114,162 $77,032 Otter $44,837 $366,741 Raccoon $45,476 $44,451 Squirrel $4,290 $4,876 Weasel+ $19,563 $13,433 Wolf $51,346 $34,084 Wolverine $9,882 $8,563 Total $2,121,436 $2,908,175 + includes short-tailed, long-tailed and least weasels The late onset of winter and/or warm conditions were frequent during the latter part of the reporting period, causing reduced trapper effort and harvest in the registered trapline area. The harvest of furbearing animals is also closely related to market demand. Individual species pelt prices can fluctuate considerably from year to year. Marten continued to be the most-harvested and highest-value species in Manitoba in recent years, and demonstrate a cycle of about four years.

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Harvest data were provided to consulting companies working for First Nations, other aboriginal groups, Manitoba Hydro, university graduate students, other provincial and federal government departments, and this department. The Branch continued to work closely with the Manitoba Trappers Association, First Nations and aboriginal organizations and other trapper organizations, assisting them with their special program requirements. The Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards was signed by Canada, Russia and the European Union in 1997 and has continued to safeguard the fur trade and the way of life of people living in remote parts of Manitoba where few alternate sources of income are available. The fur trade also manages beaver, raccoon, coyote and fox populations thereby minimizes human-wildlife conflicts. In addition to market forces, natural population cycles and habitat conditions also affect furbearer populations. The local loss or alteration of habitats (i.e., forestry, fire) continues to have a significant influence on the sustainable use of some species like marten, fisher, lynx and muskrat populations. Regional integrated resource management decisions continue to take into account the value of furbearers to ensure continued short and long-term sustainable harvests.

Furbearer Education and Research Manitoba provided a $54,000 annual grant to the Manitoba Trappers Association to support their work on behalf of Manitoba trappers including trapper and public education programs. This represents a major focus of the furbearer management program and includes the promotion of humane trapping techniques for both first-time and experienced trappers. During this reporting period, trapper education courses and workshops were also delivered to First Nation and other aboriginal communities. Both department and Manitoba Trappers Association staff delivered these programs. All first-time Manitoba trappers are required by regulation to either satisfactorily complete the mandatory trapper education course (or challenge exam) or to have held a trapping licence in another jurisdiction. In this reporting period, 1,141 new trappers passed the mandatory exam, a decrease from 1,343 in the previous period. However, the number of free youth trapping licences issued increased to between 142 and 204 per year. The province continued to finance and participate in the Fur Institute of Canada`s humane trap research and development program. Two traps developed by Koro Traps of Manitoba were among the ones certified for use in Canada for weasel and raccoon during this reporting period. Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch staff remained actively involved with the institute’s board of directors and committees. Branch staff were also involved with related furbearer programs of the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

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Problem Wildlife Human-wildlife conflicts continue to increase and involve more staff and effort to address them. Predator-livestock conflict caused by wolves averaged 124 complaints per year. Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) delivered the Livestock Predation Damage Compensation Program to compensate producers for losses or injuries to livestock caused by wolves, coyotes, fox, black bear or cougar. In support, the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch continued to offer a series of predator management workshops in areas of high predator/livestock conflict. The workshops promote appropriate livestock husbandry practices, teach residents how to harvest problem wolves or coyotes using approved hunting or trapping techniques, and promote non-lethal predator management techniques such as livestock guard dogs. The department entered into annual agreements with the Manitoba Trappers Association (MTA) to administer problem predator removal services. Under the terms of the agreements agricultural producers first obtain a claim number from MASC and then contact the association and request a qualified trapper to deal with their predator problem. The MTA dealt with an average of 73 referrals (MASC claims) annually and removed an average of 318 predators (30 wolves, 276 coyotes and 12 foxes) annually. Complaints of damage to agriculture crops and bales by elk and deer was stable over the reporting period (average 349/year) due to the sustained harvest of animals by licensed and First Nations hunters and the promotion of best farm management practices. The department also provided producers funding for fences to protect crops and forage in some chronic problem areas. Human-black bear conflicts increased four percent during the reporting period as did the time and effort by staff to deal with black bear related issues. The department staff were frequently called upon to trap and relocate problem bears to remote locations. On average, staff received 1,585 black bear complaints (range: 1,159 - 2,394), compared with 1,518 (range: 700 - 1,809) in the previous five-year reporting period. Previous increases in the number of problem bear reports had required a management initiative to ensure human safety and minimize property damage. The department continued to deliver its Bear Smart initiative to encourage the public to be pro-active in preventing bear problems. Techniques promoted include waste management practices, removing food attractants and precautionary measures for travelling in bear country. The Sustainable Development Initiatives Fund provided $125,000 annually to the Bear Smart program. These funds were used to deliver a public awareness campaign (workshops, highway signs, printed literature, DVDs) and initiate a

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pilot study on the viability of an automated waste management system in a user intensive, high waste volume area (Grand Beach Provincial Park). Increasing populations of migrant and resident Canada geese continued to be a concern in urban areas such as Portage la Prairie and Winnipeg. These birds damage private property, decrease water quality and create hazards for air traffic at the James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. Annual spring breeding ground goose surveys indicated that the population continued to increase in southern Manitoba. Waterfowl hunting was promoted in the rural municipalities of Rosser and MacDonald to reduce urban goose numbers and staff worked with several other near-urban municipalities to address high densities of geese during fall migration. Manitoba co-chaired the Urban Goose Working Group with Environment Canada. This group, which includes the City of Winnipeg and Winnipeg Airport Authority, was formed to address non-agricultural problems associated with urban Canada geese. Activities included reducing Canada goose nest success near high-speed traffic areas in Winnipeg and re-establishing fall geese surveys in city water bodies. Manitoba Conservation provided subsidies for problem beaver removals to municipalities and Northern Affairs community councils. Councils were reimbursed $15 for each beaver taken under the program. This increased to $20 in the winter program of 2008/09 and 2010/11. In 2011/12 the subsidy was increased to $50 per beaver. As well, trappers in several registered trapline sections were offered a subsidy to remove beaver in winter when pelts are prime and have the highest value to the fur trade. Since the inception of the program, over 129,000 problem beaver were removed during summer and winter periods, costing over $2.2 million. The annual program budget has varied from $134,000 to $405,000 in 2012/13 (Table 10). Table 9 - Summary of Problem Beaver Subsidies Paid in 2007/08 - 2011/12

Winter Extension

Summer Component

Winter Component

Total Total Beaver Removed

2007/08 $3,900 $43,845 $56,850 $104,595 6,973 2008/09 $51,990 $82,670 $134,660 7,600 2009/10 $57,585 $60,450 $118,035 7,869 2010/11 $87,870 $49,180 $137,050 8,317 2011/12 combined $390,900 7,818 Municipalities with the greatest problems with beaver over the last five years were primarily in the western region around Riding Mountain National Park and Duck Mountains. These included Mountain, Ethelbert, Grandview, Gilbert Plains and Swan River. A large subsidy expenditure was also provided to the Duck Mountain registered trapline section in an effort to stem emigration of beaver out to the surrounding municipal lands.

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In 2011/12, a Beaver Dam Removal Pilot Project was initiated, making $100,000 available to 14 rural municipalities in two chronic problem beaver areas: the West Central Zone and the Central Interlake Zone. The West Central Zone included the municipalities of Dauphin, Ethelbert, Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Mossey River and Mountain. The Central Interlake Zone included the municipalities Armstrong, Bifrost, Coldwell, Fisher, Eriksdale, Grahamdale, Siglunes and St. Laurent. Wild boar were imported into Manitoba as an agriculture diversification initiative. Fenced animals escaped and were sometimes released into the wild. Due to their destructive feeding habits, aggressive characteristics, potential for carrying diseases, and high reproductive capability, these feral pigs pose a serious threat to public safety, private property, the hog industry and native wildlife and natural habitat. An accurate feral wild boar population estimate is not possible due to their secretive and nocturnal nature. Manitoba Conservation declared the province a Wild Boar Control Area, enabling the hunting and killing of escaped wild boar anywhere in the province at any time of the year.

Waterfowl Crop Damage Prevention Program The Canada-Manitoba Waterfowl Crop Damage Prevention Program has operated since 1972. It is available to all Manitoba farmers to help prevent crop damage by feeding waterfowl. The program, operated by department staff, assists farmers in scaring waterfowl from unharvested crops by providing materials for scarecrows and deploying noise-making devices such as propane scare cannons and pyrotechnics. In priority program areas, such as the Oak Hammock Marsh, the Pasquia Project Area (The Pas) and Lidcliff Marsh, the department undertook proactive scaring activities and provided alternate feeding sites, including lure crops and bait stations, to attract and hold waterfowl. The program operated two bait stations, one at Lidcliff Marsh near Binscarth and the other in the Saskeram Wildlife Management Area (WMA) near The Pas. A total of eight Crown land lure crops were planted and maintained at important chronic damage areas, the Oak Hammock Marsh WMA and Grant’s Lake WMA. Under the terms of the federal-provincial agreement, the federal government maintained their annual contributions to the program of about $150,000 per year. Manitoba matched federal funding and provided additional funding above the cost-shared amount. The level of annual provincial funding averaged just over $200,000 during the reporting period. Table 10 - Annual Federal and Provincial Contributions to Program Operating Budget

Fiscal Year Federal Provincial Total Budget

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Contribution Contribution 2007/08 $ 151.0 $ 201.2 $ 352.2 2008/09 $ 151.0 $ 203.4 $ 354.4 2009/10 $ 151.0 $ 203.0 $ 354.0 2010/11 $ 151.0 $ 203.0 $ 354.0 2011/12 $ 151.0 $ 203.0 $ 354.0

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Biodiversity, Habitat and Endangered Species The former Biodiversity Conservation Section and Habitat Management and Ecosystem Monitoring Section were amalgamated during the 2010/11 fiscal year. The new section was named Biodiversity, Habitat and Endangered Species.

Endangered Species Biodiversity Fund

Manitoba’s new Endangered Species and Biodiversity Fund was established in 2010/11 and funded eligible inventory and monitoring projects for species of conservation concern to fulfill the mandate of Manitoba’s Endangered Species Act. Seven species at risk inventory and monitoring projects were provided with a total of $125,000 in 2010/11. Eight projects received the same total amount of funding in 2011/12. Through the fund, these projects provided inventory and monitoring data used for assessment and reporting on the status of species of conservation concern. Funded projects provided a total of 6,595 species observations in the first two years, of which 4,041 were entered into the Manitoba Conservation Data Centre. An additional 44,007 woodland caribou telemetry points were provided by an ESBF project. By working together with conservation partners, the fund helped to conserve species at risk and reduce the loss of biodiversity in our province by collecting valuable information on species at risk.

Environmental Reviews The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch participated in the environmental assessment of over 300 development proposals, pre-screening and Crown land sales each year. Major projects reviewed included annual forest harvest proposals for Louisiana-Pacific and Tolko. Proposed lease sales of Crown oil and gas rights and hydro-electric power development were another source of increased activity requiring review and comment.

Critical Wildlife Habitat Program This cost-shared program was managed by Manitoba Conservation in co-operation with the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation which provided banking and administrative support. The Critical Wildlife Habitat Program worked with a variety of other agencies on a project specific basis. The program’s goal was to identify, preserve and manage remaining critical habitats, especially native grasslands and habitats of unique, rare and endangered species. From 2007 to

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2012 the branch continued to deliver integrated projects through this program, many of which were supported by the federal habitat stewardship program for species at risk.

Habitat Stewardship Program Manitoba Conservation delivered several habitat stewardship projects throughout Manitoba. The Habitat Stewardship Program provided matching support for these projects including several projects delivered co-operatively by Manitoba Conservation and Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation. These projects included mixed-grass and tall-grass prairie initiatives, species at risk inventories and prairie and riparian conservation agreements. Stewardship projects for piping plover and woodland caribou also received matching funding from the program. Between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2012, Manitoba Conservation and the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation cooperatively invested $9,692,500 in habitat stewardship projects in Manitoba. This figure included cash contributions from this program ($3,763,600) and cash and in-kind contributions from Manitoba Conservation and the corporation ($4,907,700), the Critical Wildlife Habitat Program ($369,200), and the Manitoba Conservation Data Centre ($128,400). Other agencies that provided significant contributions towards Manitoba stewardship projects included Manitoba Hydro, Manitoba Model Forest, University of Manitoba, Nature Manitoba and the Portage Natural History Group.

