Johnson Pond at Sterling Wildlife Management Area near Aberdeen is a well-known water body enjoyed by waterfowl and birders. This pond is currently being drained for wetland management-- which will stimulate the wetland’s productivity, ultimately resulting in more feed for migrating waterfowl in the fall.
Here is how that will work.
Throughout the year, there are numerous seeds and other plant materials sitting in the soil on the bottom of Johnson Pond. These seeds are not only inaccessible to feeding waterfowl, they can't germinate while under water.
By draining the pond, the wetland will go through a "reset" period during which plant production is improved. Some seeds will germinate and take root as plants. The seeds and materials produced by those plants will rise to the water's surface when the pond basin is flooded and become a floating buffet for migrating birds in the fall. Many waterfowl species require water for landing and taking off, so having a water source that is also producing food for these birds is essential for waterfowl management.
Wetlands are extremely dynamic systems; even occasional drought is a necessary part of the natural cycle. This temporary wetland draining strategy has been implemented at some federal wildlife refuges and other Fish and Game wildlife management areas with great success! We are looking forward to seeing if this effort will make a difference for our feathered friends that visit Sterling WMA.
Still looking for a place to birdwatch during spring? The ponds located in the northern portion of the Orth Segment at Sterling are full of both water and waterfowl! Access is by foot only, but what a great way to get in some good social distancing Idaho style. Just be sure to follow the direction and orders issued by Idaho's Department of Health and Welfare and Idaho's state and local leadership before engaging in outdoor activity.
