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Division moves ahead with sage-grouse translocations to boost distribution in restored habitat
Summary
The Northeast RAC approved translocation of sage grouse to priority habitat sites to reinforce populations and improve distribution into restored areas; staff said genetic diversity is not a central driver for this phase and success monitoring will continue over multiple years.
The Northeast Region RAC approved a division proposal to translocate sage grouse into restored priority habitat areas to bolster distribution and use of recently restored habitat.
Heather Talley and Division staff described planned releases to sites including Tabby Mountain, Browns Park and The Matagi/Tidwell slopes; staff said translocations will move birds among SGMA (sage-grouse management area) boundaries that align with PHMA (priority habitat management areas) under current management plans. Heather Talley explained the releases are intended primarily to increase distribution into restored habitat; “we’re not overly concerned about genetics for this purpose,” she said, noting the source populations have adequate heterozygosity.
Staff said first translocations will focus on juvenile males to increase the chance some will establish on release-site leks where fewer dominant males currently monopolize breeding. Division biologists expect to monitor outcomes for at least two to three years before determining success and identifying additional release opportunities.
The RAC unanimously voted to accept the translocation proposal as presented. Staff told the council they will continue monitoring survival, lek counts and distribution, and that lessons learned will inform future translocations.
