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• 31. [Article] Steelhead Habitat Surveys in Mill Creek Monitoring Project Completion Report (OWEB #205-125)

  Abstract -- This project added to the existing information about steelhead in Mill Creek in the following ways: • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife completed an instream habitat inventory from the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Steelhead Habitat Surveys in Mill Creek Monitoring Project Completion Report (OWEB #205-125) Abstract -- This project added to the existing information about steelhead in Mill Creek in the following ways: • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife completed an instream habitat inventory from the mouth to the forks, up the South Fork to Mill Creek Falls, where anadromy ends, and up the North Fork for the first 7,370 meters. • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted steelhead redd surveys in the mainstem and South Fork in 2005 and 2006, while the US Forest Service conducted redd surveys in the federally-owned upper reaches of the North Fork. • Wasco County Soil and Water Conservation District installed depth and temperature monitors on the mainstem and North Fork, while relying on the City of The Dalles to monitor flows in the South Fork. Title: Steelhead Habitat Surveys in Mill Creek Monitoring Project Completion Report (OWEB #205-125) Abstract -- This project added to the existing information about steelhead in Mill Creek in the following ways: • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife completed an instream habitat inventory from the mouth to the forks, up the South Fork to Mill Creek Falls, where anadromy ends, and up the North Fork for the first 7,370 meters. • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted steelhead redd surveys in the mainstem and South Fork in 2005 and 2006, while the US Forest Service conducted redd surveys in the federally-owned upper reaches of the North Fork. • Wasco County Soil and Water Conservation District installed depth and temperature monitors on the mainstem and North Fork, while relying on the City of The Dalles to monitor flows in the South Fork. Close

• 32. [Article] Status of Winter Rearing Habitat In Four Coho Population Units, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-7