Mixed-grass Prairie Habitat Stewardship Project Mixed-grass prairie once covered approximately 24 million hectares in Canada, from Alberta to south-western Manitoba. Today less than 25 percent of this community remains in its native state. The comprehensive inventory of mixed-grass prairie in southern Manitoba continued as a priority Critical Wildlife Habitat Program project. Manitoba’s mixed-grass prairie provides recovery habitat for many threatened and endangered grassland birds, such as the Sprague’s pipit, Baird’s sparrow, ferruginous hawk, loggerhead shrike and burrowing owl. Funding for this project was provided by Manitoba Conservation, Critical Wildlife Habitat Program and the Habitat Stewardship Program.

Mixed-grass Prairie Inventory Component The information collected by the Mixed-grass Prairie Inventory is used to focus habitat conservation efforts, raise landowner awareness of the value of prairie lands and guide future management and stewardship activities. A total of 7,752 hectares were added to the inventory database from April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2012. Long term trends and threats to mixed-grass

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prairie habitat were assessed by revisiting previously inventoried sites, an additional 9,713 hectares. These evaluations included interviews with 44 landowners to document their management practices and to assess their awareness of prairie conservation initiatives and species at risk in Manitoba. Information from the Mixed-grass Prairie Inventory Project was used to guide the development of other initiatives in the mixed-grass prairie area of Manitoba including protection of prairie habitat on private lands through conservation agreements. Inventories showed that inappropriate grazing is one of the main threats to the remaining mixed-grass prairie habitat in agro-Manitoba and the wildlife species that they support. Data collected by the inventory was also used to identify the quality of sites where landowners were interested in implementing grazing management.

Mixed-grass Prairie Grazing Component The Mixed-grass Prairie Grazing component is also jointly funded by Manitoba Conservation, Critical Wildlife Habitat Program and the Habitat Stewardship Program. It promotes agricultural activities that incorporate wise land stewardship and biodiversity conservation by entering into agreements with landowners to implement the twice-over rotational grazing system on native grasslands. Between 2007 and 2012, a total of 41 agreements were signed with private landowners to implement twice-over rotational grazing on over 4,833 hectares. Various extension activities including a tour and a three-day workshop were held to allow landowners with native pastures to learn more about the principles behind the success of the twice-over system, and to demonstrate how the system can be used as a tool to enhance native grasslands for wildlife and livestock producers.

Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve Less than one percent of tall-grass prairie exists in its historical range in Manitoba. The Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve was established to conserve this endangered ecosystem. Agencies actively involved in the preserve between 2007 and 2012 included Manitoba Conservation, Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation, Critical Wildlife Habitat Program, Nature Manitoba, Environment Canada and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. These preserve partners continued the commitment to work together to jointly manage preserve lands through a Tall Grass Prairie Preserve Management Committee. A Memorandum of Understanding was renewed on June 1, 2009 for a five-year term that reaffirmed this committee as the authority that prescribes ongoing management of the preserve properties.

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Manitoba Conservation continued to chair the management committee, which developed annual work plans that directed ongoing monitoring and management activities at the preserve. Environment Canada’s Habitat Stewardship Program, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Nature Manitoba also supported monitoring and management activities on the Preserve during this term. Manitoba Conservation provided a Green Team employee annually and starting in 2009 a Student Employment Placement employee to assist with these activities and also covered the field expenses of the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve biological staff. Permanent vegetation plots were photographed and plant species abundance and diversity were monitored. A weather station installed in 2004 continued to provide research data. Inventories for rare orchids such as the small white lady’s slipper, western prairie fringed-orchid and Great Plains ladies’-tresses were a main focus of the plant monitoring. A North American bird monitoring program called Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship was carried out at the preserve during the 2007 to 2011 bird breeding seasons. This involved banding small birds and provides long-term data on population and demographic parameters for many species. New species were discovered on the preserve each year expanding the list of wildlife known to occur there. Invasive species are an ongoing threat to the preserve and these were monitored and controlled to the extent possible. Over ninety leafy spurge patches were monitored and plants were pulled out to prevent further spread of this invasive species. Aspen girdling and other control measures were used to try to control its spread into the prairie. Locating and mapping of the invasive St. John’s wort was also an ongoing activity. Project partners purchased an additional 1,198 hectares of tall-grass prairie between 2007 and 2012 to increase the preserve. Each property was inventoried and mapped to record the plant communities as well as any special features including rare species such as the western prairie fringed-orchid. The annual Prairie Day public event at the preserve continued to be well attended by local people as well as visitors from outside the area. The Nature Manitoba Tall-Grass Prairie School and Interpretive Program first began in 1998 and continued to be delivered to schools throughout the local region and in Winnipeg until 2011. Preserve biologists delivered school presentations and teachers often booked a follow-up tour to the preserve. This program was set up to increase local awareness of the tall-grass prairie ecosystem. Biological research is an important to continuously improve conservation and management of the preserve. During the reporting period, 22 research permits were issued for various projects ranging from population studies of the poweshiek skipper to reproductive studies of the small white lady’s-slipper.

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Wildlife Lands Program There are two regulations that govern the Wildlife Lands Program. The Designation of Wildlife Lands Regulation defines the boundaries for Wildlife Management Areas, Special Conservation Areas, and various types of refuges. The Use of Wildlife Lands Regulation outlines the restrictions on selected activities within these areas to protect wildlife and/or its habitat. Amendments to these regulations typically occur on an annual basis.

Wildlife Management Areas Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are provincial Crown lands designated under The Wildlife Act for the conservation, protection and enhancement of significant wildlife habitats. These areas are used for hunting, trapping and ecotourism, with significant benefits to local and provincial economies. Many of Manitoba’s WMAs are protected in whole or in part as part of the province’s Protected Areas Initiative. There are 49 WMAs totalling 533,600 hectares (1.3 million acres) that are protected to the standards of this intiative. In 2011, Manitoba celebrated the 50th year of the WMA program in Manitoba. The highlight was the designation of the 660 hectare Ewonchuk WMA in the Interlake, bringing the total number of WMAs in Manitoba to 82, encompassing some 2.2 million hectares (or 5.4 million acres). In 2009, the Cape Tatnam WMA along the Hudson Bay coast was enlarged and renamed the Kaskatamagan WMA and a new WMA, Kaskatamagan Sipi, was created inland from the Bay. Several WMAs, including Delta Marsh, Lake Francis, Whitewater Lake and Proven Lake sustained significant infrastructure damage during the 2011 flood. It is anticipated that repair work will be undertaken well into the next five years. Through revenue from hunting licence sales, the Wildlife Enhancement Initiative provided funding on an annual basis for maintaining and enhancing WMAs. This enabled weed control, habitat enhancement for sharp-tailed grouse and other wildlife, and infrastructure improvements in several WMAs. Standard boundary signs are produced each year for WMAs and refuges to replace damaged or lost signs and to mark the boundaries of recently established WMAs. Boundary surveys and the placement of signs required an average investment of $10,000 per year.

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Land Management and Use The unit reviews over 500 land-use proposals each year to assess impacts to wildlife habitat. These included applications for general permits and leases, sales and exchanges of Crown land, Treaty Land Entitlement selections, municipal development plans, and zoning by-laws, and amendments. Policy proposals were also reviewed to assess the potential impact on wildlife, habitat, land management and use.

Watchable Wildlife The Wildlife Lands unit continued to play a major role in the enhancement of the Watchable Wildlife Program for Manitoba, in co-operation with Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the Parks and Natural Areas Branch. During the reporting period, several site enhancements to improve wildlife-viewing facilities were funded by Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism. These included trail development in the Proven Lake WMA, significant upgrades to viewing facilities in the Oak Hammock Marsh WMA, the development of a Grasslands Birding Trail and an International Birding Trail in cooperation with the State of Minnesota. Approximately $160,000 per year has been invested by Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism in Watchable Wildlife projects throughout Manitoba during the reporting period. Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch staff made a significant contribution to the program by identifying and prioritizing sites for development and ensuring the appropriateness and accuracy of the interpretive material. The branch also invested an average of $20,000 per year in the program and a significant amount of staff time, both in the Wildlife Lands Unit and by regional wildlife staff. In 2009, Manitoba was recognized by the United States based Watchable Wildlife Inc. as a visionary in the development and promotion of wildlife viewing.

Manitoba Heritage Marsh Program Manitoba Heritage Marsh Program designates Manitoba wetlands of extraordinary importance to wildlife as heritage marshes, to focus on sustainability of their health and biodiversity for the benefit of future generations. To date, eight wetlands have been declared heritage marshes, and a further 18 wetlands are listed as candidate heritage marshes (Table 12). Delta Marsh and Oak Hammock Marsh were also internationally recognized by the United Nations Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Infrastructure development and maintenance, research and land acquisitions are supported through the heritage marsh program. Enhanced access and interpretive facilities are important projects that promote public educational and recreational use. Dikes, ditches and dams are

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frequently required to properly manage and maintain water levels. Research is needed to understand wetland ecology and to inform management decisions. Many marshes have both public and private land holdings. Acquisition of private holdings by the Crown from willing sellers has occurred to consolidate properties into larger blocks. This benefits the design and implementation of management plans. Table 11 - Manitoba Heritage Marshes

Heritage Marshes Candidate Marshes Delta Marsh Big Point Marsh Oak Hammock Marsh Dennis Lake Saskeram Marsh Dog Lake Summerberry Marsh Hecla Marshes Grant’s Lake Hunter-Maple Lake and Marshes Proven Lake Lizard Lake Rat River Swamp Marshy Point Lidcliff Marsh Narcisse Marsh Netley-Libau Marshes Oak-Plum Lake and Marshes Pineimuta Lake St. Martin Portia Marsh Reykjavik Shoal Lake (Interlake) Tom Lamb WMA Turtle River Marsh Vestfold Marsh Whitewater Marsh

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Table 12 - Heritage Marsh Program - Project Highlights

Program area/marsh Project Delta Marsh A $1.2 million restoration project was designed to

exclude adult Common carp from Delta Marsh in cooperation with Ducks Unlimited Canada and other partners. Work to date has focussed on pre-project monitoring of water quality, vegetation, fish and waterfowl. Approval for the project was secured from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The project will be built and become operational during the next reporting period.

Manitoba Purple Loosestrife Project Continued support was provided for rearing and dispersing bio-control beetles for the control of purple loosestrife in marshes.

Oak Hammock Marsh Maintenance and enhancement of public viewing areas including interpretive trails, viewing blinds and islands was undertaken with additional support from the Watchable Wildlife Program of Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism. Maintenance and replacement of water control structures was also undertaken.

Saskeram/Summerberry Support was provided for a study undertaken by the University of Manitoba and Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Institute for Wetlands and Waterfowl Research into the reasons for reduced muskrat populations in the marsh.

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The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC) delivered conservation projects targeting wetlands and associated habitats, habitats for species at risk, and priority habitats associated with watershed management plans. MHHC was active in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the Habitat Stewardship Program for species at risk, Conservation District habitat initiatives and the Habitat Mitigation/Compensation Fund. As of March 31, 2012 MHHC’s land-conservation summary totalled 106,900 hectares of habitat. Of that, 23,296 hectares were added in this reporting period, primarily through perpetual conservation agreements (easements) and, secondarily, through acquisitions of donated lands. MHHC has 50,761 habitat hectares permanently conserved through conservation agreements (45,752 hectares) or acquired or donated lands (5,008 hectares). Established in 1986 by The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Act, MHHC’s mandate is conservation, restoration and enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat. MHHC is administered by a board of directors appointed by Order-In-Council and is responsible to the Minister of Conservation and Water Stewardship. MHHC is structured to focus conservation efforts on private land in agricultural regions of Manitoba. MHHC has four strategic areas under which it provides programming: wetlands, species at risk; watershed health and habitat mitigation. The Corporation also provides banking and administrative support functions for Manitoba’s Critical Wildlife Habitat Program, including holding employment contracts for term staff. Conservation agreements (CAs) are MHHC’s primary private land conservation tool. Governed by the Conservation Agreements Act of 1999, CAs are easements that can protect habitat on private land without the need to own that land. CAs are voluntary and are designed to target habitat without interfering with other productive uses of the land. This feature is important in agricultural areas where valuable habitat is often interspersed in tracts of good agricultural land, all of which are privately owned. The CAs that MHHC sets up are signed in perpetuity and will remain in force when these lands change hands. MHHC has secured the largest number of CAs (594 CAs, totalling 45,752 hectares) of any conservation group in the province and is one of the largest CA holders in Canada. In this reporting period a total of 278 CAs on 25,242 hectares of habitat were secured. That total includes 61 CAs (2,163 hectares) in habitats important to watersheds, 122 CAs (8,441 hectares) for wetland and associated habitats, 89 CAs (14,302 hectares) for habitats important to species at risk and six CAs (335 hectares) to mitigate for habitat that was developed.

