Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area - Management Plan 2014 - Idaho Fish and Game
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Cartier Slough
Wildlife Management Area
Photo by Josh Rydalch, 2011
Management Plan
2014
Upper Snake Region
Cartier Slough
Wildlife Management Area
2014 – 2023 Management Plan
December 2014
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
Upper Snake Region
4279 Commerce Circle
Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401
Prepared By:
Paul J. Faulkner
Habitat Biologist, Cartier District
Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area
Management Plan 2014
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................................3
LIST OF TABLES ...........................................................................................................................4
LIST OF FIGURES .........................................................................................................................5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .............................................................................................................6
INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................................................................9
Department Strategic Goals ...............................................................................................10
Statewide WMA Vision .....................................................................................................10
Cartier Slough WMA Vision .............................................................................................10
Duration of Plan .................................................................................................................10
Other Considerations .........................................................................................................10
AREA DESCRIPTION AND CURRENT STATUS ....................................................................11
MANAGEMENT ISSUES ............................................................................................................14
Issues Identified by the Public ...........................................................................................14
Habitat Management ..............................................................................................14
Wildlife Management ............................................................................................16
Public Use Management ........................................................................................17
Public Comments on Draft Plans .......................................................................................19
Issues Identified by the Department ..................................................................................19
CARTIER SLOUGH WMA MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS .....................................................21
Summary of Management Priorities ..................................................................................21
Focal Species Assessment..................................................................................................22
Selection of Conservation Targets .....................................................................................30
Migratory Waterbirds.............................................................................................30
Henrys Fork River Riparian Habitat ......................................................................31
Coverage Assessment of Selected Conservation Targets ..................................................31
Spatial Delineation of Conservation Target Landscapes ...................................................33
Cartier Slough WMA River Riparian and Migratory Waterbird Landscapes .......33
Cartier Slough WMA Management Program Table ..........................................................36
MONITORING ..............................................................................................................................40
Compliance Monitoring .....................................................................................................40
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Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area
Management Plan 2014
Biological Monitoring........................................................................................................40
Public Use Monitoring .......................................................................................................42
Reporting............................................................................................................................42
Current Monitoring Efforts ................................................................................................42
Weed Monitoring/Mapping ...................................................................................42
User Surveys ..........................................................................................................42
Wildlife Population Surveys ..................................................................................42
Waterfowl Nest Structure Use ...............................................................................43
Winter Waterfowl Use ...........................................................................................43
REFERENCES ..............................................................................................................................44
APPENDICES ...............................................................................................................................46
I. THE COMPASS – THE DEPARTMENT’S STRATEGIC PLAN ...............................47
II. HISTORY......................................................................................................................48
III. MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS AND AUTHORITIES ....................................49
VI. OTHER PROGRAMS .................................................................................................50
V. 1999-2013 ACCOMPLISHMENTS .............................................................................53
VI. VEGETATION ............................................................................................................58
VII. WILDLIFE AND FISH SPECIES LIST ....................................................................61
VIII. TETON REGIONAL LAND TRUST AND BLM EASEMENTS ..........................64
IX. LAND ACQUISITIONS AND AGREEMENTS ........................................................65
X. INFRASTRUCTURE ...................................................................................................66
List of Tables
Table 1. Status of flagship and special status species on Cartier Slough WMA, including
their potential suitability as a focal species for management. .......................................................25
Table 2. Analysis of Conservation Target coverage and identification of conservation
needs. .............................................................................................................................................32
Table 3. Biological monitoring for Cartier Slough WMA, 2014-2023. ........................................41
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Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area
Management Plan 2014
List of Figures
Figure 1. Map of Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area. ......................................................13
Figure 2. Cartier Slough WMA River Riparian landscape. ...........................................................34
Figure 3. Cartier Slough WMA Migratory Waterbird Landscapes. ..............................................35
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Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area
Management Plan 2014
Executive Summary
Idaho Department of Fish and Game (Department) manages 32 Wildlife Management Areas
(WMAs). Researchers from the University of Idaho and The Nature Conservancy evaluated the
value of Idaho’s WMAs to wildlife. They found the WMA network, created to support game
species, “also conserves the full range of Idaho’s wildlife and other ecological features” (Karl et
al. 2005). Surveys and monitoring work conducted by Department biologists on Upper Snake
Region WMAs confirms their value to big game, nongame, and many at-risk species identified in
Idaho’s State Wildlife Action Plan. In many cases WMAs provide the principal habitat for at-risk
species in the Upper Snake Region.
Wildlife Management Areas often abut other protected lands such as National Forests, Bureau of
Land Management (BLM) lands, or private lands protected by conservation easements. Due to
the wildlife-focused management, WMAs often serve as highly productive core areas of the
landscapes in which they exist. Management of these areas involves a combination of restoring
and maintaining important natural habitats to contribute to landscape-level habitat function
(e.g., sage-steppe, slough wetlands) and creating highly productive habitats (e.g., food plots,
impounded wetlands) to enhance the carrying capacity for certain wildlife species.
Wildlife Management Area management plans strive to direct management that upholds these
values. They may also be bounded or guided by legislative and/or funding mandates, Department
species plans, the State Wildlife Action Plan, conservation partner objectives, national wildlife
conservation strategies and plans (federal and non-government organizations) and especially the
Department’s own strategic plan, The Compass. Priorities, Management Directions, Performance
Targets, and Strategies have been developed to be as consistent as possible with all of these
documents and to capture the broader conservation values already provided by WMAs and
ensure these values are protected and enhanced.
