Focal Species for Land Management (Course 1: March 19-April 9)

This course will examine how land managers can use the Focal Species concept for improving land stewardship for wildlife. These are usually species that need a helping hand because they are in regional decline, or have special habitat requirements. Management actions are “focused” on their needs. This concept is currently in use by land trusts, and by the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern, to improve biodiversity outcomes. The course will examine defining and selecting Focal Species appropriate for a project area, understanding their particular habitat needs, and how to develop a habitat plan around these needs with specific habitat management actions and criteria. Example data sets will be provided, and students should be prepared to run the process of Focal Species selection and design for a property they actively manage, on a species group of their choice. Case studies and examples provided will be mostly examining herptiles, birds, mammals, and a few invertebrates (terrestrial crayfish, insects).

This program is aimed at active land managers and ecological consultants. It will meet one day a week for 4 weeks at the Mequon Nature Preserve. Classes are limited to 10 students.

Class dates: Wednesdays from 2:00-4:00pm on March 19, March 26, April 2, and April 9

Recommended materials: This will be a hands-on course with take home assignments. A laptop is recommended, with Microsoft Excel or compatible spreadsheet software, and the ability to use online resources to explore data resources and maps. Students will be required to complete assignments and present a mock habitat plan with a map in the final session.

Instructor: Gary S. Casper, Ph.D., is Director of Biodiversity Programs at the Mequon Nature Preserve, with over 45 years’ experience in wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and monitoring. Gary is also an Associate Scientist with UW-Milwaukee Field Station, and headed up the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern Wildlife Assessment, which developed concepts central to this course. Gary managed collections at the Milwaukee Public Museum for over 20 years, and is an Associate Editor for two peer reviewed scientific journals. His research has focused mainly on biodiversity monitoring and management in the western Great Lakes. He has authored hundreds of publications, and his most recent book is Field Guide to Amphibian Eggs and Larvae of the Western Great Lakes.