Species Recovery Objectives for Four Target Species in the Central and Lower Platte River

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Model B - estimate existing suitable habitat I existing suitable habitat I +n The denominator in both models would be the existing habitat suitability index plus the index altered over time. Model B would be an improved model developed at a later date after more data are collected. The model components would be changed, perhaps after 5 years, based on monitoring data. Good monitoring data would be essential for the model. The development of habitat suitability index (HSI) models are recommended as additional tools to evaluate habitat and habitat changes for whooping cranes. B.8. Research and Monitoring Needs As a result of discussion at the September 26 -27, 2000 and February 15, 2001 workshops, data presented, and collaboration with the FWS, several research and monitoring needs are recommended. Continue and improve surveys of whooping crane use and associated habitat. As a result of new habitat improvements along the central Platte River, increases in whooping crane use would be gradual and would likely only be evident in the second decade of implementation of a Recovery Program. Therefore, changes in whooping crane use along the river should be monitored over a prolonged period of time. 2. Continue to refine the habitat roost model and techniques for evaluating habitat quality for whooping cranes as a management tool. Additional measurements at or near whooping crane roost sites may be desirable. These include water depth, velocity, characteristics of submerged sandbars, distance to obstructions, and proximity to other landscape features (i.e., wet meadows). Continue to monitor sandhill crane use as one measure of habitat suitability and management progress. Nighttime videography for detecting sandhill cranes is one promising tool that is being investigated by researchers. Sandhill cranes exhibit similar habitat preferences as whooping cranes even though there are differences. Much research has been accomplished on sandhill crane use and habitat needs along the Platte River that helps managers to also understand whooping cranes. Sandhill cranes are closely related genetically to whooping cranes, and their abundance makes it possible to use them as a surrogate research species. 4. Whooping crane behavior, habitat use, and time - budget data should be studied regarding use of the central Platte River to help managers interpret habitat preferences and the well -being of whooping cranes that use the Platte River. 27