28th Annual Meeting and Symposium of the
Desert Tortoise Council, February 21-23, 2003
Abstracts

Desert Tortoise Protection and Management at Edwards Air Force Base, California

Mark Hagan
US Air Force, AFFTC/EM, 5 E Popson Avenue, Bldg 2650A, Edwards AFB, CA 93524-1130

Since the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) was first listed as a threatened species, the Air Force has implemented the terms and conditions of biological opinions, such as presurveys and monitoring project construction projects. Several projects have been undertaken to protect and recover this species. A desert tortoise adoption program was developed to track captive animals. Edwards AFB is participating in a head starting program with Fort Irwin. An awareness program has been implemented to educate base personnel about the desert tortoise. The entire base boundary has been fenced to prevent trespassing. Desert tortoise fences have been placed along some roads where desert tortoises are commonly encountered. Desert tortoise fencing has also been placed in strategic locations within the Precision Impact Range Area (PIRA). Pitfall hazards have been closed by various methods. Revegetation of disturbed areas has been accomplished on over 500 acres. The desert tortoise awareness program has been very successful and utilizes a video, decals, cards, brochures, and other printed materials. It is necessary to continue the education of base personnel. The boundary fence has completely eliminated unauthorized sheep grazing and nearly all illegal trash dumping. Although reduced, off road vehicle riders are cutting the fence and continuing to trespass onto the base, mostly along the western boundary. Desert tortoise fencing was accomplished only along one side of paved roads. This has resulted in desert tortoises spending more time in the road. Future projects will be developed to remedy this situation. Desert tortoise fencing in the PIRA is intended to prevent animals from entering high impact areas. A total of 133 pitfall hazards have been closed. Further monitoring will be required to determine the success of some projects like pitfall closures and revegetation.