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MHHC also receives habitat donations and holds one of the largest portfolios of donated habitat in Manitoba. In this reporting period MHHC received four gifts of property (136 hectares) as well as 4,500 hectares of CAs through 18 separate donations. Included in the latter is CA donations on 4,079 hectares by the rural municipalities of Langford and Lansdowne in the Langford Community Pasture area. It represents the largest CA completed in Manitoba and the fourth largest in Canada.

North American Waterfowl Management Plan Established in 1986, the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) is a continent-wide effort to restore and enhance waterfowl populations to the levels of the 1970s. This program has become a model for conservation at an international level, one which has established broad objectives but whose organizational structure also encourages locally-based partnerships and program delivery. Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC) co-ordinates implementation of NAWMP in Manitoba and delivers conservation projects through its Potholes Plus program, which is delivered in partnership with the Delta Waterfowl Foundation. MHHC’s conservation activities complement the work of other NAWMP partners, Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. Collectively, 213,519 hectares of habitat have been secured (includes project areas for which agreements have since lapsed) over the entire period of NAWMP activity in Manitoba. Many conservation districts, farm groups and wildlife associations have become significant partners. In this reporting period MHHC led the development of Manitoba’s new five year implementation plan for NAWMP, a process that involved the entire NAWMP partnership and the benefit of two decades of program delivery experience under NAWMP. The end result is programming that is better-targeted to the areas of greatest value to waterfowl where the risk of habitat loss is significant. For four years ending in 2012, MHHC and Ducks Unlimited Canada jointly delivered provincially-funded wetland restoration under the Wetland Restoration Incentive Program. The funding, the roots of which lie in climate change mitigation and adaptation objectives, resulted in the restoration and perpetual conservation of 465 hectares of wetlands, which provide many ecological services, including biodiversity enhancement.

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Species at Risk With major funding support from Environment Canada’s Habitat Stewardship Program for species at risk, the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation completed 89 conservation agreements (14,302 hectares) for habitats important to species at risk. The focus has been on species dependant on mixed-grass prairie habitats, like buffalograss and Sprague’s pipit, as well as sand prairie habitats that support priority species such as the prairie skink, Manitoba’s only lizard. The corporation’s program delivery is informed by GIS-based species location information provided by Manitoba’s Conservation Data Centre. That partnership and exchange of information has significantly enhanced the corporation’s effectiveness in targeting program funds to known habitat areas for priority at-risk species.

Watersheds Over the five-year period Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation has been working with eight conservation districts to deliver conservation agreements on their behalf to protect habitat lands that have been identified as source water protection areas in their watershed management plans. Such habitats can include wooded riparian areas, wetlands and natural habitats on groundwater recharge sites. A total of 61 conservation agreements (2,163 hectares) were delivered. The “Managing the Water’s Edge” initiative, which focuses on information and education activities to support riparian area conservation, evolved significantly with a new focus on remote-sensing based riparian assessment tools for conservation districts. This change is made possible by the RBC Blue Water Fund, which has provided $225,000.00 over three years to support this project. The initial phase has the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation working with four conservation districts on planning support and riparian area project delivery.

Habitat Mitigation Manitoba Conservation, Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation and Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation have an ongoing agreement to support habitat mitigation and compensation activities through the Habitat Mitigation/Compensation Fund. When certain highway development projects result in irreversible habitat loss, habitat compensation funding commensurate with the level of loss is provided to the fund. The corporation, in turn, delivers suitable habitat conservation and restoration projects at sites in the same ecoregion or watershed. In this reporting period six perpetual conservation agreements on 335 hectares of habitat were secured and/or restored under the fund.

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Biodiversity Conservation The Biodiversity Conservation Section’s activities that provide information and services for sustaining Manitoba’s natural biological diversity can be grouped into four main program areas: • Inventory and monitoring species and plant communities • Assessment of the conservation status of wild species in Manitoba • Co-ordination of the preparation of recovery and stewardship plans for species of

conservation concern, including species at risk • Management of the Manitoba Conservation Data Centre’s biodiversity database and

geographical information system (GIS), used as a decision-support system for sustainable development and conservation planning

Inventory and Monitoring Program Inventory and monitoring of Manitoba’s flora and fauna – particularly rare species, or groups of species using similar habitats – provides important baseline information on the status of the species and their habitat. Species found to be rare and in decline may be flagged as candidate species for listing under The Endangered Species Act. Species already listed under the Act are monitored to assess changes in status. Observations of rare species are entered into the Conservation Data Centre’s database, to ensure that the presence of these species is factored into land-use planning decisions.

Rare Plant Surveys Surveys of rare plant species were conducted annually throughout the reporting period and included several highlights: • First discovery of Gattinger’s agalinis in Manitoba. This plant species is nationally listed as

endangered. • Dramatically increased the known area occupied by the rough agalinis, a nationally

endangered plant found east of the Red River near Birds Hill Provincial Park • Discovered the second known occurrence of prairie moonwort in Manitoba • Located new occurrences of several plant species listed under the Endangered Species Act,

including the hairy prairie clover, small white lady’s-slipper, Riddell’s goldenrod, great plains ladies’-tresses, smooth goosefoot, and western silvery aster

• Documenting observations of the nationally rare fascicled ironweed for the first time in more than 50 years, along the Rat River.

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Breeding Bird Surveys Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch staff promoted and co-ordinated the involvement of Manitoba volunteers in the North American Breeding Bird Survey. This survey documents changes in abundance and distribution of birds along predetermined routes that are surveyed using standard protocol at the same time of the year and generally by the same individuals each year. These surveys are especially useful for assessing the status and trends of birds that are not monitored adequately by other surveys. Local and national survey data reveal that more species are increasing than decreasing in numbers. The data also reveals that certain groups, such as grassland birds, have undergone particularly large, and in many cases significant declines, since surveys began in 1966. The number of routes surveyed annually ranged from 45 to 61 in the reporting period.

Threatened Grassland Birds Monitoring Wildlife species that are native to North America’s prairies have suffered greater losses since settlement than species from any other habitat. Several bird species have disappeared throughout much or all of their prairie range, and many others have declined so drastically they are currently considered to be of conservation concern throughout their Canadian range. This includes grassland species that were formerly widespread or abundant. Manitoba’s Threatened Grassland Birds Program was initiated in the mid-1980s to monitor the status of a variety of grassland birds including several listed species (burrowing owl, ferruginous hawk, loggerhead shrike, Sprague’s pipit, Baird’s sparrow, chestnut-collared longspur) and a host of other grassland species that are believed to be undergoing long-term declines in abundance or nesting range in the province. Objectives of the program include: • Obtain comprehensive long-term data on distribution, nesting ecology and limiting factors

for grassland species of concern • Incorporate this data into the Conservation Data Centre database to protect key nesting areas • Work with landowners and interest groups to monitor and implement recovery actions for

these species The status of listed species monitored by the Grassland Birds Program from 2008 to 2012 and management programs to stem their decline are discussed in the Recovery and Management section in this report.

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Piping Plover Surveys The piping plover is a provincially and nationally endangered bird that in recent years has nested on sandy beaches along several larger lakes in southern Manitoba. Threats include loss of nests due to human disturbance in nesting areas, flooding of nests, vegetation encroachment on nesting habitat, and nest depredation. Manitoba’s piping plover population was believed to have been as high as 130 nesting adults in 1970, but has declined to just a few known nesting pairs. In addition to annual surveys of recently occupied nesting areas, Manitoba has been an active participant in the International Piping Plover Survey conducted every five years. In 2011, this international effort resulted in only a single nesting pair being located in the province. In 2012, only two single birds were observed at Grand Beach (a traditional nesting site in recent years), but at least two pairs nested at Whitewater Lake in southwestern Manitoba. This illustrates the piping plover’s ability to find and occupy temporarily suitable habitat, making surveys in such habitat throughout southern Manitoba extremely difficult. Surveys are further complicated by the remote and inaccessible nature of many potentially suitable nesting sites.

Nocturnal Owl Surveys Owls are considered good indicators of healthy ecosystems because of their position at the top of the food chain and their dependence on relatively large landscapes. However, prior to 1991 there was little known about the abundance and population status of most owl species in Manitoba. Due to their nocturnal habits and early nesting, most owl species, in particular those breeding in boreal forests are not well monitored by existing bird monitoring programs such as the Breeding Bird Survey and Christmas Bird Count. For these reasons, Manitoba established Canada’s first volunteer-based nocturnal owl survey in 1991. This roadside survey is conducted by volunteer citizen scientists across Manitoba and targets nocturnal migrating and breeding owls. It has been effective in: • Engaging the public in monitoring wildlife • Educating the public on owl conservation • Monitoring most of Manitoba’s 11 owl species • Collecting data used to document and conserve owl habitat Table 13 - Summary of Nocturnal Owl Survey Results 2007 – 2012

Year Volunteers Distance Surveyed (Km)

Routes Total Owl Detections

Owl Detections per Km

2007 68 856 52 170 0.20 2008 78 1213 73 144 0.19

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2009 92 1237 77 204 0.17 2010 94 1514 94 254 0.19 2011 103 1318 84 274 0.21 Manitoba’s nocturnal owl survey completed another successful five-year period with hundreds of volunteers surveying 52 to 94 routes covering thousands of kilometres of roads and trails. The two most abundant species detected were the great horned owl and the northern saw-whet owl. This survey has come a long way since 1991, thanks to the participation of over 500 volunteer owl surveyors to date. Spring 2011 marked the 20th anniversary of this effort which continues to demonstrate the value of citizen-based science monitoring programs. As in other years, owl survey information and experience has been widely shared with the public, students, other provinces and countries.

Great Gray Owl Monitoring The great gray owl in southeast Manitoba has been the focus of a 25 year monitoring and research program to help determine the lifetime habitat requirements and predator-prey population dynamics of Manitoba’s official provincial bird. About 70 nest structures were checked for breeding owls each spring, and prey populations were surveyed each fall. Breeding great gray owls were numerous in spring 2007, crashed in 2008, but then increased from 2009 through 2011. This population cycle correlated with fluctuations of the owl’s main prey, the meadow vole. After 25 years, the prey monitoring component of this program ended in 2011. In 2002, migratory birds spread the West Nile Virus into Manitoba. This virus was 100 percent lethal to captive great gray and other northern species of owls. The spread of this disease among bird populations raised concern that it might extirpate wild great gray owl populations. This project provided baseline data indicating that the impact of this disease on wild birds of prey in Manitoba was negligible.

Manitoba Salamander Surveys Blue-spotted salamander surveys in 2009 resulted in 16 new location records for the protected species and better delineated its range in Manitoba. Populations appear to be secure but more information is required on population dynamics and threats to the species. Taxonomic research on tiger salamanders has resulted in Manitoba’s population being split into the barred tiger salamander and the eastern tiger salamander, found west and east of the Red River, respectively. Attempts to survey for eastern tiger salamanders during 2010 and 2011 have

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been hampered by extremely dry conditions and lack of water in ephemeral potential breeding ponds.

Wild Species Conservation Status Assessment Program Manitoba Conservation participated in the development and application of provincial, national and global species’ conservation status-assessments. Underlying assessment criteria include population size and trend, distribution, protection and threats. By maintaining and updating information on these criteria for all provincial wild species, the Manitoba Conservation Data Centre efficiently co-ordinated their use in many assessment processes as described below.

Endangered Species Advisory Committee The Endangered Species Advisory Committee, established under The Endangered Species Act, provides recommendations and advice on species at risk to the Minister of Conservation. The Biodiversity Conservation Section prepares wildlife species status reports for this committee. Population size and trend, distribution, habitat needs and threats are criteria used to assess the conservation status of wild species. The committee met in 2007, 2008 and 2010 to discuss the status of select species culminating in the recommendation to list 27 species under The Endangered Species Act. Species listed as Extirpated, Endangered or Threatened are afforded greater protection, and enhances their likelihood of survival in Manitoba.

Federal-Provincial Initiatives under Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada Participation on international and federal-provincial working groups and committees ensures that Manitoba’s efforts to assess and conserve biological diversity are co-ordinated with those of other Canadian jurisdictions and countries. Implementing programs for species at risk and biodiversity demonstrates Manitoba’s commitment to conservation, the Accord and the Canadian Biodiversity Strategy.

The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada Manitoba participated in this national assessment process and on this committee that makes recommendations for listing species at risk to the federal Ministers responsible for the federal Species At Risk Act. Staff contributed data and expertise to develop national status reports, and participated in their review as appointed members to the committee which met twice annually during the reporting period.

