Mule Deer Associations with the all American Canal, Eastern California, USA

摘要: Concrete-lined canals can interfere with native ungulate populations because they have the potential to disrupt dispersal, seasonal or daily movements, are an attractive nuisance. The AIl American Canal (AAC) is immediately north of me US-Mexico border and transports water from Colorado River western California. Because it traverses Algondone Sand Dunes in eastern California, a significant amount lost each year due evaporation seepage. To minimize this loss AAC was lined for 36.8 km beginning at Pilot Knob, Imperial County, concrete lining changed dynamics canal more natural riparian area steep sided, faster flowing waterway. We monitored landscape adjacent that determine extent deer usage prior (November 2004-December 2006), during (2007-2008),and after complete (2009-present). track road plots, weekly ground, monthly aerial surveys. Deer use limited concentrated along 1 section (Le., area) canal. Only reported pre-lining phase but activity increased warm months phase. At least one drowned 2-3 crossed Iining Tracks continued be along completed, were highest hot months. Although, habitat marginal deer, mitigation to eliminate any mortality includes addition catchments fencing. part desert rare management agencies want unnecessary reduction population.