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• 371. [Article] Willamette BiOp - Evaluation of the Trap and Transport of Adult Steelhead Above USACE Project Dams in the Upper Willamette Basin

  Abstract -- Wild, winter-run steelhead are trapped and transported above US Army Corps dams in the Willamette River basin in an effort to reintroduce these fish into historical habitats as part of federal ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Willamette BiOp - Evaluation of the Trap and Transport of Adult Steelhead Above USACE Project Dams in the Upper Willamette Basin Abstract -- Wild, winter-run steelhead are trapped and transported above US Army Corps dams in the Willamette River basin in an effort to reintroduce these fish into historical habitats as part of federal mitigation obligations. The goal of this project was to provide information on spawning distribution of winter steelhead above and below Foster Dam considering the influence of upstream fish passage and outplanting procedures. Data were collected by conducting spawning ground surveys throughout the South Santiam subbasin using a spatially-balanced design during the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 spawning seasons. During the 2016/2017 season additional surveys were conducted explicitly to determine the amount of overlap between winter-run and non-native, hatchery summer-run steelhead on the spawning grounds. Generally, both summer- and winter-run steelhead spawned in the upper reaches of streams and near Foster Dam. There was a six-week separation between the end of summer-run spawning and the onset of winter-run spawning. Outplanting methods for both runs have been consistent since at least 2006 and we found no evidence of negative impacts of the program on prespawn mortality. The spatiallybalanced survey design resulted in a threefold increase in miles surveyed compared to traditional index surveys and provided information regarding the distribution of spawning activity in the South Santiam subbasin that was lacking. The South Santiam River does not have any fish counting stations and, other than fish volitionally entering the trap at Foster Dam, there is no way to know how many fish enter the subbasin. Continued spawning ground surveys, a video monitoring system at Lebanon Dam, or both are needed to monitor these ESA-listed fish in the subbasin and evaluate the possible negative effects of the hatchery program and outplanting procedures. Title: Willamette BiOp - Evaluation of the Trap and Transport of Adult Steelhead Above USACE Project Dams in the Upper Willamette Basin Abstract -- Wild, winter-run steelhead are trapped and transported above US Army Corps dams in the Willamette River basin in an effort to reintroduce these fish into historical habitats as part of federal mitigation obligations. The goal of this project was to provide information on spawning distribution of winter steelhead above and below Foster Dam considering the influence of upstream fish passage and outplanting procedures. Data were collected by conducting spawning ground surveys throughout the South Santiam subbasin using a spatially-balanced design during the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 spawning seasons. During the 2016/2017 season additional surveys were conducted explicitly to determine the amount of overlap between winter-run and non-native, hatchery summer-run steelhead on the spawning grounds. Generally, both summer- and winter-run steelhead spawned in the upper reaches of streams and near Foster Dam. There was a six-week separation between the end of summer-run spawning and the onset of winter-run spawning. Outplanting methods for both runs have been consistent since at least 2006 and we found no evidence of negative impacts of the program on prespawn mortality. The spatiallybalanced survey design resulted in a threefold increase in miles surveyed compared to traditional index surveys and provided information regarding the distribution of spawning activity in the South Santiam subbasin that was lacking. The South Santiam River does not have any fish counting stations and, other than fish volitionally entering the trap at Foster Dam, there is no way to know how many fish enter the subbasin. Continued spawning ground surveys, a video monitoring system at Lebanon Dam, or both are needed to monitor these ESA-listed fish in the subbasin and evaluate the possible negative effects of the hatchery program and outplanting procedures. Close

• 372. [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

• 373. [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

• 374. [Article] Population Health Goals and Assessment Methods for Steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-08

