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• 101. [Article] Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2012

  Abstract -- We investigated several life-history characteristics of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha rearing in Detroit, Cougar and Lookout Point reservoirs to aid in the development ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2012 Abstract -- We investigated several life-history characteristics of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha rearing in Detroit, Cougar and Lookout Point reservoirs to aid in the development of downstream passage options for Willamette Valley Project (WVP) dams. The study objectives were to provide information on the longitudinal and vertical distribution of juvenile Chinook salmon rearing in reservoirs, relative growth rates among subbasins and between streams and reservoirs, parasitic copepod infection prevalence and intensity, and predator-prey interactions in Lookout Point Reservoir. Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2012 Abstract -- We investigated several life-history characteristics of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha rearing in Detroit, Cougar and Lookout Point reservoirs to aid in the development of downstream passage options for Willamette Valley Project (WVP) dams. The study objectives were to provide information on the longitudinal and vertical distribution of juvenile Chinook salmon rearing in reservoirs, relative growth rates among subbasins and between streams and reservoirs, parasitic copepod infection prevalence and intensity, and predator-prey interactions in Lookout Point Reservoir. Close

• 102. [Article] Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2013

  Abstract -- In this report we investigate aspects of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha life-history and rearing in select Willamette Valley Project (WVP) reservoirs to aid in the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2013 Abstract -- In this report we investigate aspects of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha life-history and rearing in select Willamette Valley Project (WVP) reservoirs to aid in the development of downstream passage options. In the first section, we assess the distribution of juvenile Chinook salmon in reservoirs. We provide information on the longitudinal distribution (head-of-reservoir to dam) of subyearlings in Detroit, Foster, Cougar, and Lookout Point reservoirs during spring. We also initiated a pilot study investigating longitudinal distribution of fall parr in Lookout Point Reservoir. We investigated changes in vertical distribution from July through November in Detroit and Lookout Point reservoirs. The second section compares growth rates between stream-rearing and reservoir-rearing subyearling Chinook salmon. We compare subyearling growth rates in all reservoirs listed above and Fall Creek Reservoir. In the third section, our objective was to assess and compare the infection prevalence and intensity of the parasitic copepod Salmincola califoriensis in salmonid species rearing in reservoirs and streams. In the fourth section, we assess fish species composition and predation rates on juvenile Chinook salmon and steelhead O. mykiss by predator species in Foster Reservoir. Finally, we assessed predator species abundance in Lookout Point Reservoir. Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2013 Abstract -- In this report we investigate aspects of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha life-history and rearing in select Willamette Valley Project (WVP) reservoirs to aid in the development of downstream passage options. In the first section, we assess the distribution of juvenile Chinook salmon in reservoirs. We provide information on the longitudinal distribution (head-of-reservoir to dam) of subyearlings in Detroit, Foster, Cougar, and Lookout Point reservoirs during spring. We also initiated a pilot study investigating longitudinal distribution of fall parr in Lookout Point Reservoir. We investigated changes in vertical distribution from July through November in Detroit and Lookout Point reservoirs. The second section compares growth rates between stream-rearing and reservoir-rearing subyearling Chinook salmon. We compare subyearling growth rates in all reservoirs listed above and Fall Creek Reservoir. In the third section, our objective was to assess and compare the infection prevalence and intensity of the parasitic copepod Salmincola califoriensis in salmonid species rearing in reservoirs and streams. In the fourth section, we assess fish species composition and predation rates on juvenile Chinook salmon and steelhead O. mykiss by predator species in Foster Reservoir. Finally, we assessed predator species abundance in Lookout Point Reservoir. Close

