Spilman, C. A. Effects of Lakeshore Development on common loon productivity in the Adirondack Park, New York. M.S. Thesis, State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, 50pp.  


Summary:

I examined the effects of lakeshore development on common loon (Gavia immer) reproductive success in the Adirondack Park using filed and analytical methods. I used productivity data collected on banded loons on 53 lakes over the last 7 years, along with residential development data collected during 2 field seasons. Lake size was found to be significantly correlated with mean number of nesting loon pairs. I also found that lake development was not a significant predictor of loon productivity. However, mean number of chicks hatched per nesting pair was negatively correlated with total development on lakes ³ 50 ha. I modeled land classification regulations to detect areas of future development and predict presence of nesting loon pairs. Total lake size and area of moderate intensity land class were the best predictors of presence of nesting pairs.