Specifications include, but are not limited to: The goal of this project is to monitor nesting activity of Piping Plovers on Lake of the Woods. The primary nesting area on Lake of the Woods is located on Pine and Curry Island Scientific and Natural Area (SNA). The contractor will survey Pine and Curry Island SNA for Piping Plover nesting activity in May. Surveys will also be conducted at historic Piping Plover nesting sites on Lake of the Woods. If a Piping Plover nest is found, the contractor will assist with nest protection including erecting predator exclosures (fencing around a nest) and trapping nuisance predators. The contractor will monitor established nests from May- July. The contractor will provide a final report including all Piping Plover observations and summaries of nest protection and predator management activities. Upon successful completion of the 2024 survey and based on funding availability, the contractor may be asked to conduct Piping Plover surveys in the 2025 season as well. Piping Plover surveys may be repeated between May and July in 2025. Extension will be considered only if cost is no more than 5% greater than cost in previous year of the contract.