  Abstract -- On March 13, 1998, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced that steelhead in the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) of southern Oregon and northern California would be protected ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Population Health Goals and Assessment Methods for Steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-08 Abstract -- On March 13, 1998, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced that steelhead in the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) of southern Oregon and northern California would be protected by special conservation plans designed in cooperation with the states of Oregon and California. The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OPSW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that will provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. Similarly, a Memorandum of Agreement between NMFS and the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) established the terms and conditions for the improved conservation and management of steelhead on the northern coast of California. Section ODFWIA1S of the OPSW commits the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to work with NMFS to establish “Population Health Goals” for wild steelhead in Oregon. Section 7 of the Memorandum of Agreement between NMFS and CDFG requires that a monitoring program be developed in order to assess the health of steelhead on the north coast of California. The purpose of this document is to propose population health goals for wild steelhead populations in the Oregon portion of the KMP and to propose a monitoring program designed to characterize the status of KMP steelhead in relation to population health goals. Potential or ongoing monitoring activities conducted by private parties or government agencies are not discussed unless directly relevant to monitoring proposed for KMP steelhead. The State of Oregon is in the process of developing a program to monitor the status of salmonid populations, and their habitats, along the coast of Oregon (ODFW 1998). Many elements of this program will be useful for monitoring the status of steelhead in the KMP. Integration of the two monitoring programs should result in a more effective use of public funds and also should ensure that data is gathered and stored so as to be available for wide-spread use. ODFW considered a number of measures that have been used to describe the status, or health, of animal populations. Six goals were eventually chosen because they appeared to be the most appropriate and practical means by which to judge whether wild steelhead populations in the KMP attain sustainable and productive levels as called for in the OPSW. Health goals may be modified in the future as additional information, assessment criteria, or monitoring technology, becomes available. ODFW believes that monitoring will result in improved assessment and management of steelhead resources. However, ODFW also believes that monitoring results need to be interpreted with care. Attainment of all of the proposed goals should indicate that the populations are generally healthy. Similarly, failure to attain any of the goals should raise immediate concern about the status of the populations. However, should some goals be attained, while others are not, the status of the resource will likely remain open to interpretation. Title: Population Health Goals and Assessment Methods for Steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-08 Abstract -- On March 13, 1998, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced that steelhead in the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) of southern Oregon and northern California would be protected by special conservation plans designed in cooperation with the states of Oregon and California. The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OPSW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that will provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. Similarly, a Memorandum of Agreement between NMFS and the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) established the terms and conditions for the improved conservation and management of steelhead on the northern coast of California. Section ODFWIA1S of the OPSW commits the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to work with NMFS to establish “Population Health Goals” for wild steelhead in Oregon. Section 7 of the Memorandum of Agreement between NMFS and CDFG requires that a monitoring program be developed in order to assess the health of steelhead on the north coast of California. The purpose of this document is to propose population health goals for wild steelhead populations in the Oregon portion of the KMP and to propose a monitoring program designed to characterize the status of KMP steelhead in relation to population health goals. Potential or ongoing monitoring activities conducted by private parties or government agencies are not discussed unless directly relevant to monitoring proposed for KMP steelhead. The State of Oregon is in the process of developing a program to monitor the status of salmonid populations, and their habitats, along the coast of Oregon (ODFW 1998). Many elements of this program will be useful for monitoring the status of steelhead in the KMP. Integration of the two monitoring programs should result in a more effective use of public funds and also should ensure that data is gathered and stored so as to be available for wide-spread use. ODFW considered a number of measures that have been used to describe the status, or health, of animal populations. Six goals were eventually chosen because they appeared to be the most appropriate and practical means by which to judge whether wild steelhead populations in the KMP attain sustainable and productive levels as called for in the OPSW. Health goals may be modified in the future as additional information, assessment criteria, or monitoring technology, becomes available. ODFW believes that monitoring will result in improved assessment and management of steelhead resources. However, ODFW also believes that monitoring results need to be interpreted with care. Attainment of all of the proposed goals should indicate that the populations are generally healthy. Similarly, failure to attain any of the goals should raise immediate concern about the status of the populations. However, should some goals be attained, while others are not, the status of the resource will likely remain open to interpretation. Close

