Showing papers on "Animal mortality published in 1996"

Ecological guidelines for waterpoints in extensive protected areas

Abstract: Augmenting natural water supplies by providing artificial waterpoints is an intervention commonly adopted by managers of national parks and other large protected areas. Contrasting policies are currently being followed in three of the premier national parks in southern Africa. Some empirical guidelines for waterpoint provision are suggested by case histories of these and other wildlife reserves. A geometric model, based on the rotation of water-dependent herbivores between wet season and dry season ranges, is outlined to indicate the appropriate spacing between perennial waterpoints. The aim is to apportion vegetation impacts evenly between these ranges, and allow plants a period of recovery from severe grazing pressure. The model suggests that a much wider spacing between perennial water sources is advisable than is currently operative in most conservation areas. Seasonal waterpoints reduce the period of concentration near perennial water, but prolong use of vegetation in the wet season range. Excessive waterpoints (1) favour water-dependent ungulates and elephants at the expense of rarer ungulates, (2) increase predator impacts on prey populations, (3) widen vegetation degradation, (4) worsen animal mortality during droughts, (5) decrease ecosystem stability, and (6) lead to a loss of biodiversity.

Texas department of transportation wildlife activities

Abstract: The Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT's) vision statement calls for "environmentally sensitive" transportation systems. TxDOT, and more specifically, the Natural Resources Management Section of the Environmental Affairs Division of TxDOT, works hands-on with individual transportation projects to ensure that all environmental concerns are addressed in the best way possible. The Natural Resources Management Section is the department's liaison to federal and state agencies, the Texas Legislature, special interest groups and the public, on issues relating to the environment. This team effort ensures that TxDOT meets goals to avoid, minimize or compensate for adverse environmental impacts. These issues include animal mortality in the roadway. This paper presents several examples of how TxDOT has, and is, attempting to minimize roadway effects on wildlife. Among the species discussed are the brown pelican (Pelicanus occidentalis carolinensis), bats (Texas is home to 32 species), the ocelot (Felis pardalis), the Concho water snake (Nerodia paucimaculata), and the Houston toad (Bufo houstonensis). The Environmental Affairs Division of TxDOT is attempting to take a more proactive stance after building a solid base of compliance with existing state and federal laws and regulations. The division strives to meet TxDOT's vision of "environmentally sensitive" transportation systems by making the environmental process a key part to project development. The best mitigation methods and avoidance alternatives are part of the process. The farsighted benefits of protecting the state's environment outweigh the expense incurred through increased development time and costs, and give the public greater satisfaction with TxDOT projects.