• 103. [Article] Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2014

  Abstract -- In this report we investigate several aspects of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha life history and rearing in select Willamette Valley Project (WVP) reservoirs to aid ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2014 Abstract -- In this report we investigate several aspects of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha life history and rearing in select Willamette Valley Project (WVP) reservoirs to aid in the development of downstream passage options. In the first section, we assess the distribution of juvenile Chinook salmon in reservoirs. We provide information on the longitudinal distribution (head-of-reservoir to dam) in the spring of subyearlings in Foster, Cougar, and Lookout Point reservoirs. We continued assessing subyearling parr distribution in Lookout Point Reservoir through the summer and fall. The second section compares fish size and growth rates between stream-rearing and reservoir-rearing subyearling Chinook salmon. We compare subyearling growth rates in Detroit, Cougar, Lookout Point, and Fall Creek reservoirs. In the third section, we compare the infection prevalence and intensity by the parasitic copepod Salmincola californiensis among salmonid species rearing in reservoirs and streams. Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Reservoir Research 2014 Abstract -- In this report we investigate several aspects of juvenile spring Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha life history and rearing in select Willamette Valley Project (WVP) reservoirs to aid in the development of downstream passage options. In the first section, we assess the distribution of juvenile Chinook salmon in reservoirs. We provide information on the longitudinal distribution (head-of-reservoir to dam) in the spring of subyearlings in Foster, Cougar, and Lookout Point reservoirs. We continued assessing subyearling parr distribution in Lookout Point Reservoir through the summer and fall. The second section compares fish size and growth rates between stream-rearing and reservoir-rearing subyearling Chinook salmon. We compare subyearling growth rates in Detroit, Cougar, Lookout Point, and Fall Creek reservoirs. In the third section, we compare the infection prevalence and intensity by the parasitic copepod Salmincola californiensis among salmonid species rearing in reservoirs and streams. Close

• 104. [Article] Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Steelhead Outmigration 2010 Annual Report - Pilot Study

  Abstract -- We operated 5-ft rotary screw traps upstream, near the head of Detroit, Foster, Cougar and Lookout Point reservoirs in order to collect spring Chinook salmon migrant information needed for ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Steelhead Outmigration 2010 Annual Report - Pilot Study Abstract -- We operated 5-ft rotary screw traps upstream, near the head of Detroit, Foster, Cougar and Lookout Point reservoirs in order to collect spring Chinook salmon migrant information needed for the development of juvenile downstream passage options. The study objectives were to provide information on migration timing, size of migrants, and abundance of juvenile Chinook salmon and winter steelhead entering project reservoirs. Traps were located on the Breitenbush and North Santiam rivers upstream of Detroit Reservoir, the South Santiam River upstream of Foster Reservoir, the South Fork McKenzie River above Cougar Reservoir, and the Middle Fork Willamette River above Lookout Point Reservoir. Title: Willamette Biological Opinion Chinook Steelhead Outmigration 2010 Annual Report - Pilot Study Abstract -- We operated 5-ft rotary screw traps upstream, near the head of Detroit, Foster, Cougar and Lookout Point reservoirs in order to collect spring Chinook salmon migrant information needed for the development of juvenile downstream passage options. The study objectives were to provide information on migration timing, size of migrants, and abundance of juvenile Chinook salmon and winter steelhead entering project reservoirs. Traps were located on the Breitenbush and North Santiam rivers upstream of Detroit Reservoir, the South Santiam River upstream of Foster Reservoir, the South Fork McKenzie River above Cougar Reservoir, and the Middle Fork Willamette River above Lookout Point Reservoir. Close

• 105. [Article] Grande Ronde Basin Spring Chinook Salmon Captive Broodstock Program 1995-2002 project status report