• 375. [Article] Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-1

  Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated this project in 1998 to monitor the status and trend in abundance and distribution ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-1 Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated this project in 1998 to monitor the status and trend in abundance and distribution of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in coastal Oregon streams. This report summarizes the data collected during the summer of 2008 and, for coho salmon, compares it to data previously collected. The project originally surveyed only 1st-3rd order (tributary) streams but was expanded in 2002 to include juvenile steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and 4th-6th order (mainstem) rearing areas and in 2006 to the Oregon portion of the Lower Columbia River coho evolutionarily significant unit (ESU) (Figure 1). The sampling frame is intended to encompass all non-tidal coho and steelhead rearing habitat. The original 100k stream layer frame was replaced by a 24k frame in 2007. A Generalized Random Tessellation Stratified design (GRTS) (Stevens 2002) was used to create a spatially balanced, random point distribution. Sites were stratified by Monitoring Area (MA) and stream order (Table 1). A detailed description of the sampling frames and survey designs are found in Jepsen and Rodgers (2004) and Jepsen and Leader (2007). Field crews snorkeled all pools meeting the size criteria (6 m2 in surface area and 40 cm in maximum depth) in one kilometer of stream encompassing the GRTS point. Snorkeling was conducted during the minimum flow period from July to September using a single pass of one to four snorkelers, depending on stream width. In each pool counts were made of juvenile coho, Chinook, steelhead 90 mm, and cutthroat 90 mm. Presence was noted for dace, shiners, and trout < 90 mm. Sites with poor water clarity or quality were electrofished using a single pass without block nets to determine presence for coho, steelhead and cutthroat in each pool. To assess repeatability and quality control supervisory staff resurveyed 10% of tributary sites in each MA. Data were summarized by MA and stream order for analyses. Average pool density and percent pool occupancy for each site was averaged by MA. The percent of sites with at least one fish and with >0.7 coho/m2 are reported for each MA. 0.7 coho/m2 is regarded as full seeding after Nickelson et al. (1992) who reported full seeding based on electrofishing as 1.0 coho/m2 and Rodgers et al. (1992) who found that snorkelers observed 70% of the coho counted by electrofishing. CDFs, variances, and confidence intervals were created using tools developed by the EMAP Design and Analysis Team (EPA 2009). Title: Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-1 Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated this project in 1998 to monitor the status and trend in abundance and distribution of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in coastal Oregon streams. This report summarizes the data collected during the summer of 2008 and, for coho salmon, compares it to data previously collected. The project originally surveyed only 1st-3rd order (tributary) streams but was expanded in 2002 to include juvenile steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and 4th-6th order (mainstem) rearing areas and in 2006 to the Oregon portion of the Lower Columbia River coho evolutionarily significant unit (ESU) (Figure 1). The sampling frame is intended to encompass all non-tidal coho and steelhead rearing habitat. The original 100k stream layer frame was replaced by a 24k frame in 2007. A Generalized Random Tessellation Stratified design (GRTS) (Stevens 2002) was used to create a spatially balanced, random point distribution. Sites were stratified by Monitoring Area (MA) and stream order (Table 1). A detailed description of the sampling frames and survey designs are found in Jepsen and Rodgers (2004) and Jepsen and Leader (2007). Field crews snorkeled all pools meeting the size criteria (6 m2 in surface area and 40 cm in maximum depth) in one kilometer of stream encompassing the GRTS point. Snorkeling was conducted during the minimum flow period from July to September using a single pass of one to four snorkelers, depending on stream width. In each pool counts were made of juvenile coho, Chinook, steelhead 90 mm, and cutthroat 90 mm. Presence was noted for dace, shiners, and trout < 90 mm. Sites with poor water clarity or quality were electrofished using a single pass without block nets to determine presence for coho, steelhead and cutthroat in each pool. To assess repeatability and quality control supervisory staff resurveyed 10% of tributary sites in each MA. Data were summarized by MA and stream order for analyses. Average pool density and percent pool occupancy for each site was averaged by MA. The percent of sites with at least one fish and with >0.7 coho/m2 are reported for each MA. 0.7 coho/m2 is regarded as full seeding after Nickelson et al. (1992) who reported full seeding based on electrofishing as 1.0 coho/m2 and Rodgers et al. (1992) who found that snorkelers observed 70% of the coho counted by electrofishing. CDFs, variances, and confidence intervals were created using tools developed by the EMAP Design and Analysis Team (EPA 2009). Close

• 376. [Article] Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2013 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2014-1

  Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys across coastal Oregon in 2013. Results from this year are compared with our findings from 1998 – 2012. This unique, long term data set ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2013 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2014-1 Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys across coastal Oregon in 2013. Results from this year are compared with our findings from 1998 – 2012. This unique, long term data set is used to monitor and describe trends in juvenile salmonid distribution and abundance for the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon. Full reports from prior years are available at: https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/crl/default.aspx?pn=WORP. Oregon Coast Coho (OCC) ESU juvenile density estimates in 2013 were higher than any other year. The site occupancy rate in 2013 was similar to 2012. The latest three cohorts had the 1st, 3rd, and 2nd highest occupancy rates estimated over the duration of the project. Pool population estimates in 2013 were similar to 2012 and to the average of the last three cohorts. Overall, we observed a small, positive trend in occupancy and pool population estimates across the ESU from 1998-2013. In the Oregon Coast Coho ESU plots of parr abundance with female spawner abundance suggest limits to parr production in freshwater habitats. Southern Oregon Northern California Coho (SONCC) ESU juvenile density estimates were similar to 2012 and to the average since 1998. Site occupancy was higher in 2013 than in 2012 but these estimates were the two lowest observed. Pool population estimates were similar to 2012, but lower than in most years, with the exclusion of the 1998-2000 estimates. Regressions of both site occupancy and pool population estimates to survey year do not show detectable trend since the start of monitoring in the ESU. Lower Columbia River Coho (LCR) density, site occupancy, and pool population estimates were similar to 2012 and to the average since 2006. Regressions of both site occupancy and pool population estimates to survey year do not show detectable trends since the start of monitoring in the ESU. The Oregon Coast Steelhead DPS density estimate in 2013 was higher than in 2012 and the average since 2002. Pool population estimates in 2013 were similar to 2012 and to the average. Site occupancy estimates from 2013 were similar to 2012 and the latest three years have had the three highest occupancy estimates. In the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) DPS, steelhead density in 2013 was the lowest recorded and similar to the next lowest estimate in 2012. Pool population estimates were similar to the average and to 2012. Site occupancy was the third lowest estimate, and similar to the low in 2012. Steelhead density estimates in the LCR and the Southwest Washington (SWW) DPSs in 2013 were similar to each other, to average, and to the 2012 estimates. Site occupancies in the LCR and SWW were similar to 2012 and to the average estimates for the DPSs. Point estimates for site occupancy in SWW for the last two years have been the first and second highest recorded. Pool population estimates for both DPSs were similar to 2012 and to the average. Analyses which included shallow pools (below our former 40cm maximum depth criteria) produced higher site occupancies and larger pool population estimates with proportionately smaller confidence intervals. Population estimates that included shallow pools tracked with those based on the former pool criteria. Title: Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2013 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2014-1 Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys across coastal Oregon in 2013. Results from this year are compared with our findings from 1998 – 2012. This unique, long term data set is used to monitor and describe trends in juvenile salmonid distribution and abundance for the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon. Full reports from prior years are available at: https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/crl/default.aspx?pn=WORP. Oregon Coast Coho (OCC) ESU juvenile density estimates in 2013 were higher than any other year. The site occupancy rate in 2013 was similar to 2012. The latest three cohorts had the 1st, 3rd, and 2nd highest occupancy rates estimated over the duration of the project. Pool population estimates in 2013 were similar to 2012 and to the average of the last three cohorts. Overall, we observed a small, positive trend in occupancy and pool population estimates across the ESU from 1998-2013. In the Oregon Coast Coho ESU plots of parr abundance with female spawner abundance suggest limits to parr production in freshwater habitats. Southern Oregon Northern California Coho (SONCC) ESU juvenile density estimates were similar to 2012 and to the average since 1998. Site occupancy was higher in 2013 than in 2012 but these estimates were the two lowest observed. Pool population estimates were similar to 2012, but lower than in most years, with the exclusion of the 1998-2000 estimates. Regressions of both site occupancy and pool population estimates to survey year do not show detectable trend since the start of monitoring in the ESU. Lower Columbia River Coho (LCR) density, site occupancy, and pool population estimates were similar to 2012 and to the average since 2006. Regressions of both site occupancy and pool population estimates to survey year do not show detectable trends since the start of monitoring in the ESU. The Oregon Coast Steelhead DPS density estimate in 2013 was higher than in 2012 and the average since 2002. Pool population estimates in 2013 were similar to 2012 and to the average. Site occupancy estimates from 2013 were similar to 2012 and the latest three years have had the three highest occupancy estimates. In the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) DPS, steelhead density in 2013 was the lowest recorded and similar to the next lowest estimate in 2012. Pool population estimates were similar to the average and to 2012. Site occupancy was the third lowest estimate, and similar to the low in 2012. Steelhead density estimates in the LCR and the Southwest Washington (SWW) DPSs in 2013 were similar to each other, to average, and to the 2012 estimates. Site occupancies in the LCR and SWW were similar to 2012 and to the average estimates for the DPSs. Point estimates for site occupancy in SWW for the last two years have been the first and second highest recorded. Pool population estimates for both DPSs were similar to 2012 and to the average. Analyses which included shallow pools (below our former 40cm maximum depth criteria) produced higher site occupancies and larger pool population estimates with proportionately smaller confidence intervals. Population estimates that included shallow pools tracked with those based on the former pool criteria. Close

• 377. [Article] Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2014 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2015-1

  Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys across coastal Oregon in 2014. Results from 2014 are compared with results from previous years and used to describe trends in juvenile ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2014 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2015-1 Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys across coastal Oregon in 2014. Results from 2014 are compared with results from previous years and used to describe trends in juvenile salmonid distribution and abundance for the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon. For prior reports visit https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/crl/default.aspx?pn=WORP. The Oregon Coast Coho (OCC) ESU density estimate in 2014 was lower than the recorded high estimate in 2013. The 2014 density estimate was also lower than the 1998-2013 average for the ESU. Site occupancy in 2014 was similar to 2013. Occupancy rates appear to be increasing for the ESU since the start of monitoring in 1998. The pool population estimate in 2014 was lower than in 2013 and lower than the average of the cohorts from 2010-2012. In the OCC ESU plots of parr abundance with female spawner abundance suggest limits in freshwater habitat to parr production when spawner abundance exceeds approximately 80,000 females. Parr production rates typically decrease when female spawner abundance increases. The Southern Oregon Northern California Coho (SONCC) ESU density estimate in 2014 was similar to the 2013 estimate. The 2014 density estimate was lower than the average for the ESU from 1998-2013. Site occupancy in 2014 was similar to 2013. Occupancy estimates for the last 3 cohorts have been the lowest recorded since monitoring began. Pool population estimates were similar to 2013, but lower than in most years, with the exception of the estimates from 1998-2000. Lower Columbia River Coho (LCR) density, site occupancy, and pool population estimates were similar to 2013 and to the average since 2006. The Oregon Coast Steelhead DPS density estimate in 2014 was lower than 2013 but similar to the average from 2002-2013. Pool population estimates in 2014 were similar to 2013 and to the 2002-2013 average. The site occupancy estimate in 2014 was the highest recorded. The last four cohorts have had the four highest occupancy estimates. In the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) DPS, steelhead density in 2014 was higher than the record low estimate in 2013 and similar to the DPS average from 2002-2013. The pool population estimate in 2014 was lower than 2013, but similar to the average from 2002-2013. Site occupancy was similar to 2013 and to the 2002-2013 average for the DPS. Steelhead density estimates in the LCR and the Southwest Washington (SWW) DPSs in 2014 were similar to each other, to averages for each DPS since 2006, and to the 2013 estimates. Site occupancy in 2014 for the LCR DPS was the highest recorded. In the SWW DPS site occupancy was similar to 2013 and to the 2006-2013 average estimates. Pool population estimates for LCR and SWW were similar to the 2006-2013 average of the estimates for the DPSs and to 2013 estimates. The original pool depth criteria was =40cm in maximum depth. This was changed to =20cm in 2010. Analyses based on the =20cm maximum depth criteria produced larger pool population estimates with proportionately smaller confidence intervals than analyses based on the =40cm maximum depth criteria. Population estimate trends that included shallow pools tracked with those based on the former pool criteria. Title: Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2014 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2015-1 Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys across coastal Oregon in 2014. Results from 2014 are compared with results from previous years and used to describe trends in juvenile salmonid distribution and abundance for the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon. For prior reports visit https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/crl/default.aspx?pn=WORP. The Oregon Coast Coho (OCC) ESU density estimate in 2014 was lower than the recorded high estimate in 2013. The 2014 density estimate was also lower than the 1998-2013 average for the ESU. Site occupancy in 2014 was similar to 2013. Occupancy rates appear to be increasing for the ESU since the start of monitoring in 1998. The pool population estimate in 2014 was lower than in 2013 and lower than the average of the cohorts from 2010-2012. In the OCC ESU plots of parr abundance with female spawner abundance suggest limits in freshwater habitat to parr production when spawner abundance exceeds approximately 80,000 females. Parr production rates typically decrease when female spawner abundance increases. The Southern Oregon Northern California Coho (SONCC) ESU density estimate in 2014 was similar to the 2013 estimate. The 2014 density estimate was lower than the average for the ESU from 1998-2013. Site occupancy in 2014 was similar to 2013. Occupancy estimates for the last 3 cohorts have been the lowest recorded since monitoring began. Pool population estimates were similar to 2013, but lower than in most years, with the exception of the estimates from 1998-2000. Lower Columbia River Coho (LCR) density, site occupancy, and pool population estimates were similar to 2013 and to the average since 2006. The Oregon Coast Steelhead DPS density estimate in 2014 was lower than 2013 but similar to the average from 2002-2013. Pool population estimates in 2014 were similar to 2013 and to the 2002-2013 average. The site occupancy estimate in 2014 was the highest recorded. The last four cohorts have had the four highest occupancy estimates. In the Klamath Mountain Province (KMP) DPS, steelhead density in 2014 was higher than the record low estimate in 2013 and similar to the DPS average from 2002-2013. The pool population estimate in 2014 was lower than 2013, but similar to the average from 2002-2013. Site occupancy was similar to 2013 and to the 2002-2013 average for the DPS. Steelhead density estimates in the LCR and the Southwest Washington (SWW) DPSs in 2014 were similar to each other, to averages for each DPS since 2006, and to the 2013 estimates. Site occupancy in 2014 for the LCR DPS was the highest recorded. In the SWW DPS site occupancy was similar to 2013 and to the 2006-2013 average estimates. Pool population estimates for LCR and SWW were similar to the 2006-2013 average of the estimates for the DPSs and to 2013 estimates. The original pool depth criteria was =40cm in maximum depth. This was changed to =20cm in 2010. Analyses based on the =20cm maximum depth criteria produced larger pool population estimates with proportionately smaller confidence intervals than analyses based on the =40cm maximum depth criteria. Population estimate trends that included shallow pools tracked with those based on the former pool criteria. Close