The Department’s Upper Snake Region manages seven WMAs that collectively comprise about
85,000 acres of land. Management focus is to maintain highly functional wildlife habitat and
provide wildlife-based recreation. These areas include:
• Tex Creek WMA in Bonneville County, a crucial wintering area for the region’s deer and
elk
• Market Lake and Mud Lake WMAs, two deep marsh units that are vital waterbird
migratory stopover and production areas in Jefferson County
• Chilly Slough Wetland Conservation Area (WCA), a protected complex of wet meadow
and wetland habitats in Custer County
• Cartier Slough WMA, a natural wetland associated with slough channels of the Henrys
Fork River in Madison County
• Deer Parks Complex Wildlife Mitigation Units (WMU), managed cooperatively with the
BLM and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to restore and protect highly functional habitats
along the Snake River in Jefferson and Madison counties
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Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area
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• Sand Creek WMA (including the Chester Segment), a mosaic of deep-water and shallow
wetlands, wet meadow, marsh, and sagebrush-steppe habitats in Fremont County that
provide winter refuge for mule deer, elk, and moose from surrounding high-elevation
public lands including Yellowstone National Park
Examples of at-risk species partially dependent on Upper Snake Region WMAs include: Ute
ladies’ tresses orchid, St. Anthony sand dunes tiger beetle, northern leopard frog, greater sage-
grouse, Columbian sharp-tailed grouse, sandhill crane, trumpeter swan, lesser scaup, northern
pintail, white-faced ibis, long-billed curlew, and yellow-billed cuckoo.
All regional wildlife areas (WMAs, WMUs, and WCAs) are funded through a combination of
hunting license dollars, appropriations from federal excise taxes derived from the sale of firearms
and ammunition, and funding provided by the Bonneville Power Administration and Bureau of
Reclamation (BOR) to mitigate habitat loss from construction of various dams in the region.
Hunters pay a large portion of the management tab and they are rewarded with habitat
management areas that sustain many of the region’s big game herds and provide consistent
waterfowl and upland game bird production and hunting opportunities. Non-hunters, who value
the varied benefits provided by the Upper Snake Region’s WMAs, also benefit from the broad
ranging conservation values associated with Department WMAs.
Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area (CSWMA) is a 1,028-acre wetland/riparian/grassland
complex which was purchased by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and BOR in 1976
and 1977, respectively, as mitigation for wetland/waterfowl losses resulting from construction of
Ririe Dam and Teton Dam. The management of the property was transferred to the Department
by agreements with the COE and BOR.
Cartier Slough WMA is managed primarily as habitat for waterbirds (waterbirds, shorebirds, and
waterfowl). However, it provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species. It is also managed to
provide public access for both consumptive and non-consumptive use. Hunting, hiking, and
wildlife viewing are some of the more popular uses.
This document provides direction in the form of goals, objectives, and strategies for the
management of CSWMA. The direction of CSWMA was determined after a series of public
meetings. Issues pertaining to CSWMA were identified by the public and the Department. These
issues were developed into goals, objectives, and strategies consistent with the Department’s
Strategic Plan, The Compass. A draft version of these goals and strategies was offered for public
inspection and comment in October 2013. No additional comments were received.
This plan will serve as a guide for current and future managers in planning where to direct efforts
and resources for maximum wildlife benefit, public enjoyment, and efficient operation. As new
information and technology becomes available, and as more property is acquired, strategies may
be modified to most effectively reach the goals and objectives in this plan. All goals, objectives,
and strategies are dependent on adequate funding, personnel, and public support.
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Management Program Table development is based on Conservation Targets chosen to benefit a
large number of species using CSWMA and surrounding areas. Conservation targets give
direction to management goals and procedures that will restore, maintain, or improve habitats on
the CSWMA and surrounding areas. The performance targets and strategies will guide managers
on how to accomplish this.
Migratory Waterbird habitat management will involve stop-over habitat that provides foraging
areas for birds to acquire that needed energy to complete migrations or to survive harsh winter
conditions. These food sources benefit many other species on the CSWMA.
Given the high species value of migratory waterbirds (particularly of priority species such as
northern pintail, white-faced ibis, lesser scaup, sandhill crane, trumpeter swan, etc.) wetland
restoration and conservation partnerships are very achievable.
River riparian management provides direction for management of cottonwood groves, riparian
shrubs, and the vegetation understory essential to many species utilizing CSWMA. Ultimately,
restoration of this habitat will enable expansion of sensitive species, such as yellow-billed
cuckoo birds.
Cartier Slough WMA’s conservation target management practices will provide benefits to a large
number of species utilizing CSWMA and surrounding areas. Species that will not benefit have
been identified as requiring additional information for management direction.
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Management Plan 2014
Introduction
This management plan is designed to provide broad guidance for the long-term management of
Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area (CSWMA). It replaces an earlier management plan
written in 1999. This new plan was completed during 2012 and 2013 with extensive public input.
