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., ~t.{f~ w >1:10. on 0:. i\~..~'.: .~ .~. . 10. conclusions The terrain, the soils and the irrigation history of the area has contributed dramatically to the development of exte~sive wetland acreage in a once xeric basin. Wetlands exist on or adjacent to every operating unit within the project area. The tracking system data base and 3 years of data has allowed us to calculate an average of 4.0 acres of wetlands per contracted unit. This does not include wetlands found on noh-contracted acres under the same ownership. As many as 50 acres of wetlands (mostly low value type 2) have been lost under one contract. Voluntary replacement with relatively low value replacement wetlands (such as ponds) and enhancement of existing wetlands on a farm by farm basis continues to make it difficult to achieve positive results. In the McElmo Creek Unit enhancement of existing wetlands appears to be our best alternative for achieving gains in wetland values while reducing salinity. Upland habitat losses continue to be attributed to field squaring and elimination o!cross fences to facilitate sprinkler siderolls and replacement of earthen delivery ditches with buried pipe. At the present time enough diversity and quantity of upland habitat types exist in the McElmo Unit to sustain stable and diverse upland wildlife populations. Cumulative impacts attributed to scs.salinity activitles have had little. affect on these populations to date. In some instances the quality of habitat is increasing where marginal alfalfa fields have become more productive under the new irrigation system and better management. Additionally, scs recommendations for a rotation with alternate crops has increased crop diversity, thus increasing food and cover for wildlife. Probably the most significant negative impact to habitat has been the incorporation of intensive and technologically advanced management practices to reduce labor and increase returns. . .. 15