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Report on the General Status of Wild Species in Canada In 1998, the Canadian Endangered Species Conservation Council requested that federal and provincial-territorial governments co-operate to assess and report on general status of wildlife (including plants) every five years, starting in 2000. A federal-provincial working group was established. The third (2010) report was released and is available at www.wildspecies.ca. The 2010 report includes assessments of all vascular plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mosses, macrolichens and mammals, as well as selected groups of invertebrates, including dragonflies, damselflies, spiders, beetles, bumblebees, mosquitoes, butterflies, selected macromoths, freshwater mussels and crayfish. A significant amount of staff time was expended to complete the report and to set work plans for the 2015 report. The results of this effort set conservation priorities for many species at risk and biodiversity programs and future assessments for listing under The Endangered Species Act (Manitoba). It is appropriate to acknowledge the myriad of amateur naturalists and professional biologists in Manitoba who donated their time and expertise to help with this and other provincial conservation status assessments. Over the years, hundreds of Manitoba citizens have been studying, collecting and identifying species that contribute to this process.

Biodiversity Convention Office Manitoba participated on a Federal-Provincial-Territorial Biodiversity Working Group that implements the Bio-infomatics program, the Canadian Biodiversity Strategy programs, and is developing the draft Canadian 2020 Aichi goals and targets. This working group also completed the first Canada’s Ecosystem Status and Trends Report in 2011.

Recovery and Management Program Each year Manitoba Conservation and its partners implement recovery and management efforts for many species of conservation concern in Manitoba. Manitoba citizens are essential to the success of this program because about half of all known occurrences of these species are on private land. The results of these efforts are presented below.

The National Recovery Working Group Manitoba participated on this Federal-Provincial-Territorial Working Group that coordinates programs for the recovery of nationally endangered wildlife in Canada. From 2006 to 2010, Manitoba reported on its recovery efforts (funds and staff years) using the Recovery Information Management System (RIMS) database. This information has been incorporated into a national report to better reflect Manitoba’s commitment to recovery efforts for species at risk.

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Western Prairie Fringed-orchid Recovery Manitoba Conservation was the national recovery lead for western prairie fringed-orchid, which is not found anywhere else in Canada. Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch staff produced the national recovery strategy which is posted on the Government of Canada’s Species At Risk Act registry (www.sararegistry.gc.ca). Co-operation between Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch, the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve, Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation and the Rural Municipalities of Stuartburn and Franklin, where this and a number of other plant species at risk are found, remained a priority. Laminated booklets showing where sensitive species can be found in road allowances, and when to avoid activities that may harm them, were updated during the reporting period. These booklets were distributed to local conservation officers, maintenance workers and municipal employees to ensure the sites with endangered species were protected. Preserve staff now co-ordinate road allowance surveys with Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation staff and their contractors and temporarily mark locations with fringed-orchids within mowing zones allowing the flowers to continue to bloom and annual maintenance mowing to proceed.

Small White Lady’s-slipper Recovery Branch staff provided data and information for the preparation of and reviewed the national recovery strategy for small white lady’s-slipper. In 2011, a small vulnerable population of this endangered orchid was transplanted from a roadside ditch in the Interlake to a nearby secure and stable population. This experiment, supported by the Endangered Species Biodiversity Fund, will assess the feasibility of transplanting as a mitigation strategy for development and as a method to improve the survival of marginal populations. The survival of these transplanted orchids will be monitored over time.

Western Silvery Aster Recovery Sites supporting this threatened plant were monitored over the reporting period. Several new sites were discovered during the Conservative Data Centre’s rare plant surveys, as well as through reports from the public, private consultants and staff at the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve. Stewardship activities over that period increased awareness of the conservation needs of the species, including at locations in Birds Hill Provincial Park.

Other Plant Species at Risk Recovery Programs

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Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch staff participated in the review of draft national recovery strategies for a moth called the gold-edged gem and a butterfly called the poweshiek skipperling. Branch staff also assisted their counterparts in environment Canada with private land owner consultations for western spiderwort and least bittern recovery strategies. Activities to increase awareness of various species at risk included providing private landowners that with a summary of survey results, species fact sheets, and information on conservation agreement programs. Landowners were asked to provide information on past and current land management practices that have supporting species at risk and to provide any observations of invasive species or other threats to these species. This information helped develop comprehensive Landowner Management Summaries for 10 species at risk (nine plants and one butterfly) to further conserve these species.

Piping Plover Recovery Action Group In 2001, the Manitoba Piping Plover Recovery Action Group was established to direct and implement conservation and recovery activities for the piping plover and its habitat. This team is comprised of a variety of federal, provincial and local stakeholders. It includes representatives from Manitoba Conservation, the Canadian Wildlife Service, Manitoba Parks, Manitoba Hydro, Portage Natural History Group, as well as dedicated guardian volunteers.

Peregrine Falcon Recovery Two non-government groups assist Manitoba Conservation by implementing peregrine falcon recovery activities. The Manitoba Peregrine Falcon Recovery Project raises funds and co-ordinates nest-box construction monitoring and banding of breeding falcons in Winnipeg and Brandon. The Parklands Mews Falconry and Birds of Prey Education Centre have established a captive breeding and rural release program in Manitoba. Both groups also conduct public education and outreach programs.

Burrowing Owl Recovery Activities Although Manitoba’s burrowing owl nesting population remains at a precariously low number, a renewed effort was initiated in 2010 to reintroduce nesting birds into suitable habitat in south-western Manitoba. Initiated as a University of Winnipeg graduate student project, these releases have been aided by financial support and logistical assistance from Manitoba Conservation, and assistance from the Assiniboine Zoo (overwintered adult owls), Fort Whyte Alive (overwintered adult owls and created a new public owl display area), and at least three Conservation Districts in

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southwestern Manitoba (aided in public awareness, provision of underground nest boxes to interested landowners, and support in monitoring and reintroduction efforts).

Ferruginous Hawk Recovery Activities After making a strong comeback from no nesting pairs in Manitoba for over 50 years, to 35-55 nesting pairs through the 1990s and until 2007, ferruginous hawk numbers slipped to 24 pairs by 2012. The species continues to benefit from the hundreds of artificial nesting structures placed in suitable isolated trees by Manitoba Conservation staff during the 1990s. These artificial nests are large, and do not fall down or tip during the nesting season (a significant mortality factor for broods in natural nests). Thus, the species recovery in Manitoba has been greatly augmented over the years since over two-thirds of Manitoba’s nesting Ferruginous population occupies artificial nests on an annual basis.

Boreal Woodland Caribou In 2007, two new caribou biologist positions were created through new initiatives funding to expand regional caribou recovery research and monitoring of caribou and wolves. These collaborative projects worked with partners to satellite and radio-collar 310 boreal caribou across nine ranges. Data on habitat use, movement, distribution, survival, calf recruitment, genetics as well caribou response to an experimental forest harvest, were obtained. Sixty-five wolves were collared to monitor habitat use, movements, and predation related to caribou ecology. Research partners included graduate students and professors at the universities of Manitoba and Trent.

Manitoba`s 2006 boreal woodland caribou recovery strategy included commitments to develop recovery actions plans for high-risk caribou ranges. Revisions to Manitoba’s existing boreal caribou recovery strategy were initiated and two provincial caribou action plans (Owl-Flintstone and Atikaki-Berens) were drafted. A third action plan for the Naosap caribou range was delayed due to the impact of several extensive fires during the summer of 2010. Three regional (eastern, northwest, and northeast) boreal woodland caribou management advisory committees were formed and chaired by Conservation with representatives of First Nations, industry and stakeholder groups.

Research and management programs were used to assess and set conditions on work plans, permits and environmental licence requests. Proposed developments in caribou ranges were subject to environmental review processes, which included advice from provincial caribou biologists management advisory committees whenever potential impacts to boreal caribou or their habitat were identified.

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Manitoba created a $2.475 million wildlife monitoring program to assist the East Side Road Authority in examining the potential effects on boreal woodland caribou and other wildlife. This is part of the environmental licensing process for the all-season road project from Provincial Road 304 near Hollow Water First Nation to Berens River First Nation. The East Side Road Authority, in coordination with Manitoba Conservation, has initiated a boreal caribou monitoring program related to the development of a Large Area Transportation Network on the east side that will connect northern communities with all-season roads. Caribou in this area had never been previously monitored with satellite or radio collars. Collar information will be used to assess and mitigate impacts of road development on caribou and assess their range use in this area.

Manitoba Conservation staff participated in inter-provincial collaborative caribou projects with Ontario and participated in federal collaborative planning initiatives with respect to boreal woodland caribou recovery planning. In late October 2010, Manitoba hosted the 13th North American Caribou Workshop in Winnipeg with over 400 delegates attending.

Wood Bison Manitoba’s wild wood bison herd is found in an area of the North Interlake centered on Chitek Lake. The first complete survey of the herd was conducted in March of 2009 when the entire area was flown to estimate their number and range. Its population estimate ranged from 250 to 300 animals and the herd had extended its range both north and south. Both 2010 and 2011 were relatively wet periods that flooded much of the bison range. This flooding was thought responsible for some bison moving into new areas. Chitek Lake is located within the traditional use area of Skownan First Nation. Manitoba Conservation and Skownan First Nation had a committee working on developing a management plan for the Chitek Lake herd. This committee was inactive for a period but became reengaged in 2010 and work continued on the management plan. The department also worked with Skownan First Nation to address human-bison conflicts in the communities on the edge of the bison range.

Butterfly and Moth Species at Risk Recovery Manitoba hosts one of the largest remaining populations of the endangered poweshiek skipper. This poweshiek and Dakota skipper are protected under the provincial Endangered Species Act. A long-term cooperative project with the University of Winnipeg continued to examine the potential for re-establishing a healthy population of Dakota skippers at the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve. The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch also was involved in international efforts to better understand the distribution and ecology of poweshiek skippers. Surveys for the

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gold-edged gem and other rare moths were conducted surveys in sandhill and mixed grass prairie areas of southwestern Manitoba. Several of these species are protected under the federal Species At Risk Act and staff reviewed the national recovery strategy for the gold-edged gem moth.

Northern Prairie Skink The Habitat Stewardship Program provided funding in 2011/12 to support branch field inventories, population monitoring and research on Manitoba’s only lizard species. Manitoba co-chaired the national prairie skink recovery team and co-supervised graduate research based out of the University of Brandon.

Conservation Data Centre The Manitoba Conservation Data Centre (CDC) is the provincial storehouse of information related to biodiversity conservation and species at risk in Manitoba. The CDC is a member of NatureServe, a network of 82 similar centres in the western hemisphere that employ common data management systems and share a biodiversity data model. Common standards and systems allow the integration of rare species information by ecoregions or other areas that cross jurisdictional boundaries. This has positioned the CDC to be a key provider of biodiversity information, particularly for species at risk, to provincial, national and international partners. The Manitoba CDC was nominated in 2008 for a Service Excellence Award in the Partnership category for its work with Parks Canada. The Partnership category emphasizes innovative partnerships that promote excellence, foster better quality of life, more effective government programs and services, and a strengthened public administrative system. The Manitoba CDC received the 2011 Conservation Impact Award from the NatureServe network. This international award recognized the Manitoba CDC’s success in maximizing the use of its information on species at risk to contribute to effective, proactive conservation activities that secure, protect, and manage habitat in partnership with conservation organizations, industry, and landowners. The CDC collects and manages detailed local information on Manitoba’s plants, animals and ecosystems. It lists all plant and animal species and plant communities, also known as elements of biodiversity, found in Manitoba. It assigns each of these elements a conservation status rank based on how rare they are in the province. It then collects detailed information on where the rarest of these elements have been found. The locations where these rare species have been observed are called element occurrences. They are mapped and documented in a Geographic Information System and database application called Biotics. Biotics was originally built for the Manitoba CDC by a Winnipeg-based company. It was sold to and is now NatureServe’s international standard application.

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The Manitoba CDC works with NatureServe and other CDC’s to develop information products, data management tools and conservation services to help meet local, national and global conservation needs. The objective, scientific information about species and ecosystems is used by all sectors of society – various levels of government, conservation groups, corporations, scientists and the public – to make informed decisions about managing our natural resources. Examples during the reporting period included: • Environmental impact assessments – CDC rare species information is a key component in

reviewing Environment Act and other development proposals. The CDC database is also consulted by Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch staff during departmental reviews of proposals.

• Species status assessments – the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada recognizes that CDCs are often the custodians of the best available information on candidate species, and instructs authors to contact the CDC when writing species status reports. The CDC provides authors with detailed information to assist in fieldwork and in assessing the status of species and usually gets some new information back from authors afterward.

• Project screening – CDC provided data to Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration which was used to produce land management plans for each community pasture in Manitoba.

• Protected areas planning – known locations of rare and at risk species are used by the Protected Areas Initiative and conservation organizations to better target conservation activities to protect key biological features.

• Species at risk management – the CDC develops and distributes information products that provide land owners and managers with recommendations for managing lands that support species of conservation concern.