  Abstract -- In a recent assessment of coastal coho salmon by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (2005), the authors concluded that productivity in 21 of 21 coastal coho populations was limited ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status of Winter Rearing Habitat In Four Coho Population Units, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-7 Abstract -- In a recent assessment of coastal coho salmon by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (2005), the authors concluded that productivity in 21 of 21 coastal coho populations was limited primarily (13) or secondarily (8) by the complexity of stream habitat used by juvenile coho during their first winter of freshwater residence. The Oregon Coast Coho Conservation Plan (Nicholas 2006), written in response to the assessment, concluded that recovery of coho populations will depend largely on improvement of freshwater habitat. The Conservation Plan (Nicholas 2006) presents population specific goals for the amount and quality of winter habitat needed to achieve desired status of coho populations. Monitoring objectives in the Plan are 1) describe the status of freshwater habitat in each population unit with a focus on features important to overwinter survival of juvenile coho, 2) estimate carrying capacity in each population unit with + 30% confidence, and 3) measure progress towards meeting the habitat goals of the Conservation Plan. This report describes the first two monitoring objectives for winter habitat in four population units: the Coquille, South Umpqua, Siuslaw, and Nehalem. Winter habitat surveys are conducted to describe the freshwater habitat conditions that may limit the survival of juvenile coho during the season at which the conditions are limiting. The Habitat Limiting Factors Model (Nickelson et al. 1992a, Nickelson et al. 1992b, Nickelson 1998) estimates the capacity of streams to support juvenile salmon based on quantitative descriptions of summer and winter habitat. The model assigns value to the size, type and complexity of habitat units, giving highest value to slow water pools such as alcoves and beaver ponds, and pools with large wood. Because winter habitat limits the capacity of most coastal streams to support juvenile coho (Rodgers et al. 2005), accurate estimates of winter habitat are essential to life cycle modeling and to meet objectives of the Conservation Plan. Rodgers et al. (2005) estimated potential carrying capacity of stream habitat within each coastal coho population unit, but statistical confidence was limited by the source and manipulation of the data. Although the data set was extensive, most of the reaches were not randomly selected, and a regression model was used to extrapolate conditions from summer to winter (Rodgers et al. 2005). Summer surveys provide applicable information, but at low flow conditions. Summer weather and stream flows are predictable and conducive to field work; study sites are more accessible, work days are longer and warmer, lower water levels enable walking in the channel more easily, and water clarity is high. However, while more difficult logistically, winter surveys provide estimates during high flow conditions thought to be most important to juvenile coho survival. The winter surveys are conducted during “base flow” when off-channel habitats and secondary channels are inundated, but not over floodplain. The winter 2007 survey sites were selected using the Generalized Random Tessellation Stratified (GRTS) sample design (Stevens 2002) from a pool of sites previously surveyed during summer. This provided an opportunity to describe status within coho population units and refine the summer to winter conversion regression model. More sites are visited during summer than winter, and the sample pool will expand if we can use summer surveys to predict winter conditions. A thorough description of seasonal habitat variation will determine the appropriateness of using summer habitat data to assess habitat conditions during the winter. The objectives of this report are to provide the status of winter habitat surveyed in 2007 in four Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) population units (Nehalem, Siuslaw, Coquille, South Umpqua), estimate the potential winter capacity of streams within those population units, and describe the differences observed in stream habitat between winter and summer with emphasis on slow water and secondary channel habitats. We also performed a sensitivity analysis to determine the number of survey sites necessary to represent each population unit within the desired confidence recommended in the Conservation Plan (Nicholas 2006). Title: Status of Winter Rearing Habitat In Four Coho Population Units, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-7 Abstract -- In a recent assessment of coastal coho salmon by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (2005), the authors concluded that productivity in 21 of 21 coastal coho populations was limited primarily (13) or secondarily (8) by the complexity of stream habitat used by juvenile coho during their first winter of freshwater residence. The Oregon Coast Coho Conservation Plan (Nicholas 2006), written in response to the assessment, concluded that recovery of coho populations will depend largely on improvement of freshwater habitat. The Conservation Plan (Nicholas 2006) presents population specific goals for the amount and quality of winter habitat needed to achieve desired status of coho populations. Monitoring objectives in the Plan are 1) describe the status of freshwater habitat in each population unit with a focus on features important to overwinter survival of juvenile coho, 2) estimate carrying capacity in each population unit with + 30% confidence, and 3) measure progress towards meeting the habitat goals of the Conservation Plan. This report describes the first two monitoring objectives for winter habitat in four population units: the Coquille, South Umpqua, Siuslaw, and Nehalem. Winter habitat surveys are conducted to describe the freshwater habitat conditions that may limit the survival of juvenile coho during the season at which the conditions are limiting. The Habitat Limiting Factors Model (Nickelson et al. 1992a, Nickelson et al. 1992b, Nickelson 1998) estimates the capacity of streams to support juvenile salmon based on quantitative descriptions of summer and winter habitat. The model assigns value to the size, type and complexity of habitat units, giving highest value to slow water pools such as alcoves and beaver ponds, and pools with large wood. Because winter habitat limits the capacity of most coastal streams to support juvenile coho (Rodgers et al. 2005), accurate estimates of winter habitat are essential to life cycle modeling and to meet objectives of the Conservation Plan. Rodgers et al. (2005) estimated potential carrying capacity of stream habitat within each coastal coho population unit, but statistical confidence was limited by the source and manipulation of the data. Although the data set was extensive, most of the reaches were not randomly selected, and a regression model was used to extrapolate conditions from summer to winter (Rodgers et al. 2005). Summer surveys provide applicable information, but at low flow conditions. Summer weather and stream flows are predictable and conducive to field work; study sites are more accessible, work days are longer and warmer, lower water levels enable walking in the channel more easily, and water clarity is high. However, while more difficult logistically, winter surveys provide estimates during high flow conditions thought to be most important to juvenile coho survival. The winter surveys are conducted during “base flow” when off-channel habitats and secondary channels are inundated, but not over floodplain. The winter 2007 survey sites were selected using the Generalized Random Tessellation Stratified (GRTS) sample design (Stevens 2002) from a pool of sites previously surveyed during summer. This provided an opportunity to describe status within coho population units and refine the summer to winter conversion regression model. More sites are visited during summer than winter, and the sample pool will expand if we can use summer surveys to predict winter conditions. A thorough description of seasonal habitat variation will determine the appropriateness of using summer habitat data to assess habitat conditions during the winter. The objectives of this report are to provide the status of winter habitat surveyed in 2007 in four Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) population units (Nehalem, Siuslaw, Coquille, South Umpqua), estimate the potential winter capacity of streams within those population units, and describe the differences observed in stream habitat between winter and summer with emphasis on slow water and secondary channel habitats. We also performed a sensitivity analysis to determine the number of survey sites necessary to represent each population unit within the desired confidence recommended in the Conservation Plan (Nicholas 2006). Close

