PIERRE - Spring and summer rains across South Dakota have biologists optimistic about grouse hunting in 2007.

Sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chicken populations in South Dakota are monitored using information from spring lek surveys, harvest report cards and wing collections from hunters, said Andy Lindbloom, a Pierre-based Game, Fish & Parks regional wildlife manager.

Each year, GF&P surveys leks where grouse traditionally congregate during the breeding season and compete for breeding opportunities.

The surveys completed in 2007 show that the sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chicken breeding populations have remained relatively stable over the past year.

Grouse age ratios, determined by examining harvested bird wings, were lower in 2006 than in 2005. That suggests lower reproductive success in 2006.