I will be starting two new research projects. First, at Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge we will be studying the nesting ecology and habitat use of marbled godwits, a large shorebird. We will specifically address land management issues such as haying and grassland types as foraging and nesting cover for the species. Second, we will conduct a population census of burrowing owls at Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge. Burrowing owls have been seen at the refuge in the last couple years. We will determine the breeding status of this species as well as determine diets and available habitat on the refuge for an expanding population. Both of these birds are listed as species of special concern by the state and Federal government.