• Habitat conservation – the CDC provides species at risk location data to habitat conservation organizations (e.g., Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation), allowing them to more effectively target their conservation activities

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Conservation Data Centre Highlights in the reporting period include: • Reviewed hundreds of Environment Act and other development proposals for impacts on

species at risk. • Reviewed and updated conservation status ranks for all vascular plant, vertebrate animal and

selected invertebrate animal species, thus allowing the CDC to continue its focus on the species most in need of attention. Updated ranks were also used to develop national status ranks to meet provincial commitments to the national general status project.

• Implemented an improved computerized data collection system for fieldwork using specialized handheld computers equipped with a Geographic Information System. Incorporated thousands of individual observations, especially birds and tall grass prairie plants, into Biotics, updating the database for these species and meeting network data standards.

• Updated of hundreds of element occurrences of rare and at risk vascular plants, including incorporation of GPS data.

• Completed the remapping of known locations of animal assemblages (snake dens, water bird colonies), making use of updated standards used throughout the NatureServe network to better depict the locations and manage species information.

• Developed an intra-governmental data-sharing relationship with the Petroleum Branch of IEM. The CDC plans to develop such a relationship with the Environment Section of MIT in the next reporting period.

• Assisted the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources in its efforts to promote awareness of species at risk on First Nations lands.

• Developed maps of species at risk occurrences in road allowances and distributed these maps to several rural municipalities.

• Provided species at risk location data to several habitat conservation partners like the Nature Conservancy Canada and the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation.

Demonstrated benefits of these additions and improvements include: • Increased accuracy and precision of range and abundance estimates of species in Manitoba,

key criteria used in assessing the status of candidate species for listing under the Endangered Species Act, as well as national and global status assessments.

• Permanent protection of 56,026 acres of species at risk habitat through 173 perpetual conservation agreements and land acquisition as a result of the CDC sharing species at risk location data with habitat conservation partners.

• Encouragement of sustainable development by providing species at risk related comments for development proposals, and ensuring that these comments are based on current, accurate information.

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• The development of mutually beneficial relationships with various partners, including other provincial departments, other levels of government, industry, conservation organizations, researchers, and land owners.

Outreach Activities

Adventure Learning Program – Leadership Camp The Adventure Learning Program – Leadership Camp is an educational program for high school students organized by Polar Bears International, a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation of polar bears through education. Since its inception in 2004, twelve to fifteen high school students from Canada, USA, Australia and Europe have travelled to Winnipeg and Churchill each year to learn about the impact of climate change on polar bears. The program also provides an opportunity for students to learn firsthand about issues in polar bear management. Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch selects one student each year to participate in the camp. The branch makes presentations available to the students on a variety of topics by biologists, Natural Resource officers and resource managers in both Winnipeg and Churchill.

General Extension During the reporting period, displays were staffed each year at various events, trade shows and meetings. These included: • Manitoba Ag Days • Royal Manitoba Winter Fair • Delta Marsh Birding Festival • Manitoba Grazing School • Association of Rural Municipalities annual convention • Manitoba Conservation Districts Association annual meeting • Canadian Waterfowl Festival • Dauphin Forage and Beef Days • The Organic Producers Association meeting • Manitoba Cattle Producers Association annual general meeting Presentations were also given by staff to various interest groups and schools over the last five years. Some of the topics included: • Be Bear Smart • Manitoba’s Conservation Data Centre • Manitoba’s great white bears • Food webs and predator-prey relationships • Conservation by design

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• Endangered species • The Manitoba Volunteer Dragonfly Survey • Geese in Winnipeg • Bovine Tuberculosis in wildlife • Chronic wasting disease • The Manitoba Volunteer Nocturnal Owl Survey • Parasites in wildlife • Near-Urban Wildlife Strategy • Polar Bear Alert Program • Using biodiversity as a teaching tool • Environmental impact assessment • Prairie ecosystems Staff continued to participate in the Manitoba Envirothon – an annual Olympic-style academic and environmental program for high school students (Grades 9-12). The students are tested in four discipline areas: aquatics, forestry, soils and wildlife, plus an annual theme discipline. Staff prepared test questions for the field day and oral competition components. Events have been held at various locations including Swan River, Brandon, Winnipeg and the International Peace Gardens.

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Status of Species Identified in the Wildlife Act (Reporting period April 2007 to March 2012)

Big Game Animals

Barren-ground Caribou During the fall and winter, a relatively small number of Beverly herd caribou migrate into the northwest part of the province and the more numerous Qamanirjuaq herd caribou migrate into the eastern part of the province. The herds were healthy at the start of this 5 year review period but then their numbers started to drop in the last year (2012). Females start the northward spring migration back to calving grounds in Nunavut in March and April, followed by males in May. On occasion some females remain in Manitoba and calve within the tree-line. Five First Nation communities hunt Barren-ground caribou in northern Manitoba: Lac Brochet, Tadoule Lake, Nelson House, South Indian Lake, and Brochet. Hunting tags were also allocated to both resident and non-resident licenced hunters (800 and 440, respectively). During this review period resident licenced hunters could harvest a caribou during the fall and winter up to the end of February whereas non-resident licenced hunters could only hunt caribou during the fall season. Most resident hunters harvested caribou in winter months accessing hunting areas from winter roads north of Lynn Lake. Each season signage is placed on winter roads that informing hunters of current herd management information, safety concerns, and promoting respect for caribou. The Beverly and Qamanirjuaq Caribou Management Board was established to ensure the long-term conservation of these two significant herds for traditional use by people in northern Manitoba and adjacent jurisdictions. It consists of representatives from two territories, two provinces (including Manitoba), and four native cultures. The board is supported by Manitoba and other jurisdictions and it has again made significant contributions to the management of both herds during the reporting period. The importance of these herds to the people in northern Manitoba and elsewhere is significant. A board sanctioned study estimated that the replacement value of caribou meat to traditional harvesters on the ranges of both herds to exceed $20 million. During fall 2008, Manitoba, Nunavut, and the board collaborated on a survey for the Qamanirjuaq herd and estimated it to contain 345,000 caribou. Similar surveys for the Beverly herd estimated it to contain 125,000 caribou. Caribou were also radio-collared to obtain information on migration movements and other vital life history information required to manage the herds at sustainable levels.

Elk Province-wide, the elk population was stable and was estimated at 6,400 animals, slightly below the 2002 estimate of 7,900 elk. The decrease is mainly attributed to the regulated reduction in the Riding Mountain elk herd, which occurred as part of bovine tuberculosis management activities in the Riding Mountain area.

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The number of elk in each of Manitoba’s major herds in 2012 was estimate as follows:

· The Duck and Porcupine mountain herds remained stable at approximately 1,700 and 300 animals, respectively.

· The Spruce Woods population remained stable at approximately 600 animals. · The South Interlake elk population was approximately 950 animals. · The Riding Mountain area population was estimated at approximately 1,700 animals,

below a pre-disease target of 2,500. Small satellite herds of 25 to 150 animals continued to persist in the Pine River, Ethelbert, and the Kettle Hills areas in the west; the Vita and Piney areas of the south-east; the Oak Lake, Plum Lake areas; the Tiger Hills and the Turtle Mountains in the south-west; and in Game Hunting Area (GHA) 20 in the north Interlake. The demand for elk hunting opportunity far exceeds the number of licences available. To provide a fair allocation of elk licences to Manitoba residents, licences are issued through the Big Game Draw to resident rifle and archery hunters. There are also licences issued through the Landowner Draw to landowners who own a quarter-section of land or more in the areas where an elk season is offered. Because of high resident demand, there are no non-resident elk hunting seasons.

Moose Moose are a cornerstone wildlife species enjoyed and venerated by many and hunted by rights-based Aboriginal harvesters (First Nations, Métis), licensed residents and the outfitting industry. The unregulated moose harvest remained unknown during the reporting period. All hunting can alter population characteristics, including age structures and sex ratios and changes to habitat, human disturbance, moose population demographics, disease, parasites and predation all influence moose population dynamics. Since the turn of the century, moose populations are thought to have remained relatively stable in Manitoba at approximately 30,000 animals. However, recent aerial surveys in several GHAs have indicated dramatic population declines from recorded highs in previous decades:

· The Duck Mountain (GHAs 18-18C) decreased by 58 percent · The Swan-Pelican (GHAs 14-14A) decreased by 90 percent · Eastside of Lake Winnipeg (GHA 26) decreased by 64 percent · Central Interlake (GHA 21) decreased by 70 percent

To curb these declines, all moose hunting was temporarily suspended in 2011 in the Duck Mountain, Porcupine Mountain and Swan-Pelican areas through total area conservation closures, while in GHA 26, a partial area closure was instituted in January 2012. The demand for moose hunting opportunities exceeds supply in most road-accessible areas. In these areas, moose hunting licences are allocated through the Big Game Draw. In more remote areas east of Lake Winnipeg and in northern areas, moose hunting licences are available at licenced vendors.

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Annual sales of moose hunting licences have ranged between 3,610 and 4,873. This was an overall decline of approximately14 percent decline since the last five year review. Winter moose hunting opportunities in particular have become less popular.

White-tailed Deer The provincial white-tailed deer population declined as a result of severe winter mortality during the reporting period. Manitoba Conservation responded to this decline by reducing harvest by removing the second deer licence in most deer hunting zones that were significantly impacted. Province wide, the January anecdotal population estimates ranged between 110,000 and 130,000 during the reporting period. Deer numbers in and around the City of Winnipeg remain stable and there were ongoing concerns about human-deer conflicts. Manitoba Conservation encouraged hunting to manage deer numbers in GHAs near Winnipeg. In 2003, Manitoba Conservation developed the Near-Urban Wildlife Strategy, initiated in part by safety concerns related to the use of centrefire firearms near highly populated areas. Manitoba Conservation consulted with municipal governments around Winnipeg to develop and implement the strategy and a Near-Urban Wildlife Zone. In 2005, a provincially regulated prohibition of centrefire rifles for big game hunting was introduced within this zone - which included all or portions of the Rural Municipalities of Headingly, Rosser, Rockwood, St. Andrews, West St. Paul, East St. Paul and St. Clements. Hunters are able to use other legal equipment types (shotgun, muzzleloader, archery, and crossbow) during the rifle deer season within the zone. In 2010, a deer season was implemented in GHA 38 in the RM of MacDonald. A second and third deer licence continued to be offered to resident hunters in selected GHAs in Deer Hunting Zones C and F.

Black Bear Manitoba’s black bear management focuses on maintaining healthy bear populations while safeguarding human welfare and minimizing damage to crops and property. This becomes a delicate balance as human populations expand into areas occupied by bears and as bears reoccupy unmanaged land that was once cultivated. A draft 2011 Black Bear Management Plan outlined Manitoba’s approach which includes both education and awareness to inform people how to deter bears from associating people and dwellings with food and regulating hunting to manage the density and distribution of bears. The draft plan included revised policy and procedures for the mitigation of human-bear conflict and orphaned black bear cubs. The black bear population is estimated to be at, or near, carrying capacity, with limited increases being recorded in the transition areas bordering the boreal shield to the north and the prairie plains to the south. The present managed hunting regime includes both a spring and fall hunting season and also serves to improve human safety and reduce property damage in a cost-effective manner.

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The annual sale of bear hunting licences ranged between 3,160 and 3,640 and was similar to previous reporting periods. However, resident hunters, which accounted for 40 percent of licence sales in the last review, now account for over 50 percent. The decline in foreign resident sales is thought to be the result of the economic downturn in the US economy. Since resident hunters have lower success rates (40 percent compared to 75 percent), annual black bear harvests have declined by seven percent, ranging between 1,750 and 2,050 animals harvested. Overall, hunters harvest six to eight percent of the estimated 27,000 – 32,000 bears. To achieve GHA population-management targets, foreign resident hunting opportunities are regulated in response to resident harvests. Foreign resident hunting quotas are typically reviewed every three years and more hunting opportunities are provided in areas with higher human-bear conflicts.

Gray and Red Wolves Wolves inhabit most of Manitoba’s forested and tundra areas in varying densities. Populations, estimated at a minimum of 4,000 animals, remain stable throughout most of the province. However, in southern agricultural areas, wolf numbers are thought to be increasing. While regulated wolf hunting and trapping occurs throughout Manitoba, these activities are prohibited in Riding Mountain National Park area to protect that population. Wolves are the primary predator of adult and calf moose and can have a major impact on low moose populations. In moose recovery areas (Duck Mountain, Porcupine Mountain, Swan-Pelican area and GHA 26), moose population modelling suggested that reducing winter wolf populations by 50 percent would aid moose population recovery. Hence in 2011 Manitoba Conservation introduced a trapper incentive program and increased the bag limit from one to two wolves. Under the program, trappers were paid a $250.00 honorarium for each wolf taken. Typically, trappers take about 300 wolves while licensed hunters take another 200. However, during this reporting period the trapper harvest has decreased in spite of high pelt prices. This decrease was thought to be due to the increased incidence of mange in the population, which reduced the value of pelts.