  Abstract -- The Grande Ronde Basin once supported large runs of chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and estimated peak escapements in excess of 10,000 occurred as recently as the late 1950’s (U.S. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Grande Ronde Basin Spring Chinook Salmon Captive Broodstock Program 1995-2002 project status report Abstract -- The Grande Ronde Basin once supported large runs of chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and estimated peak escapements in excess of 10,000 occurred as recently as the late 1950’s (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1975). Natural escapement declines in the Grande Ronde Basin have been severe and parallel those of other Snake River populations. Reduced productivity has primarily been attributed to increased mortality associated with downstream and upstream migration past eight dams and reservoirs in the Snake and Columbia rivers. Reduced spawner numbers, combined with human manipulation of previously important spawning and rearing habitat in the Grande Ronde Basin, have resulted in decreased spawning distribution and population fragmentation of chinook salmon in the Grande Ronde Basin (Figure 1; Table 1). Escapement of spring/summer chinook salmon in the Snake River basin included 1,799 adults in 1995, less than half of the previous record low of 3,913 adults in 1994. Catherine Creek, Grande Ronde River and Lostine River were historically three of the most productive populations in the Grande Ronde Basin (Carmichael and Boyce 1986). However, productivity of these populations has been poor for recent brood years. Escapement (based on total redd counts) in Catherine Creek and Grande Ronde and Lostine rivers dropped to alarmingly low levels in 1994 and 1995. A total of 11, 3 and 16 redds were observed in 1994 in Catherine Creek, upper Grande Ronde River and Lostine River, respectively, and 14, 6 and 11 redds were observed in those same streams in 1995. In contrast, the maximum number of redds observed in the past was 505 in Catherine Creek (1971), 304 in the Grande Ronde River (1968) and 261 in 1956 in the Lostine River (Tranquilli et al 2003). Redd counts for index count areas (a standardized portion of the total stream) have also decreased dramatically for most Grande Ronde Basin streams from 1964 - 2002, dropping to as low as 37 redds in the 119.5 km in the index survey areas in 1995 from as high as 1,205 redds in the same area in 1969 (Table 1). All streams reached low points (0-6 redds in the index areas) in the 1990's, except those in which no redds were found for several years and surveys were discontinued, such as Spring, Sheep and Indian creeks which had a total of 109 redds in 1969. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Grande Ronde Basin Spring Chinook Salmon Captive Broodstock Program 1995-2002 project status report Abstract -- The Grande Ronde Basin once supported large runs of chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha and estimated peak escapements in excess of 10,000 occurred as recently as the late 1950’s (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1975). Natural escapement declines in the Grande Ronde Basin have been severe and parallel those of other Snake River populations. Reduced productivity has primarily been attributed to increased mortality associated with downstream and upstream migration past eight dams and reservoirs in the Snake and Columbia rivers. Reduced spawner numbers, combined with human manipulation of previously important spawning and rearing habitat in the Grande Ronde Basin, have resulted in decreased spawning distribution and population fragmentation of chinook salmon in the Grande Ronde Basin (Figure 1; Table 1). Escapement of spring/summer chinook salmon in the Snake River basin included 1,799 adults in 1995, less than half of the previous record low of 3,913 adults in 1994. Catherine Creek, Grande Ronde River and Lostine River were historically three of the most productive populations in the Grande Ronde Basin (Carmichael and Boyce 1986). However, productivity of these populations has been poor for recent brood years. Escapement (based on total redd counts) in Catherine Creek and Grande Ronde and Lostine rivers dropped to alarmingly low levels in 1994 and 1995. A total of 11, 3 and 16 redds were observed in 1994 in Catherine Creek, upper Grande Ronde River and Lostine River, respectively, and 14, 6 and 11 redds were observed in those same streams in 1995. In contrast, the maximum number of redds observed in the past was 505 in Catherine Creek (1971), 304 in the Grande Ronde River (1968) and 261 in 1956 in the Lostine River (Tranquilli et al 2003). Redd counts for index count areas (a standardized portion of the total stream) have also decreased dramatically for most Grande Ronde Basin streams from 1964 - 2002, dropping to as low as 37 redds in the 119.5 km in the index survey areas in 1995 from as high as 1,205 redds in the same area in 1969 (Table 1). All streams reached low points (0-6 redds in the index areas) in the 1990's, except those in which no redds were found for several years and surveys were discontinued, such as Spring, Sheep and Indian creeks which had a total of 109 redds in 1969. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 106. [Article] Hult Reservoir (Siuslaw Basin) Fish Species Composition Size and Relative Abundance_Final2018

