Sanderling Plan - Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network

Upper Mississippi/Great Lakes Region (Joint Venture Area) (de Szalay et al. 2000):
o Set regional goals for amount of habitat to be maintained/protected/restored, e.g., begin
by setting aside a minimum of 1,500 hectares beach habitat for foraging and resting
Sanderlings and other beach-using shorebirds during peak migration periods.
Northern Pacific Coast Region (Drut and Buchanan 2000):
o Determine the current population status of the Sanderling within the region, and monitor
this species to determine long-term trends;
o Determine the potential impacts of environmental contaminants on the health of
shorebird populations;
o Improve communication among and within resource management agencies about
shorebird needs and management techniques.
Southern Pacific Coast Region (Hickey et al. 2003):
o Increase migratory and wintering populations of all key shorebird species in the region
using protection, restoration, enhancement, and management;
o Minimize future introductions of non-native invertebrates and plants;
o Ensure adequate low-disturbance roost sites.
HABITAT RESTORATION AND CREATION
Habitat restoration is not an adequate substitute for safeguarding existing wetlands
(Buchanan 2000). However, in cases where further habitat loss is inevitable, there is potential for
habitat restoration or creation to possibly mitigate environmental impacts. Information regarding
the effectiveness of restoration efforts is limited, and restoration approaches carry risks.
However, some suggestions may increase probability of success (from Buchanan 2000):
o Develop site-specific strategies for restoration projects – Consider site characteristics
such as tidal, wind pattern, sea swell, and substrate conditions (marine environment) or
local water, soil, and vegetation conditions/requirements (freshwater);
o Create new sites at least 5 years prior to modification of natural habitat - Artificially
created sites should accommodate all displaced birds, initiating this process at least 5
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