Nathan Darnall

Nathan is Migratory Bird Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services. Graduated from Colorado State University with a B.S. in Wildlife Biology, 1992, Minor: Fishery Biology
Master’s in Public Administration (MPA), University of Utah, 2009.
2007-Present: Migratory Bird Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Utah Field Office. 1996-2007: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Utah Field Office, Division of Environmental Contaminants (seasonal, term, and permanent employee).Studied reproductive success of peregrine falcons in Colorado for three summers, habitat restoration on small, uninhabited Hawaiian Island atoll, life history studies of American kestrel and willow flycatcher, recorded southwestern willow flycatcher vocalizations throughout most of range, and studied impacts of agricultural practices on nesting birds in North Dakota. Interests include birdwatching, backpacking and reading.

Abstract: Developing a Conservation Pool for the Great Salt Lake

In a July 7, 2009 letter to the State Engineer, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommended the State establish a conservation pool to protect the internationally-recognized Great Salt Lake. For most lakes with conservation pools, humans have the ability to maintain a minimum lake elevation by simply adjusting flows that leave the lake. Maintaining a minimum pool at the Great Salt Lake may be a challenge, since lake elevations are heavily influenced by precipitation and since evaporation is the primary way water leaves the system rather than anthropogenic diversions that we can adjust; however, there are possible opportunities to help maintain a minimum lake elevation. Doing so will lead to a healthier ecosystem and will benefit the citizens of Utah. The presentation will briefly discuss the concept of conservation pools, highlight the value of the Great Salt Lake, identify potential consequences of allowing the Lake to dry up, and suggest ways to maintain water levels given climatic, legal and political constraints.

Running Birds - Tiffany Daines

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