News Release Archives - May 2009
May 11, 2009
Trappers to Remove Nest Predators from Lake Arena, Mallard Island
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department and Delta Waterfowl are working together to improve duck production on two state wildlife management areas.
Mike Johnson, game management section leader for the Game and Fish Department, said trappers will remove nest predators from Mallard Island and Lake Arena Island from early May through July 15.
“We want to alert the public that this project is ongoing through early summer, and there are some risks involved with people, and especially dogs, in these areas,” Johnson said. “Lake Arena isn’t really an issue due to lack of human activity during the summer. Mallard Island, on the other hand, may be visited by people fishing or boating on the east end of Lake Sakakawea.”
Targeted predators include coyotes, fox, skunks, raccoons, badgers and ground squirrels. “Both of these areas have been developed by the Game and Fish Department in cooperative efforts with Ducks Unlimited, the Bureau of Reclamation and other partners, to improve duck production,” Johnson said. “These islands attract large numbers of nesting hens that can have extremely high nest success once the predators are removed.”
Arena WMA is located between Wing and Tuttle in Burleigh County. Mallard Island is part of Wolf Creek WMA in McLean County. Limited signage will be posted in these areas to warn the public about trapping activities.
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