This plan is coordinated with other Idaho Department of Fish and Game (Department) plans and
policies summarized below:
• State Wildlife Action Plan (2005)
• Statewide management plans for:
o waterfowl (1991)
o upland game (1991)
o mule deer (2010)
o white-tailed deer (2005)
o elk (2014)
o moose (1991)
o furbearer (1991)
• Statewide big game depredation management plan (1988)
• Conservation Plan for the Greater Sage-grouse in Idaho (2006)
• Policy for Avian and Mammalian Predation Management (2000)
Other plans this document uses, is part of, or references include:
• North American Waterfowl Management Plan (2012)
• Intermountain West Waterbird Conservation Plan (2006)
• U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan (2001)
• Intermountain West Regional Shorebird Plan (2000)
• Partners in Flight Tri-National Vision for Landbird Conservation
• Idaho Partners in Flight: Idaho Bird Conservation Plan (2000)
• Idaho’s Invasive Species Plan (2012)
Department Mission
All wildlife, including all wild animals, wild birds, and fish, within the state of Idaho, is hereby
declared to be the property of the state of Idaho. It shall be preserved, protected, perpetuated, and
managed. It shall be only captured or taken at such times or places, under such conditions, or by
such means, or in such manner, as will preserve, protect, and perpetuate such wildlife, and
provide for the citizens of this state and, as by law permitted to others, continued supplies of
such wildlife for hunting, fishing and trapping (Idaho Code Section 36-103).
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Management Plan 2014
Department Strategic Goals
The Department’s 2005 Strategic Plan, The Compass, is the primary guiding document for all
other Department plans and outlines four goals for the Department:
• Fish, Wildlife and Habitat: Sustain Idaho’s fish and wildlife and the habitats upon which
they depend.
• Fish and Wildlife Recreation: Meet the demand for fish and wildlife recreation.
• Working With Others: Improve public understanding of and involvement in fish and
wildlife management.
• Management Support: Enhance the capacity of the Department to manage fish and
wildlife and serve the public.
The 2014 Wildlife Management Area (WMA) plans describe the management direction for each
of the 32 WMAs the Department manages to help accomplish these goals. The specific Compass
goals and objectives relevant to WMA management are included in Appendix I.
Statewide WMA Vision
Our WMAs are managed to provide and showcase important habitat for all wildlife and to offer
high quality, wildlife-based public recreation.
Cartier Slough WMA Vision
Provide mitigation for past riparian and wetland losses, to secure and improve habitat for a
diversity of waterfowl, waterbirds, threatened, endangered, and sensitive species, as well as other
game and nongame wildlife; secondarily, to provide high quality wildlife-related recreational
opportunities compatible with CSWMA goals for the benefit of the public.
Duration of Plan
This plan provides broad, long-term management of CSWMA and has a 10-year life span. It will
be evaluated every five years to determine if adjustments are needed. The plan will be modified
as needed to accommodate changing conditions and goals and to incorporate available
advancements in management knowledge and techniques.
Other Considerations
All strategies proposed in this plan are bound by the contractual agreements between cooperating
agencies, the mission of CSWMA, and all applicable Department species management plans and
policies. Issues and strategies that are inconsistent with the mission were not considered. In
addition, the implementation of all strategies will be subject to available funding, personnel, and
safety considerations.
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Area Description and Current Status
The Department’s CSWMA is located along the west side of the Henrys Fork of the Snake River
west of Rexburg and south of Highway 33. The entire management area lies within big game
management unit 63A (T6N. R38E. Sections 25 & 36; T6N. R39E. Sections 30 & 31). The
Teton Segment is managed by the Department on a five-year contract and the Ririe segment has
a 99-year contract (renewable in 5-year increments) with the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR).
Most of CSWMA lies on the basalt flood plain of the Henrys Fork. A variety of habitat classes
are present. There are 2.8 miles of riverbank and four miles of slough channels. Wet meadows,
dominated by sedges (Carex spp.) and Baltic rush (Juncus balticus), occupy 20 acres, while 25
acres of shallow ponds support aquatic vegetation and emergent marshes with hardstem bulrush
(Schoenoplectus acutus), cattail (Typha latifolia), common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris), and
water smartweed (Polygonum amphibium). There are about 300 acres of scrub-shrub wetlands
dominated by coyote willow (Salix exigua), greenleaf willow (Salix lucida ssp. caudata),
redosier dogwood (Cornus sericea), Woods’ rose (Rosa woodsii), and black hawthorn
(Crataegus douglasii). Adjacent to these wetlands lie 379 acres of riparian grasslands. Mixed
with these areas are 153 acres of mature black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera ssp.
trichocarpa) groves (with quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) interspersed) with common
snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) in the understory.
The west and north edges of the area are composed of about 42 acres of lava rim and big
sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata). A 35-acre field of perennial grass is located on this rim.
The area is basically a wetland with very little water control. Water levels are dependent on the
level of the Henrys Fork of the Snake River. Approximately 90% of the area floods during high
water years. The only water that is Department controlled is 134.13 shares (60 inches) of 1895
water rights in the Egin Bench Canals, Inc. system. At the time of purchase, these water rights
were held with the Independent Canal Company. This water is used to irrigate the 35 acres of
perennial grasses, shrubs, and trees in the northeast corner of the WMA. This water has no effect
on wetland water levels. The BOR owns a large well/pump (part of the Teton Project) that can
deliver large volumes of water to CSWMA during times of drought.
The climate of the area is typical of the semi-arid high desert. Annual precipitation ranges from
eight to 16 inches, with 12 inches average. Most of the precipitation falls as winter snow with
accumulations of up to 18 inches. Winter snow depth averages about eight inches. A moderate
amount of precipitation falls as spring rain. There is an average of 105 frost-free days per year.
Temperatures range between -30oF to 95oF. Average summer highs are around 80oF, and winter
lows are around 15oF. Freeze-up normally occurs in mid-November with river and main sloughs
open until mid-December. Parts of the river and main slough remain open most of the winter. Ice
depths are eight to 14 inches. Ice-out usually occurs in late March and early April, followed by
flooding which may cover up to 90% of the area through May and June.