• 33. [Article] John Day River Basin Master Plan for Angler Access and Associated Recreational Uses 1967

  Abstract -- The John Day Basin is located in the north central part of the state and covers an area of approximately 8,010 square miles. This includes nearly all of Wheeler, Gilliam and Grant Counties, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: John Day River Basin Master Plan for Angler Access and Associated Recreational Uses 1967 Abstract -- The John Day Basin is located in the north central part of the state and covers an area of approximately 8,010 square miles. This includes nearly all of Wheeler, Gilliam and Grant Counties, and portions of Sherman, Umatilla, Morrow, Jefferson, Wasco, Crook, Harney and Union Counties. The John Day heads in the Blue Mountains southeast of Prairie City and flows into the Columbia near Biggs. There are 4,350 streams in the system which total approximately 9,500 miles in length. Agriculture is the major source of income to the basin. The fishery is quite diversified within the basin. Steelhead, trout, whitefish and warm-water species are available for anglers. In addition to these fish, spring Chinook and coho salmon are also within the system. The John Day Basin has been divided into five sections and each has been handled according to its individual needs. The report sections describe these areas more fully and each site is described in detail. Title: John Day River Basin Master Plan for Angler Access and Associated Recreational Uses 1967 Abstract -- The John Day Basin is located in the north central part of the state and covers an area of approximately 8,010 square miles. This includes nearly all of Wheeler, Gilliam and Grant Counties, and portions of Sherman, Umatilla, Morrow, Jefferson, Wasco, Crook, Harney and Union Counties. The John Day heads in the Blue Mountains southeast of Prairie City and flows into the Columbia near Biggs. There are 4,350 streams in the system which total approximately 9,500 miles in length. Agriculture is the major source of income to the basin. The fishery is quite diversified within the basin. Steelhead, trout, whitefish and warm-water species are available for anglers. In addition to these fish, spring Chinook and coho salmon are also within the system. The John Day Basin has been divided into five sections and each has been handled according to its individual needs. The report sections describe these areas more fully and each site is described in detail. Close

• 34. [Article] Fish Management Plan Blitzen River November 1980

  Abstract -- The Blitzen River heads on the west side of Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon and flows north into Malheur Lake which is 31 mi south of Burns.The upper system is primarily summer rangelands ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Management Plan Blitzen River November 1980 Abstract -- The Blitzen River heads on the west side of Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon and flows north into Malheur Lake which is 31 mi south of Burns.The upper system is primarily summer rangelands where alpine meadows and aspen thickets predominate, while the lower portion has been diverted into numerous canals and ditches to meet water requirements throughout the valley and into Malheur National Refuge. There are approximately 760 square mi in the drainage area, and 279 linear mi of trout producing water. The system contains a good population of wild redband trout; and hatchery fish are stocked only in the lower river adjacent to the one developed campground. Angling pressure is light primarily because of the remote location, few vehicle access sites, rough terrain, and private ownership. In September 1980, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage the Blitzen River for wild trout except for that portion below Page Springs gauging station where yearling hatchery trout will be released annually. Title: Fish Management Plan Blitzen River November 1980 Abstract -- The Blitzen River heads on the west side of Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon and flows north into Malheur Lake which is 31 mi south of Burns.The upper system is primarily summer rangelands where alpine meadows and aspen thickets predominate, while the lower portion has been diverted into numerous canals and ditches to meet water requirements throughout the valley and into Malheur National Refuge. There are approximately 760 square mi in the drainage area, and 279 linear mi of trout producing water. The system contains a good population of wild redband trout; and hatchery fish are stocked only in the lower river adjacent to the one developed campground. Angling pressure is light primarily because of the remote location, few vehicle access sites, rough terrain, and private ownership. In September 1980, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage the Blitzen River for wild trout except for that portion below Page Springs gauging station where yearling hatchery trout will be released annually. Close

• 35. [Article] Survey of the Waters of South Umpqua Ranger District, Umpqua National Forest, 1937

