Early successional forest habitat (ESH) and associated wildlife species in the northeastern United States are declining. NY Department of Environmental Conservation partnered with the Cornell University Human Dimensions Unit to determine how to support landowners interested in ESH management.
In 2005, the first ever national duck hunter survey was conducted with over 10,000 duck hunters. This survey provided insight into duck hunters' satisfaction and harvest preferences, contributed to federal considerations in establishing duck hunting regulations, and established a baseline for additional nationwide human dimensions research.
Visitors inadvertently leaving small amounts of food debris led to an increase in Steller's Jay populations close to campgrounds at Redwoods National and State Parks (RNSP). This increase in the jay population led to heightened jay predation on threatened Marbled Murrelets. To help reduce this predation, RNSP staff worked with social science researchers to conduct a communications study to evaluate current visitor communication messaging and develop improved management strategies.