Fur Bearing Animals Fur bearing animal population trends are determined by analyses of fur dealer reports, public reports (usually in the form of complaints), and observations by field staff. No scientific surveys are conducted. Black bear and wolf are described in the Big Game section of this report. Fur bearing animal reporting is for the period from September 1 to the following August 31 (i.e. across fiscal years), so the complete harvest period of this reporting period is for the five fiscal years from 2006/07 to 2010/2011.

Badger Badger harvests have shown a decrease from the previous reporting period. Harvest efforts are a fraction of what they were before 1980, when pelt prices began to decline significantly. The species is not commonly targeted by trappers, and is typically taken incidentally when they

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pursuing coyotes. Hence the badger harvest dropped along with the reduced harvest of coyotes in 2009-2010 by chance when encountered. The badger population was sustainable at reported harvest rates.

Beaver Beaver populations were considered healthy throughout most of its range. Trapping pressure remained low in response to lower market value for beaver pelts and increased trapper costs. Populations were sustainable at reported harvest levels. Duck Mountain and Riding Mountain populations reportedly decreased in the last decade. Drought and predation were suspected causes for the decrease.

Bobcat Bobcats remained uncommon in southern Manitoba. While harvesting was incidental and very low it increased slightly from the previous reporting period, particularly in southeastern Manitoba.

Coyote Coyote harvests initially decreased with the price of pelts, but both subsequently increased through this reporting period. Fewer anecdotal reports were received of mange in the population. Interest is increasing towards harvest of this species through the calling animals. Populations were sustainable and coyote complaints continued in areas where urban sprawl overtakes their habitat. While a minor portion of the overall harvest, a significant and increasing number of coyotes (ca. 800) continued to be caught in the registered trapping areas up to 2006/07. The registered trapline harvest subsequently decreased while the open area harvest increased.

Fisher Fisher populations are generally stable but considerable annual variation occurs. Trends in harvest rates over the last two decades exhibit a five- to seven-year cycle. The decrease in harvest during this period was related to lower pelt prices. Generally considered a boreal species, its range extension continued into the south central mixed woods area of the province during the reporting period. The population was sustainable at reported harvest levels.

Arctic Fox The Arctic fox harvest and pelt prices remained depressed during the reporting period. Its abundance is influenced by the availability of its main prey (lemmings) which exhibit a three- to four-year population cycle. Manitoba continued to monitor its harvest to ensure it was used sustainably.

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Red Fox The red fox harvest generally decreased during the reporting period, which was most apparent in agro-Manitoba. A relatively low pelt price was believed to be the main reason although local fox populations may have been inhibited by increases in coyote populations. The population was sustainable at reported harvest levels.

Lynx The lynx harvest was unusually variable during the reporting period. Lynx reached their cyclic population peak at the beginning of the last reporting period, in step with its 10-year cycle. It then decreased at the beginning of this period, but subsequently and unexpectedly increased. The dynamics of this species in Manitoba continues to be investigated.

Marten The marten has reoccupied much of its former range in Manitoba. Population and harvest cycles of three to four years were noted with a two year delayed response to changes in prey (voles) populations. Harvest peaks were below long-term recorded highs (2000/2001), but the troughs did not decrease at the same rate, perhaps related to reduced trapper effort from successive delayed winters. The species was harvested below its sustainable limit, but high trapping pressure requires ongoing monitoring.

Mink Provincial harvest data indicates that mink follow a five-year cycle associated with its main prey (muskrat) and numbers were low at the end of the reporting period. Mink harvests are sustainable, but prolonged drought may limit populations in parts of southern Manitoba.

Muskrat Muskrat populations and harvests increased from the last reporting period, initially because the number hit a peak in the population cycle in 2006/07 and because of temporary higher pelt prices in the remaining four years of the reporting period. A province-wide five-year population cycle requires monitoring to ensure that the harvest remains sustainable. Muskrat can be locally impacted by drought, especially in southern Manitoba.

Otter The otter population was generally stable during the reporting period, with modest increases in boreal habitats and minor increases in some Red River tributaries. A shut down of the Chinese

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fur market in early 2006 was reflected in concurrent depressed fur prices and reduced otter harvests. However, the price and subsequent harvesting slightly increased during the reporting period. The population was considered sustainable at reported harvest rates.

Raccoon Raccoons continued to increase during this reporting period, especially in urban areas where it is a nuisance species. It is associated with prairie and mixed wood habitats but has expanded its range into north central Manitoba. However, the portion taken in the registered trapline area has remained consistently low. The harvest is related to pelt price, which was highly variable during the reporting period. Raccoon populations were sustainable based on reported harvest rates.

Red Squirrel The red squirrel harvest was down from the previous reporting period due to lower prices. Warmer winters during the reporting period likely enhanced squirrel survival, although it also exhibits a four- to five-year population cycle. Its population was sustainably harvested.

Prairie Long-tailed Weasel The range of the prairie long-tailed weasel includes most of southern Manitoba, excluding the Interlake. Populations were used sustainably and its range has remained consistent since the last reporting period.

Short-tailed Weasel Short-tailed weasel populations were sustainable, but populations exhibited local four- to five-year fluctuations tied to its main prey (rodents). Despite increased pelt prices, harvest efforts were generally low as trappers focused on more lucrative species such as marten.

Wolverine Wolverines are rare in Manitoba, but the population was stable and sustainable at reported harvest rates. Remote north central and northeastern regions are considered reservoirs for this species due to relatively abundant habitat and food (large ungulates). Individuals harvested in the Pine Falls and Bissett areas of southeastern Manitoba documented the long term reoccupation of its former range. Wolverine harvest rates will be closely monitored as human development encroaches the north.

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Upland Game Birds Manitoba is home to a variety of upland game birds. Three species of grouse (ruffed, sharp-tailed and spruce) and two species of ptarmigan (willow and rock) are native to Manitoba. Three introduced species (gray partridge, ring-necked pheasants and wild turkey) are also recognized as game birds. Hunting of upland game birds has always been an important tradition in rural Manitoba. Upland game bird populations are cyclic and fluctuate between great abundance in some years to scarcity in others. Historically, licence sales to Manitoba hunters have reflected the status of the population where higher numbers of hunters participate during years of high grouse numbers and conversely, fewer hunters go afield when grouse populations are low. Similar to other parts of Canada, hunter numbers in Manitoba have decreased since the late 1970s. Interest in upland game bird hunting has decreased accordingly, primarily due to an aging population, urbanization and changing interests. Despite the reduced interest in hunting, many residents continue to take advantage of Manitoba’s abundant and diverse hunting opportunities and accessible land.

Grouse Species-specific accurate population estimates are not available on a provincial basis, but trends in population status have been determined in the past through periodic spring surveys. Sharp-tailed grouse lek surveys were re-established at a larger scale in 2012, with further expansion planned for the coming years. Within several years, a retrospective look at spring populations will be possible permitting a quantitative evaluation of the status of this species. Populations of ruffed and spruce grouse are cyclic, peaking about every 10 years in good quality habitat. Both are widely distributed in Manitoba’s forests, with much of their range inaccessible to hunters. At smaller scales, ruffed and spruce grouse are influenced by forest harvesting operations, fire, and predation so there can be geographic differences in abundance annually.

Ptarmigan Both species of ptarmigan are found in the northern portion of the province. Willow ptarmigan are year-round residents in Manitoba, while Rock ptarmigan tend to immigrate into the province during the winter. Hunting pressure is limited and generally localized near communities but is a popular activity for both fall and winter caribou hunters. Ptarmigan hunting remains an important activity for securing food for many northern residents.

Gray Partridge This introduced species has a limited distribution, primarily associated with agricultural areas in the southwest portion of the province. Population status is influenced by available habitat, including wind breaks and shelter belts in agricultural areas, as well as by weather conditions during nesting in spring. Hunting pressure is light and harvest is usually associated with hunters pursuing other species.

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Wild Turkey Efforts by non-government wildlife organizations to establish wild turkeys in Manitoba have been highly successful. Over the past 50 years, the wild turkey population has continued to expand its size and range in southern Manitoba, with flocks forming as far north as Ashern and Dauphin. Wild Gobblers Unlimited, a volunteer organization is the primary group responsible for success of this management initiative. Work is underway to estimate the population size in GHA 33 using winter banding, bands reported by hunters, and an annual survey which estimates harvest in each GHA. Harvest surveys are carried out annually, permitting estimation of provincial harvest and success rates. Most hunters hunt in the spring season, when success rates are relatively high at about 55 percent. The fall harvest is generally less than 100 birds, and harvest of hens account for only seven to eight percent of the total harvest, which ranges from about 450-550 birds annually. Sales of wild turkey hunting licences peaked during the reporting period but have slightly declined subsequently. Several harsh winters and poor breeding conditions led to collaborative research on wild turkeys to assess factors affecting survival and reproduction. The Game Bird Unit collaborated with the University of Manitoba and obtained basic information on survival, movement, and reproduction which will be useful in managing current populations and minimizing establishment of nuisance flocks. The success of the wild turkey introduction program has resulted in some unforeseen problems. Turkeys have moved into some urban areas, taking up residence in residential neighbourhoods, including several locations in Winnipeg. Each year, trapping and removal of turkeys has been necessary. Captured birds are released in suitable habitat away from urban centres, after extensive consultation with local land owners and wildlife groups.

Ring-necked Pheasants Ring-necked pheasants are considered wildlife under The Wildlife Act, but few, if any viable populations of this species currently exist in the province. Ring-necked pheasants were released in large numbers in southern Manitoba during the 1950s and earlier, but severe climate, lack of suitable cover and the bird’s inability to forage in the winter reduced survival of released birds and limited their ability to become established in the province. Releases have not been undertaken since the early 1990s due to the inability of the birds to adapt to Manitoba’s climate. Relatively small numbers of pheasants are found in extreme southwest Manitoba throughout the year, but are thought to immigrate from Saskatchewan or North Dakota.

Migratory Game Birds High goose and duck populations continue to provide significant opportunities for hunters, photographers and others wishing to view and enjoy wildlife. Many of these birds spend a

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considerable amount of time on southern Manitoba migration staging areas, foraging on waste agricultural grains and loafing on the vast network of lakes and sloughs Management of North American waterfowl populations is governed by the tri-national Migratory Birds Convention, and is co-ordinated through a flyway system. Manitoba is an active member of the Mississippi Flyway Council and Technical Section, and co-operates on flyway management programs, including the Eastern Prairie Canada goose aerial surveys and banding activities in northern Manitoba. Council members include Canadian and American federal representatives, state and provincial waterfowl managers and private organizations. Sales of migratory game bird permits in Manitoba have gone from a peak of more than 50,000 in 1978 to less than 12,000 in 2011. However, the decline in waterfowl hunters has slowed in recent years and shows signs of stabilizing, as provision of new hunting opportunities along with mentoring partnerships has expanded in the province. Aging population, urbanization, economics and federal gun registration have all had a negative influence on participation in hunting across Canada. Manitoba continues to chair the Mentored Waterfowl Hunt Program, which is designed to introduce youth to the concepts of ethical use and stewardship of wildlife and other natural resources. The program encourages youth and adults to experience the outdoors together and to contribute to the long-term conservation and management of game birds and big game. Response to the program has been tremendous with several non-government organizations coming to the forefront by developing and delivering quality experiences for young hunters. The program has continued to expand each year with several hundred new hunters having the chance to experience Manitoba’s superb hunting and outdoor opportunities. In addition, the partnership runs about six seminars and target shooting events during the summer months, which have introduced hundreds of people to hunting. In 2011, Manitoba coordinated a survey of past participants to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. Results indicate a high proportion of participants (76 percent) continue to hunt after their mentoring experience and 64 percent indicated the mentored hunt was ‘very important’ in getting them started in hunting. Interestingly, 58 percent of the participants end up introducing new people to hunting (an average of three) indicating the program indirectly recruits many hunters.

Ducks Ducks nest and stage throughout Manitoba and the province provides significant habitat to moulting post-breeding adult ducks from other jurisdictions. The highest breeding densities occur in the south-west agricultural regions which have been wetter than average during the last five years. Duck numbers fluctuate on a regular basis, as a result of wet and dry cycles on the prairies. The fall flight of ducks from Manitoba varies accordingly, becoming extremely low during prolonged periods of drought and rebounding when wetter conditions prevail. Current trends in populations of ducks in Manitoba have been positive with most species at, or exceeding, 10 year averages. Information gathered on breeding duck populations in Manitoba is combined with data from other breeding areas in North America and is used by member organizations in the Mississippi Flyway to access the status of North American duck populations and to determine annual harvest strategies for all jurisdictions within the flyway.