  Abstract -- The objectives of the present survey of the upper waters of the South Fork of the Umpqua River were to: (1) develop practical and scientifically sound stocking policies; (2) determine the need ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Survey of the Waters of South Umpqua Ranger District, Umpqua National Forest, 1937 Abstract -- The objectives of the present survey of the upper waters of the South Fork of the Umpqua River were to: (1) develop practical and scientifically sound stocking policies; (2) determine the need for stream and lake improvements; and (3) obtain facts to assist in the settlement of the controversy with regard to the South Umpqua Falls. There has been continual demand by sportsmen that the South Umpqua Falls be supplied with fish ladders to permit safe ascent of sea-run species to spawning grounds above the falls. Study of this problem was undertaken as a definite part of the survey work described herein. The stream run and lake survey work was initiated by the Forest Service in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries during the summer of 1937. Emphasis was placed on the detailed studies relating to the physical and biological factors upon which it would be possible to recommend adequate stocking policies. No study of chemical conditions whatsoever was made for two reasons, first, lack of equipment prevented making gas analyses and, second, such studies seemed unnecessary by reason of the fact that there is no pollution present in the streams surveyed and all of them are well aerated, clean, rapid flowing mountain streams. Chemical conditions as shown by general observations were quite suitable and it is only whore natural or artificial pollutants occur in great abundance that chemical analyses would aid in determining tho basic effects of some of those fishes and their food organisms present in streams. Title: Survey of the Waters of South Umpqua Ranger District, Umpqua National Forest, 1937 Abstract -- The objectives of the present survey of the upper waters of the South Fork of the Umpqua River were to: (1) develop practical and scientifically sound stocking policies; (2) determine the need for stream and lake improvements; and (3) obtain facts to assist in the settlement of the controversy with regard to the South Umpqua Falls. There has been continual demand by sportsmen that the South Umpqua Falls be supplied with fish ladders to permit safe ascent of sea-run species to spawning grounds above the falls. Study of this problem was undertaken as a definite part of the survey work described herein. The stream run and lake survey work was initiated by the Forest Service in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries during the summer of 1937. Emphasis was placed on the detailed studies relating to the physical and biological factors upon which it would be possible to recommend adequate stocking policies. No study of chemical conditions whatsoever was made for two reasons, first, lack of equipment prevented making gas analyses and, second, such studies seemed unnecessary by reason of the fact that there is no pollution present in the streams surveyed and all of them are well aerated, clean, rapid flowing mountain streams. Chemical conditions as shown by general observations were quite suitable and it is only whore natural or artificial pollutants occur in great abundance that chemical analyses would aid in determining tho basic effects of some of those fishes and their food organisms present in streams. Close

• 36. [Article] Trout Management Plan Lost Lake 1982

  Abstract -- Lost Lake is located adjacent to State Highway 20 about 43 mi west of Bend and 4 mi west of the Santiam Pass. The lake has about 50 surface acres and is located at an elevation of 3,980 ft. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Trout Management Plan Lost Lake 1982 Abstract -- Lost Lake is located adjacent to State Highway 20 about 43 mi west of Bend and 4 mi west of the Santiam Pass. The lake has about 50 surface acres and is located at an elevation of 3,980 ft. Three tributaries enter the lake, the largest being Lost Lake Creek. The lake has a maximum depth of 12 ft, but most of the lake basin is from 3 to 4 ft deep. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) maintains a campground on the west side of the lake, but it is not accessible until snow melts. Recreational use is primarily camping and angling. The lake receives varying amounts of angling pressure. In 1979, the USFS estimated all recreational use to be 4,000 visitor days. In 1957, the lake receded to only the stream channels, as considerable flow was visible escaping through the lava fissures. With help from the local resort operator, truckloads of cinders and lava rock were used to fill the two known outlets. Water still escapes through the cinder fills, but the lake has never dropped to the low level experienced in 1957. In July 1982, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to manage Lost Lake for wild and hatchery fish. Title: Trout Management Plan Lost Lake 1982 Abstract -- Lost Lake is located adjacent to State Highway 20 about 43 mi west of Bend and 4 mi west of the Santiam Pass. The lake has about 50 surface acres and is located at an elevation of 3,980 ft. Three tributaries enter the lake, the largest being Lost Lake Creek. The lake has a maximum depth of 12 ft, but most of the lake basin is from 3 to 4 ft deep. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) maintains a campground on the west side of the lake, but it is not accessible until snow melts. Recreational use is primarily camping and angling. The lake receives varying amounts of angling pressure. In 1979, the USFS estimated all recreational use to be 4,000 visitor days. In 1957, the lake receded to only the stream channels, as considerable flow was visible escaping through the lava fissures. With help from the local resort operator, truckloads of cinders and lava rock were used to fill the two known outlets. Water still escapes through the cinder fills, but the lake has never dropped to the low level experienced in 1957. In July 1982, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to manage Lost Lake for wild and hatchery fish. Close