• 378. [Article] Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2015 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2016-1

  Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys in the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2015 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2016-1 Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys in the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon for 2015. Results from 2015 are compared to previous years and used to describe trends in distribution and abundance. To access prior reports visit https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/crl/default.aspx?pn=WORP. Coho: Density estimates in 2015 for the Oregon Coast Coho (OCC) ESU were higher than in 2014, but similar to the 1998-2014 average for the ESU. Abundance estimates in 2015 were similar to 2004-2014, but higher than those in1998-2003. Site occupancy rates appeared to be increasing for the ESU since the start of our monitoring in 1998, although the rate from 2015 was lower than in 2014. The average occupancy rate from 2010-2015 has been similar to the average from 2004-2009 and higher than the average from 1998-2003. In the ESU plots of parr abundance against female spawner abundance suggest limits in freshwater habitat to parr production when spawner abundance exceeds approximately 80,000 females. Parr production rates in the ESU typically decrease when female spawner abundance increases. The density, number of sites at full seeding, occupancy, and pool frequency estimates in 2015 for the Southern Oregon Northern California Coho (SONCC) ESU were the lowest recorded since our monitoring began. Abundance estimates of parr from 2013-2015 were lower than those from 2001-2012 and similar to those from 1998-2000. Occupancy estimates for the last 4 cohorts have been the lowest recorded since monitoring began. Density estimates in 2015 for the Lower Columbia River Coho (LCR) were higher than in 2014 but similar to the average from 2006-2014 for the ESU. Abundance estimates of parr in 2015 were similar to the estimate in 2014 and to the 2006-2014 average. Site occupancy rates in 2015 were similar to the 2014 rate and the average rate from 2006-2014. Steelhead: The density, abundance, and occupancy rate estimates in 2015 for Oregon Coast Steelhead DPS were lower than in 2014 and lower than the 2002-2014 average for the DPS. The four cohorts previous to 2015 have had the four highest occupancy rates. Density in 2015 for the Klamath Mountain Province was lower than in 2014 and lower than the 2002-2014 average for the DPS. The 2015 and 2014 abundance estimates were the 1st and 2nd lowest recorded in the DPS. Site occupancy in 2015 was similar to 2014 and to the 2002-2014 average for the DPS. As in past years, the 2015 metrics for the two steelhead DPSs in the Lower Columbia River had similar metrics. Densities, pool frequencies, and point estimates for site occupancy and abundance were the lowest recorded in 2015. The original pool depth criteria was =40cm in maximum depth. This was changed to =20cm in 2010. Analyses based on the =20cm maximum depth criteria typically produce larger abundance estimates with proportionately smaller confidence intervals than analyses based on the =40cm maximum depth criteria. Abundance estimate trends that included shallow pools tracked with those based on the former pool criteria. Title: Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2015 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2016-1 Abstract -- This report analyzes data from juvenile salmonid surveys in the three coho Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) and the four steelhead Distinct Population Segments (DPS) in coastal Oregon for 2015. Results from 2015 are compared to previous years and used to describe trends in distribution and abundance. To access prior reports visit https://nrimp.dfw.state.or.us/crl/default.aspx?pn=WORP. Coho: Density estimates in 2015 for the Oregon Coast Coho (OCC) ESU were higher than in 2014, but similar to the 1998-2014 average for the ESU. Abundance estimates in 2015 were similar to 2004-2014, but higher than those in1998-2003. Site occupancy rates appeared to be increasing for the ESU since the start of our monitoring in 1998, although the rate from 2015 was lower than in 2014. The average occupancy rate from 2010-2015 has been similar to the average from 2004-2009 and higher than the average from 1998-2003. In the ESU plots of parr abundance against female spawner abundance suggest limits in freshwater habitat to parr production when spawner abundance exceeds approximately 80,000 females. Parr production rates in the ESU typically decrease when female spawner abundance increases. The density, number of sites at full seeding, occupancy, and pool frequency estimates in 2015 for the Southern Oregon Northern California Coho (SONCC) ESU were the lowest recorded since our monitoring began. Abundance estimates of parr from 2013-2015 were lower than those from 2001-2012 and similar to those from 1998-2000. Occupancy estimates for the last 4 cohorts have been the lowest recorded since monitoring began. Density estimates in 2015 for the Lower Columbia River Coho (LCR) were higher than in 2014 but similar to the average from 2006-2014 for the ESU. Abundance estimates of parr in 2015 were similar to the estimate in 2014 and to the 2006-2014 average. Site occupancy rates in 2015 were similar to the 2014 rate and the average rate from 2006-2014. Steelhead: The density, abundance, and occupancy rate estimates in 2015 for Oregon Coast Steelhead DPS were lower than in 2014 and lower than the 2002-2014 average for the DPS. The four cohorts previous to 2015 have had the four highest occupancy rates. Density in 2015 for the Klamath Mountain Province was lower than in 2014 and lower than the 2002-2014 average for the DPS. The 2015 and 2014 abundance estimates were the 1st and 2nd lowest recorded in the DPS. Site occupancy in 2015 was similar to 2014 and to the 2002-2014 average for the DPS. As in past years, the 2015 metrics for the two steelhead DPSs in the Lower Columbia River had similar metrics. Densities, pool frequencies, and point estimates for site occupancy and abundance were the lowest recorded in 2015. The original pool depth criteria was =40cm in maximum depth. This was changed to =20cm in 2010. Analyses based on the =20cm maximum depth criteria typically produce larger abundance estimates with proportionately smaller confidence intervals than analyses based on the =40cm maximum depth criteria. Abundance estimate trends that included shallow pools tracked with those based on the former pool criteria. Close

