Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan - U.S. Fish and Wildlife ...

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Objective 6.2: Conduct high priority research projects that provide the best science for
habitat and wildlife management on and off the Refuge.
Scientific findings gained through these projects would expand knowledge regarding life-history
needs of species and species groups, as well as identify or refine habitat and wildlife management
actions. Research also will reduce uncertainty regarding wildlife and habitat responses to Refuge
management actions in order to achieve desired outcomes reflected in resource management
objectives and to facilitate adaptive management. These research projects have the following
attributes:
• Adhere to scientifically defensible protocols for data collection, where available and
applicable, in order to develop the best science for resource management;
• Data collection techniques would have minimal animal mortality or disturbance and
minimal habitat destruction;
• Collect the minimum number of samples (e.g., water, soils, vegetative litter, plants,
macroinvertebrates, vertebrates) to meet statistical analysis requirements for identification
and/or experimentation in order to minimize long-term or cumulative impacts;
• Utilize proper cleaning of investigator equipment and clothing as well as quarantine
methods, where necessary, to minimize the potential spread or introduction of invasive
species; and
• Often result in quality, peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals and publications and/or
symposiums.
The following is an initial list of research projects to support resource management decisions
on the Refuge. Please note this list will continue to evolve during the 15 year life span of the
CCP:
Investigate and monitor endangered plant propagation and outplanting strategies.
Identify methods for forest regeneration and reforestation techniques.
Identify pest plant and animal species presence, distribution, abundance, and trends.
Conduct research to determine arthropod abundance.
Conduct research to determine species-specific thresholds for disturbances from Refuge uses such
as outplanting and bird watching activities.
Conduct an investigation to identify and quantify avian and plant disease issues.
Research demography, life-history, carrying capacity, and competition for native forest birds.
Research population dynamics and viability of ‘ākepa and other species: influences of management,
environmental factors, and potential nonnative competitors.
Investigate foraging ecology and competition among native and nonnative forest bird species.
Identify avian disease distribution and climate change.
Rationale:
Research projects on Refuge lands would address a wide range of natural and cultural resource as
well as public-use management issues. Examples of research projects can include habitat use and
life-history requirements for specific species/species groups, practical methods for habitat
Chapter 2. Refuge Management Direction 2-35