• 37. [Article] Indian Creek Aquatic Restoration (OWEB #205-144)

  Abstract -- Like many streams in this area, these creeks have experienced considerable habitat degradation due to past land management practices that removed large wood from the channels. Without the large ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Indian Creek Aquatic Restoration (OWEB #205-144) Abstract -- Like many streams in this area, these creeks have experienced considerable habitat degradation due to past land management practices that removed large wood from the channels. Without the large wood, spawning gravels have washed away leaving a mostly bedrock substrate. The down-cut stream is no longer connected to its former floodplain and fish have little refuge during high flows. Additionally, aquatic insect life, the basic food source for young salmonids, is limited without the diverse habitats formed by complexes of wood and gravel. Goals associated with this restoration proposal include: • Address limitation to anadromous fish production in Indian Creek tributaries o Enhance spawning, rearing, and overwintering habitat for anadromous and resident fish species o Restore storage capacity (water, substrates, and detritus) of the selected streams to levels more closely expected with unaltered systems in the Coast Range. • Establish a connection between past small scale restoration efforts • Maintain a network of organizations, stakeholders, and individuals who will participate in watershed restoration efforts. Widened channel floodplain from newly derived gravel, side channel formation / channel alteration (with more sinuosity), and additional scour pools were observed throughout the structure sites we monitored since the project implementation from high water events. Especially, the amount of gravel that was delivered to the project reaches and the degree to which they were sorted in large concentration directly adjacent to the helicopter structures was far more prominent than what we have observed in previous years from other helicopter projects. Title: Indian Creek Aquatic Restoration (OWEB #205-144) Abstract -- Like many streams in this area, these creeks have experienced considerable habitat degradation due to past land management practices that removed large wood from the channels. Without the large wood, spawning gravels have washed away leaving a mostly bedrock substrate. The down-cut stream is no longer connected to its former floodplain and fish have little refuge during high flows. Additionally, aquatic insect life, the basic food source for young salmonids, is limited without the diverse habitats formed by complexes of wood and gravel. Goals associated with this restoration proposal include: • Address limitation to anadromous fish production in Indian Creek tributaries o Enhance spawning, rearing, and overwintering habitat for anadromous and resident fish species o Restore storage capacity (water, substrates, and detritus) of the selected streams to levels more closely expected with unaltered systems in the Coast Range. • Establish a connection between past small scale restoration efforts • Maintain a network of organizations, stakeholders, and individuals who will participate in watershed restoration efforts. Widened channel floodplain from newly derived gravel, side channel formation / channel alteration (with more sinuosity), and additional scour pools were observed throughout the structure sites we monitored since the project implementation from high water events. Especially, the amount of gravel that was delivered to the project reaches and the degree to which they were sorted in large concentration directly adjacent to the helicopter structures was far more prominent than what we have observed in previous years from other helicopter projects. Close

• 38. [Article] Pine Hollow - Jackknife Creek Watershed Assessment

  Abstract -- The assessment area is located in north-central Oregon within the semi-arid Columbia Plateau and the Lower John Day River Basin. The assessment area occupies the southeastern portion of Sherman ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Pine Hollow - Jackknife Creek Watershed Assessment Abstract -- The assessment area is located in north-central Oregon within the semi-arid Columbia Plateau and the Lower John Day River Basin. The assessment area occupies the southeastern portion of Sherman County and part of the northeastern portion of Wasco County, beginning southeast of the town of Grass Valley and including the towns of Kent and Shaniko. The watershed assessment area is sparsely populated, with an average population density of less than one person per square mile in Sherman County and two per square mile in Wasco County (U.S. Census Bureau 2010). All of the streams within the Pine Hollow – Jackknife Creek watershed assessment area drain into the Lower John Day River, and the river is the eastern border of the assessment area. The 8,000 square mile John Day Basin is the fourth largest basin in the state. The main stem of the John Day River originates in the Blue Mountains southeast of Prairie City, Oregon, and flows generally westward then northward for approximately 284 miles before discharging into the Columbia River at River Mile (RM) 218, just east of the town of Rufus, Oregon. Title: Pine Hollow - Jackknife Creek Watershed Assessment Abstract -- The assessment area is located in north-central Oregon within the semi-arid Columbia Plateau and the Lower John Day River Basin. The assessment area occupies the southeastern portion of Sherman County and part of the northeastern portion of Wasco County, beginning southeast of the town of Grass Valley and including the towns of Kent and Shaniko. The watershed assessment area is sparsely populated, with an average population density of less than one person per square mile in Sherman County and two per square mile in Wasco County (U.S. Census Bureau 2010). All of the streams within the Pine Hollow – Jackknife Creek watershed assessment area drain into the Lower John Day River, and the river is the eastern border of the assessment area. The 8,000 square mile John Day Basin is the fourth largest basin in the state. The main stem of the John Day River originates in the Blue Mountains southeast of Prairie City, Oregon, and flows generally westward then northward for approximately 284 miles before discharging into the Columbia River at River Mile (RM) 218, just east of the town of Rufus, Oregon. Close

