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• 301. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Harvest Monitoring - 2013 Annual Progress Report

  Abstract -- The Imnaha and Grande Ronde River spring Chinook hatchery programs are components of the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP), funded through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Harvest Monitoring - 2013 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- The Imnaha and Grande Ronde River spring Chinook hatchery programs are components of the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP), funded through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), developed to mitigate for wild fish production lost as a result of construction of four lower Snake River dams. Hatchery Chinook and steelhead smolts in the Snake River basin are produced at LSRCP hatcheries in Washington, Idaho and Oregon. Subsequent adult returns are meant to provide tribal and recreational (sport) fisheries and, in some cases, enhance natural spawner numbers. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife initiated the Imnaha and Grande Ronde spring Chinook hatchery program in 1982 under the LSRCP. Subsequent program management has been coordinated between ODFW, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and Nez Perce Tribe (NPT). The Imnaha and Grande Ronde River hatchery programs are comprised of five components, each with smolt acclimation and adult collection facilities located on the Imnaha River, upper Grande Ronde River, Lookingglass and Catherine Creeks, and the Lostine River. The Lostine River program interacts with natural production within the broader Wallowa-Lostine population unit. Other hatchery program components are discrete to specific populations indicated. The Lookingglass Creek portion of the program focuses on reintroduction of spring Chinook to that stream and targets the release of 250,000 smolts originating from the Catherine Creek population. Each of the four remaining program components integrates natural-origin fish returning to each respective tributary into production. Smolt release goals, developed to meet LSRCP mitigation responsibilities, include 490,000 for the Imnaha, 250,000 for the Lostine and upper Grande Ronde rivers, and 150,000 for Catherine Creek. Fisheries that target returns to the Imnaha and Grande Ronde hatchery programs are guided by Fishery Management and Evaluation Plans (FMEP), approved by NOAA fisheries under limit 4 of the final 4(d) rule of the Endangered Species Act (ODFW 2011, ODFW and WDFW 2012). The objective of the FMEP is to provide recreational fishing opportunities and related benefits derived from harvest of Imnaha and Grande Ronde basin hatchery-origin spring Chinook salmon in Oregon and Washington in a manner that supports the continued survival and future recovery of natural-origin Chinook salmon. Each respective FMEP utilizes a management framework for harvest of adipose-clipped, hatchery-origin Snake River spring/summer Chinook salmon using abundance-based sliding scales to set annual fishery impacts. Fisheries are prescribed maximum impact rates for both direct and incidental mortality of natural-origin adult salmon in sport and tribal fisheries. Impacts are assessed for each population in relation to critical and minimum abundance thresholds (MAT) as described by the Interior Columbia Technical Recovery Team (ICTRT 2007). Population designations for the Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basins are listed in Table 1, and are based upon an analysis of Chinook salmon life history traits, distribution, abundance, and productivity, and geographical and ecological characteristics of the landscape within the Snake River Spring/Summer Chinook Salmon ESU (McElhany et al. 2000). The abundance-based harvest rate schedule for Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basin fisheries to be shared by all fishing entities in the basin is described in Table 2. Harvest is not considered when hatchery run size does not exceed the number of adults identified for broodstock and supplementation needs as described by sliding scale management plans set for each population’s hatchery program. Surplus is generally defined as adult hatchery run projection less hatchery adults needed for broodstock. This approach limits sport harvest during years when wild fish runs are below MAT and hatchery fish runs are of similar size. In addition, near the lower end of the harvest rate scale, fisheries are not implemented until allowable hatchery fish harvest exceeds 20 fish due to potential to over harvest within a single week. Fishery impacts to listed Snake River spring/summer Chinook salmon are assessed on a collective basis (i.e., the sum of recreational and tribal fisheries) by NOAA fisheries. However, the coordination of impact amongst states and tribes is a key component of executing conservation-based fisheries in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basins. Co-managers within each basin have developed, and implement annually, an impact sharing agreement that is described in Table 3. Within each fishery scenario, this agreement provides tribal fisheries more of the natural-origin impacts to reflect the non-selective nature of traditional fishing techniques. Recreational fisheries are provided more of the hatchery harvest such that all available impacts (hatchery and natural collectively) are shared equally (Table 3). Recreational fisheries administered by the states limit harvest (retention) of spring/summer Chinook hatchery-origin salmon with a clipped adipose fin (as evidenced by a healed scar). All salmon with an intact adipose fin (natural-origin) must be released back to the water. Therefore, incidental mortality impacts occur from catch and release of unclipped Snake River spring/summer Chinook salmon in fisheries targeting adipose-clipped hatchery Chinook salmon, and/or from the illegal retention of unclipped fish. It is generally assumed throughout the Columbia River Basin that the mortality rate resulting from the catch and release of salmon in fisheries is 10%. However, for Lookingglass Creek comanagers, with concurrence from NOAA fisheries, assume a slightly lower rate of 7.5% (ODFW and WDFW 2012). As stated in the FMEP, fisheries are adjusted or terminated when the total ESA take limit identified in Table 2 and 3 has been reached. Therefore, once fisheries are initiated regular monitoring is required to ensure consistency with co-manager agreements and FMEP requirements. The objective of this LSRCP project was to conduct statistical creel surveys determine spring Chinook and steelhead ESA impact levels, harvest and release rates, and to inform decisions regarding fishery status in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basins in 2013. In this report, we describe creel surveys conducted and estimates of angler effort, catch, and harvest. In addition we compare these estimates in relation to post-season preliminary estimates of natural and hatchery-origin returns to each population to assess consistency with prescribed impacts under FMEP guidelines. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Harvest Monitoring - 2013 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- The Imnaha and Grande Ronde River spring Chinook hatchery programs are components of the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP), funded through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), developed to mitigate for wild fish production lost as a result of construction of four lower Snake River dams. Hatchery Chinook and steelhead smolts in the Snake River basin are produced at LSRCP hatcheries in Washington, Idaho and Oregon. Subsequent adult returns are meant to provide tribal and recreational (sport) fisheries and, in some cases, enhance natural spawner numbers. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife initiated the Imnaha and Grande Ronde spring Chinook hatchery program in 1982 under the LSRCP. Subsequent program management has been coordinated between ODFW, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and Nez Perce Tribe (NPT). The Imnaha and Grande Ronde River hatchery programs are comprised of five components, each with smolt acclimation and adult collection facilities located on the Imnaha River, upper Grande Ronde River, Lookingglass and Catherine Creeks, and the Lostine River. The Lostine River program interacts with natural production within the broader Wallowa-Lostine population unit. Other hatchery program components are discrete to specific populations indicated. The Lookingglass Creek portion of the program focuses on reintroduction of spring Chinook to that stream and targets the release of 250,000 smolts originating from the Catherine Creek population. Each of the four remaining program components integrates natural-origin fish returning to each respective tributary into production. Smolt release goals, developed to meet LSRCP mitigation responsibilities, include 490,000 for the Imnaha, 250,000 for the Lostine and upper Grande Ronde rivers, and 150,000 for Catherine Creek. Fisheries that target returns to the Imnaha and Grande Ronde hatchery programs are guided by Fishery Management and Evaluation Plans (FMEP), approved by NOAA fisheries under limit 4 of the final 4(d) rule of the Endangered Species Act (ODFW 2011, ODFW and WDFW 2012). The objective of the FMEP is to provide recreational fishing opportunities and related benefits derived from harvest of Imnaha and Grande Ronde basin hatchery-origin spring Chinook salmon in Oregon and Washington in a manner that supports the continued survival and future recovery of natural-origin Chinook salmon. Each respective FMEP utilizes a management framework for harvest of adipose-clipped, hatchery-origin Snake River spring/summer Chinook salmon using abundance-based sliding scales to set annual fishery impacts. Fisheries are prescribed maximum impact rates for both direct and incidental mortality of natural-origin adult salmon in sport and tribal fisheries. Impacts are assessed for each population in relation to critical and minimum abundance thresholds (MAT) as described by the Interior Columbia Technical Recovery Team (ICTRT 2007). Population designations for the Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basins are listed in Table 1, and are based upon an analysis of Chinook salmon life history traits, distribution, abundance, and productivity, and geographical and ecological characteristics of the landscape within the Snake River Spring/Summer Chinook Salmon ESU (McElhany et al. 2000). The abundance-based harvest rate schedule for Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basin fisheries to be shared by all fishing entities in the basin is described in Table 2. Harvest is not considered when hatchery run size does not exceed the number of adults identified for broodstock and supplementation needs as described by sliding scale management plans set for each population’s hatchery program. Surplus is generally defined as adult hatchery run projection less hatchery adults needed for broodstock. This approach limits sport harvest during years when wild fish runs are below MAT and hatchery fish runs are of similar size. In addition, near the lower end of the harvest rate scale, fisheries are not implemented until allowable hatchery fish harvest exceeds 20 fish due to potential to over harvest within a single week. Fishery impacts to listed Snake River spring/summer Chinook salmon are assessed on a collective basis (i.e., the sum of recreational and tribal fisheries) by NOAA fisheries. However, the coordination of impact amongst states and tribes is a key component of executing conservation-based fisheries in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basins. Co-managers within each basin have developed, and implement annually, an impact sharing agreement that is described in Table 3. Within each fishery scenario, this agreement provides tribal fisheries more of the natural-origin impacts to reflect the non-selective nature of traditional fishing techniques. Recreational fisheries are provided more of the hatchery harvest such that all available impacts (hatchery and natural collectively) are shared equally (Table 3). Recreational fisheries administered by the states limit harvest (retention) of spring/summer Chinook hatchery-origin salmon with a clipped adipose fin (as evidenced by a healed scar). All salmon with an intact adipose fin (natural-origin) must be released back to the water. Therefore, incidental mortality impacts occur from catch and release of unclipped Snake River spring/summer Chinook salmon in fisheries targeting adipose-clipped hatchery Chinook salmon, and/or from the illegal retention of unclipped fish. It is generally assumed throughout the Columbia River Basin that the mortality rate resulting from the catch and release of salmon in fisheries is 10%. However, for Lookingglass Creek comanagers, with concurrence from NOAA fisheries, assume a slightly lower rate of 7.5% (ODFW and WDFW 2012). As stated in the FMEP, fisheries are adjusted or terminated when the total ESA take limit identified in Table 2 and 3 has been reached. Therefore, once fisheries are initiated regular monitoring is required to ensure consistency with co-manager agreements and FMEP requirements. The objective of this LSRCP project was to conduct statistical creel surveys determine spring Chinook and steelhead ESA impact levels, harvest and release rates, and to inform decisions regarding fishery status in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde Basins in 2013. In this report, we describe creel surveys conducted and estimates of angler effort, catch, and harvest. In addition we compare these estimates in relation to post-season preliminary estimates of natural and hatchery-origin returns to each population to assess consistency with prescribed impacts under FMEP guidelines. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW Close