Cartier Slough WMA contains habitat important to a variety of wildlife species. Over 200
species of wildlife use the CSWMA. Canada geese and a diversity of ducks use the area for
nesting, brood rearing, and staging during migration. Trumpeter swans use the area in late fall
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and winter. Moose, white-tailed deer, and mule deer use the area all year. Upland game found on
the area include: ring-necked pheasant, gray partridge, mourning dove, and cottontail rabbit.
Beaver and muskrat can be found on CSWMA along with other furbearers such as fox and
coyote. A bald eagle nest is located on the southern end of CSWMA. Cartier Slough WMA
provides a secure area for foraging and roosting eagles. A diversity of shorebirds, large wading
birds, and migratory songbirds use the area for nesting and foraging. Appendix VII summarizes
wildlife present on CSWMA.
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Figure 1. Map of Cartier Slough Wildlife Management Area.
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Management Issues
Upper Snake Region habitat staff presented information on the WMAs in the Upper Snake
Region and the preparation of the 2014 WMA plans at two big game season setting public
meetings in February and March of 2012. These meetings were held in Idaho Falls and Rexburg.
We created displays highlighting the WMAs, the planning process, and management issues that
we had identified prior to the meetings. We encouraged the attendees to give us written
comments regarding management of the WMAs and any issues they felt that we need to address
in our future management. We directed attendees to the online survey available on the
Department website (described below) and provided a form at the meetings for written
comments.
Throughout 2012 (Feb-Dec), an online survey form was available on the Department website.
The survey allowed participants to answer questions and provide feedback on WMA
management statewide and the management of specific WMAs. Upper Snake Region habitat
staff sent >600 emails to neighbors, cooperators, legislators, sportsmen’s groups, land
management agencies and concerned citizens inviting them to take the online survey. A news
release was issued in the Idaho Falls newspaper inviting the public to take the online survey.
We received 49 online surveys specific to CSWMA. Of these completed surveys, 19 (39%)
included suggestions for improved management of CSWMA.
In addition to management issues identified by the public during these survey processes,
Department staff also identified management issues specific to CSWMA. The following is a list
of all CSWMA management issues identified by members of the public or Department staff. The
issues identified by the public were grouped, based on similarity, into three general categories:
Habitat Management, Wildlife Management, and Public Use Management. Similar comments
were then combined to form management issue statements under each category. In the section
below, we summarize each management issue and discuss some potential management options
on CSWMA.
Issues Identified by the Public
Habitat Management (53% of public comments) (% = # comments/ 19)
1. Area lacks habitat for good populations of ducks, fish, and upland game birds. Develop
larger sections of high quality habitat (1 comment).
Discussion: Cartier Slough WMA is located in a high desert precipitation zone, receiving
between eight and 14 inches of annual moisture. Most of this comes in the form of snowfall.
Without irrigation, establishing new vegetation is difficult. Frequent spring flooding prohibits
larger spring time planting operations. Improving wetland habitat for waterbirds is addressed
in this plan. These improvements will benefit all species using CSWMA.
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2. Plant more food plots on CSWMA (3 comments).
Discussion: This management issue drew two distinct desires for better habitat. Two of the
respondents wanted more food plots for doves. The other respondent wanted just more food
plots. Cartier Slough is seasonally flooded, making food plots difficult to establish. Most
times, it is not possible to get farm equipment into areas where food plots would benefit
wildlife. By the time it is dry enough to plant, it is too late for plants to mature and produce
seed.
3. Cartier Slough WMA should be expanded through land acquisitions (3 comments).
Discussion: The Department has an active land acquisition program for the entire state.
Priority purchases are determined each year. Dependent on funding, acquisitions are acquired
in priority order. The properties that comprise the Cartier Slough Complex (Figure 1) were
acquired for the purpose of partial mitigation for the loss of wildlife habitat caused by
construction of the Teton Dam. Using U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and BOR
funding, the wildlife mitigation units were acquired from willing sellers. U.S. Bureau of
Land Management (BLM) land is also included within the CSWMA and all is managed by
the Department. Cartier Slough WMA is fortunate in that it has been used as a “keystone”
property by the Teton Regional Land Trust (TRLT). Many easements have been established
adjacent to CSWMA that will protect open space and provide for wildlife (Appendix VIII).
However, we will continue to seek opportunities to add to CSWMA as we recognize that it is
not large enough to provide secure habitat for all target wildlife during the varied seasonal
extremes in eastern Idaho, particularly in the face of the expansion of Rexburg and its
neighboring communities.
4. Improve noxious weed control on CSWMA (1 comment).
Discussion: Noxious weed management is a significant part of the overall habitat
management of CSWMA. Two seasonal technicians spend a large portion of their time
actively treating noxious weeds with chemical, mechanical, and biological control methods.
The CSWMA manager is an active participant in the local Cooperative Weed Management
Areas, participating in weed control efforts on neighboring federal lands, and working with
neighboring private landowners to prevent the spread of noxious weeds onto CSWMA. Leafy
spurge is the most prevalent weed in the area and at the present time we are using goat
grazing as the most effective management tool for this weed. Seasonal flooding hampers
efforts with biological control, as many of the control insects are lost during high water
years. Weed control will continue to be a high priority for CSWMA.
5. Flood more areas for waterfowl hunting (2 comments).
Discussion: This has been a management practice in the past, until the water control
structure developed a leak. It was repaired at one time, but has developed another leak.
