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• 31. [Article] Estuarine Wetland Fish Monitoring Project Report 2001-2003

  Abstract -- The report contains: A description of project including background on the problem which generated the project, a list of participants/volunteers, materials and methods used, shown/expected ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Estuarine Wetland Fish Monitoring Project Report 2001-2003 Abstract -- The report contains: A description of project including background on the problem which generated the project, a list of participants/volunteers, materials and methods used, shown/expected results, and other helpful information in evaluation of the project. Title: Estuarine Wetland Fish Monitoring Project Report 2001-2003 Abstract -- The report contains: A description of project including background on the problem which generated the project, a list of participants/volunteers, materials and methods used, shown/expected results, and other helpful information in evaluation of the project. Close

• 32. [Article] Kilchis Watershed Analysis 1998

  Abstract -- This exhaustive report analyzes the Kilchis River watershed, one of five river systems that enter Tillamook Bay, and includes these sections: watershed characteristics, land use, hydrology, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Kilchis Watershed Analysis 1998 Abstract -- This exhaustive report analyzes the Kilchis River watershed, one of five river systems that enter Tillamook Bay, and includes these sections: watershed characteristics, land use, hydrology, stream morphology, riparian habitat, erosion, water quality, wetlands, estuary, and fish and wildlife populations. Synthesis and recommendations are offered. Title: Kilchis Watershed Analysis 1998 Abstract -- This exhaustive report analyzes the Kilchis River watershed, one of five river systems that enter Tillamook Bay, and includes these sections: watershed characteristics, land use, hydrology, stream morphology, riparian habitat, erosion, water quality, wetlands, estuary, and fish and wildlife populations. Synthesis and recommendations are offered. Close

• 33. [Article] Rogue Basin: Watershed Health Factors, OWEB #204-939

  Abstract -- This report identifies factors limiting to watershed health in the Rogue Basin. We describe the degree to which instream factors (water quality, water quantity, instream habitat, barriers, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Rogue Basin: Watershed Health Factors, OWEB #204-939 Abstract -- This report identifies factors limiting to watershed health in the Rogue Basin. We describe the degree to which instream factors (water quality, water quantity, instream habitat, barriers, and channel modification), upland factors (hydrologic function, development, roads and invasive species), and riparian factors (shade and wetlands) are functioning in the watershed to produce high quality water and healthy fish populations. Title: Rogue Basin: Watershed Health Factors, OWEB #204-939 Abstract -- This report identifies factors limiting to watershed health in the Rogue Basin. We describe the degree to which instream factors (water quality, water quantity, instream habitat, barriers, and channel modification), upland factors (hydrologic function, development, roads and invasive species), and riparian factors (shade and wetlands) are functioning in the watershed to produce high quality water and healthy fish populations. Close

• 34. [Article] Salt Creek Watershed Assessment

  Abstract -- The Salt Creek watershed assessment is a publication of the Yamhill Basin Council (YBC) and is a reference tool for landowners, watershed residents, and council members. It contains factual ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Salt Creek Watershed Assessment Abstract -- The Salt Creek watershed assessment is a publication of the Yamhill Basin Council (YBC) and is a reference tool for landowners, watershed residents, and council members. It contains factual and interpretive information about the condition of the watershed, both past and present. The assessment includes the topics of a Watershed Overview, Historical Conditions, Channel Habitat Types, Vegetation, Riparian and Wetland Conditions, Channel Modifications, Sediments, Hydrology and Water Use, Water Quality, Fish Habitat and Barriers, Restoration and Enhancement Projects, and a Watershed Conditions Summary. Title: Salt Creek Watershed Assessment Abstract -- The Salt Creek watershed assessment is a publication of the Yamhill Basin Council (YBC) and is a reference tool for landowners, watershed residents, and council members. It contains factual and interpretive information about the condition of the watershed, both past and present. The assessment includes the topics of a Watershed Overview, Historical Conditions, Channel Habitat Types, Vegetation, Riparian and Wetland Conditions, Channel Modifications, Sediments, Hydrology and Water Use, Water Quality, Fish Habitat and Barriers, Restoration and Enhancement Projects, and a Watershed Conditions Summary. Close

