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Show determined. For example, all states in wintering areas conduct mid- winter surveys between January 1- 15 to establish wintering population data. Habitat Relationships There are five major habitat types around the lake that are used by waterfowl species. Uplands This habitat is found at slightly higher levels than adjacent marshes, and is usually characterized by dry ground and species of grasses, forbs and shrubs that favor this condition. Uplands are the most limited types of habitat around the lake. These are the areas that are best suited to development, farming and other activities of humans. Many waterfowl species prefer to nest in upland sites, then lead their broods of ducklings to the marshes to rear them. Freshwater Marsh There are approximately 400,000 acres of freshwater marsh wetlands around the lake, principally on the east side. The major surface water inflows to the lake run through these areas. Many impoundments have been constructed by DWR, USFWS and private land owners which include duck clubs and the wetlands mitigation sites of KUC and SLCIA. The Nature Conservancy ( TNC) and the Utah Reclamation, Mitigation and Conservation Commission ( URMCC) also own emergent marsh wetlands. These areas are principally impounded water which supports marsh plants including bulrush and cattail. Other land types associated with this habitat include small ponds found within the emergent vegetation and large bodies of water where depth precludes the establishment of these species. Dikes and small islands are also found in these marshes. They are particularly important as nesting and resting sites because, as water levels change, they usually stay dry. Mudflats and Playas This major habitat type around the lake is characterized by a very low gradient. As the lake level fluctuates these areas become inundated and then dry out. The water levels can change due to runoff or winds. The lake is so wide and shallow that, as the wind blows across it, water is pushed to the windward side increasing water levels one foot or more due to this tide- like phenomenon. Precipitation or snow melt can also fill low spots in these areas, creating ephemeral pools which are excellent sites for invertebrates. The vegetation on mudflats and playas is often sparse and composed of plant species that are tolerant to high salinities. These include salt grass and pickleweed. Mudflats and playas are important to waterfowl for feeding and resting. Lack of vegetation provides visual security from predators. Brackish- Water These areas are located where the freshwater from the marshes flows into the saline water of GSL. The resultant mixing of the waters provides a range of salinities that allow a diverse groups of plants, invertebrates and sometimes fishes to exist. Water depths are often shallow and birds use these areas extensively for feeding. 78 |