Reports are rolling in on nesting conditions in the Prairie Pothole Region. While there are pockets of good news, a number of areas in North Dakota, Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.
Hello folks, and as always, welcome to Waterfowler.com.
A quick review of the North American Drought Monitor Map (link below) shows that large portions of the Prairie Pothole Region are not in prime condition this breeding season. While not severe, it is expected that pond counts for this season will be lower than previous years.
Of course, water is only part of the breeding equation; grasslands are equally important to duck production. According to John Devney, Senior Vice President of Delta Waterfowl Foundation, there are pockets of good news as well.
“Eastern South Dakota and the Parklands of Saskatchewan and Manitoba are in very good condition,” stated Devney. “Eastern North Dakota is ok, but Missouri Coteau is very dry.”
In summary, breeding conditions on the prairie have been both better and worse in the past. Abnormally dry is not a moderate nor an extreme drought and the sky isn’t falling.
As we watch the prairie with a hopeful eye these next few months, WFC will publish survey results as they become available.
In other news, Waterfowler.com would like to welcome Federal Cartridge, and Federal Premium as a sponsor this season. In partnership with Ducks Unlimited, Federal Premium is offering a FREE interactive CD to waterfowl hunters across the nation as an educational tool and information resource. WFC readers are encouraged to participate in this free offer, and can visit the link below to request the CD.
Each year, the off-season seems to get shorter and shorter. Early Canada goose seasons are just over three and one-half months away. Spring dog training is underway and our future champions are cutting their teeth on their first bumpers. They will be challenged with blind-doubles before the dog days of summer arrive.
From sport and target shooting, to wetlands management, the off-season for many waterfowl hunters is far from a sporting sabbatical. WFC’s forums provide a wealth of knowledge for off-season projects and preparation, so log on today and do what you need to do to make the coming season the best it can be.
Until our next report, introduce a child to the wonders of the great outdoors!
