1018-0010 SSB rev

Supporting Statement B for

Paperwork Reduction Act Submission

OMB Control Number 1018-0010

Mourning Dove Call Count Survey

FWS Form 3-159

1. Describe (including a numerical estimate) the potential respondent universe and any sampling or other respondent selection method to be used. Data on the number of entities (e.g., establishments, State and local government units, households, or persons) in the universe covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed sample. Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection had been conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved.

The respondent universe is all States in the United States (excluding Alaska and Hawaii). Random samples of routes within physiographic regions were selected such that each route represents roughly 750 mi² of land area. The expected response rate is approximately 95 percent because some circumstances prevent all requested routes from being run each year. Actual response rates for the past couple of years have been between 90 and 95 percent.

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:

* Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection,

* Estimation procedure,

* Degree of accuracy needed for the purpose described in the justification,

* Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures, and

* Any use of periodic (less frequent than annual) data collection cycles to reduce burden.

For descriptions of statistical methods, see:

• Dolton, D.D., K. Parker, and R.D. Rau. 2008. Mourning dove population status, 2008. Pages 3-4* in Mourning dove, white-winged dove, and band-tailed pigeon population status, 2008. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Laurel, Maryland. USA.

• Baskett, T.S. 1993. Biological evaluation of the call-count survey.

• Pages 253-268 in T.S. Baskett, M.W. Sayre, R.E. Tomlinson, and R.E. Mirachi, eds., Ecology and management of the mourning dove. Stackpole Books. Harrisburg, PA. and Dolton, D.D. 1993.

• The call-count survey: Historic development and current procedures. Pages 233-252 in T.S. Baskett, M.W. Sayre, R.E. Tomlinson, and R.E. Mirachi, eds., Ecology and management of the mourning dove. Stackpole Books. Harrisburg, PA.

*Note: In the 2005 renewal process, OMB asked if eliminating routes with zero counts would bias the results upward when referring to the estimating equations approach which requires at least two non-zero counts by at least one observer for a route to be used. We responded by saying that yes it would bias the results upwards, but we do not have any routes that fall into that category, meaning routes that had consistent zero counts were dropped from the survey. We also stated we would more clearly define this within the status report for the next survey. Unfortunately, this did not occur, and we cannot update our methods to explain the zero counts question until the 2009 survey season. We will ensure that future status reports contain a clear explanation.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that will not yield "reliable" data that can be generalized to the universe studied.

We use phone and email contacts and a system of State coordinators to maximize timely response. In addition, we now develop nonformal participation assessment reports, spend more time following up with coordinators as well as individual observers, and include more concise directions and checklists for observers that accompany FWS Form 3-159. Our intention is to establish a snap-shot of current participation levels, which will enable the Call Count Survey (CCS) coordination team to identify the strengths and weaknesses of survey coordination, identify challenges and obstacles to survey participation, and to efficiently allocate resources to strengthen survey participation. The foundation of the survey is the strength of our relationships with cooperators.

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an effective means of refining collections of information to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions from 10 or more respondents. A proposed test or set of tests may be submitted for approval separately or in combination with the main collection of information.

We have improved and refined the Call Count Survey methodology over the last 43 years. We will evaluate methods used to analyze survey data. While some improvements in precision, accuracy, and general results are expected, it is unlikely that the improvements will be substantial enough to allow a reduction in survey coverage. In addition, the value of the CCS may some day extend beyond the existing population indices derived from the survey. Additional research on estimating detection probabilities, from methods such as repeated counts, removal techniques, or distance sampling, might allow for the estimation of population size from CCS count data. Population estimates could then be incorporated into a framework for developing harvest strategies for doves, used to develop improved habitat conservation goals, and for other purposes not yet envisioned.

5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s), or other person(s) who will actually collect and/or analyze the information for the agency.

Statistical consultants:

John Sauer 301‑497‑5662

Persons collecting and analyzing data:

Keri Parker 301‑497‑5680

John Sauer 301‑497‑5662

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