Presents...

THE UNSUNG HEROES OF WATERFOWL MANAGEMENT

The following report and comments were given to us by Tom Wolters of the Michigan Duck Hunters Association and the Macatawa Bay Waterfowl Association. These people and others have made, and are making a difference in the duck population and the condition of local habitat.

Without people willing to do this difficult work, waterfowl hunting would itself be on the "endangered" list.  We want to express our appreciation for their effort.

We salute the hard work of all these volunteers, especially the Koops and our friend Tom Wolters.

 

 DETAILS: Wood duck banding in a restored wetland system

 

Property is located along the Rabbit River, West of the Village of Hamilton, Michigan. In 1979 the project involving restoration of a wetland was completed .

The first objective was to restore the local wood duck population by erecting artificial nest boxes. After numerous learning experiences 35 boxes were erected and maintained. This created an opportunity to band individual hen wood ducks while nesting.

 

 

In cooperation with the Macatawa Bay Waterfowl Association and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources spring banding has been done for over 15 years. The artificial nest boxes have produced approximately 1,800 young wood ducks over those years. The banding project has also produced valuable information to help manage wood ducks in a unique way.

The morphology, soil type, old riverene system, and high quality of water proved to be ideal wood duck producing habitat.

Nesting success is about 50%. The total number of artificial boxes has declined to about 25. The combination of quality boxes, regular maintenance and predator guard proved most successful.

 

 

After time and perseverance the system continues to provide useful information to help manage this important waterfowl resource. Once again working with nature proves how much nature can teach all of us.

 
LANDOWNERS AND BANDERS:
Don J. Koops (Father-retired)
Lon M. Koops (Son, USDA & NRCS)
Tom Wolters, Macatawa Bay Waterfowl Assoc. and Michigan Duck Hunters Assoc.

 

ABOUT THE KOOPS WETLAND RESTORATION PROJECT

- Project was installed in 1978
- Completion time -- 3 years
- Five landowners involved in group A.C.P. Government Program
- Land involved: Approximately 120 acres
- 23 acres of water impoundment are included
- A water control structure is installed with a maximum 4.5-foot head
- 1,400 feet of ditch was plugged and rerouted
- 15 years of wood duck banding has been ongoing -- involving mature and young hens
- Approximate cost exceeds $50,000
- Partners included: MIchigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S.D.A., Natural   Resources
- Conservation Service, Macatawa Bay Waterfowl Association
- Wetland is now managed for waterfowl
- Wetland and adjacent farm land (23 acres) is approved for the U.S.D.A.   Wetland   Reserve Program. 

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