PROGRAM ADVISORS

CWA Waterfowl Programs utilize independent advisors from a variety of backgrounds to assist in the formulation, execution and evaluation of our activities under this program. They bring years of practical experience in research, habitat management and agricultural expertise in wildlife-friendly farming to CWA’s efforts.

CWA’s Biological Oversight/Audit Committee
This group of advisors brings the best available scientific knowledge of waterfowl biology, population modeling and wetland functions to assist CWA’s efforts to increase and sustain California’s waterfowl populations. Their research projects often answer critical questions about the life-cycle needs of waterfowl, including the importance of molting habitat, nesting cover, and brood-rearing wetlands.

• Mike Miller, USGS
• Dr. John Eadie, UC Davis
• Dr. Jim Sedinger, University of Nevada, Reno

Habitat Specialists and Managers
Every member of this group has extensive experience managing breeding and wintering habitat. Specifically, they bring detailed knowledge of habitat restoration, development of nesting cover, water management, and cover management to our efforts.

• Gary Kerhoulas, Wild Goose Club
• Chuck Harrison, O’Brien Ranch
• Chuck Dennis, Mandeville Island
• Mike Hall, Conaway Ranch

Agricultural Specialists
Agriculture, especially rice, provides multiple benefits to waterfowl. High-energy waste grain provides winter carbohydrate diets during the coldest months, and summer rice fields provide brood habitat for ducklings. Rice fields left fallow or planted in cover crops provide the highest known nest densities and nest success in the country. These advisors have experience implementing wildlife-friendly growing practices on a programmatic as well as a landscape-level scale.

• Paul Buttner, California Rice Commission
• Mike Felkins, Lundberg Farms