  Abstract -- Seven species of fish were encountered in Hult Reservoir in 2017: largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), tainbow trout/winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Hult Reservoir (Siuslaw Basin) Fish Species Composition Size and Relative Abundance_Final2018 Abstract -- Seven species of fish were encountered in Hult Reservoir in 2017: largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), tainbow trout/winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), reticulate sculpin (Cottus perplexus), brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) and western brook lamprey (Lampetra richardsoni). The most abundant fish observed were largemouth bass and bluegill in the summer and fall, and cutthroat in the winter. Cutthroat trout were much more prevalent in the fall and winter sampling than in the summer. Presumably, most cutthroat trout moved up into the tributaries to seek thermal refuge during the summer months and returned to the reservoir once the temperatures were more conducive to growth and survival. However, some of them likely moved downstream, were preyed upon, or perished from the high summer temperatures and low dissolved oxygen conditions in the reservoir in summer. Under current conditions, high surface temperature (>20?), bass predation, and hypoxic dissolved oxygen levels below four meters of depth show that reservoir conditions are inhospitable for juvenile salmonids in the summer. Currently there are well established fisheries for both cutthroat trout (spring, fall, winter) and largemouth bass (summer) in the reservoir, and we talked to several anglers who target each of these species. Habitat segregation in the summer between the salmonids who move out of the reservoir and the warm-water fish that remain and spawn in the reservoir results in a diversified year-round angling opportunity. There were no coho salmon (juvenile or adult) observed in Hult Reservoir in 2017, but adult coho salmon were observed spawning just downstream of the dam. This observation verifies that a proportion of the adult coho attempting to ascend the ladder at Lake Creek Falls are successful and continue migration upstream to the vicinity of Hult Reservoir. It may be possible to keep the current fishery in Hult Reservoir as it stands and still increase coho production in the system by improving adult passage at Lake Creek Falls, and possibly at Hult Dam. Title: Hult Reservoir (Siuslaw Basin) Fish Species Composition Size and Relative Abundance_Final2018 Abstract -- Seven species of fish were encountered in Hult Reservoir in 2017: largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), tainbow trout/winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), reticulate sculpin (Cottus perplexus), brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) and western brook lamprey (Lampetra richardsoni). The most abundant fish observed were largemouth bass and bluegill in the summer and fall, and cutthroat in the winter. Cutthroat trout were much more prevalent in the fall and winter sampling than in the summer. Presumably, most cutthroat trout moved up into the tributaries to seek thermal refuge during the summer months and returned to the reservoir once the temperatures were more conducive to growth and survival. However, some of them likely moved downstream, were preyed upon, or perished from the high summer temperatures and low dissolved oxygen conditions in the reservoir in summer. Under current conditions, high surface temperature (>20?), bass predation, and hypoxic dissolved oxygen levels below four meters of depth show that reservoir conditions are inhospitable for juvenile salmonids in the summer. Currently there are well established fisheries for both cutthroat trout (spring, fall, winter) and largemouth bass (summer) in the reservoir, and we talked to several anglers who target each of these species. Habitat segregation in the summer between the salmonids who move out of the reservoir and the warm-water fish that remain and spawn in the reservoir results in a diversified year-round angling opportunity. There were no coho salmon (juvenile or adult) observed in Hult Reservoir in 2017, but adult coho salmon were observed spawning just downstream of the dam. This observation verifies that a proportion of the adult coho attempting to ascend the ladder at Lake Creek Falls are successful and continue migration upstream to the vicinity of Hult Reservoir. It may be possible to keep the current fishery in Hult Reservoir as it stands and still increase coho production in the system by improving adult passage at Lake Creek Falls, and possibly at Hult Dam. Close

• 107. [Article] Fall Chinook Salmon in the South Fork Coos River: Spawner Escapement, Run Reconstruction and Survey Calibration, 1998 - 2000, Information Reports 2003-02

