2007 Summaries of Wildlife Research Findings - Minnesota State ...

increase the primary productivity of wetlands, unless other factors such as moisture or
temperature are limiting (Kusler 2006). Where moisture deficits occur, wetlands—especially
peatlands—may become sources rather than sinks for atmospheric carbon due to increased
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decomposition (Burkett and Kusler 2000, Camill and Clark 2000).
The impacts of climate change on Minnesota lakes are expected to vary with latitude,
trophic state, and lake morphometry (Stefan et al. 1996, Hostetler and Small 1999, Kling et al.
2003, Magnuson et al. 2003). In general, though, climate change will result in warmer, more
productive waters, and eutrophication has implications for overall fish community integrity
(Drake and Valley 2005). Temperature increases could increase annual evaporative water losses
by as much as 30 cm (Stefan et al. 1996) and reduce summer water levels. Predicted increases in
water temperatures, stratification (Stefan et al. 1996), and anoxic conditions would cause
pronounced changes in aquatic habitats. Estimates of the increase in the ice-free season range
from 40 to >100 days (Hostetler and Small 1999, Magnuson et al. 2003), and the frequency of
winterkill of fish in some lakes will decline. Cold-water fish are predicted to lose habitat while
cool- and warm-water fish gain habitat (Stefan et al. 1996). Cool- and warm-water fish,
however, may actually realize a net loss of productivity if more favorable temperatures are not
accompanied by increased food availability (Hostetler and Small 1999, Kling et al. 2003, Shuter
et al. 2003).
3.2.3. Tallgrass Aspen Parklands Province
The Tallgrass Aspen Parklands Province in northwestern Minnesota is characterized by
low, flat topography that was once part of Glacial Lake Agassiz (Figure 1). The portion of this
province that is in Minnesota is the southern end of a much larger area that stretches north and
west into Canada and serves as the transition zone between the prairie and forest, much like the
Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province to the south. Historically, fire created a complex mosaic of
prairie, brushland, and forest in the Tallgrass Aspen Parklands Province. Extensive peatlands
occur in this province as well (MNDNR 2006). Over 60% of the province is used for agriculture
(MNDNR 2006). Recreation, especially wildlife viewing, is an increasing industry. Large state
and federal wildlife areas exist, which facilitates wildlife-related recreation.
Wildlife species of the Tallgrass Aspen Parkland Province include the sharp-tailed
grouse, elk, moose, marbled godwit, bobolink, and upland sandpiper (scientific names are