• 302. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - 2012 Annual Project Performance Report

  Abstract -- We are conducting an ongoing comprehensive evaluation program for LSRCP activities in Oregon that address the following general guidelines: 1. Develop and evaluate operational procedures which ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - 2012 Annual Project Performance Report Abstract -- We are conducting an ongoing comprehensive evaluation program for LSRCP activities in Oregon that address the following general guidelines: 1. Develop and evaluate operational procedures which will meet recovery and compensation goals as well as management objectives by priority. 2. Monitor operational practices to document hatchery production capabilities and challenges. 3. Monitor fish-rearing activities and results to document accomplishment of goals. 4. Coordinate research and management programs with hatchery capabilities. 5. Recommend hatchery production strategies that are consistent with endangered species recovery efforts. 6. Develop knowledge and information to guide recovery actions and to monitor recovery in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha river basins. A long-term evaluation and monitoring process is envisioned for the duration of operation of the hatcheries to develop and maintain fish runs that meet recovery and compensation goals at minimum costs. This document is a contract performance report for the period 1 October 2011- 30 September 2012. This is not an Annual Progress Report, rather a brief report on statement of work task specific accomplishments. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - 2012 Annual Project Performance Report Abstract -- We are conducting an ongoing comprehensive evaluation program for LSRCP activities in Oregon that address the following general guidelines: 1. Develop and evaluate operational procedures which will meet recovery and compensation goals as well as management objectives by priority. 2. Monitor operational practices to document hatchery production capabilities and challenges. 3. Monitor fish-rearing activities and results to document accomplishment of goals. 4. Coordinate research and management programs with hatchery capabilities. 5. Recommend hatchery production strategies that are consistent with endangered species recovery efforts. 6. Develop knowledge and information to guide recovery actions and to monitor recovery in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha river basins. A long-term evaluation and monitoring process is envisioned for the duration of operation of the hatcheries to develop and maintain fish runs that meet recovery and compensation goals at minimum costs. This document is a contract performance report for the period 1 October 2011- 30 September 2012. This is not an Annual Progress Report, rather a brief report on statement of work task specific accomplishments. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 303. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - 2011 Annual Project Performance Report

  Abstract -- We are conducting an ongoing comprehensive evaluation program for LSRCP activities in Oregon that address the following general guidelines: 1. Develop and evaluate operational procedures which ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - 2011 Annual Project Performance Report Abstract -- We are conducting an ongoing comprehensive evaluation program for LSRCP activities in Oregon that address the following general guidelines: 1. Develop and evaluate operational procedures which will meet recovery and compensation goals as well as management objectives by priority. 2. Monitor operational practices to document hatchery production capabilities and challenges. 3. Monitor fish-rearing activities and results to document accomplishment of goals. 4. Coordinate research and management programs with hatchery capabilities. 5. Recommend hatchery production strategies that are consistent with endangered species recovery efforts. 6. Develop knowledge and information to guide recovery actions and to monitor recovery in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha river basins. A long-term evaluation and monitoring process is envisioned for the duration of operation of the hatcheries to develop and maintain fish runs that meet recovery and compensation goals at minimum costs. This document is a contract performance report for the period 1 October 2010- 30 September 2011. This is not an Annual Progress Report, rather a brief report on statement of work task specific accomplishments. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - 2011 Annual Project Performance Report Abstract -- We are conducting an ongoing comprehensive evaluation program for LSRCP activities in Oregon that address the following general guidelines: 1. Develop and evaluate operational procedures which will meet recovery and compensation goals as well as management objectives by priority. 2. Monitor operational practices to document hatchery production capabilities and challenges. 3. Monitor fish-rearing activities and results to document accomplishment of goals. 4. Coordinate research and management programs with hatchery capabilities. 5. Recommend hatchery production strategies that are consistent with endangered species recovery efforts. 6. Develop knowledge and information to guide recovery actions and to monitor recovery in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha river basins. A long-term evaluation and monitoring process is envisioned for the duration of operation of the hatcheries to develop and maintain fish runs that meet recovery and compensation goals at minimum costs. This document is a contract performance report for the period 1 October 2010- 30 September 2011. This is not an Annual Progress Report, rather a brief report on statement of work task specific accomplishments. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 304. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - Annual Project Performance Report 2017

  Abstract -- The goals of these studies are: 1) to evaluate the success of achieving Lower Snake River Compensation Plan objectives, 2) develop and recommend hatchery practices for LSRCP hatchery production ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - Annual Project Performance Report 2017 Abstract -- The goals of these studies are: 1) to evaluate the success of achieving Lower Snake River Compensation Plan objectives, 2) develop and recommend hatchery practices for LSRCP hatchery production facilities in Oregon that will meet compensation requirements and management objectives for the production of spring Chinook Salmon and summer steelhead lost as a result of construction of the Lower Snake River dams, and 3) provide natural production and life history information to assist in recovery and monitoring of threatened salmonids in northeast Oregon. A long-term evaluation and monitoring process is envisioned for the duration of operation of the hatcheries to develop and maintain fish runs that meet recovery and compensation goals at minimum costs. This document is a contract performance report for the period 1 October 2016- 30 September 2017. This is not an Annual Progress Report, rather it is a brief report on statement of work task specific accomplishments. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Evaluation Studies - Annual Project Performance Report 2017 Abstract -- The goals of these studies are: 1) to evaluate the success of achieving Lower Snake River Compensation Plan objectives, 2) develop and recommend hatchery practices for LSRCP hatchery production facilities in Oregon that will meet compensation requirements and management objectives for the production of spring Chinook Salmon and summer steelhead lost as a result of construction of the Lower Snake River dams, and 3) provide natural production and life history information to assist in recovery and monitoring of threatened salmonids in northeast Oregon. A long-term evaluation and monitoring process is envisioned for the duration of operation of the hatcheries to develop and maintain fish runs that meet recovery and compensation goals at minimum costs. This document is a contract performance report for the period 1 October 2016- 30 September 2017. This is not an Annual Progress Report, rather it is a brief report on statement of work task specific accomplishments. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 305. [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