Repairs are scheduled for 2014.
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6. Manage CSWMA for native vegetation (1 comment).
Discussion: There are several plant community types on CSWMA, including a mature
cottonwood forest, supporting a diversity of wildlife species. The Department would like to
continue to manage CSWMA as an important natural area supporting a diversity of wildlife,
particularly endangered, threatened, or species of special concern, while emphasizing
waterfowl habitat management. Many introduced plant species were present at the time of
purchase. It has not been feasible to convert these areas to native species, considering the
flooding pattern. Noxious weeds often thwart establishment of native species. Once weeds in
an area are under control, we typically plant that area to native grasses.
Wildlife Management (63% of public comments)
1. Increase mule deer, moose, and elk numbers (2 comments).
Discussion: Cartier Slough WMA was purchased as mitigation for waterfowl habitat losses
in other areas, therefore the priority for management of the area is for waterfowl habitat and
waterfowl hunting opportunities. This will be done in a manner which does not negatively
impact other wildlife using the area, particularly endangered, threatened, or species of special
concern. Management practices that benefit waterfowl also benefit other waterbirds. Big
game utilizing CSWMA are primarily white-tailed deer and moose. Elk occasionally use the
area and mule deer are more prone to use the surrounding sagebrush areas. We will continue
to strive for quality habitat focusing on CSWMA priorities, which will benefit all species
using the WMA.
2. Increase game bird numbers and species for hunting (3 comments).
Discussion: Because much of CSWMA floods in the spring during high water years, there is
little opportunity for crop production to enhance winter food supplies critical to upland birds.
Upland bird nesting is also limited by periodic flooding. Our best opportunity to influence
game bird populations may be to coordinate habitat projects with neighboring landowners.
Hopefully, a new farm bill will provide funding for future projects.
3. Reduce predation, particularly wolf predation, on big game (2 comments).
Discussion: Population management designed to influence regional predator-prey dynamics
is outside the scope of this specific WMA management plan. However, each big game
species, including the apex predatory species (i.e., wolf, black bear, and mountain lion), have
species-specific management plans that address predation management. Additionally, the
Department has the “Policy for Avian and Mammalian Predation Management” that
describes the Department’s policy on predation management and the process utilized to
develop predation management plans for specific areas. With regard to wolf management
specifically, CSWMA is in the Southern Idaho wolf management zone which currently has a
liberal harvest season (Aug 30 – Mar 31, two wolf tags per person) and no overall zone
harvest limit. That said; there have been no verified bear, wolf, or mountain lion sightings on
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CSWMA since its purchase. It is possible these predators travel the Snake River corridor and
have or will at some time pass through CSWMA.
4. Stock more pheasants (4 comments).
Discussion: The pheasant release program is directed by the Department state office. The
program consistently operates at a deficit, making increasing the program financially
problematic. As costs continue to rise, it will be difficult to maintain the current stocking
rate, much less expand the program.
5. Release ½ pheasant month early to make wild, other ½ during season (1 comment).
Discussion: Releasing birds does increase hunting opportunity, but the opportunity is short-
lived. Research has demonstrated many times that released birds rarely recruit into the wild
population. In our opinion, the best strategy for pheasant is to improve natural habitat and
expand the wild population.
Public Use Management (68% of public comments)
1. Allow more/less motorized vehicle access on CSWMA (4 comments).
Discussion: The public is allowed and encouraged to use CSWMA for wildlife-related
activities. Most of CSWMA is currently closed to vehicular use, other than administrative
needs, providing security to a variety of wildlife including big game and nesting waterfowl
and to protect the fragile wetland habitats. The Department plans to continue this
management, as it yields the highest benefits for recreation and for wildlife. We will continue
to maintain the perimeter roads that are open for vehicle use.
2. Provide better maps at parking areas (1 comment).
Discussion: Updated maps are now available at the Regional office or the map box located
on the south end of Beaver Dick Park.
3. CSWMA is too crowded or limit numbers of hunters per day (3 comments).
Discussion: Cartier Slough WMA is one of the smaller WMAs and is prone to overcrowding
in relation to pheasant releases. We have two pheasant releases per week during pheasant
hunting season. As the number of hunters purchasing a pheasant WMA permit increases,
crowding increases. We currently do not have additional areas to release birds. We will
attempt to decrease pressure by varying pheasant release times and days. The Management
Program of this plan addresses some of these issues. All comments have been forwarded to
the Wildlife Bureau for consideration.
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4. Charge more for pheasant WMA permits (1 comment).
Discussion: Permit and license fees are established by the Idaho Fish and Game Commission
and the Idaho Legislature. We encourage our users to contact their Commissioners and
legislative representatives to make these changes.
5. Clean up the mess from target shooting, bonfires, and trash dumping (3 comments).
Discussion: With a major collage close by, abuse is difficult to control with the large number
of young people looking for a place to party, target practice, and go four-wheeling. Most
posted regulation signs are torn down and the abuse continues. This is not a super high
priority with law enforcement agencies. We encourage law enforcement personnel (BLM,
Department, and county sheriff) to routinely patrol the area to minimize littering, vandalism,
and other illegal activities. We also encourage users to contact agency personnel when
violations are observed.
6. Have Conservation Officers patrol CSWMA more for Fish and Game violations
(2 comments).
Discussion: Enforcement personnel cover very large districts and target areas with large
numbers of hunters. Officers attempt to patrol CSWMA during peak hunting activity periods
(i.e., pheasant release days, opening days of game seasons). We will continue to encourage
law enforcement personnel (BLM, Department, and county sheriff) to patrol the area.