• 379. [Article] Warner Valley Fish Investigations- Warner Suckers Progress Reports 2008

  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. This species was historically ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Warner Valley Fish Investigations- Warner Suckers Progress Reports 2008 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. This species was historically abundant and its historical range includes 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). 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 Valley is a northeast-southwest trending endorheic basin which extends approximately 90 km (Figure 1). The elevation of the valley floor is approximately 1,370 m and the basin is bound by fault block escarpments, the Warner Rim on the west and Hart Mountain and Poker Jim Ridge on the east. The Warner basin was formed during the middle Tertiary and late Quaternary geologic periods as a result of volcanic and tectonic activity (Baldwin 1976). Abundant precipitation during the Pleistocene Epoch resulted in the formation of Pluvial Lake Warner (Hubbs and Miller 1948). At its maximum extent approximately 11,000 years ago, the lake reached approximately 100 m in depth and 1,300 km2 in area (Snyder et al. 1964, Weide 1975). In 2008, precipitation and snow pack were near average and Hart and Crump Lakes never filled completely. In 2007, Crump Lake water levels were very low with less than a quarter of the surface area wetted during the winter. Both lakes have been watered continuously since 1993. The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. Two life history forms are present that comprise the metapopulation of Warner suckers: lake and stream morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish which normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during dry water years or by irrigation diversion dams and spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in the three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes in the lakes likely reduce sucker recruitment by predation on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). 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. In 2008, we conducted investigations in Hart and Crump Lakes to quantify the abundance and distribution of Warner suckers, to search for evidence of recent recruitment, and to estimate sucker abundance relative to nonnative fish abundance. In addition we investigated growth and movement patterns. We used Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagged suckers to determine growth rates and movements, tracked radio-tagged suckers to document seasonal spawning migrations, fished a screw trap in Twelvemile Creek to monitor downstream movements, and operated a trap at the Dyke diversion dam on Twentymile Creek to monitor upstream movements. Title: Warner Valley Fish Investigations- Warner Suckers Progress Reports 2008 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. This species was historically abundant and its historical range includes 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). 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 Valley is a northeast-southwest trending endorheic basin which extends approximately 90 km (Figure 1). The elevation of the valley floor is approximately 1,370 m and the basin is bound by fault block escarpments, the Warner Rim on the west and Hart Mountain and Poker Jim Ridge on the east. The Warner basin was formed during the middle Tertiary and late Quaternary geologic periods as a result of volcanic and tectonic activity (Baldwin 1976). Abundant precipitation during the Pleistocene Epoch resulted in the formation of Pluvial Lake Warner (Hubbs and Miller 1948). At its maximum extent approximately 11,000 years ago, the lake reached approximately 100 m in depth and 1,300 km2 in area (Snyder et al. 1964, Weide 1975). In 2008, precipitation and snow pack were near average and Hart and Crump Lakes never filled completely. In 2007, Crump Lake water levels were very low with less than a quarter of the surface area wetted during the winter. Both lakes have been watered continuously since 1993. The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. Two life history forms are present that comprise the metapopulation of Warner suckers: lake and stream morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish which normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during dry water years or by irrigation diversion dams and spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in the three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes in the lakes likely reduce sucker recruitment by predation on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). 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. In 2008, we conducted investigations in Hart and Crump Lakes to quantify the abundance and distribution of Warner suckers, to search for evidence of recent recruitment, and to estimate sucker abundance relative to nonnative fish abundance. In addition we investigated growth and movement patterns. We used Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagged suckers to determine growth rates and movements, tracked radio-tagged suckers to document seasonal spawning migrations, fished a screw trap in Twelvemile Creek to monitor downstream movements, and operated a trap at the Dyke diversion dam on Twentymile Creek to monitor upstream movements. Close