• 306. [Article] Stock Assessment of Elk River Fall Chinook Salmon for Exploitation Rate Analysis Information Report 2004-02

  Abstract -- Using various, research, and monitoring data from the Elk River, Curry County Oregon, estimates of the runsize of Fall Chinook Salmon were made for the period 1972-2001. These estimates could ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Stock Assessment of Elk River Fall Chinook Salmon for Exploitation Rate Analysis Information Report 2004-02 Abstract -- Using various, research, and monitoring data from the Elk River, Curry County Oregon, estimates of the runsize of Fall Chinook Salmon were made for the period 1972-2001. These estimates could be allocated to either hatchery or wild origin fish and it was possible to construct the riverine harvest rates for each year. It is estimated that for large size Hatchery origin fish (>55cm), the run has varied from a low of 475 in 1981 to 10,821 in 2001. For wild reared Chinook the run has varied from a low of 1,166 in 1991 to 3,456 in 1999. Estimates of small sized Chinook (<55cm) are made but are believed t~ be less reliable than for large fish. This group of fish has been proposed as an Exploitation Rate Indicator Stock for use in the Coast Model as a representative of the harvest impact of ocean fisheries on wild Chinook populations from the Umpqua and Mid-South Gene Conservation (MOC) Groups composed of the Umpqua, Coos, Coquille, Sixes Rivers and Floras creek. To prepare this stock for this role it was necessary to integrate the Port Orford Terminal Ocean fishery into the Elk River as none of the other populations are subjected to terminal fisheries. Using the annual estimated riverine harvest rates the recovery of Elk River ERI-stock Chinook in the Port Orford fishery beginning in mid-October until the end of the year were simulated as return to river and apportioned to catch or escapement. This information will now be available to the Chinook Technical Committee of the Pacific Salmon Commission to include the MOC group in the annual exploitation rate analysis. Additionally, this information can be used in the FRAM model for domestic ocean fishery management, and by local area managers for operational planning and fishery regulations in-river. Title: Stock Assessment of Elk River Fall Chinook Salmon for Exploitation Rate Analysis Information Report 2004-02 Abstract -- Using various, research, and monitoring data from the Elk River, Curry County Oregon, estimates of the runsize of Fall Chinook Salmon were made for the period 1972-2001. These estimates could be allocated to either hatchery or wild origin fish and it was possible to construct the riverine harvest rates for each year. It is estimated that for large size Hatchery origin fish (>55cm), the run has varied from a low of 475 in 1981 to 10,821 in 2001. For wild reared Chinook the run has varied from a low of 1,166 in 1991 to 3,456 in 1999. Estimates of small sized Chinook (<55cm) are made but are believed t~ be less reliable than for large fish. This group of fish has been proposed as an Exploitation Rate Indicator Stock for use in the Coast Model as a representative of the harvest impact of ocean fisheries on wild Chinook populations from the Umpqua and Mid-South Gene Conservation (MOC) Groups composed of the Umpqua, Coos, Coquille, Sixes Rivers and Floras creek. To prepare this stock for this role it was necessary to integrate the Port Orford Terminal Ocean fishery into the Elk River as none of the other populations are subjected to terminal fisheries. Using the annual estimated riverine harvest rates the recovery of Elk River ERI-stock Chinook in the Port Orford fishery beginning in mid-October until the end of the year were simulated as return to river and apportioned to catch or escapement. This information will now be available to the Chinook Technical Committee of the Pacific Salmon Commission to include the MOC group in the annual exploitation rate analysis. Additionally, this information can be used in the FRAM model for domestic ocean fishery management, and by local area managers for operational planning and fishery regulations in-river. Close

• 307. [Article] Oregon North Coast Spring Chinook Stock Assessment – 2005-06 Information Reports 2008-01