7. Improve access to interior of the WMA (1 comment).
Discussion: Service roads are mowed during late summer for users. We will consider
mowing more trails to improve access and include these on our WMA maps.
8. Repair roads and develop better parking and access for duck hunters (1 comment).
Discussion: The main parameter road is maintained every spring. Rutting normally occurs
late in the season. This Department-controlled road is kept in a useable, but low maintenance
state (i.e., useable by four-wheel drive vehicles during most spring-fall weather conditions).
Maintaining smooth dirt road conditions is a difficult and expensive endeavor, and improving
road surfaces (i.e., gravel or pavement) would be even more expensive. Funds spent on
additional road maintenance and/or improvement would come from funds that would
otherwise be spent on CSWMA priorities such as habitat improvements and land
acquisitions. At this time, CSWMA does not intend to divert significant funds away from the
core priorities to increase road maintenance, but will continue to maintain CSWMA-
controlled roads in a useable, low maintenance state. Really problematic sections of roads
will be improved as funding and priorities allow. Other side roads are on BLM property and
not the Department’s responsibility. However, we will work with BLM to maintain roads that
help to meet the objectives of CSWMA. Parking areas are available at major water areas.
Fence stiles are positioned in various locations along the boundary fences for user access.
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Other planned access methods for people and horses are included in the Management Section
of this plan.
9. Install waterfowl hunting blinds along the river (1 comment).
Discussion: At this time, the Department does not plan to develop hunting blinds along the
river. High water years would destroy any blind within the high water line. If demand
increases, the Department will look into constructing permanent blinds around inland water
bodies that would not be damaged during flooding. At the present time, anyone can construct
or erect a blind on CSWMA. Blinds are to be constructed of natural materials. No artificial
fasteners, such as nails, wires, or rope are allowed. Soils cannot be disturbed and trees cannot
be cut or altered. These blinds shall be available to the public on a “first-come – first-serve”
basis. Portable blinds are welcome, but must be removed each day.
Public Comments on Draft Plans
In April 2014, the draft WMA plans were made available to the public for comment. The
comment period closed on June 10, 2014. Cartier Slough WMA received input on the draft plan
from a total of two individuals. Both strongly agreed with the way the plan was written.
The Department received one comment from Idaho Conservation League. They were concerned
with ensuring that each WMA plan considered the landscape in which it resides and non-
consumptive wildlife uses. They had no comments specific to CSWMA. Significant portions of
all WMA plans are dedicated to landscape scale planning. In fact, each focal species/habitat
selected has an associated landscape. The CSWMA plan also incorporates wildlife viewing as a
priority recreational pursuit. We believe that we have addressed these two issues very clearly.
Issues Identified by the Department
1. The Irrigation ditch between the headgate and Hwy 33 has been widened by cattle
watering to the point that water velocity is too low to push water under the highway
and to the north 35 acre agriculture field efficiently.
Discussion: The channel hits bedrock most of the way. The most efficient method of
increasing water delivery would be piping the water. This will alleviate cattle damage,
water seepage and evaporation loss.
2. Many of the channels have silted in over the last 10 years. This causes large areas to
dry up quickly during low water years.
Discussion: Holding water in larger pools later in the year provides more usable habitat
for waterbirds and additional opportunity for waterfowl hunters. The islands created in
one of the channels for waterfowl nesting are no longer secure. Deepening channels will
enhance wildlife and recreational use and we identify strategies in the Management
Section of this plan to address this issue.
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3. Seasonally wet low land areas dry out during the summer.
Discussion: Installing water control structures in areas that have hydric soils could
maintain wet soil areas and shallow wetlands for waterbirds. The ability to control water
levels would enable the production and availability timing of seed producing plants and
water bugs. Some areas could be deepened and enlarged, compounding benefits. We
identify strategies in the Management Section of this plan to address this issue.
4. The main water control structure still leaks and cannot hold water until winter.
Discussion: Repairs have been attempted in the past by the Department’s engineering
crew, but have not been successful for long-term solutions. We identify strategies in the
Program Management Section of this plan to address this issue.
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Cartier Slough WMA
Management Programs
The Department is responsible for the conservation, protection, perpetuation, and management of
all wildlife, fish, and plants in Idaho. Wildlife Management Areas enable the Department to
directly affect habitat to maximize suitability for species in key areas and are an integral
component in the Department’s approach to fulfill its mandate in Idaho Code. Management to
restore and maintain important natural habitats and create hyper-productive habitats that enhance
carrying capacity for selected wildlife species remain key strategies on CSWMA. However, the
most pervasive threats to WMA ecological integrity, such as noxious weeds, rural
residential/commercial development, increased water diversion, and conflicting land uses on
public lands, typically come from outside the WMA’s boundary. Therefore, WMA managers
must recognize and create opportunities to collaborate with adjacent landowners, expanding our
collective conservation efforts for WMA-dependent wildlife.
An effective way to enable a broader influence over the future of CSWMA is through the use of
Conservation Targets to guide management. Conservation Targets could be either a focal species
or a habitat-type that benefits numerous species. According to Noss et al. (1999), focal species
are those used by resource managers to determine the appropriate size and configuration of
conservation areas. Conservation of species within landscapes used for other enterprises such as
forestry, recreation, agriculture, grazing, and commercial development requires managers to
determine the composition, quantity, and configuration of landscape elements required to meet
the needs of the species present (Lambeck 1997). Since it is impractical to identify key landscape
elements for all species dependent on CSWMA, a carefully selected suite of Conservation
Targets can help provide for the conservation needs of many species. Additionally, identifying
landscape-scale Conservation Targets across ownership boundaries helps address wildlife-related
issues on CSWMA and creates a platform for conservation partnerships on the surrounding
landscape.
