OSCIA has partnered with Bird Ecology and Conservation Ontario (BECO) and Renfrew County farmers to complete research on the effectiveness of set-asides in rotational grazing on the nesting success of grassland birds (specifically bobolink) in rotational grazing systems. This two year research project will be key to developing best management practices that allow for productive farm systems and conservation of grassland birds. This project is funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada through the Species at Risk Partnerships on Agricultural Lands initiative.
Learn more by watching this video from Bird Ecology and Conservation Ontario:
Ontario’s bobolink population is in steep decline. Does setting aside small un-grazed areas for the birds within rotationally-grazed pastures provide an effective conservation strategy? In 2016, Bird Ecology and Conservation Ontario and the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association began a 2-year study to investigate bobolink nesting refuges.