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• 711. [Article] Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2001

  Abstract -- Since 1988, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has been monitoring the smolt production, adult returns, summer abundance of juvenile salmonids, and stream habitat in East Fork ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2001 Abstract -- Since 1988, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has been monitoring the smolt production, adult returns, summer abundance of juvenile salmonids, and stream habitat in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks, in the Alsea watershed (Figure 1). The primary purpose of this monitoring is to study the affects that stream habitat modification has on the freshwater survival and abundance of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). This work has been partially funded by the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Salem District Office since 1996. The purpose of this report is to provide BLM with an update of ODFW’s sampling in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creek during the 2000-01 sampling season and to put these data in context with past data collected by ODFW. Title: Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2001 Abstract -- Since 1988, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has been monitoring the smolt production, adult returns, summer abundance of juvenile salmonids, and stream habitat in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks, in the Alsea watershed (Figure 1). The primary purpose of this monitoring is to study the affects that stream habitat modification has on the freshwater survival and abundance of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). This work has been partially funded by the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Salem District Office since 1996. The purpose of this report is to provide BLM with an update of ODFW’s sampling in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creek during the 2000-01 sampling season and to put these data in context with past data collected by ODFW. Close

• 712. [Article] Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2002

  Abstract -- Since 1988, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has been monitoring the smolt production, adult returns, summer abundance of juvenile salmonids, and stream habitat in East Fork ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2002 Abstract -- Since 1988, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has been monitoring the smolt production, adult returns, summer abundance of juvenile salmonids, and stream habitat in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks, in the Alsea watershed (Figure 1). The primary purpose of this monitoring is to study the affects that stream habitat modification has on the freshwater survival and abundance of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). This work has been partially funded by the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Salem District Office since 1996. The purpose of this report is to provide BLM with an update of ODFW’s sampling in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creek during the 2001-02 sampling season and to put these data in context with past data collected by ODFW. Title: Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2002 Abstract -- Since 1988, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has been monitoring the smolt production, adult returns, summer abundance of juvenile salmonids, and stream habitat in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks, in the Alsea watershed (Figure 1). The primary purpose of this monitoring is to study the affects that stream habitat modification has on the freshwater survival and abundance of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). This work has been partially funded by the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Salem District Office since 1996. The purpose of this report is to provide BLM with an update of ODFW’s sampling in East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creek during the 2001-02 sampling season and to put these data in context with past data collected by ODFW. Close

• 713. [Article] Abundance, distribution, and migratory behavior of coastal cutthroat trout in two lower Columbia River tributaries

