This is the fiscal year 2001 annual narrative report for Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. The report begins with information about monitoring and studies which includes a breeding bird point count, a butterfly count, a survey of Henslow’s Sparrows, a monitoring project for the Walnut Creek Watershed, various vegetative studies, and a survey of bison diets. Habitat restoration and habitat management projects are also covered; activities include planting, harvesting, mowing, grazing, haying, pest plant control, and fire management. Fish and wildlife management are discussed next with emphasis on reintroduction of bison and elk to the area. Coordination activities- including interagency, tribal, and private landownership coordination- are outlined, as well as resource protection. Resource protection activities include law enforcement and land acquisition. Information about public education and recreation is given including education, school programs, and seminars. Finally, refuge planning and administration are discussed. Lists of refuge personnel and volunteer programs are provided.