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The harvest of ducks in Manitoba has decreased significantly since the 1970s. Fewer hunters and a decrease in interest in duck hunting by resident hunters are the primary reasons for the reduction.

Geese Most goose populations in North America continue to experience rapid growth and geographic expansion. Concerns regarding an over-population of lesser snow geese and damage occurring on the arctic nesting grounds lead to the implementation of special conservation seasons for lesser snow geese in the Central and Mississippi Flyway. Over a decade ago, Manitoba implemented a special conservation season throughout the province to encourage hunters to take additional snow geese. Hunter participation in the special conservation season has declined throughout the flyway, and populations of lesser snow geese have continued to expand. The flyways are discussing other options to control this over-abundant population. Giant Canada goose populations have also shown increased over the last couple of decades and have expanded their distribution throughout the southern half of the province. They can now be found in almost every farm dugout and pond. Urban centres such as Winnipeg have seen phenomenal growth in nesting geese as well as fall staging geese. Fall staging counts, within the perimeter highway surrounding Winnipeg, have documented a movement of birds into this area, with peak numbers of now exceeding 170,000. Due to concerns about human health and safety, Manitoba Conservation has initiated hunting seasons in two municipalities that extend inside the perimeter highway boundary surrounding Winnipeg. This new hunting opportunity has been reserved for resident hunters only with Manitoba Conservation offering a mentored youth hunt to interested Manitoba youth. The number of non-resident hunters coming to Manitoba has declined over the past five years in response to economic conditions on the USA and the high Canadian dollar, but numbers of foreign hunters are expected to increase through the next five years as the economy recovers. Non-resident hunting provides a significant economic benefit to Manitoba, particularly in the rural areas. Manitoba will continue to provide world-class opportunities for both consumptive and non-consumptive uses of migratory birds into the future. Economic opportunities based on game bird ecotourism and hunting will continue to expand because of Manitoba’s location in the flyway, proximity to major USA urban centres, and commitment to wildlife management and protection of habitat. Both ducks and geese have benefited greatly in Manitoba from the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, the single largest conservation program in Canada and the United States.

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Amphibians and Reptiles

Red-sided Garter Snake The Narcisse Snake Dens, or hibernacula, are renowned internationally as a unique natural phenomenon, representing the world’s largest concentration of the red-sided garter snake. They remain popular with Manitobans and non-residents who visit each spring to watch the snakes emerge. The abundance of snakes at Narcisse and elsewhere in the Interlake continues to attract scientists from Canada and the USA to study the ecology and physiology of the species.

Protected Species

Cougar Cougar remain elusive in Manitoba and populations likely remain low. On average, 50 to 55 sightings a year are reported and mapped to monitor changes in range or relative abundance by region. The number of reported sightings has increased in recent years as the public has become aware of the presence of cougar in Manitoba following the widely reported deaths of two cougar in 2004. Most sightings fail to yield conclusive evidence of a cougar’s presence but fresh tracks in snow or soft ground are occasionally reported and investigated. In 2008, a cougar was photographed running through a farm yard near Plum Coulee, southwest of Winnipeg, and a few months later a second cougar was photographed in a cottage subdivision north of Lac du Bonnet. In late summer 2010, tracks in Turtle Mountain Provincial Park were confirmed to have been made by a cougar and in January 2011, a young male cougar was killed by a power snare set for coyotes in an area adjacent to the park. Also in 2011, a trail camera photographed what appears to be another young male cougar adjacent to the boundary of Riding Mountain National Park. Each of these incidents generated a great deal of interest in cougars by the public and over 2,600 people have attended information sessions held between 2007 and 2012 in communities and provincial parks across southern Manitoba. The sessions conveyed information on the biology and ecology of the species and advised people what to do if they encounter a cougar.

Wood Bison This unique subspecies of bison was designated as protected in Manitoba by regulation in 1994. From 22 animals released in two groups in 1991 and 1996 near Chitek Lake in the northern Interlake region, the herd has grown to an estimated 250 to 300 animals. Manitoba Conservation is continuing to work co-operatively with Skownan First Nation to address management issues as they arise.

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Northern Prairie Skink Manitoba’s only lizard is found in the sand hills of Spruce Woods Provincial Park, the Shilo military range and adjacent private lands near Carberry. Although populations are difficult to monitor, it is believed that skinks are less numerous today than prior to settlement based on ongoing habitat loss and degradation due to expanding alien invasive leafy spurge and aspen encroachment into native prairie grasslands. Habitat loss is considered the major threat affecting this species. Graduate student research on its ecology and private land owner stewardship continued with support of the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch and other sources. The Manitoba Herps Atlas project (www.naturenorth.com) was initiated during the reporting period by the branch and implemented by NatureNorth with financial support from Manitoba. It allows citizens to contribute observations of Manitoba amphibians and reptiles, including the prairie skink, to better delineate their distribution and status in the province.

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Status of Species Identified in The Endangered Species Act The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch is responsible for administration of The Endangered Species Act, enacted in 1990 to:

· ensure the protection and conservation of endangered and threatened species in the province

· enable the reintroduction of extirpated species into the province · designate species as endangered, threatened, extinct or extirpated

The Endangered Species Act prohibits human activities that would kill, disturb or interfere with any species listed in the Act. The Act also prohibits human activities that damage, destroy or remove habitats and natural resources which protected species are dependent on for life and propagation. Possession of species listed by regulation under the Act is prohibited. The Conservation Minister may grant permits providing exceptions to these rules to allow for scientific research or reintroduction efforts involving listed species. The Endangered Species Advisory Committee (ESAC) was created by the Act to advise the Conservation Minister on matters relating to species at risk in Manitoba. The committee is comprised of Manitoba scientists and citizens with an interest or expertise in biodiversity conservation. The committee makes recommendations for designation based on status reports prepared primarily by the Biodiversity Conservation Section of the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch in consultation with local species experts. As of March 31, 2012, a total of 35 species have been designated by regulation as Endangered, Threatened, or Extirpated under the Act. During the reporting period, the Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch continued work on a series of fact sheets on Manitoba’s Species at Risk, targeting an audience of landowners, school children and interested Manitobans. A total of 19 fact sheets have been completed to date. A set of ‘species at risk’ bookmarks are also available, featuring drawings of a number of species at risk and links to the branch’s website. Improved knowledge about species at risk in Manitoba is critical for sound decision-making and stewardship. The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch collects and collates information on all listed species through directed surveys as well as, on an incidental basis to aid in assessing species’ status and to determine what can be done to reverse declining trends. A summary of monitoring and stewardship activities undertaken for listed species during the reporting period follows.

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Endangered Species: Birds:

Baird’s Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii) Formerly common throughout southern Manitoba as far east as Winnipeg and north to Swan River, the Baird’s sparrow is now restricted to the extreme south-western corner of Manitoba. Like a number of species common to prairie grasslands, continued loss and degradation of native prairie or other suitable grassland areas have adversely affected it. Nesting Baird’s sparrows have only been found in a handful of grasslands in extreme south-western Manitoba in this reporting period. However, its population appears to increase substantially in Manitoba during periods of extreme drought elsewhere in their range (the last major drought and expansion occurring in the late 1980s). Since it has been wetter than normal in much of their range in southwestern Manitoba in most years since the mid-1990s, it is hoped that Baird’s sparrow numbers in Manitoba will increase when climatic conditions return to a drier state.

Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) The status of the burrowing owl is precarious throughout much of prairie Canada and the Northern Great Plains. In Manitoba, the species was once common throughout southwestern and south central Manitoba, but populations have undergone a steep and continuous decline since the 1930’s, seriously affected by habitat loss, reduced nesting success and increased mortality. These factors contributed to continuing burrowing owl declines in Manitoba from an estimated 110 pairs in the late 1970s to no known pairs left in Manitoba by 2000. Although its status has not improved in the Canadian prairies since then, a noticeable increase in reports and nesting occurrences was observed in southern Manitoba after 2005. Nevertheless, nesting numbers have again dropped to a handful of pairs in recent years (for instance, several singles and no known nesting pairs were found in 2012). Unless factors change, maintenance of a small nesting population in southern Manitoba will continue to be a challenge. In 2008, branch staff initiated and supervised graduate student research on a new recovery method (controlled release breeding) intended to help recover the burrowing owl in Manitoba.

Eskimo Curlew (Numenius borealis) Believed to number in the millions in the early years of settlement in North America, this curlew declined rapidly during the 1800s due in large part to market hunters. Historically it may have nested along the Hudson Bay coast in northern Manitoba. It was reported as common at Fort Prince of Wales in 1879 and small numbers were reported near Churchill in the 1930s. Eskimo curlew is no longer believed to nest in Manitoba and there have been no validated migration records here or elsewhere for decades. While designated as endangered in Manitoba, and elsewhere, it is likely extinct.

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Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) Loggerhead shrike populations continue to decline in Manitoba and throughout much of their nesting range in North America. While cool, wet periods since 1993 have severely hampered nesting success and contributed to recent declines, a combination of limiting factors are ultimately blamed for the species’ decline, including habitat degradation and loss, predation and pesticide poisoning. In Manitoba, nesting populations are now primarily concentrated in extreme southwest Manitoba, with sporadic nesting records south of Riding Mountain National Park, and east to Winnipeg. Nesting populations declined from over 300 pairs in Manitoba during the early 1990s to less than 50 known nesting pairs in each of the last 5 years (2008-2012). Productivity of monitored nests has declined in recent years due to higher predation rates than in the 1980s and 1990s. It is still uncertain if this was related to wetter than normal climatic conditions or a long-term trend.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) Peregrine falcon populations across North America declined precipitously from the 1950s until the 1970s due to low productivity and eggshell thinning brought on by the effects of persistent organochlorines. These eliminated many southern nesting populations and severely reduced breeding populations in the north. Persistent pesticides such as DDT were banned in Canada and the USA in the 1970s, contributing to a partial recovery among many peregrine populations. Recovery has also been aided by reintroductions in many parts of its range. In Manitoba, releases were conducted in Winnipeg, Brandon, Gimli and Portage la Prairie from 1981 until 1994. Largely due to returns of released birds from here and elsewhere, provision of nest boxes and superior productivity of local pairs during the past decade, nesting numbers in recent years have increased to two to three pairs in Winnipeg, one to two pairs in Brandon, and for the first time during 2012 one pair nested successfully in Selkirk. Due to the judicious placement of artificial nest boxes and ample food supplies in these urban centres, nesting success of pairs in Manitoba has been above average. Annual banding of chicks from successful nests in Manitoba has revealed higher than normal return rates of Manitoba chicks not only to Manitoba, but throughout western Canada and the American Midwest. Parkland Mews, a private captive peregrine breeding and birds of prey facility south of Winnipeg, continues to partner with Manitoba to support recovery efforts. In 2010 branch staff initiated, supported and supervised a new peregrine migration and survival research study using satellite tracking. The results will help mitigate peregrine mortality and to identify important habitat for this endangered species.

Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus) Monitoring and management activities for Piping Plovers in Manitoba are conducted on an annual basis as part of the Piping Plover Stewardship Program. Monitoring and recovery activities performed by the stewardship program in recent years include:

· Continued monitoring on the status and distribution of nesting plovers throughout southern Manitoba, including a range-wide International Census every five years (most recent in 2011)

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· Protective fencing, enclosures and signage were installed during the nesting period at sites where potential for human-plover conflicts are high

· A volunteer guardian program was established at Grand Beach and in other areas where potential for human-plover conflicts are high to enhance protection of plover nests and young

· Predator exclosures were installed at all known nests in recent years to enhance nesting success

· Sensitive sections of beaches at Grand Beach were fenced off from recreational activities during the brood-rearing period to enhance productivity

· The involvement of Manitoba Parks staff, local communities, and other interest groups in an expanded public-awareness program on the status of piping plovers in Manitoba

· Habitat-rehabilitation programs were initiated at several sites on Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipeg where vegetation encroachment has resulted in nesting habitat deterioration

Ross’s Gull (Rhodostethia rosea) Ross’s gull has a circumpolar distribution with 95 percent of breeding occurring outside of Canada. One of three Canadian breeding and most Manitoba sighting locations are near Churchill, Manitoba. The last Manitoba nest was in 2008 but occasional summer sightings, including unconfirmed nests, occurred until 2011.

