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retain the sample size as the number of whooping cranes and average multiple observations of a <br />crane as the first step of the analysis. <br />There are several analysis methods available for summarizing the habitat characteristics of <br />whooping crane use sites. The methods range from calculating means and variances, to <br />modeling habitat use, to documenting changes through time, to methods that are not currently <br />developed. With each analysis the probability sample of whooping crane use sites collected <br />under this protocol will provide data adequate for inferences to all cranes stopping along the <br />Platte River in the study area. <br />V. QUALITY ASSURANCE /QUALITY CONTROL (QA/QC) <br />QA/QC measures will be implemented at all stages of the study, including field data collection, <br />data entry, data analysis, and report preparation. Observers will be trained in the methods used <br />and tested on their ability to identify whooping cranes. Log forms will be completed for each <br />aerial survey and are included in Section X. At the end of each survey day, each observer will be <br />responsible for inspecting his or her data forms for completeness, accuracy, and legibility. The <br />study team leader will review data forms to insure completeness and legibility, and any problems <br />detected will be corrected. Any changes made to the data forms will be initialized by the person <br />making the change. <br />Data will be entered into electronic files at a centralized database by qualified technicians. These <br />files will be compared to the raw data forms and any errors detected will be corrected. Any <br />irregular codes detected, or any unclear or ambiguous data will be discussed with the observer <br />and study team leader. All changes made to the raw data must be documented for future <br />reference. <br />After the data have been keyed and verified, the study team leader or QA/QC technician will <br />check a five percent sample of data forms against the final computer file. Any problems <br />identified in later stages of analysis will be traced back to the raw data forms, and appropriate <br />changes in all steps will be made. <br />VI. DATA COMPILATION AND STORAGE <br />A centralized database will be established to store, retrieve and organize field observations. Data <br />from the three different survey methods will be maintained separately. Data from field forms <br />will be keyed into electronic data files using a pre- defined format that will make subsequent data <br />analysis straightforward. All field data forms, field notebooks, and electronic data files will be <br />retained for ready reference. Use -site locations will also be maintained in a GIS database. <br />VII. REPORT FORMAT <br />Data on whooping crane habitat use will be compiled and summarized annually, and <br />incorporated within the larger Program database. A draft and final report will be produced each <br />year describing the methods employed, results, and any conclusions that can be drawn. The <br />report will have both written and graphical components. The report will also contain maps and/or <br />aerial photos showing crane use sites. Descriptive statistics of whooping crane use will be <br />prepared. Reports will be provided to both the Technical Committee and Governance <br />Committee. <br />February 23, 2001 Draft — WC Monitoring Protocol 10 <br />