Current Projects

Computational Ecology Group (CEG) and partners developed a series of spatial-statistical analyses that identified key risk factors associated with the survival of Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) after release from a captive breeding program.

Greater sage-grouse are endangered in Canada and of conservation concern throughout their range in the United States. In response to species decline in Canada, a captive breeding program was initiated with subsequent releases of birds into Alberta and Saskatchewan. We analyzed sage-grouse locations and movements to identify key landscape features influencing survival after release. The resulting maps highlight safer and risker areas for sage-grouse survival. These results could lead to new spatial strategies for selecting release sites and planning habitat and landscape restoration projects.