Several studies have been conducted in which waterfowl production and stock ponds have been discussed. Bue et al. Q-952) in western South Dakota and Smith (1953) in eastern Montana pointed out the capabilities of this type of habitat for waterfowl production while Bue et al. (op cit) and Berg (1956) suggested the potential conflict between waterfowl nesting and grazing management around stock ponds. Comparative uses by waterfowl of different types of stock ponds have been discussed by Uhlig (1963) Gjersing (1971) and Rudquist 0-975). Gjersing (1975) and Mundinger (1976) presented data on grazing management in relation to waterfowl production on stock ponds and McCarthy (1973) presented suggestions on stock pond construction which would enhance waterfowl production.
This report is a result of involvement and continued participation by the three authors in a series of studies conducted in north central Montana. The enthusiastic work of F. M. Gjersing (1971, 1975), J. J. McCarthy (1973), V. M. Rundquist (1973) and J. G. Mundinger (1975, 1976) has formed an integral part of the report and is gratefully acknowledged. The Bureau of Land Management, the Montana Department of Fish and Game and Montana State University have been involved in the implementation and continuation of the formal studies and the field activities carried out in the interim.