As a component of our series highlighting Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge and Nevada waterfowl hunting interests, NOU interviewed Susan Sawyer, Visitor Services Manager for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and her staff.

 

 

 

NOU:    Which areas of Stillwater currently have water, and what are the conditions?

 

 

Susan/staff:  The areas with water are currently Tule Lake, Millens Channel, and Willow Lake.  Conditions are about 20% dryer than last year.

 

 

NOU:  What type of migratory birds are being seen?

 

 

Susan/staff:  We’ve observed about 60 swans, with several other bird species coming and going.

 

 

NOU:  Are the recent government cut backs affecting hunters?

 

 

Susan/staff:  No, the environment is still being maintained to protect hunting interests.

 

 

NOU:  How much water is received for the Refuge from Carson water rights?

 

 

Susan/staff:  Approximately 25%, with our goal to be approximately 40%

 

 

NOU:  In your years serving this Refuge, have you every seen any conflict between hunter interests and bird-watching interests?

 

Susan/staff:  In our experience, no.  Both interests seem to be very compatible when visiting and making use of the Refuge.

 

 

Thanks to Susan and the USFWS staff for providing Nevada waterfowl hunters with this update-

For more information and Stillwater waterfowl hunting regulations Click here