  Abstract -- Chinook salmon populations of the Oregon coast exhibit two general life history types, classified as either spring-run or fall-run depending on adult life-history traits. Fall chinook are present ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon North Coast Spring Chinook Stock Assessment – 2005-06 Information Reports 2008-01 Abstract -- Chinook salmon populations of the Oregon coast exhibit two general life history types, classified as either spring-run or fall-run depending on adult life-history traits. Fall chinook are present in most Oregon coastal basins, and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has identified 28 fall chinook populations in this area (ODFW 2005). Spring chinook salmon are found in larger river basins on the Oregon coast, and the upper portions of the Umpqua and Rogue rivers. This is a more limited distribution than coastal fall chinook and includes only 10 populations (ODFW 2005). Oregon coastal fall chinook stocks have been monitored through a set of 56 standard spawning ground surveys, many conducted since the 1950’s. There has not been a similar, consistent, coast-wide monitoring program for Oregon coastal spring chinook spawners. Abundance of these populations has been monitoring through a variety of methods including; freshwater harvest estimates, counts at dams and weirs, summer resting hole counts, and spawning ground surveys. In 1998, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) reviewed west coast chinook salmon populations in regards to status under the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). The NMFS identified a total of 15 Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of chinook salmon (Myers et al. 1998). Oregon coastal chinook are predominantly in the Oregon Coast ESU (Necanicum River to Elk River). This ESU includes both spring and fall chinook, and was determined to not warrant listing (Federal Register Notice 1998). In 2005, ODFW conducted a review of Oregon native fish status, in regards to the State’s Native Fish Conservation Policy. This review grouped populations by Species Management Unit (SMU), and examined coastal spring and fall chinook populations separately. The review determined the near-term sustainability of the Coastal Fall Chinook SMU was not at risk, but the Coastal Spring Chinook SMU was at risk (ODFW 2005). The Tillamook and Nestucca spring chinook populations were of particular concern because they failed to pass the interim criteria for abundance, productivity, and reproductive independence. Hatchery supplementation of spring chinook has occurred in the Tillamook and Nestucca basins since the early 1900’s. Currently, approximately 450,000 spring chinook smolts are released annually from Trask Hatchery, Cedar Creek Hatchery (Nestucca), and from a STEP program at Whiskey Creek. These hatchery smolts have been mass marked with an adipose fin clip since the 1998 brood year. Therefore, hatchery origin adult spring chinook may now be positively identified by the lack of an adipose fin. Declining trends in wild coastal spring chinook populations have resulted in management actions to target harvest on adipose fin clipped hatchery fish, and to restrict harvest of wild origin fish. Results of status reviews, and changes in management practices have required a more thorough evaluation of stock status for the Tillamook and Nestucca spring chinook populations (Keith Braun, personal communication). Therefore, ODFW developed a monitoring plan for spring chinook in these basins. The monitoring plan identified four project objectives; 1) Determine adult spring chinook abundance in the Trask, Wilson, and Nestucca Rivers, 2) Determine hatchery vs. wild ratios for these three basins, 3) Determine age structure and sex ratios for adult spawners, and 4) Determine distribution and abundance for spring chinook recycled from local ODFW hatcheries. This project began in 2004 with an exploratory season to determine distribution, survey methodology, and feasibility of the proposed protocol. In 2005 and 2006 a more intensive sampling effort was implemented, designed to cover the entire distribution of spring chinook spawning in the Nestucca, Trask, and Wilson rivers. Since 2004, project field work has been funded with Restoration and Enhancement Program (R&E) funds, administered by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Project administration is covered through existing funding for the ODFW Oregon Adult Salmonid Inventory and Sampling Project (OASIS). Funding from R&E is scheduled to continue through the 2008 spawning season. Further monitoring will require a new funding source for project field work. This report documents results for project Objectives 1 to 4, including the abundance and distribution of spring chinook spawners during 2005 and 2006 in Oregon’s Trask, Wilson, and Nestucca river basins. Title: Oregon North Coast Spring Chinook Stock Assessment – 2005-06 Information Reports 2008-01 Abstract -- Chinook salmon populations of the Oregon coast exhibit two general life history types, classified as either spring-run or fall-run depending on adult life-history traits. Fall chinook are present in most Oregon coastal basins, and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has identified 28 fall chinook populations in this area (ODFW 2005). Spring chinook salmon are found in larger river basins on the Oregon coast, and the upper portions of the Umpqua and Rogue rivers. This is a more limited distribution than coastal fall chinook and includes only 10 populations (ODFW 2005). Oregon coastal fall chinook stocks have been monitored through a set of 56 standard spawning ground surveys, many conducted since the 1950’s. There has not been a similar, consistent, coast-wide monitoring program for Oregon coastal spring chinook spawners. Abundance of these populations has been monitoring through a variety of methods including; freshwater harvest estimates, counts at dams and weirs, summer resting hole counts, and spawning ground surveys. In 1998, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) reviewed west coast chinook salmon populations in regards to status under the Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA). The NMFS identified a total of 15 Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of chinook salmon (Myers et al. 1998). Oregon coastal chinook are predominantly in the Oregon Coast ESU (Necanicum River to Elk River). This ESU includes both spring and fall chinook, and was determined to not warrant listing (Federal Register Notice 1998). In 2005, ODFW conducted a review of Oregon native fish status, in regards to the State’s Native Fish Conservation Policy. This review grouped populations by Species Management Unit (SMU), and examined coastal spring and fall chinook populations separately. The review determined the near-term sustainability of the Coastal Fall Chinook SMU was not at risk, but the Coastal Spring Chinook SMU was at risk (ODFW 2005). The Tillamook and Nestucca spring chinook populations were of particular concern because they failed to pass the interim criteria for abundance, productivity, and reproductive independence. Hatchery supplementation of spring chinook has occurred in the Tillamook and Nestucca basins since the early 1900’s. Currently, approximately 450,000 spring chinook smolts are released annually from Trask Hatchery, Cedar Creek Hatchery (Nestucca), and from a STEP program at Whiskey Creek. These hatchery smolts have been mass marked with an adipose fin clip since the 1998 brood year. Therefore, hatchery origin adult spring chinook may now be positively identified by the lack of an adipose fin. Declining trends in wild coastal spring chinook populations have resulted in management actions to target harvest on adipose fin clipped hatchery fish, and to restrict harvest of wild origin fish. Results of status reviews, and changes in management practices have required a more thorough evaluation of stock status for the Tillamook and Nestucca spring chinook populations (Keith Braun, personal communication). Therefore, ODFW developed a monitoring plan for spring chinook in these basins. The monitoring plan identified four project objectives; 1) Determine adult spring chinook abundance in the Trask, Wilson, and Nestucca Rivers, 2) Determine hatchery vs. wild ratios for these three basins, 3) Determine age structure and sex ratios for adult spawners, and 4) Determine distribution and abundance for spring chinook recycled from local ODFW hatcheries. This project began in 2004 with an exploratory season to determine distribution, survey methodology, and feasibility of the proposed protocol. In 2005 and 2006 a more intensive sampling effort was implemented, designed to cover the entire distribution of spring chinook spawning in the Nestucca, Trask, and Wilson rivers. Since 2004, project field work has been funded with Restoration and Enhancement Program (R&E) funds, administered by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Project administration is covered through existing funding for the ODFW Oregon Adult Salmonid Inventory and Sampling Project (OASIS). Funding from R&E is scheduled to continue through the 2008 spawning season. Further monitoring will require a new funding source for project field work. This report documents results for project Objectives 1 to 4, including the abundance and distribution of spring chinook spawners during 2005 and 2006 in Oregon’s Trask, Wilson, and Nestucca river basins. Close

