Food for offspring: assessing breeding constraints of a keystone fire-associated species in green forests
Faculty mentor/Supervisor
James Rivers
Email Address
Department Affiliation
Forest Engineering Resources & Management
Project Location
Peavy Forest Science Center, Oregons State University
Project Description
Woodpeckers are often incorporated into forest management decisions around biodiversity conservation and forest health because they are keystone species. Woodpecker populations increase in response to disturbances such as wildfire or bark-beetle outbreak, however the factors that limit their population densities in undisturbed forests not well studied. This project examines potential food availability for breeding Black-backed Woodpeckers (Picoides arcticus)—a fire associated species that also breeds in unburned (green) forests. Specifically, we am comparing food resources between green and burned forest nest sites against background levels in the unburned landscape. By leveraging the findings of this potential food availability study against our ongoing research on Black-backed woodpecker breeding ecology, we can elucidate the constraints on woodpecker populations in unburned forest.
Describe the type of work and tasks you anticipate the student will perform
For this project we are looking for assistance to help sort, pin, and identify wood-boring insect specimens that have been collected in burned and unburned forests of the upper Klamath Basin. Although prior experience is not required, we've found that students who are hard-working, motivated, self-directed, organized, excellent communicators, and curious about nature and how it works are the most successful in this role.
Hourly rate of pay
$16/hour
Certification
Yes
What is the expected timeline of this project?
A student would be able to start in Fall term or whenever funds and a hired student were available. Expected completion is by or before the end of spring term.
Are special skills or knowledge required to work on this project?
No
Will training be provided?
Yes
How many hours per week do you anticipate a student to work?
At least 5
How many hours per week do you anticipate engaging in direct mentorship?
1.5
Students working on the Black- backed Woodpecker Food Availability project have several opportunities for mentorship and gaining experience through this project. The student will be trained in data collection protocol, and will receive periodic check ins. In addition, students are encouraged to reach out regularly with any questions or topics of discussion that arise, whether that be about the project they are working on, or long term goals such as getting a field technician position after college, or getting into graduate school, etc.