• 39. [Article] Lower Deschutes River Subbasin Management Plan 1997

  Abstract -- This plan covers management of fish and their habitats in the lower Deschutes River subbasin. The lower Deschutes River subbasin as defined in this plan as the Deschutes River from the Pelton ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Deschutes River Subbasin Management Plan 1997 Abstract -- This plan covers management of fish and their habitats in the lower Deschutes River subbasin. The lower Deschutes River subbasin as defined in this plan as the Deschutes River from the Pelton Reregulating Dam downstream to the Columbia River and all waters within that drainage area. This plan was developed in cooperation with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon (CTWS). The CTWS and the ODFW are co-managers of the fishery resources in the lower Deschutes River. Policy and objective statements contained in this plan are not applicable to waters on the CTWS reservation. Some policy and objective statements contained in this plan are in opposition to CTWS resource management strategies. The lower Deschutes River is classified as both state of Oregon and federal Wild and Scenic rivers. White River, a major tributary to the lower Deschutes, begins at White River Glacier on the southeast side of Mount Hood and flows 44 miles to its confluence with the Deschutes River. White River is classified as a federal Wild and Scenic river and has been nominated to be included in the state of Oregon wild and scenic river program. The lower Deschutes River is known nationally and internationally for its sport fishing. Resident trout, summer steelhead, spring chinook, and fall chinook are the most sought after species. The lower Deschutes River also supports important tribal fisheries for indigenous fishes. Both summer steelhead and spring chinook are supplemented with hatchery produced fish. Rainbow trout and fall chinook are not stocked in the mainstem lower Deschutes River. In the late l980's the Northwest Power Planning Council administered a planning process to create a management plan for the Columbia River basin. As a part of that process, a subbasin plan concerning management of steelhead and salmon was written for the lower Deschutes River. This document, the Lower Deschutes Subbasin Fish Management Plan, significantly expands on the Northwest Power Planning Council document by adding resident fish species and new information on anadromous species and will ultimately produce the final plan used to guide fish resource management in the sub basin for the next 5 to 10 years. Title: Lower Deschutes River Subbasin Management Plan 1997 Abstract -- This plan covers management of fish and their habitats in the lower Deschutes River subbasin. The lower Deschutes River subbasin as defined in this plan as the Deschutes River from the Pelton Reregulating Dam downstream to the Columbia River and all waters within that drainage area. This plan was developed in cooperation with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon (CTWS). The CTWS and the ODFW are co-managers of the fishery resources in the lower Deschutes River. Policy and objective statements contained in this plan are not applicable to waters on the CTWS reservation. Some policy and objective statements contained in this plan are in opposition to CTWS resource management strategies. The lower Deschutes River is classified as both state of Oregon and federal Wild and Scenic rivers. White River, a major tributary to the lower Deschutes, begins at White River Glacier on the southeast side of Mount Hood and flows 44 miles to its confluence with the Deschutes River. White River is classified as a federal Wild and Scenic river and has been nominated to be included in the state of Oregon wild and scenic river program. The lower Deschutes River is known nationally and internationally for its sport fishing. Resident trout, summer steelhead, spring chinook, and fall chinook are the most sought after species. The lower Deschutes River also supports important tribal fisheries for indigenous fishes. Both summer steelhead and spring chinook are supplemented with hatchery produced fish. Rainbow trout and fall chinook are not stocked in the mainstem lower Deschutes River. In the late l980's the Northwest Power Planning Council administered a planning process to create a management plan for the Columbia River basin. As a part of that process, a subbasin plan concerning management of steelhead and salmon was written for the lower Deschutes River. This document, the Lower Deschutes Subbasin Fish Management Plan, significantly expands on the Northwest Power Planning Council document by adding resident fish species and new information on anadromous species and will ultimately produce the final plan used to guide fish resource management in the sub basin for the next 5 to 10 years. Close

