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WATERFOWL BREEDING GROUND SURVEY - NEW JERSEY 
F. V. Schmidt, P. D. McLain and F. Ferrigno 
Introduction 
Aerial and ground surveys of waterfowl production were conducted on 
established census areas in New Jersey and the results are summarized in this 
report. As other States in the northeast region make similar surveys utilizing 
Similar techniques, the results obtained are valuable in determining annual production 
indices on a flyway basis. 
Census work was accomplished by the personnel of two Pittman-Robertson 
waterfowl investigational projects, W-28-R and W-16-R-9. 
Techniques 
Aerial and ground methods of censusing waterfowl production are employed 
in New Jersey. The sample design for aerial censusing of broods was originally 
drawn up by Earl L. Atwood, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Biometrician, 
Reconnaissance flights in 1951 indicated that certain strata within New Jersey had 
populations below which it was feasible to sample by the aerial method. Therefore, 
since that time, transects have been flown over two strata, ditched tidal marsh and 
unditched tidal marsh. 
Ground observations on waterfowl production were made in the impounded 
areas at Colliers Mills and Tuckahoe and on the tidal marsh at Egg Island. The 
strip transect method is used at Egg Island with five personnel covering a one- 
quarter mile wide transect, three miles in length. At the Colliers Mills and Tuckahoe 
areas annual production figures are the result of ground observations throughout the 
brood season. 
Climatic Conditions 
Season temperatures were experienced throughout April, May, June and 
July. Rainfall was normal in April and May; however, a severe prolonged drought 
extended throughout June and July. 