  Abstract -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has conducted a three year study designed to develop methods that provide reliable estimates of fall chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fall Chinook Salmon in the South Fork Coos River: Spawner Escapement, Run Reconstruction and Survey Calibration, 1998 - 2000, Information Reports 2003-02 Abstract -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has conducted a three year study designed to develop methods that provide reliable estimates of fall chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) spawner escapements for the South Fork Coos River. This study is part of a larger effort to develop similar high-quality escapement estimates for fall chinook in Oregon coastal basins in order to meet Oregon’s Pacific Salmon Treaty monitoring responsibilities. Funding for this study was provided by the U.S. Section of the Chinook Technical Committee (CTC) of the Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC) pursuant to the 1999 Letter of Agreement (LOA). Three stock aggregates have been identified that originate from Oregon coastal basins. These aggregates are thought to represent distinct genetic and behavioral characteristics and are managed separately. The North Oregon Coast (NOC) and Mid Oregon Coast (MOC) are the two stock aggregates that are north migrating, and are subjected to the PSC’s abundance-based management program (USCTC 1997). The South Fork Coos River is one component of the MOC aggregate. Current monitoring programs for Oregon coastal fall chinook do not supply the CTC with adequate information that is required for the management and rebuilding of Oregon’s coastal chinook stocks. ODFW has conducted standard surveys for more than 50 years to monitor the status of chinook stocks along coastal Oregon (Jacobs et al. 2000). A total of 56 standard index spawner surveys (45.8 miles) are monitored throughout 1,500 stream miles on an annual basis to estimate peak escapement levels and track trends of northmigrating stocks. Although counts in these standard surveys may be sufficient to index long-term trends of spawner abundance, they are considered inadequate for deriving reliable annual estimates of spawner escapement for several reasons. These surveys were not selected randomly and cannot be considered representative of coast-wide spawning habitat. Also, fall chinook are known to spawn extensively in mainstem reaches and large tributaries, which are not conducive to the foot surveys. To provide estimates of escapements, index counts must be calibrated to known population levels. Obtaining accurate estimates of fall chinook spawner density in mainstem reaches is extremely difficult. Typically, these areas exhibit wide variations in stream flow and turbidity that create difficult and sometimes dangerous survey conditions resulting in unreliable visual counts. The goal of this project is to develop precise estimates of adult spawner escapement in the South Fork Coos River and to identify survey methods that can be used to reliably index spawner abundance for the South Fork Coos River and MOC stock aggregate. ODFW conducted mark-recapture experiments to estimate fall chinook spawning escapement in the South Fork Coos River from 1998 through 2000. We conducted foot and float surveys to obtain counts of live fish, carcasses, and redds. These indices are assessed against the mark-recapture estimates to determine whether any of them track fall chinook spawner abundance with sufficient precision to form the basis for long-term monitoring and the incorporation of resulting escapement estimates into PSC harvest modeling efforts. We used radio-telemetry as an independent method to estimate the distribution of fall chinook spawners between mainstem and tributary strata. Title: Fall Chinook Salmon in the South Fork Coos River: Spawner Escapement, Run Reconstruction and Survey Calibration, 1998 - 2000, Information Reports 2003-02 Abstract -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has conducted a three year study designed to develop methods that provide reliable estimates of fall chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) spawner escapements for the South Fork Coos River. This study is part of a larger effort to develop similar high-quality escapement estimates for fall chinook in Oregon coastal basins in order to meet Oregon’s Pacific Salmon Treaty monitoring responsibilities. Funding for this study was provided by the U.S. Section of the Chinook Technical Committee (CTC) of the Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC) pursuant to the 1999 Letter of Agreement (LOA). Three stock aggregates have been identified that originate from Oregon coastal basins. These aggregates are thought to represent distinct genetic and behavioral characteristics and are managed separately. The North Oregon Coast (NOC) and Mid Oregon Coast (MOC) are the two stock aggregates that are north migrating, and are subjected to the PSC’s abundance-based management program (USCTC 1997). The South Fork Coos River is one component of the MOC aggregate. Current monitoring programs for Oregon coastal fall chinook do not supply the CTC with adequate information that is required for the management and rebuilding of Oregon’s coastal chinook stocks. ODFW has conducted standard surveys for more than 50 years to monitor the status of chinook stocks along coastal Oregon (Jacobs et al. 2000). A total of 56 standard index spawner surveys (45.8 miles) are monitored throughout 1,500 stream miles on an annual basis to estimate peak escapement levels and track trends of northmigrating stocks. Although counts in these standard surveys may be sufficient to index long-term trends of spawner abundance, they are considered inadequate for deriving reliable annual estimates of spawner escapement for several reasons. These surveys were not selected randomly and cannot be considered representative of coast-wide spawning habitat. Also, fall chinook are known to spawn extensively in mainstem reaches and large tributaries, which are not conducive to the foot surveys. To provide estimates of escapements, index counts must be calibrated to known population levels. Obtaining accurate estimates of fall chinook spawner density in mainstem reaches is extremely difficult. Typically, these areas exhibit wide variations in stream flow and turbidity that create difficult and sometimes dangerous survey conditions resulting in unreliable visual counts. The goal of this project is to develop precise estimates of adult spawner escapement in the South Fork Coos River and to identify survey methods that can be used to reliably index spawner abundance for the South Fork Coos River and MOC stock aggregate. ODFW conducted mark-recapture experiments to estimate fall chinook spawning escapement in the South Fork Coos River from 1998 through 2000. We conducted foot and float surveys to obtain counts of live fish, carcasses, and redds. These indices are assessed against the mark-recapture estimates to determine whether any of them track fall chinook spawner abundance with sufficient precision to form the basis for long-term monitoring and the incorporation of resulting escapement estimates into PSC harvest modeling efforts. We used radio-telemetry as an independent method to estimate the distribution of fall chinook spawners between mainstem and tributary strata. Close

• 108. [Article] 2011 Warner Sucker Investigations (Honey Creek) Progress Reports 2011

  Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. Historically, this species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2011 Warner Sucker Investigations (Honey Creek) Progress Reports 2011 Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. Historically, this species was abundant and its range included three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. The Warner sucker metapopulation is comprised of both lake and stream life history morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish that normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during low water years or by irrigation diversion dams. When this happens, spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes likely reduce recruitment by preying on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks. The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that: 1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes, 2) passage is restored within and among the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages so that the individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation, and 3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. To inform progress towards the first criteria, our objectives in 2011 were: 1) obtain a population estimate for suckers in the Honey Creek drainage and describe their current distribution and 2) describe the association between the distribution of suckers and habitat variables in Honey Creek. In addition, we obtained a population estimate of suckers at the Summer Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA), where a self-sustaining population became established after a fish salvage from Hart Lake in 1991 when the lakes desiccated. Title: 2011 Warner Sucker Investigations (Honey Creek) Progress Reports 2011 Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. Historically, this species was abundant and its range included three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. The Warner sucker metapopulation is comprised of both lake and stream life history morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish that normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during low water years or by irrigation diversion dams. When this happens, spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes likely reduce recruitment by preying on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks. The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that: 1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes, 2) passage is restored within and among the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages so that the individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation, and 3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. To inform progress towards the first criteria, our objectives in 2011 were: 1) obtain a population estimate for suckers in the Honey Creek drainage and describe their current distribution and 2) describe the association between the distribution of suckers and habitat variables in Honey Creek. In addition, we obtained a population estimate of suckers at the Summer Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA), where a self-sustaining population became established after a fish salvage from Hart Lake in 1991 when the lakes desiccated. Close

• 109. [Article] Warner Sucker Investigations (2009)

  Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. Historically, this species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Warner Sucker Investigations (2009) Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. Historically, this species was abundant and its range included three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. The Warner sucker metapopulation is comprised of both lake and stream life history morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish that normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during low water years or by irrigation diversion dams. When this happens, spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes likely reduce recruitment by preying on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks. The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that: 1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes, 2) passage is restored within and among the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages so that the individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation, and 3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. Objectives of our 2009 investigations included: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate for suckers in the Twentymile Creek drainage and describe their current distribution, 2) describe associations between the distribution of suckers and habitat variables in Twentymile Creek, 3) evaluate a non-lethal ageing technique, 4) track radiotagged lake suckers (tagged in 2008) in Hart and Crump Lakes to assess spring movement patterns, 5) track spring spawning movements of lake suckers across a PIT-tag antenna installed at the mouth of Honey Creek, 6) test the feasibility of trapping larval suckers near the mouth of Honey Creek using larval drift nets and light traps to describe the relative abundance and timing of larval sucker movements, and 7) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of suckers at the Summer Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA), where a self-sustaining population became established after a fish salvage from Hart Lake during the 1991 drought. Title: Warner Sucker Investigations (2009) Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. Historically, this species was abundant and its range included three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks) (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. The Warner sucker metapopulation is comprised of both lake and stream life history morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish that normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during low water years or by irrigation diversion dams. When this happens, spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes likely reduce recruitment by preying on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks. The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that: 1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes, 2) passage is restored within and among the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages so that the individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation, and 3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. Objectives of our 2009 investigations included: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate for suckers in the Twentymile Creek drainage and describe their current distribution, 2) describe associations between the distribution of suckers and habitat variables in Twentymile Creek, 3) evaluate a non-lethal ageing technique, 4) track radiotagged lake suckers (tagged in 2008) in Hart and Crump Lakes to assess spring movement patterns, 5) track spring spawning movements of lake suckers across a PIT-tag antenna installed at the mouth of Honey Creek, 6) test the feasibility of trapping larval suckers near the mouth of Honey Creek using larval drift nets and light traps to describe the relative abundance and timing of larval sucker movements, and 7) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of suckers at the Summer Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA), where a self-sustaining population became established after a fish salvage from Hart Lake during the 1991 drought. Close

• 110. [Article] Spring Chinook in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, Progress Reports 2006-2007

