Abstract

The GVSU Natural Resource Management department has sponsored a GVSU engineering senior capstone project to address a problem in the current way data is gathered regarding wildlife animal dens in tree trunk cavities. We are to address this problem by creating a device which can reach these dens as well as measure the volume of these dens. This project pertains to the field of Natural Resource Management (NRM), with a focus on the study of the living quarters of animals and more specifically, American Pine Martens. Obtaining accurate information about the living quarters of animals can be challenging due to obstacles such as tunnels or nests located in hard-to-reach places. The objective of this project is to develop a device that will assist NRM researchers in obtaining accurate volume measurements about the living quarters of these animals under study in dens within tree cavities. The proposed device is a dimensional volume estimation device attached to an extendable pole, to measure the volume of the interior of tree cavities where animals may make dens. The device is designed to be portable, water resistant, and easy to use in field conditions.

GVSU BIO NRM Department

The biology department offers undergraduate programs in Biology and Natural Resources Management and a graduate program in Biology. The Biology department is an inclusive learning community that engages in critical inquiry extending scientific knowledge and practices to foster engaged citizens, and mentor creative and competent professionals in the biological and natural resource sciences.