The following six-step process was used to create the CSWMA management program described
in this plan. Each of these steps is described in detail on the ensuing pages.
1) Summary of Management Priorities
2) Focal Species Assessment
3) Selection of Conservation Targets
4) Coverage Assessment of Selected Conservation Targets
5) Spatial Delineation of Conservation Target Landscapes
6) Creation of Management Program Table
Summary of Management Priorities
Cartier Slough WMA, like many other WMAs, was created for a specific purpose and therefore
has inherent management priorities incorporated in the cooperating agency agreements and land
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ownerships that formed the WMA. Cartier Slough WMA is a wetland/riparian/grassland
complex purchased by the COE and BOR in 1976 and 1977, respectively, as mitigation for
wetland/waterfowl losses resulting from construction of Ririe Dam and Teton Dam.
Cartier Slough WMA is managed primarily as habitat for wetland-dependent species. Cartier
Slough WMA is also managed to provide public access for wildlife-based recreation.
Legal mandates associated with the 2001 appropriation of federal funding for the State Wildlife
Grants program also guide the Department’s management priorities. The U.S. Congress
appropriated federal funds through the State Wildlife Grants program to help meet the need for
conservation of all fish and wildlife. Along with this new funding came the responsibility of each
state to develop a State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). The Department coordinated this effort in
compliance with its legal mandate to protect and manage all of the state’s fish and wildlife
resources (IDFG 2005). The SWAP does not distinguish between game and nongame species in
its assessment of conservation need and is Idaho’s seminal document identifying species at-risk.
Therefore, at-risk species identified in the SWAP, both game and nongame, are a management
priority for the Department.
In addition to the biological goals of preserving, protecting, and perpetuating all fish and wildlife
in the state of Idaho, the Department also has a statewide goal of protecting and improving
wildlife-based recreation and education. The Department’s strategic plan, The Compass, outlines
multiple strategies designed to maintain or improve both consumptive (e.g., hunting, trapping,
fishing) and non-consumptive (e.g., wildlife watching) wildlife-based recreation opportunities
across the state.
Taking the biological and funding resources of CSWMA into consideration, in concert with the
foundational priorities of CSWMA and statewide Department priorities, the Department
developed the following list of broad-scale CSWMA Management Priorities.
Cartier Slough WMA Management Priorities:
1. Waterbird Habitat
2. Wildlife-based Recreation and Education
Focal Species Assessment
This section of the CSWMA Plan is an assessment of various conservation priority fish and
wildlife species on CSWMA and adjacent Lower Henrys Fork of the Snake River watershed in
order to identify focal species to guide management. Table 1 evaluates taxa that are either
flagship species (Groves 2003) and/or at-risk species identified by the Department in the Idaho
Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy/SWAP (IDFG 2005) and key federal agencies.
Flagship species are popular, charismatic species that serve as symbols and catalysts to motivate
conservation awareness, support, and action (Heywood 1995). Flagship species often represent a
landscape or ecosystem (e.g., Upper Snake River watershed or river bottom ecosystems), a threat
(e.g., habitat loss or climate change), organization (e.g., state government or non-government
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organization) or geographic region (e.g., protected area, Department Region or state; Veríssimo
et al. 2009).
A principal limitation of the flagship species concept is that by focusing limited management
resources on culturally and economically important species, more vulnerable species may receive
less or no attention (Simberloff 1998). To overcome this limitation, we are explicitly considering
a wide variety of at-risk species (Groves 2003); yielding a more comprehensive assessment that
includes culturally and economically important species (e.g., mule deer and elk) along with
formally designated conservation priorities (e.g., bald eagle and sage-grouse). Categories of at-
risk vertebrate species considered in this assessment are: 1) species designated as Idaho Species
of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN); 2) species designated as Sensitive by Region 4
(Intermountain Region) of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS); and 3) species designated as
Sensitive by the Idaho State Office of the BLM.
The Idaho SGCN list was developed as part of the Idaho Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation
Strategy (IDFG 2005). The Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy document is now
referred to as the SWAP. Idaho’s plan serves to coordinate the efforts of all partners working
toward conservation of wildlife and wildlife habitats across the state.
Although the Idaho SWAP SGCN includes most of the special status species identified by land
management agencies in Idaho, some species not listed as SGCN are considered priorities by
other agencies. The Upper Snake River watershed, including CSWMA, is a mosaic of land
ownerships including private lands, BLM lands, TRLT easements, and lands managed by the
Department. BLM and TRLT are key partners in this landscape as their management actions
directly influence ecological function on CSWMA. To maximize coordination, communication,
and partnership opportunity, we include both USFS and BLM Sensitive Species in our
biodiversity assessment.
United States Forest Service Sensitive Species are animal species identified by the Intermountain
Regional Forester for which population viability is a concern, as evidenced by significant current
or predicted downward trends in population numbers or significant current or predicted
downward trends in habitat capability that would reduce a species’ existing distribution. The
Forest Service Manual (FSM 2670.22) directs the development of sensitive species lists. This
designation applies only on USFS–administered lands.