• 308. [Article] Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 1999 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-09

  Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 1999 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-09 Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. The OSPW attempts to better define “sustainable and productive” by committing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to establish “Population Health Goals” for each Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of wild steelhead within the state. In addition, section ODFW IB1S of the plan calls for ODFW to assess adult escapement and juvenile production of wild steelhead in each ESU. The National Marine Fisheries Service identified seven ESUs for steelhead in Oregon and concluded that steelhead produced in coastal basins between Cape Blanco in southern Oregon and the Klamath River Basin in northern California constitutes one ESU. This area closely corresponds to the geologic boundaries of the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP). Steelhead in the KMP differ from those in adjoining areas because of distinctive life history and genetic characteristics (Busby et al. 1994). Primary differences in life history parameters have been identified for wild KMP steelhead. Summer steelhead and winter steelhead differ in time of return as adults, tendency to return to fresh water on a false spawning migration (the “half-pounder” run), age at ocean entry, growth rate and migration patterns of juveniles in fresh water (ODFW 1990a; ODFW 1994). As a result of these differences, separate health goals seem warranted for summer and winter steelhead populations. Winter steelhead inhabit streams throughout the KMP, while summer steelhead are found only in a portion of the Rogue River Basin. However, the distribution of summer and winter steelhead overlap in major areas of the Rogue River Basin (Everest 1973) and as juveniles of the respective races cannot be differentiated, some population health goals will have to apply to both races. The status of wild steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province ESU is not readily apparent. Busby et al. (1994) concluded that the steelhead in this ESU “is not now at risk of extinction, but if present trends continue, it is likely to become so in the foreseeable future”. In contrast, Chilcote (1998) concluded that almost all steelhead populations in the Oregon portion of the ESU “are relatively healthy and certainly do not warrant listing as threatened under the ESA”. Uncertainty as to the status of the resource, coupled with the comprehensive conservation plan developed by Oregon and the termination of wild fish harvest in all streams except the Rogue River, lead the National Marine Fisheries Service to defer a listing of KMP steelhead under the Endangered Species Act. However, KMP steelhead remained a candidate species during 1999. The goal of this project is to develop and implement assessment methods to determine the status of wild steelhead in the Oregon portion of the KMP. Project objectives include (1) develop population health goals and allied monitoring methods and (2) determine resource status in relation to health goals. Attainment of all of the population health goals will likely indicate that the populations of wild steelhead in the KMP are healthy and may allow managers to restore harvest opportunities for wild fish. Conversely, failure to attain any of the population health goals will likely indicate that the populations are depressed and would likely lead to actions designed to minimize fishing mortality. However, in most years it is likely that some goals will be attained while some will not be attained. Under that scenario, and depending on which goals are attained, selective fisheries, like the current one for wild winter steelhead in the Rogue River, remain as viable options for fishery managers. Title: Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 1999 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-09 Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. The OSPW attempts to better define “sustainable and productive” by committing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to establish “Population Health Goals” for each Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of wild steelhead within the state. In addition, section ODFW IB1S of the plan calls for ODFW to assess adult escapement and juvenile production of wild steelhead in each ESU. The National Marine Fisheries Service identified seven ESUs for steelhead in Oregon and concluded that steelhead produced in coastal basins between Cape Blanco in southern Oregon and the Klamath River Basin in northern California constitutes one ESU. This area closely corresponds to the geologic boundaries of the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP). Steelhead in the KMP differ from those in adjoining areas because of distinctive life history and genetic characteristics (Busby et al. 1994). Primary differences in life history parameters have been identified for wild KMP steelhead. Summer steelhead and winter steelhead differ in time of return as adults, tendency to return to fresh water on a false spawning migration (the “half-pounder” run), age at ocean entry, growth rate and migration patterns of juveniles in fresh water (ODFW 1990a; ODFW 1994). As a result of these differences, separate health goals seem warranted for summer and winter steelhead populations. Winter steelhead inhabit streams throughout the KMP, while summer steelhead are found only in a portion of the Rogue River Basin. However, the distribution of summer and winter steelhead overlap in major areas of the Rogue River Basin (Everest 1973) and as juveniles of the respective races cannot be differentiated, some population health goals will have to apply to both races. The status of wild steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province ESU is not readily apparent. Busby et al. (1994) concluded that the steelhead in this ESU “is not now at risk of extinction, but if present trends continue, it is likely to become so in the foreseeable future”. In contrast, Chilcote (1998) concluded that almost all steelhead populations in the Oregon portion of the ESU “are relatively healthy and certainly do not warrant listing as threatened under the ESA”. Uncertainty as to the status of the resource, coupled with the comprehensive conservation plan developed by Oregon and the termination of wild fish harvest in all streams except the Rogue River, lead the National Marine Fisheries Service to defer a listing of KMP steelhead under the Endangered Species Act. However, KMP steelhead remained a candidate species during 1999. The goal of this project is to develop and implement assessment methods to determine the status of wild steelhead in the Oregon portion of the KMP. Project objectives include (1) develop population health goals and allied monitoring methods and (2) determine resource status in relation to health goals. Attainment of all of the population health goals will likely indicate that the populations of wild steelhead in the KMP are healthy and may allow managers to restore harvest opportunities for wild fish. Conversely, failure to attain any of the population health goals will likely indicate that the populations are depressed and would likely lead to actions designed to minimize fishing mortality. However, in most years it is likely that some goals will be attained while some will not be attained. Under that scenario, and depending on which goals are attained, selective fisheries, like the current one for wild winter steelhead in the Rogue River, remain as viable options for fishery managers. Close