• 35. [Article] 2009 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2009

  Abstract -- The Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in the Alvord Basin in Harney County, Oregon (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake chub are ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2009 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2009 Abstract -- The Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in the Alvord Basin in Harney County, Oregon (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake chub are represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake. Borax Lake is a natural lake perched 10 meters above the desert floor on sinter deposits, which is fed almost exclusively by thermal groundwater. The Borax Lake chub was listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Population abundance estimates obtained since 1991 indicate a fluctuating population ranging between approximately 4,000 and 34,000 fish (Salzer 1997; Scheerer and Jacobs 2008). The basis for the Borax Lake chub’s listed status was not population size, but the security of a very limited, unique, isolated, and vulnerable habitat. Because Borax Lake is situated above salt deposits on the desert floor, alteration of the salt crust shoreline could reduce lake levels and the habitat quantity and quality available to Borax Lake chub. At the time of the listing, Borax Lake was threatened by habitat alteration caused by geothermal energy development and alteration of the lake shore crust to provide irrigation to surrounding pasture lands. The Borax Lake chub federal recovery plan, completed in 1987, advocated protection of the lake ecosystem through the acquisition of key private lands, protection of groundwater and surface waters, controls on access, and the removal of livestock grazing (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1987). Recovery measures implemented since listing have improved the conservation status of Borax Lake chub and protection of its habitat (Williams and Macdonald 2003). When the species was listed, critical habitat was designated on 259 hectares of land surrounding the lake, including 129 hectares of public lands and two 65-hectare parcels of private land. In 1983, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management designated the public land as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Nature Conservancy began leasing the private lands in 1983 and purchased them in 1993, bringing the entire critical habitat into public or conservation ownership. The Nature Conservancy ended water diversion from the lake for irrigation and livestock grazing within the critical habitat. Passage of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act of 2000 removed the public BLM lands from mineral and geothermal development within a majority of the basin. These actions, combined with detailed studies of the chub and their habitat, have added substantially to our knowledge of the Borax Lake ecosystem (Scoppettone et al. 1995, Salzer 1992, Perkins et al. 1996). However, three primary threats remain. These include the threat to the fragile lake shoreline, wetlands, and soils from a recent increase in recreational use around the lake (particularly off-road vehicle usage), the threat of introduction of nonnative species, and potential negative impacts to the aquifer from geothermal groundwater withdrawal if groundwater pumping were to occur on private lands outside the protected areas (Williams and Macdonald 2003). A review of the conservation status of the Borax Lake chub by Williams and Macdonald (2003) cited the lack of recent and ongoing population and ecosystem monitoring as one argument against downlisting or delisting the species at that time. Although an increase in abundance is not a goal in the successful recovery of this species, monitoring trends in abundance over time is an important management tool to assess species status. The objectives of this study were to: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of Borax Lake chub and 2) to evaluate habitat conditions at Borax Lake, including the condition of the fragile lake shoreline and outflows. This report describes results from monitoring conducted by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Native Fish Investigations Project in 2009. Title: 2009 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2009 Abstract -- The Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in the Alvord Basin in Harney County, Oregon (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake chub are represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake. Borax Lake is a natural lake perched 10 meters above the desert floor on sinter deposits, which is fed almost exclusively by thermal groundwater. The Borax Lake chub was listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Population abundance estimates obtained since 1991 indicate a fluctuating population ranging between approximately 4,000 and 34,000 fish (Salzer 1997; Scheerer and Jacobs 2008). The basis for the Borax Lake chub’s listed status was not population size, but the security of a very limited, unique, isolated, and vulnerable habitat. Because Borax Lake is situated above salt deposits on the desert floor, alteration of the salt crust shoreline could reduce lake levels and the habitat quantity and quality available to Borax Lake chub. At the time of the listing, Borax Lake was threatened by habitat alteration caused by geothermal energy development and alteration of the lake shore crust to provide irrigation to surrounding pasture lands. The Borax Lake chub federal recovery plan, completed in 1987, advocated protection of the lake ecosystem through the acquisition of key private lands, protection of groundwater and surface waters, controls on access, and the removal of livestock grazing (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1987). Recovery measures implemented since listing have improved the conservation status of Borax Lake chub and protection of its habitat (Williams and Macdonald 2003). When the species was listed, critical habitat was designated on 259 hectares of land surrounding the lake, including 129 hectares of public lands and two 65-hectare parcels of private land. In 1983, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management designated the public land as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Nature Conservancy began leasing the private lands in 1983 and purchased them in 1993, bringing the entire critical habitat into public or conservation ownership. The Nature Conservancy ended water diversion from the lake for irrigation and livestock grazing within the critical habitat. Passage of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act of 2000 removed the public BLM lands from mineral and geothermal development within a majority of the basin. These actions, combined with detailed studies of the chub and their habitat, have added substantially to our knowledge of the Borax Lake ecosystem (Scoppettone et al. 1995, Salzer 1992, Perkins et al. 1996). However, three primary threats remain. These include the threat to the fragile lake shoreline, wetlands, and soils from a recent increase in recreational use around the lake (particularly off-road vehicle usage), the threat of introduction of nonnative species, and potential negative impacts to the aquifer from geothermal groundwater withdrawal if groundwater pumping were to occur on private lands outside the protected areas (Williams and Macdonald 2003). A review of the conservation status of the Borax Lake chub by Williams and Macdonald (2003) cited the lack of recent and ongoing population and ecosystem monitoring as one argument against downlisting or delisting the species at that time. Although an increase in abundance is not a goal in the successful recovery of this species, monitoring trends in abundance over time is an important management tool to assess species status. The objectives of this study were to: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of Borax Lake chub and 2) to evaluate habitat conditions at Borax Lake, including the condition of the fragile lake shoreline and outflows. This report describes results from monitoring conducted by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Native Fish Investigations Project in 2009. Close