Bureau of Land Management Sensitive Species are designated by State Directors in cooperation
with the State fish and wildlife agency (BLM manual 6840). The Idaho State BLM Office
updated these designations in 2003. The sensitive species designation is normally used for
species that occur on BLM public lands and for which BLM has the capability to significantly
affect the conservation status of the species through management.
Information on species status, occurrence, beneficial management/conservation actions and
threats were derived through consultation with Department Regional Habitat, Fisheries, and
Wildlife staff; occurrence records in the Department’s Idaho Fish and Wildlife Information
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System database; consultation with various BLM and USFS species lists, and species summaries
provided in the Idaho SWAP.
Suitability of assessed species as a focal species were estimated by Upper Snake Regional
Habitat and Diversity staff based on descriptions in Groves (2003) and the USFWS (2005).
Potentially suitable focal species may include species with one or more of the following five
characteristics:
• Species with high conservation need
• Species or habitats that are representative of a broader group of species sharing the
same or similar conservation needs
• Species with a high level of current program effort
• Species with potential to stimulate partnerships
• Species with a high likelihood that factors affecting status can realistically be addressed
(USFWS 2005)
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Table 1. Status of flagship and special status species on Cartier Slough WMA, including their potential suitability as a focal species for
management.
Occurrence Context in
Status Beneficial Management and Suitability as a Focal Species
Species Cartier Slough WMA Threats
Designation(s) Conservation Actions for Cartier Slough WMA
Landscape
Mammals
Population distribution in Idaho is mostly Unsuitable as a focal species.
The primary recommended actions in
Idaho Pocket Gopher undocumented. However, Limited information on distribution in the project
Undocumented on CSWMA. Presence is Idaho’s SWAP are documenting population
(Thomomys SGCN,G4, S3 loss of shrub steppe and grassland habitats area. Unknown distribution limits potential
possible based on available habitat. distribution and initiating efforts to better
idahoensis) in the range of this species is likely a factor management feedback.
document habitat associations.
affecting conservation.
Protection of river corridors as natural areas
Moose are commonly found across Deer Potentially suitable as a focal species. Moose are
Development on the River Corridor poses would benefit this population of moose the
Parks WMU, but exact densities are a relatively abundant animal on CSWMA and are
the greatest threat to this population as well most. Agricultural crops offer a large
Moose (Alces alces) Flagship unknown. Movement along the river dependent on habitats that are representative of a
as vehicle collisions. Harvest numbers are portion of their diet. Retaining the dense
corridor is frequent and populations cross broader group of species sharing the same or
well managed. willow and dogwood stands greatly
the river at will. similar conservation needs.
enhances winter habitat.
Individuals are long-lived and exhibit low
reproductive potential. Roost sites tend to be
California Myotis colonial, and may be limiting in some areas; Minimize broad-spectrum insect control
(Myotis californicus), Fringed myotis aggregations are susceptible to disturbance activities that reduce prey base. Where
(Myotis thysanodes), Long-eared myotis and intentional persecution. High prey possible, document natural roosting habitat
(Myotis evotis), Long-legged myotis densities are often associated with wetlands such as cliffs. Create day-and night-roosting
Unsuitable as a focal species.
SGCN; BLM (Myotis volans), Western small-footed and other highly productive habitat. Habitat habitat through installation of bat boxes.
Unknown scope of occurrence and composition
Sensitive and Watch myotis (Myotis cilliolabrum), Yuma use rates and, at the population level, Deploy escapement devices on troughs and
Bat Guild of guild on CSWMA, data gaps would require
List, Type 5, G4, G5, myotis (Myotis yumanensis), Townsend’s survival and recruitment rates likely track water tanks, and develop natural and
preliminary work to determine the extent of
S2 big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii). aerial insect prey availability. Accessible artificial pooled water sources. Track with
occurrence.
Cartier Slough WMA could provide surface water also likely affects local ongoing efforts of the East Idaho Bat
important foraging habitat and maternity distribution and abundance. Local Working Group to identify opportunities to
habitat for some of these species. populations potentially affected by wind mitigate bat mortalities from wind energy
turbine installations situated in flyways or development.
near high-use areas, such as wetlands or
roosts.
Birds
Identify, protect, and maintain existing
Loss, degradation, and fragmentation of Unsuitable as a focal species.
Sage-steppe portions of CSWMA provide sagebrush seasonal habitats particularly
sagebrush habitat are the major threats to the Sage-grouse have a high conservation need and
suitable habitat for Greater Sage-grouse. breeding and winter habitats. Identify new
greater sage–grouse in Idaho. Habitat are representative of a group of species sharing
BLM Sensitive, No leks have been located on the WMA, lek/breeding habitats in the CSWMA
Greater Sage-grouse degradation factors include alteration of similar conservation needs. They have a high
SGCN, USFS but there are active leks north of Hwy 32. vicinity. Where possible, restore damaged
(Centrocercus historical fire regimes, conversion of level of current Department program effort and
Sensitive, ESA CSWMA is identified as “Important” and lost sage-steppe habitat. Manage
urophasianus) sagebrush habitat, water developments, use are a species with potential to stimulate
Candidate sage-grouse habitat in the Governor’s projects to significantly reduce
of herbicides and pesticides, invasive partnerships. However, sage-rouse numbers on
plan and in BLM’s Preliminary Priority fragmentation of existing sagebrush habitats
species, urbanization, energy development, and around CSWMA are suppressed, making
Habitat (PPH). and to reduce human disturbance. Continue
mineral extraction, and recreation. management changes difficult to measure.
to monitor the leks near CSWMA.
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