• 40. [Article] Abundance, Life History, and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Hood River Basin: A Summary of Findings from 2006 to 2009 Information Reports number 2010-01

  Abstract -- Bull trout have been adversely affected by many land, water, and fisheries management activities throughout the range of the species. Degraded and fragmented habitat and negative interactions with ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Abundance, Life History, and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Hood River Basin: A Summary of Findings from 2006 to 2009 Information Reports number 2010-01 Abstract -- Bull trout have been adversely affected by many land, water, and fisheries management activities throughout the range of the species. Degraded and fragmented habitat and negative interactions with nonnative fishes have led to a decline in bull trout distribution and abundance, several local extirpations, and a federal listing in 1998 as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 2002). Distribution and abundance of bull trout also have declined in Oregon, and most management units in the state are considered to be threatened by conservation risks (ODFW 2005). One of these at-risk management units exists in the Hood River basin (ODFW 2005). Bull trout in Hood River basin currently are thought to exist as two independent reproductive units (USFWS 2002), known as local populations (Rieman and McIntyre 1995). The Clear Branch local population was isolated from the rest of the basin by the construction of Clear Branch Dam in 1968. This dam provides limited downstream fish passage during periods of spill and no voluntary upstream passage. Bull trout in this population inhabit Laurance Lake reservoir and the tributaries Pinnacle Creek and upper Clear Branch, which flow into the reservoir. The Hood River local population is distributed in the mainstem Hood River, Middle Fork Hood River (Middle Fork), and a few Middle Fork tributaries. Fluvial migrants from Hood River basin also forage and winter in the Columbia River (Pribyl et al. 1996, Buchanan et al. 1997). Bull trout have been observed in the East and West Fork basins of the Hood River, but these sightings have been rare. Presently, there is little evidence to suggest local populations exist in these tributary basins (USFWS 2002, Reagan and Olsen 2008). The status of both local populations is extremely precarious. Threats that put the Clear Branch population at risk of extirpation include low abundance, negative interactions with illegally introduced smallmouth bass, isolation from upstream migration and immigration, and diminished spawning and rearing habitat (USFW 1998). The Hood River population also appears to be small and is affected by passage barriers, unscreened irrigation diversions, impaired water quality, and periodic debris flows during glacial outbursts (USFWS 1998). As mandated by their federally designated threatened status, recovery plans were drafted by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for each distinct population segment, including for Hood River bull trout in 2002. This draft plan listed four goals for recovery in this basin: 1) establish at least one more local population in addition to the two existing populations, 2) increase the estimated adult population in the basin to at least 500 individuals, 3) achieve a stable or increasing trend at the population recovery level for at least two generations (=10 years), and 4) improve habitat connectivity by addressing problems with passage and screening at diversions and seasonal water quality barriers (USFWS 2002). The recovery plan also sets out research and monitoring needs critical to the recovery of these populations. Needed are accurate adult abundance estimates; a standardized monitoring program; more life history information for each local population, including how Hood River bull trout use of the Columbia River and the effects of potential passage obstructions on movement; and more information on the threat posed to the Clear Branch population by the illegal introduction of smallmouth bass in Lake Laurance reservoir. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), with the help of the USDA Forest Service (USFS), initiated a four-year study in 2006 seeking to address these needs by synthesizing available data and conducting further studies to improve our understanding of the abundance, life history, and potential limiting factors of bull trout in the Hood River recovery unit. This report describes our findings, summarizes previous studies in the context of new information, and recommends a standardized monitoring protocol and future research. Our specific study objectives were as follows: 1. Assess adult abundance of the Clear Branch local population and develop a monitoring protocol to track abundance trends that is statistically reliable, cost-effective, and that minimizes potential adverse effects on this small isolated population. 2. Describe the juvenile and adult life history patterns of the Clear Branch local population. 3. Assess the potential impact of smallmouth bass on bull trout in Laurance Lake reservoir. 4. Determine current distribution of bull trout reproduction and early rearing in potential bull trout streams in the Hood River basin. 