  Abstract -- The Willamette and Sandy rivers support intense recreational fisheries for spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Fisheries in these basins rely primarily on annual hatchery releases ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Spring Chinook in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, Progress Reports 2006-2007 Abstract -- The Willamette and Sandy rivers support intense recreational fisheries for spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Fisheries in these basins rely primarily on annual hatchery releases of 5–8 million juveniles. Hatchery programs exist in the McKenzie, Middle Fork Willamette, North and South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers mainly as mitigation for dams that blocked natural production areas. Some natural spawning occurs in most of the major basins and a few smaller tributaries upstream of Willamette Falls. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted the Native Fish Conservation Policy (ODFW 2003a) and the Hatchery Management Policy (ODFW 2003b) in part to reduce adverse impacts of hatchery programs on wild native stocks. The Native Fish Conservation Policy recognizes that naturally produced native fish are the foundation for long-term sustainability of native species and hatchery programs, and the fisheries they support. Possible risks of artificial propagation programs have been well documented. Hazards include disease transfer, competition for food and spawning sites, increased predation, increased incidental mortality from harvest, loss of genetic variability, genetic drift, and domestication (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Hard et al. 1992; Cuenco et al. 1993; Busack and Currens 1995; NRC 1996; and Waples 1999). Hatcheries can also play a positive role for wild salmonids by bolstering populations, especially those on the verge of extirpation, by providing a genetic reserve as well as providing opportunities for nutrient enrichment of streams (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Cuenco et al. 1993). In the past, hatchery programs and fish passage issues were the focus of spring Chinook salmon management in the Willamette and Sandy basins. Limited information was collected on the genetic structure among basin populations, on abundance and distribution of natural spawning, on rearing and migrating of juvenile salmon, or on strategies for reducing risks that large hatchery programs pose for wild salmon populations. This study is being implemented to gather this information. A schematic of the study plan is shown in APPENDIX A. We conducted work in the main-stem Willamette River above Willamette Falls, and in the Middle Fork Willamette, McKenzie, North Santiam, South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers in 2006 and 2007. Basin descriptions and background information on management and fish runs can be found in subbasin plans developed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW 1988, ODFW 1992a, ODFW 1992b, and ODFW 1996). Task headings below cross reference the study plan outlined in APPENDIX A. This report covers tasks that were worked on in late 2005 through early fall 2007. Title: Spring Chinook in the Willamette and Sandy Basins, Progress Reports 2006-2007 Abstract -- The Willamette and Sandy rivers support intense recreational fisheries for spring Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Fisheries in these basins rely primarily on annual hatchery releases of 5–8 million juveniles. Hatchery programs exist in the McKenzie, Middle Fork Willamette, North and South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers mainly as mitigation for dams that blocked natural production areas. Some natural spawning occurs in most of the major basins and a few smaller tributaries upstream of Willamette Falls. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted the Native Fish Conservation Policy (ODFW 2003a) and the Hatchery Management Policy (ODFW 2003b) in part to reduce adverse impacts of hatchery programs on wild native stocks. The Native Fish Conservation Policy recognizes that naturally produced native fish are the foundation for long-term sustainability of native species and hatchery programs, and the fisheries they support. Possible risks of artificial propagation programs have been well documented. Hazards include disease transfer, competition for food and spawning sites, increased predation, increased incidental mortality from harvest, loss of genetic variability, genetic drift, and domestication (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Hard et al. 1992; Cuenco et al. 1993; Busack and Currens 1995; NRC 1996; and Waples 1999). Hatcheries can also play a positive role for wild salmonids by bolstering populations, especially those on the verge of extirpation, by providing a genetic reserve as well as providing opportunities for nutrient enrichment of streams (Steward and Bjornn 1990; Cuenco et al. 1993). In the past, hatchery programs and fish passage issues were the focus of spring Chinook salmon management in the Willamette and Sandy basins. Limited information was collected on the genetic structure among basin populations, on abundance and distribution of natural spawning, on rearing and migrating of juvenile salmon, or on strategies for reducing risks that large hatchery programs pose for wild salmon populations. This study is being implemented to gather this information. A schematic of the study plan is shown in APPENDIX A. We conducted work in the main-stem Willamette River above Willamette Falls, and in the Middle Fork Willamette, McKenzie, North Santiam, South Santiam, Clackamas, and Sandy rivers in 2006 and 2007. Basin descriptions and background information on management and fish runs can be found in subbasin plans developed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW 1988, ODFW 1992a, ODFW 1992b, and ODFW 1996). Task headings below cross reference the study plan outlined in APPENDIX A. This report covers tasks that were worked on in late 2005 through early fall 2007. Close