• 36. [Article] Effectiveness Monitoring for LWD Placement in South Slough Tidal Wetlands (OWEB #205-111)

  Abstract -- Effectiveness monitoring of LWD placed in South Slough’s upper estuary wasdesigned to accomplish the following: - Determine presence/absence and behavior of juvenile salmonids (i.e., cohoand ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Effectiveness Monitoring for LWD Placement in South Slough Tidal Wetlands (OWEB #205-111) Abstract -- Effectiveness monitoring of LWD placed in South Slough’s upper estuary wasdesigned to accomplish the following: - Determine presence/absence and behavior of juvenile salmonids (i.e., cohoand cutthroat trout) in and around LWD using underwater videographyand acoustic tagging methods (a late addition to the project); - Monitor abundance and species composition of juvenile salmonids in tidal creeks with (and without) LWD using fyke nets; - Monitor fish use of other subtidal habitats with beach seines; - Track changes in invertebrate abundance and composition; - Detect wood movement with sub-meter GPS tracking; - Record changes in channel profile around LWD with detailed elevationsurveys; and, - Track water temperature and flow in locations near and away from LWD. Large woody debris was placed in 29 locations in South Slough’s upper estuary. The effectiveness monitoring project focused on 12 sites, six pairs based on configuration and location Title: Effectiveness Monitoring for LWD Placement in South Slough Tidal Wetlands (OWEB #205-111) Abstract -- Effectiveness monitoring of LWD placed in South Slough’s upper estuary wasdesigned to accomplish the following: - Determine presence/absence and behavior of juvenile salmonids (i.e., cohoand cutthroat trout) in and around LWD using underwater videographyand acoustic tagging methods (a late addition to the project); - Monitor abundance and species composition of juvenile salmonids in tidal creeks with (and without) LWD using fyke nets; - Monitor fish use of other subtidal habitats with beach seines; - Track changes in invertebrate abundance and composition; - Detect wood movement with sub-meter GPS tracking; - Record changes in channel profile around LWD with detailed elevationsurveys; and, - Track water temperature and flow in locations near and away from LWD. Large woody debris was placed in 29 locations in South Slough’s upper estuary. The effectiveness monitoring project focused on 12 sites, six pairs based on configuration and location Close

