Impacts of oil and gas development on the reproduction of sharp-tailed grouse on the Little Missouri National Grasslands, North Dakota

Ryan M. Williamson; Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, 57007

Oil and gas development and their attendant structures (i.e. power lines, roads and collection stations) have increased across western North America since the 1930s, resulting in direct habitat loss, and fragmentation of remaining suitable habitat (Braun et al. 2002).  Both short and long-term habitat losses may be associated with energy development (Lyon and Anderson 2003).  However, little is known of the effects oil and gas development has on sharp-tailed grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus).  Numerous studies have shown developments have affects on many avian species, particularly sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) (Braun et al. 2002).  A two-year study was initiated to determine the impacts of oil and gas development on Plains Sharp-tailed Grouse (T. p. jamesi) on the Little Missouri National Grasslands in North Dakota.  During 2006 and 2007, ninety hens were radio-collared to fulfill these objectives.  Two areas were developed based on the presence of oil and gas development; one area that is developed and one area that is free from development.  Nest locations and success, survivorship, and daily locations were used to estimate the impacts on sharp-tailed grouse.  Reproductive success did not vary between sites other than brood survival in 2006 (Chi-square=10.16,df=1,p=0.001).  Available habitat within the area appeared to be the driving force for where grouse nested and spent the summer.  Much of the developed study site consists of large, deep river breaks or has been converted to cropland or hayland.  Marked birds did not use the river breaks and only moderately used the converted lands; primarily after nesting season was completed.  Results indicate daily locations and nest site selection were chosen based upon availability of habitat within the developed area and sharp-tailed grouse did not appear to choose for or avoid the development.  Management needs to focus on the remaining leks and the surrounding habitats within the site because these are the focal point for annual reproduction and movements.

Literature Cited

Braun, C.E., O.O. Oedekoven, and C.L. Aldridge. 2002. Oil and gas development in

western North America: effects on sage-brush steppe avifauna with particular emphasis on sage grouse. North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference. Transactions 67: 337-349.

Lyon, A.G., and S.H. Anderson. 2003. Potential gas development impacts on sage grouse

nest initiation and movement. Wildlife Society Bulletin 31(2): 486-491.