• 309. [Article] Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 2000-01 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2003-08

  Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 2000-01 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2003-08 Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. The OSPW attempts to better define "sustainable and productive" by committing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to establish "Population Health Goals" for each Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of wild steelhead within the state. In addition, section ODFW IB1S of the plan calls for ODFW to assess adult escapement and juvenile production of wild steelhead in each ESU. The National Marine Fisheries Service identified seven ESUs for steelhead in Oregon and concluded that steelhead produced in coastal basins between Cape Blanco in southern Oregon and the Klamath River Basin in northern California constitutes one ESU. This area closely corresponds to the geologic boundaries of the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP). Steelhead in the KMP differ from those in adjoining areas because of distinctive life history and genetic characteristics (Busby et al. 1994). Primary differences in life history parameters have been identified for wild KMP steelhead. Summer steelhead and winter steelhead differ in time of return as adults, tendency to return to fresh water on a false spawning migration (the "half-pounder" run), age at ocean entry, growth rate and migration patterns of juveniles in fresh water (ODFW 1990; ODFW 1994). As a result of these differences, separate health goals seem warranted for summer and winter steelhead populations. Winter steelhead inhabit streams throughout the KMP, while summer steelhead are found only in a portion of the Rogue River Basin. However, the distribution of summer and winter steelhead overlap in major areas of the Rogue River Basin (Everest 1973) and as juveniles of the respective races cannot be differentiated, some population health goals will have to apply to both races. The status of wild steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province ESU is not readily apparent. Busby et al. (1994) concluded that the steelhead in this ESU “is not now at risk of extinction, but if present trends continue, it is likely to become so in the foreseeable future”. In contrast, Chilcote (1998) concluded that almost all steelhead populations in the Oregon portion of the ESU "are relatively healthy and certainly do not warrant listing as threatened under the ESA". Uncertainty as to the status of the resource, coupled with the comprehensive conservation plan developed by Oregon and the termination of wild fish harvest in all streams except the Rogue River, lead the National Marine Fisheries Service to defer a listing of KMP steelhead under the Endangered Species Act. However, KMP steelhead remained a candidate species during 2000. The goal of this project is to develop and implement assessment methods to determine the status of wild steelhead in the Oregon portion of the KMP. Project objectives include (1) develop population health goals and allied monitoring methods and (2) determine resource status in relation to health goals. Directed sampling began in 1999 and the findings from 1999 were reported by Satterthwaite (2002a). Title: Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 2000-01 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2003-08 Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. The OSPW attempts to better define "sustainable and productive" by committing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to establish "Population Health Goals" for each Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of wild steelhead within the state. In addition, section ODFW IB1S of the plan calls for ODFW to assess adult escapement and juvenile production of wild steelhead in each ESU. The National Marine Fisheries Service identified seven ESUs for steelhead in Oregon and concluded that steelhead produced in coastal basins between Cape Blanco in southern Oregon and the Klamath River Basin in northern California constitutes one ESU. This area closely corresponds to the geologic boundaries of the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP). Steelhead in the KMP differ from those in adjoining areas because of distinctive life history and genetic characteristics (Busby et al. 1994). Primary differences in life history parameters have been identified for wild KMP steelhead. Summer steelhead and winter steelhead differ in time of return as adults, tendency to return to fresh water on a false spawning migration (the "half-pounder" run), age at ocean entry, growth rate and migration patterns of juveniles in fresh water (ODFW 1990; ODFW 1994). As a result of these differences, separate health goals seem warranted for summer and winter steelhead populations. Winter steelhead inhabit streams throughout the KMP, while summer steelhead are found only in a portion of the Rogue River Basin. However, the distribution of summer and winter steelhead overlap in major areas of the Rogue River Basin (Everest 1973) and as juveniles of the respective races cannot be differentiated, some population health goals will have to apply to both races. The status of wild steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province ESU is not readily apparent. Busby et al. (1994) concluded that the steelhead in this ESU “is not now at risk of extinction, but if present trends continue, it is likely to become so in the foreseeable future”. In contrast, Chilcote (1998) concluded that almost all steelhead populations in the Oregon portion of the ESU "are relatively healthy and certainly do not warrant listing as threatened under the ESA". Uncertainty as to the status of the resource, coupled with the comprehensive conservation plan developed by Oregon and the termination of wild fish harvest in all streams except the Rogue River, lead the National Marine Fisheries Service to defer a listing of KMP steelhead under the Endangered Species Act. However, KMP steelhead remained a candidate species during 2000. The goal of this project is to develop and implement assessment methods to determine the status of wild steelhead in the Oregon portion of the KMP. Project objectives include (1) develop population health goals and allied monitoring methods and (2) determine resource status in relation to health goals. Directed sampling began in 1999 and the findings from 1999 were reported by Satterthwaite (2002a). Close

