Vol. 6 Issue 1, February 2008
Top Stories

PLJV Board Moves Forward on Climate, Recharge and Policy

The Playa Lakes Joint Venture Management Board took action on several important conservation fronts during its winter meeting in Dodge City, Kansas, January 22 - 24. Of major significance was unanimous board approval to hire a non-lobbying policy position, and endorsement of two critical literature reviews on the impact of climate change on birds and playas, and on playas and aquifer recharge... (MORE)

Climate Expert Calls for New Framework for Conservation

Conservation planning in the age of climate change will require a new framework. One that can adapt - as wildlife adapts - to changing ecological communities and weather patterns, says a leading climate change expert... (MORE)

PLJV Seeks Conservation Policy Director

The Playa Lakes Joint Venture is seeking applicants for a newly created Conservation Policy Director position. This position will provide direction to the PLJV in non-lobbying policy initiatives focused on but not limited to Farm Bill programs... (MORE)

Unique Conservation Post Created in Nebraska

Nebraska partners have created a one-of-a-kind position to bridge the gap between bird conservation planning and on-the-ground habitat work. The new HABS Coordinating Wildlife Planner will work to develop and refine bird habitat conservation plans for focus areas identified by the Nebraska Natural Legacy Plan... (MORE)

Take our Poll:
Do you think wildlife is threatened by climate change?

Regional News and Resources:

  • CRP State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement proposals approved.
  • Lewis Ranch purchase in eastern New Mexico protects 5,280 acres.
  • Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program enrolls 1 millionth acre.
  • Six bird species of Mexico and Asia listed as endangered by USFWS.
  • Pheasants Forever benefits 5 million acres over 25 years.
  • DU: Senate passes Farm Bill that benefits waterfowl, shorebirds.
  • Pheasants Forever seeks biologist for OK and KS; contact Barth Crouch.
  • Former NRCS State Conservationist takes helm at KAWS.
  • American Bird Conservancy launches Bird News Network.
  • Environmental News Service: Bird flu flares up anew.
  • Bird Education Network launches new website, plan.
  • RMBO seeks Education Assistant; contact Amanda Morrison.
  • National Audubon Society seeks Conservation Biologist.
  • Quay County Sun: Kids discover a playa playground.
  • Rocky Mountain News: Clouds hover in ethanol sky.
  • International Migratory Bird Day education catalog available.
  • Field and Stream photo essay: The dark side of wind power.
  • Senate amendment to Farm Bill would fix WRP appraisal woes.
  • NY Times: For duck hunters, the season is now in a blind.
  • DU magazine: Trouble for Texas Pintails.
  • Give your opinion on where to direct conservation funding.
  • Whooping Cranes reach Texas in record numbers.
  • Rocky Mountain News: State disputes $15 million in conservation tax credits.
  • TNC Kansas reintroduces black-footed ferrets to Smoky Valley Ranch.
  • In the Spotlight

    Featured Project: Playas Reflections of Life on the Plains

    In an effort to raise awareness and conservation of playa wetlands, the PLJV produced the film, 'The Playas - Reflections of Life on the Plains.' The film illustrates the values of playas to wildlife, water and people, threats to the wetlands and how people are working to conserve them. The film is available for purchase from the PLJV for $5.95. Browse all projects.

    Featured Grant Program: Conservation Innovation Grants

    The Natural Resources Conservation Service's Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) program funds projects that stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection in conjunction with agricultural production. Applications are due February 20. Browse all funding opportunities.

    Happenings around the PLJV: 19th Annual Southern Plains Conference

    The Ogallala Commons will host the 19th Annual Southern Plains Conference "Managing Energy, Water & Carbon... Communities Responding to Climate Change" in Hereford, TX on February 19. Browse all upcoming events.

    Playa Country Radio February Shows - Listen NOW

  • Feb. 4: Agricultural Communities Responding to Climate Change
    Interview: Darryl Birkenfeld, Ogallala Commons
  • Feb. 11: CRP Provides Lifeline for Many Prairie Birds
    Interview: Megan McLachlan, Playa Lakes Joint Venture
  • Feb. 18: Conserving Playas Makes Good Business Sense
    Interview: Bob Pearson, Texas playa landowner
  • Feb. 25: Nothing Beats Buffers around Playas
    Interview: Ted LaGrange, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
  • Website Features
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