5. Describe the migratory life history of Hood River bull trout and assess the potential impacts of Coe Diversion and two new falls on the Middle Fork Hood River (scoured by the November 2006 glacial outburst) on bull trout migrations. Title: Abundance, Life History, and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Hood River Basin: A Summary of Findings from 2006 to 2009 Information Reports number 2010-01 Abstract -- Bull trout have been adversely affected by many land, water, and fisheries management activities throughout the range of the species. Degraded and fragmented habitat and negative interactions with nonnative fishes have led to a decline in bull trout distribution and abundance, several local extirpations, and a federal listing in 1998 as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (USFWS 2002). Distribution and abundance of bull trout also have declined in Oregon, and most management units in the state are considered to be threatened by conservation risks (ODFW 2005). One of these at-risk management units exists in the Hood River basin (ODFW 2005). Bull trout in Hood River basin currently are thought to exist as two independent reproductive units (USFWS 2002), known as local populations (Rieman and McIntyre 1995). The Clear Branch local population was isolated from the rest of the basin by the construction of Clear Branch Dam in 1968. This dam provides limited downstream fish passage during periods of spill and no voluntary upstream passage. Bull trout in this population inhabit Laurance Lake reservoir and the tributaries Pinnacle Creek and upper Clear Branch, which flow into the reservoir. The Hood River local population is distributed in the mainstem Hood River, Middle Fork Hood River (Middle Fork), and a few Middle Fork tributaries. Fluvial migrants from Hood River basin also forage and winter in the Columbia River (Pribyl et al. 1996, Buchanan et al. 1997). Bull trout have been observed in the East and West Fork basins of the Hood River, but these sightings have been rare. Presently, there is little evidence to suggest local populations exist in these tributary basins (USFWS 2002, Reagan and Olsen 2008). The status of both local populations is extremely precarious. Threats that put the Clear Branch population at risk of extirpation include low abundance, negative interactions with illegally introduced smallmouth bass, isolation from upstream migration and immigration, and diminished spawning and rearing habitat (USFW 1998). The Hood River population also appears to be small and is affected by passage barriers, unscreened irrigation diversions, impaired water quality, and periodic debris flows during glacial outbursts (USFWS 1998). As mandated by their federally designated threatened status, recovery plans were drafted by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for each distinct population segment, including for Hood River bull trout in 2002. This draft plan listed four goals for recovery in this basin: 1) establish at least one more local population in addition to the two existing populations, 2) increase the estimated adult population in the basin to at least 500 individuals, 3) achieve a stable or increasing trend at the population recovery level for at least two generations (=10 years), and 4) improve habitat connectivity by addressing problems with passage and screening at diversions and seasonal water quality barriers (USFWS 2002). The recovery plan also sets out research and monitoring needs critical to the recovery of these populations. Needed are accurate adult abundance estimates; a standardized monitoring program; more life history information for each local population, including how Hood River bull trout use of the Columbia River and the effects of potential passage obstructions on movement; and more information on the threat posed to the Clear Branch population by the illegal introduction of smallmouth bass in Lake Laurance reservoir. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), with the help of the USDA Forest Service (USFS), initiated a four-year study in 2006 seeking to address these needs by synthesizing available data and conducting further studies to improve our understanding of the abundance, life history, and potential limiting factors of bull trout in the Hood River recovery unit. This report describes our findings, summarizes previous studies in the context of new information, and recommends a standardized monitoring protocol and future research. Our specific study objectives were as follows: 1. Assess adult abundance of the Clear Branch local population and develop a monitoring protocol to track abundance trends that is statistically reliable, cost-effective, and that minimizes potential adverse effects on this small isolated population. 2. Describe the juvenile and adult life history patterns of the Clear Branch local population. 3. Assess the potential impact of smallmouth bass on bull trout in Laurance Lake reservoir. 4. Determine current distribution of bull trout reproduction and early rearing in potential bull trout streams in the Hood River basin. 5. Describe the migratory life history of Hood River bull trout and assess the potential impacts of Coe Diversion and two new falls on the Middle Fork Hood River (scoured by the November 2006 glacial outburst) on bull trout migrations. Close