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I I. I I I I I I I .. I I I I I I I. I I Trumpeter swan: Trumpeter swans began using Marsden Lake in 1994. Their activity is closely monitored by wildlife specialists from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Hennepin Parks. Habitat features to which swans are drawn include the large shallow marsh, which provides a diversity of aquatic plant and animal food, and relatively static water levels. Swans also prefer waters with little flow-through current. In general it is known that trumpeters will breed and live when hwnans are nearby, although not with molestation or significant intrusion. However, if changes in the drainage area resulted in seasonal or storm-related water level fluctuations, then Marsden would be less inviting to trumpeter swans. Whether or not the birda will successfully fledge offspriog and continue to return is unknown. Illinois Tick-Trefoil: This floweriog plant of mesic tall-grass prairies was discovered on TCAAP in 1993. The rarity of the species is indicated by its status as state-listed threatened. At least three remnant standa have been found (Figure 9). Other typical and more common prairie species found here include Indian grass, cordgrass, blazing star, bergamot, Turk's-cap lily, blue-eyed grass, and New Jersey tea. Although the prairie has been somewhat disturbed by blue grass and brome grass, it is likely that recent burning of the thatch will rejuvenate this and other native species. Cultural Modifieations to the Landscape A cultural resources study ofTCAAP, contracted for by the U.S. Army, is currently being undertaken. A draft report was to have been reviewed intemallyby the Army during the summer of 1995. It is unclear when a rmal version will be complete and authorized for public review. However, it is expected that no national register sites will be found. 2. Ecological Mitigation and Habitat Restoration As a large remnant open space in the suburbs, TCAAP has been the focus of efforts by major Twin Cities conservation organizations. These organizations have worked closely with on-site natural resource specialists to manage the open spaces in a way that creates opportunities for large numbers and varieties of bird and mammal species to occupy the site. Perhaps the most significant effort in habitat restoration has involved burrting old fields and prairie areas (Figure 9). This effort has been undertaken so the Army can sweep the site for munitions, but it also reestablishes nutrient cycling in the prairie ecosystem. Most of this burning has occurred within the past two years. Ongoing monitoriog will provide information on the ability ofburrting to rejuvenate prairie species. Some areas have also been seeded in native grasses. Animal Species Reintroduction and Relocation Other restoration efforts at TCAAP are aimed at specific species and have focused primarily on increasing the number of potential nesting sites for wetland and grassland bird species. A large number of bluebird houses is scattered throughout the prairie and old field areas. The success of these houses in increasing the local population is being monitored by conservation groups. W oodduck and kestrel nesting boxes have also been installed in two locations. Sunfish Lake has been used for rearing walleye fry for stocking of nearby community lakes. Species relocation is usually discussed as an option for mitigating loss of habitat. Blanding's turtle females are very selective in their choice of nesting sites. They will ahnost always return year after year to their birth site, regardless of impediments such as cars and new lawns. This apparently has made attempts at reintroduction to other areas Camiros, Ltd.lSEH, Inc.lLHDL. Ltd. TCMP Framework Plan Page 19 Chapter II