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Conclusions 
In considering all aspects of the presented data, the over-all outlook 
appears to be a decrease in waterfowl production. Nevertheless, field data was 
not sufficient and production may not be as low as it appeared to be. On the 
other hand, the data does indicate that during 1955 early nesting attempts were 
very successful and brood survival was excellent. 
The Colliers Mill-Success Lake Area 
Introduction 
The waterfowl breeding ground survey on the inland freshwater lakes 
and ponds in the Collier's Mills area was conducted during the spring and summer 
of 1955. The purpose of this study was to determine the initial nesting dates, nest 
losses, brood size and brood survival on 16 managed lakes and ponds in the 
northern section of Ocean County, New Jersey. This study was conducted as a 
segment of Pittman-Robertson Project W-z28-R. 
Sampling Method 
The technique for locating broods and studying brood survival was 
standarized during the past five years of this study. It was felt that bi-weekly 
ground observations on the 16 lakes and ponds was the most practical method of 
locating broods. Due to the heavy cover in the form of standing trees and brush 
in the ponds it was not possible to observe an entire pond, Thus frequent visits 
were necessary during the spring and summer to indicate the production of each 
pond, 
Weather and Water Conditions 
Temperatures during April and May were slightly colder than experi- 
enced during 1954. No freezing weather was encountered or heavy frosts observed. 
June and July were above normal in temperature and August was slightly colder 
than normal for that month. 
The water levels in all ponds were at maximum during April and May. 
Unfortunately a prolonged drought during June, July and early August caused the 
water levels in all ponds and lakes to drop from four to 11 inches, reducing the 
water areas of the ponds. However, no detrimental effect was observed on the 
brooding conditions and there appeared to be no ill effect on the annual production. 
