(2) The breeding duck population showed a 9 percent decrease 
from last year. Practically all of this decrease can be 
attributed to the fewer number of mallards in the 
Sacramento Valley. Low production in this area last 
year may have been the contributing factor to this decline. 
(3) The nesting Coot population shows a 24 percent decrease, 
which is the first time that Coots have tailed to show a 
gain over the preceding year. | 
(4) It is estimated that the number of waterfowl produced in 
California this year will be about the same as last year 
or somewhat less. 
UTAH 
Weather snd Water Conditions - 
Unprecedented drought conditions in the winter, spring and 
early summer months of 1954 have produced conditions thst will undoubt- 
edly reduce the production of waterfowl in Utah. The spring run-off 
from winter snows. was below normal in most of the State, reducing the 
storage of water in reservoirs and the spring flooding of many marsh 
areas. Heavy demands for spring irrigation water, plus limited spring 
rainfall, reduced most marsh areas of the State to permanent impound- 
ments. Many areas that have formerly produced ducks were dry in the 
early spring. 
Continued drought throughout the summer months may increase 
the mortality of broods that are produced. Canada Geese have not been 
affected, but young ducks appear to be suffering in some areas. 
Breeding Population Indices - 
The following table gives a summary of the results of the 
aerial survey in 1954. © 
26 