• 310. [Article] Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 2001-02 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2004-08

  Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 2001-02 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2004-08 Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. The OSPW attempts to better define "sustainable and productive" by committing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to establish "Population Health Goals" for each Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of wild steelhead within the state. In addition, section ODFW IB1S of the plan calls for ODFW to assess adult escapement and juvenile production of wild steelhead in each ESU. The National Marine Fisheries Service identified seven ESUs for steelhead in Oregon and concluded that steelhead produced in coastal basins between Cape Blanco in southern Oregon and the Klamath River Basin in northern California constitutes one ESU. This area closely corresponds to the geologic boundaries of the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP). Steelhead in the KMP differ from those in adjoining areas because of distinctive life history and genetic characteristics (Busby et al. 1994). Primary differences in life history parameters have been identified for wild KMP steelhead. Summer steelhead and winter steelhead differ in time of return as adults, tendency to return to fresh water on a false spawning migration (the "half-pounder" run), age at ocean entry, growth rate and migration patterns of juveniles in fresh water (ODFW 1990; ODFW 1994). As a result of these differences, separate health goals seem warranted for summer and winter steelhead populations. Winter steelhead inhabit streams throughout the KMP, while summer steelhead are found only in a portion of the Rogue River Basin. However, the distribution of summer and winter steelhead overlap in major areas of the Rogue River Basin (Everest 1973) and, as juveniles of the respective races cannot be differentiated, some population health goals have to apply to both races. The status of wild steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province ESU is not readily apparent from historic sources of information. Uncertainty about resource status, coupled with a comprehensive conservation plan developed by Oregon and the termination of wild fish harvest in almost all KMP streams, lead the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), in 1998, to defer a listing of KMP steelhead under the Endangered Species Act. On 30 March, 2001, NMFS announced that, after a review of new information, that an Endangered Species Act listing was not warranted for KMP steelhead. In 2002, ODFW adopted new methods to monitor steelhead populations on the Oregon coast. Allied with the decision, ODFW decided to terminate the KMP steelhead project. Consequently, this report presents findings from the third, and final, year of the project. The goal of the project was to develop and implement assessment methods to determine the status of wild steelhead in the Oregon portion of the KMP. Project objectives included (1) develop population health goals and allied monitoring methods and (2) determine resource status in relation to health goals Satterthwaite (2002a). Directed sampling began in 1999 and findings from the first two years of the project were reported by Satterthwaite (2002b) and Satterthwaite (2003). Title: Klamath Mountains Province Steelhead Project, 2001-02 Annual Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2004-08 Abstract -- The steelhead supplement to the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OSPW) is intended to maintain wild steelhead populations in Oregon at sustainable and productive levels that provide substantial environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. The OSPW attempts to better define "sustainable and productive" by committing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to establish "Population Health Goals" for each Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of wild steelhead within the state. In addition, section ODFW IB1S of the plan calls for ODFW to assess adult escapement and juvenile production of wild steelhead in each ESU. The National Marine Fisheries Service identified seven ESUs for steelhead in Oregon and concluded that steelhead produced in coastal basins between Cape Blanco in southern Oregon and the Klamath River Basin in northern California constitutes one ESU. This area closely corresponds to the geologic boundaries of the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP). Steelhead in the KMP differ from those in adjoining areas because of distinctive life history and genetic characteristics (Busby et al. 1994). Primary differences in life history parameters have been identified for wild KMP steelhead. Summer steelhead and winter steelhead differ in time of return as adults, tendency to return to fresh water on a false spawning migration (the "half-pounder" run), age at ocean entry, growth rate and migration patterns of juveniles in fresh water (ODFW 1990; ODFW 1994). As a result of these differences, separate health goals seem warranted for summer and winter steelhead populations. Winter steelhead inhabit streams throughout the KMP, while summer steelhead are found only in a portion of the Rogue River Basin. However, the distribution of summer and winter steelhead overlap in major areas of the Rogue River Basin (Everest 1973) and, as juveniles of the respective races cannot be differentiated, some population health goals have to apply to both races. The status of wild steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province ESU is not readily apparent from historic sources of information. Uncertainty about resource status, coupled with a comprehensive conservation plan developed by Oregon and the termination of wild fish harvest in almost all KMP streams, lead the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), in 1998, to defer a listing of KMP steelhead under the Endangered Species Act. On 30 March, 2001, NMFS announced that, after a review of new information, that an Endangered Species Act listing was not warranted for KMP steelhead. In 2002, ODFW adopted new methods to monitor steelhead populations on the Oregon coast. Allied with the decision, ODFW decided to terminate the KMP steelhead project. Consequently, this report presents findings from the third, and final, year of the project. The goal of the project was to develop and implement assessment methods to determine the status of wild steelhead in the Oregon portion of the KMP. Project objectives included (1) develop population health goals and allied monitoring methods and (2) determine resource status in relation to health goals Satterthwaite (2002a). Directed sampling began in 1999 and findings from the first two years of the project were reported by Satterthwaite (2002b) and Satterthwaite (2003). Close