• 37. [Article] Lower Tillamook Bay Watershed Plan and Environmental Assessment

  Abstract -- This document describes a plan to improve water quality and fishery habitat within the Lower Tillamook Bay Watershed while improving the economic sustainability of the dairy and livestock industry. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Tillamook Bay Watershed Plan and Environmental Assessment Abstract -- This document describes a plan to improve water quality and fishery habitat within the Lower Tillamook Bay Watershed while improving the economic sustainability of the dairy and livestock industry. This plan will help the agricultural community meet the requirements under the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act. The financial and technical assistance provided will offer the agricultural community the opportunity to accelerate efforts already underway through the Tillamook Bay National Estuary Study and other state and local programs (Oregon Plan, SB1010 plans, etc.). Proposed is the development and implementation of conservation plans on approximately 60 dairies, 22 heifer replacement operations and 34 other livestock operations. Plans will address resource concerns on farm headquarters, pasture and haylands, riparian areas and wetlands. Title: Lower Tillamook Bay Watershed Plan and Environmental Assessment Abstract -- This document describes a plan to improve water quality and fishery habitat within the Lower Tillamook Bay Watershed while improving the economic sustainability of the dairy and livestock industry. This plan will help the agricultural community meet the requirements under the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act. The financial and technical assistance provided will offer the agricultural community the opportunity to accelerate efforts already underway through the Tillamook Bay National Estuary Study and other state and local programs (Oregon Plan, SB1010 plans, etc.). Proposed is the development and implementation of conservation plans on approximately 60 dairies, 22 heifer replacement operations and 34 other livestock operations. Plans will address resource concerns on farm headquarters, pasture and haylands, riparian areas and wetlands. Close

• 38. [Article] Upper South Yamhill River Watershed Assessment

  Abstract -- The Upper South Yamhill River watershed assessment is a publication of the Yamhill Basin Council (YBC) and is a reference tool for watershed residents. It contains information gathered from ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Upper South Yamhill River Watershed Assessment Abstract -- The Upper South Yamhill River watershed assessment is a publication of the Yamhill Basin Council (YBC) and is a reference tool for watershed residents. It contains information gathered from many different sources about past and present conditions in the watershed. The assessment also identifies areas where information is lacking. The assessment includes the topics of a Watershed Overview, Historical Conditions, Channel Habitat Types, Vegetation, Riparian and Wetland Conditions, Channel Modifications, Sediments, Hydrology and Water Use, Water Quality, Fish Habitat and Barriers, Restoration and Enhancement Projects, and a Watershed Conditions Summary. Title: Upper South Yamhill River Watershed Assessment Abstract -- The Upper South Yamhill River watershed assessment is a publication of the Yamhill Basin Council (YBC) and is a reference tool for watershed residents. It contains information gathered from many different sources about past and present conditions in the watershed. The assessment also identifies areas where information is lacking. The assessment includes the topics of a Watershed Overview, Historical Conditions, Channel Habitat Types, Vegetation, Riparian and Wetland Conditions, Channel Modifications, Sediments, Hydrology and Water Use, Water Quality, Fish Habitat and Barriers, Restoration and Enhancement Projects, and a Watershed Conditions Summary. Close