• 380. [Article] Abundance, Productivity, and Life History of Fifteenmile Creek Steelhead; Annual Report 2016

  Abstract -- The Fifteenmile Creek watershed in North Central Oregon hosts a native population of steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) that is without influence of previous hatchery augmentation. The Fifteenmile ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Abundance, Productivity, and Life History of Fifteenmile Creek Steelhead; Annual Report 2016 Abstract -- The Fifteenmile Creek watershed in North Central Oregon hosts a native population of steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) that is without influence of previous hatchery augmentation. The Fifteenmile Creek steelhead are a subpopulation within the Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of the Middle Columbia River steelhead and was listed as ‘threatened’ by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) first on March 25, 1999 and relisted as a DPS on January 5, 2006. Subsequently, a conservation and recovery management plan was developed for the Middle Columbia River steelhead DPS within Oregon state borders. The goal of the plan is to recover Middle Columbia River steelhead to a level that would allow the removal of threatened status, in addition to providing a long-term goal to recover the population sufficiently to provide sustainable fisheries and other ecological, cultural, social and economic benefits for future generations. The DPS-level recovery plan sets specific recovery goals for the areas within the DPS, which designates Fifteenmile Creek explicitly. The Fifteenmile Creek steelhead population is considered the most inland winter race of steelhead in the Columbia River Basin, as designated by NOAA fisheries. However review of this designation may be necessary at the next Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) Biological Opinion (BiOp) status-review because the run-timing of adult steelhead passing Bonneville Dam has been inconsistent with known winter-run steelhead in the area. The population was identified as “must have viable” status by the Interior Columbia Technical Recovery Team (ICTRT), and reaching viable status is essential for achieving DPS delisting. The ICTRT, Recovery Plan, and the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS-BiOp) have all identified this population as high priority for improving precision and accuracy of abundance, productivity, diversity, and spatial structure information. Title: Abundance, Productivity, and Life History of Fifteenmile Creek Steelhead; Annual Report 2016 Abstract -- The Fifteenmile Creek watershed in North Central Oregon hosts a native population of steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) that is without influence of previous hatchery augmentation. The Fifteenmile Creek steelhead are a subpopulation within the Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of the Middle Columbia River steelhead and was listed as ‘threatened’ by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) first on March 25, 1999 and relisted as a DPS on January 5, 2006. Subsequently, a conservation and recovery management plan was developed for the Middle Columbia River steelhead DPS within Oregon state borders. The goal of the plan is to recover Middle Columbia River steelhead to a level that would allow the removal of threatened status, in addition to providing a long-term goal to recover the population sufficiently to provide sustainable fisheries and other ecological, cultural, social and economic benefits for future generations. The DPS-level recovery plan sets specific recovery goals for the areas within the DPS, which designates Fifteenmile Creek explicitly. The Fifteenmile Creek steelhead population is considered the most inland winter race of steelhead in the Columbia River Basin, as designated by NOAA fisheries. However review of this designation may be necessary at the next Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) Biological Opinion (BiOp) status-review because the run-timing of adult steelhead passing Bonneville Dam has been inconsistent with known winter-run steelhead in the area. The population was identified as “must have viable” status by the Interior Columbia Technical Recovery Team (ICTRT), and reaching viable status is essential for achieving DPS delisting. The ICTRT, Recovery Plan, and the Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS-BiOp) have all identified this population as high priority for improving precision and accuracy of abundance, productivity, diversity, and spatial structure information. Close