Whooping Crane (Grus americana) Whooping cranes were never a common species and their maximum population in North America probably never exceeded 1,500. Once an uncommon nesting species in large lakes and marshes of south-western and south-central Manitoba, it was decimated here and in much of its range by habitat destruction and encroachment of civilization on most of its breeding range. By 1941, only 16 were known to occur throughout all of North America and some young were taken into captivity to replenish the population. By 2000, releases and protective measures had built up the population to over 350 birds, including 185 in the main Wood Buffalo nesting area, over 100 birds in captivity, and small numbers in several release areas. Some of the Wood Buffalo flock occasionally passes through southern Manitoba on their way to or from their winter home in Aransas, Texas. Butterflies:

Uncas Skipper (Hesperia uncas) The uncas skipper is a butterfly of dry sandy prairie and Manitoba records exist for the Brandon/Carberry area. Surveys of Lepidoptera in the area have failed to find any specimens in the reporting period.

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Plants:

Small White Lady’s-slipper (Cypripedium candidum) Surveys of all known small white lady’s-slipper sites took place between 2007 and 2012. Only one new site was found during intensive searches of suitable habitat. The number of plants observed at sites fluctuated greatly from year to year, as some of them were susceptible to late spring frosts, but overall the population appeared to be relatively stable. Hybridization between small white lady’s-slipper and yellow lady’s-slippers continues to be a concern – hybrid lady’s-slippers have been observed at every site where small white lady’s-slipper have been found. At the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve several new patches of small white lady’-slippers have been discovered.

Western Prairie Fringed-orchid (Platanthera praeclara) Monitoring of western prairie fringed-orchid occurred annually at the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve between 2007 and 2012. The number of flowering plants observed yearly varied from a low of 5,384 to a high of 14,685. Dramatic year-to year fluctuations are typical for the species, and on the whole, the population appeared to be stable. This species is susceptible to late spring frost and drought-like conditions.

Great Plains Ladies’-tresses (Spiranthes magnicamporum) Great plains ladies’-tresses are found in the Rural Municipalities of Stuartburn and Franklin, in fields and road allowances. Sites at the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve have been monitored by preserve staff with the highest count of 4,372 plants in 2011. Between 2007 and 2012, Conservation Data Centre staff frequently visited other sites. The population appears to be stable.

Threatened Species: Amphibians:

Great Plains Toad (Bufo cognatus) Great plains toads are generally found in dry open grasslands and occur in southwest Manitoba near Lyleton. Threats to the species include loss of habitat due to drainage of temporary pools preferred for breeding. Stewardship and recovery actions in Manitoba have focussed primarily on gathering information regarding distribution. Little is known regarding population size but continued use of flooded agricultural fields for breeding suggests that populations are stable. Conservation Data Centre staff have conducted surveys in south-western Manitoba for this species annually since 2010.

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Birds:

Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) In Manitoba, nesting populations of ferruginous hawk disappeared in the 1920s and the species was absent from the province for nearly 60 years. After a single nest was found in the extreme south-west in 1982, nesting numbers increased to a high of 56 pairs in 1990. A widespread crash in populations of its main prey (Richardson’s ground squirrel) during the 1990s resulted in noticeable declines in nesting numbers. Although ground squirrel numbers have rebounded slightly, they remain unusually low in many pastures where they were formerly plentiful. Ferruginous hawk numbers dipped below 35 pairs in 2011 for the first time in over two decades and in 2012 only 24 nesting pairs were located. Reduced nesting success and smaller brood sizes due to wetter than normal summers and greatly reduced ground squirrel numbers since the mid-1990s have contributed to the recent decline.

Sprague’s Pipit (Anthus Spragueii) Lush prairie and grassland conditions in the southwest have resulted in Sprague’s pipits maintaining their somewhat tenuous foothold in the province during the past couple decades. Known breeding sites in pastures and hay lands peaked (190 sites with a total of 260 singing birds) in 2009 and then dropped to less than 50 sites in 2011 and 2012 for unknown reasons. Manitoba is on the edge of this species’ nesting range and increases in suitable habitat elsewhere may affect its North American breeding distribution. Butterflies:

Dakota Skipper (Hesperia dacotae) The Dakota skipper depends on native tall grass prairie and exists only in a few isolated populations in southern Manitoba. Although formerly found in the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve near Tolstoi, it is now believed to be extirpated from the area. New populations were previously discovered in the Interlake and in the Oak Lake area. Severe flooding over several years during the reporting period impacted sites in western Manitoba and may have eliminated some populations.

Ottoe Skipper (Hesperia ottoe) Manitoba is the only province in Canada in which the Ottoe skipper occurs. It prefers native mixed and tall-grass prairie, and adjacent woodland clearings. It has only been found near Aweme, Treesbank and Spruce Woods Provincial Park. Population surveys continued to determine its distribution, numbers and trends in Manitoba. Survey efforts during the reporting period failed to find this species.

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Mammals:

Boreal Woodland Caribou (Rangifer tarandus Caribou) Manitoba Conservation has continued to support research and monitoring to determine movement patterns, home range, population sizes on various ranges and mortality to identify critical habitat and securing the future of this species in Manitoba. Under the 2006 boreal caribou recovery strategy Manitoba recognized 10 caribou ranges based on geography or radio-telemetry investigations. The species is found in other areas but there are no data to identify specific ranges. Range delineations will be updated based on new information in a future updated strategy. The estimated population is 1,821 – 3,135 animals. This does not include coastal animals, namely the Pen Island (approximately 10,000 animals) and the Cape Churchill (approximately 5,000 animals) herds. Populations of caribou in boreal areas are difficult to count. Limited licensed and First Nations hunting for caribou is permitted for the Cape Churchill and Pen Island herds but licences are controlled. Licensed hunting for boreal woodland caribou no longer occurs. Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship continue to monitor populations with the use of radio telemetry across many caribou ranges (east of Lake Winnipeg, Northwest Manitoba, and Northeast Manitoba). These collaborative projects are supported by the local caribou management committees, which includes Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship, the Manitoba Model Forest, Manitoba Hydro, First Nations, Environment Canada (Habitat Stewardship Program) the Sustainable Development Innovation Fund, Endangered Species and Biodiversity Fund, Tolko Inc., Hudson Bay Minerals, Parks Canada Agency, Manitoba Eastside Road Authority, University of Manitoba, Trent University and the University of Toronto.

Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) Mule deer sightings were regularly reported by Manitoba Conservation staff, hunters and others in several locations. Most sighting occurred in the southwestern part of the province, but several reports came from the Interlake, Duck Mountain and Riding Mountain areas. Formal aerial surveys are not conducted, but numbers remain low. Mule deer also remain a protected species with no hunting seasons.

Polar Bear (Ursus maritmus) The impact of climate change on the Western Hudson Bay population of polar bears continues to be of concern. The 2011 population survey estimate (1,030 bears) was similar to that from 2004 but significantly lower than the 1987 Canadian Wildlife Service estimate (1,200). Scientists linked this decline to reduced body condition and reduced survival of cubs and sub-adult bears. As a result, Manitoba became the first jurisdiction in Canada to list polar bears as an endangered species in 2008.

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Manitoba Conservation flies up to three coastal surveys each year to estimate the number of bears along the Hudson Bay coast immediately after ice breakup and just before freeze-up. Manitoba also cooperates with surveys and research conducted by Nunavut, Parks Canada and Environment Canada and collects weight and body condition data from bears handled in the Polar Bear Alert Program. The department also actively monitors denning areas along the coast including the Kaskatamagan Wildlife Management Area. Churchill continues to be the premiere site for observing wild polar bears and thousands of visitors from around the world travel to Churchill each October and November to view them. The Churchill Polar Bear Alert Program manages human/polar bear interactions in the town site and surrounding areas to keep people and property safe from polar bears and to ensure that bears are not unnecessarily harassed or killed. In 2009, Manitoba announced a $31 million investment to create the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. The centre will conduct and co-ordinate polar bear rescue, research, and education thus achieving the goals and objectives of The Endangered Species Act and The Polar Bear Protection Act. By 2011 the zoo extensively expanded and retrofitted its former bear exhibits to create a rescue centre for orphaned cubs or compromised bears and in 2012 completed the construction of an education/research building with classrooms and laboratory space. Plants

Buffalo Grass (Buchloë dactyloides) Buffalograss grows on the floodplains of the Souris and Blind Rivers in southwestern Manitoba. Many privately owned properties that support Buffalograss are protected via conservation agreements and the population appeared to be stable.

Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) Common hackberry grows on sandy ridges in the Lauder and Routledge Sandhills and on the beach ridge along the southern edge of the Lake Manitoba beach ridge. Many of its known occurrences were found to be healthy when surveyed in 2010. It is unknown if subsequent severe weather events and elevated water levels on Lake Manitoba have affected some of its populations.

Culver’s-root (Veronicastrum virginicum) Culver’s-root is found in the Rural Municipalities of Stuartburn and Franklin, in fields and road allowances. Sites at the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve have been monitored by preserve staff, however Conservation Data Centre staff visited other sites frequently between 2007 and 2012. The population appeared to be stable.

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Hairy Prairie Clover (Dalea villosa) Hairy prairie clover occurs in several sandhill areas in southern Manitoba, including the Portage Sandhills, Lauder Sandhills, and the Carberry Sandhills. Increased search effort over the reporting period by the Conservation Data Centre documented several new occurrences. The population appears to be stable, but some sites are threatened by sand dune stabilization and invasive alien plant species such as leafy spurge.

Riddell’s Goldenrod (Solidago riddellii) Riddell’s Goldenrod is found in the Rural Municipalities of Stuartburn, Franklin, Hanover and Ste. Anne in fields and road allowances. Known sites at the Tall Grass Prairie Preserve have been monitored and new sites surveyed between 2007 and 2012 suggesting that it was stable during this period.

Western Silvery Aster (Symphyotrieum sericeum) Western Silvery Aster grows in dry prairie sites that occur on beach ridges, gravel eskers and small surficial gravel deposits surrounded by finer soils. The species occurs in four general areas: the Birds Hill gravel esker complex northeast of Winnipeg; southeastern Manitoba within the Rural Municipalities of Hanover, Franklin, Stuartburn and De Salaberry; near the town of Beausejour; and near the town of Richer. Overall, the population appeared to be stable.

Western Spiderwort (Tradescantia occidentalis) Western spiderwort grows on semi-stabilized sandhill prairies, found in the Routledge and Lauder Sandhills. Known locations were frequently visited between 2007 and 2012 to monitor populations, better delineate occupied areas and habitat characteristics. Few new areas were found that might be suitable for western spiderwort, and no new plants were found. The population was stable, but continues to be threatened by Leafy Spurge (an invasive alien plant species) and by sand dune stabilization.

Extirpated Species: One butterfly, three birds, and two mammals are listed as Extirpated in Manitoba. Some of these species (grizzly bear, swift fox, pronghorn) are infrequently reported in the province. These visiting individuals have likely dispersed from established populations in adjacent jurisdictions but do not persist in Manitoba. Others, like the trumpeter swan, appear to be establishing themselves as rare but recently regularly breeding residents.

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Butterflies: Riding’s Satyr (Neominois ridingsii) Birds: Greater Prairie Chicken (Tympanuchus cupido) Long-billed Curlew (Numenius americanus) Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) Mammals: Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos) Muskox (Ovibos moschatus) Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) Swift Fox (Vulpes velox)

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Going Forward — The Next Five Years Challenges facing wildlife in Manitoba over the next five years include the management of over-abundant species, the prevention and management of wildlife disease, recovery and management of species at risk (piping plover, polar bear) and local populations of conservation concern (moose), and fostering a greater appreciation of wildlife among an increasingly urbanized society. The need for enhanced engagement with conservation partners (other agencies, governments or non-government organizations) to better coordinate our collective efforts to reduce the impacts of human-wildlife conflicts, and to reverse the factors that negatively affect species of conservation concern, is greater now than ever before. There are many innovative and creative ways to work better together, such as enhanced opportunities to crowd source funds and cost-share the cost for collaborative education, research and management projects. The successful role and power of citizen science to better monitor dragonfly, amphibian, reptile and bird populations have been demonstrated in Manitoba and elsewhere. These need to be expanded into other areas including the monitoring of site-specific locations of species at risk and game and fur species wildlife monitoring projects. Another noteworthy wildlife opportunity is to enhance and expand engagement with First Nations and Metis communities in the collaborative management of wildlife and other natural resources. There is a need to better share and communicate conservation information via the internet. Youth today are on average smarter than previous generations, and they less frequently read printed material. The Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch will improve its website and the Conservation Data Centre`s GIS and database software over the next five years to achieve this outcome. The list of endangered species continues to grow in Manitoba and elsewhere as expanding human populations consume more resources. The effort required to maintain and recover these species will also continue to increase unless we find new ways to conserve the diversity of wild species and the functional ecosystems that support all of life on earth. Going forward we will develop broad landscape or ecosystem approaches to conservation to complement existing conservation programs to maintain healthy wildlife populations.