• 39. [Article] Pudding River Watershed Assessment, 2006

  Abstract -- Northeast of Salem, five large streams flow west out of the Cascade Mountains to join the Pudding River as it meanders north across the broad Willamette Valley and to its confluence with the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Pudding River Watershed Assessment, 2006 Abstract -- Northeast of Salem, five large streams flow west out of the Cascade Mountains to join the Pudding River as it meanders north across the broad Willamette Valley and to its confluence with the Molalla River near Canby. In this document, we characterize past and current watershed conditions and identify opportunities for improving conditions in this watershed. Chapter headings include: introduction and watershed overview, water quality, fish populations and aquatic habitat, water flow and use, riparian vegetation and wetlands, and riparian and stream restoration. The two appendices deal with Pudding River watershed history and BLM Conservation Strategy objectives. 221 pp. Numerous illustrative maps in PDF format accompany this report. Title: Pudding River Watershed Assessment, 2006 Abstract -- Northeast of Salem, five large streams flow west out of the Cascade Mountains to join the Pudding River as it meanders north across the broad Willamette Valley and to its confluence with the Molalla River near Canby. In this document, we characterize past and current watershed conditions and identify opportunities for improving conditions in this watershed. Chapter headings include: introduction and watershed overview, water quality, fish populations and aquatic habitat, water flow and use, riparian vegetation and wetlands, and riparian and stream restoration. The two appendices deal with Pudding River watershed history and BLM Conservation Strategy objectives. 221 pp. Numerous illustrative maps in PDF format accompany this report. Close

• 40. [Article] Clear and Foster Creek Watershed Assessment

  Abstract -- A watershed assessment was completed in the Clear and Foster Creek watersheds to evaluate existing conditions and make recommendations to protect or enhance watershed natural resources. Clear ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Clear and Foster Creek Watershed Assessment Abstract -- A watershed assessment was completed in the Clear and Foster Creek watersheds to evaluate existing conditions and make recommendations to protect or enhance watershed natural resources. Clear and Foster Creek are tributaries to the Clackamas River below any major dams on the system; consequently these tributaries are positioned favorably to contribute to recovery of important anadromous fish populations. Anadromous fish species in the Clackamas basin include spring and fall chinook, coho salmon, winter steelhead, summer steelhead (non-native), migratory cutthroat trout and lamprey. Clear and Foster Creeks are utilized by fall chinook, winter steelhead and coho salmon. The assessment generally followed the framework described in the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board’s Watershed Assessment Manual (WPN, 1999). The assessment focused on the following components: Channel habitat classification and modification; hydrology and water use; riparian/wetlands; sediment sources; water quality; fisheries; and wildlife and upland vegetation. Generally the approach builds on existing information, and enhances this information with aerial photo interpretation and limited field checking. Additional fieldwork was used to verify channel habitat types and to characterize fish habitat condition. GIS was used as a critical assessment tool and method of displaying results. Title: Clear and Foster Creek Watershed Assessment Abstract -- A watershed assessment was completed in the Clear and Foster Creek watersheds to evaluate existing conditions and make recommendations to protect or enhance watershed natural resources. Clear and Foster Creek are tributaries to the Clackamas River below any major dams on the system; consequently these tributaries are positioned favorably to contribute to recovery of important anadromous fish populations. Anadromous fish species in the Clackamas basin include spring and fall chinook, coho salmon, winter steelhead, summer steelhead (non-native), migratory cutthroat trout and lamprey. Clear and Foster Creeks are utilized by fall chinook, winter steelhead and coho salmon. The assessment generally followed the framework described in the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board’s Watershed Assessment Manual (WPN, 1999). The assessment focused on the following components: Channel habitat classification and modification; hydrology and water use; riparian/wetlands; sediment sources; water quality; fisheries; and wildlife and upland vegetation. Generally the approach builds on existing information, and enhances this information with aerial photo interpretation and limited field checking. Additional fieldwork was used to verify channel habitat types and to characterize fish habitat condition. GIS was used as a critical assessment tool and method of displaying results. Close