  Abstract -- Coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki) exhibit multiple life history types characterized by diverse migratory strategies, including anadromous, potomodromous, and freshwater resident ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Abundance, distribution, and migratory behavior of coastal cutthroat trout in two lower Columbia River tributaries Abstract -- Coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki) exhibit multiple life history types characterized by diverse migratory strategies, including anadromous, potomodromous, and freshwater resident forms. The factors contributing to life history variation within populations are not well understood, but probably are not strictly genetic (e.g. Johnson et al, in review). Variation in migration tendency within cutthroat populations may result from phenotype plasticity, influenced by density, frequency, or condition dependent processes (Hendry et al. 2004). For example, an individual cutthroat’s choice to migrate at a given time or age may be a response to environmental conditions mediated by a genetically determined reaction norm (Hutchings 2004). This report summarizes a study undertaken to describe the expression of migratory behavior within coastal cutthroat trout populations, the relationship among migratory and non-migratory individuals, and the implications of life history diversity for management of cutthroat trout in tributaries of the lower Columbia River. The relationship between resident and migratory populations (or resident and migratory individuals within populations) is of central importance for management of coastal cutthroat trout. In the lower Columbia River and southwest Washington State a proposed rule to list anadromous cutthroat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) was withdrawn after the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) decided during its review process to include resident and anadromous forms in the same Distinct Population Segment (DPS). Debate over proposed ESA listing highlighted a general lack of knowledge about coastal cutthroat trout life history, relationships between resident and migratory forms, and estuarine habitat use in the lower Columbia River. In 2009, the decision not to list the DPS as threatened was remanded to the USFWS on the grounds that the Service had not adequately considered whether marine and estuarine habitats formed a significant portion of the range of the DPS (USFWS 2009). We evaluated the distribution and abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in Big Creek and Bear Creek, two tributaries that join the Columbia River estuary from the south (Oregon) side roughly 30 kilometers from the ocean, and monitored the migratory behavior of cutthroat that emigrated from these streams and entered the Columbia River estuary. Big Creek is an interesting system because a fish weir and diversion dam at an ODFW hatchery, established in 1941 and refurbished in 1957, prevent cutthroat trout from passing upstream, isolating the cutthroat spawning population above the hatchery. Despite this barrier to upstream migration, offspring of resident cutthroat in the upper watershed continue to “smolt” and migrate downstream past the barrier. We were interested in the fate of these fish and their contribution to the adult population. Bear Creek, on the other hand, has always had full access for anadromous cutthroat through much of its drainage. These two systems permit a comparison of life history characteristics, migration, and survival of coastal cutthroat rearing in streams above and below migration barriers, and provide study sites in Oregon to compliment research by USFWS of coastal cutthroat migration behavior in tributaries entering the estuary from the north side of the Columbia River (USFWS 2008; and see Hudson et al. 2008; Johnson 2008; Zydlewski et al. 2008). A major objective of our work in Big Creek and Bear Creek was to increase understanding of coastal cutthroat trout biology and the relationship between resident and migratory cutthroat in lower Columbia tributaries. Additionally, we sought to document habitat use in the Columbia River estuary by migrant cutthroat. Our specific objectives were to: • Estimate abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in Big Creek (above hatchery barrier) and Bear Creek (above and below a large dam) • Quantify the proportions of the cutthroat populations that are migratory, identify which individuals migrate and describe the timing of migration • Describe habitats used by anadromous migrants and characterize migration behavior within the Columbia River estuary • Measure estuarine/marine survival of anadromous individuals and document return to natal streams Title: Abundance, distribution, and migratory behavior of coastal cutthroat trout in two lower Columbia River tributaries Abstract -- Coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki) exhibit multiple life history types characterized by diverse migratory strategies, including anadromous, potomodromous, and freshwater resident forms. The factors contributing to life history variation within populations are not well understood, but probably are not strictly genetic (e.g. Johnson et al, in review). Variation in migration tendency within cutthroat populations may result from phenotype plasticity, influenced by density, frequency, or condition dependent processes (Hendry et al. 2004). For example, an individual cutthroat’s choice to migrate at a given time or age may be a response to environmental conditions mediated by a genetically determined reaction norm (Hutchings 2004). This report summarizes a study undertaken to describe the expression of migratory behavior within coastal cutthroat trout populations, the relationship among migratory and non-migratory individuals, and the implications of life history diversity for management of cutthroat trout in tributaries of the lower Columbia River. The relationship between resident and migratory populations (or resident and migratory individuals within populations) is of central importance for management of coastal cutthroat trout. In the lower Columbia River and southwest Washington State a proposed rule to list anadromous cutthroat as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) was withdrawn after the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) decided during its review process to include resident and anadromous forms in the same Distinct Population Segment (DPS). Debate over proposed ESA listing highlighted a general lack of knowledge about coastal cutthroat trout life history, relationships between resident and migratory forms, and estuarine habitat use in the lower Columbia River. In 2009, the decision not to list the DPS as threatened was remanded to the USFWS on the grounds that the Service had not adequately considered whether marine and estuarine habitats formed a significant portion of the range of the DPS (USFWS 2009). We evaluated the distribution and abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in Big Creek and Bear Creek, two tributaries that join the Columbia River estuary from the south (Oregon) side roughly 30 kilometers from the ocean, and monitored the migratory behavior of cutthroat that emigrated from these streams and entered the Columbia River estuary. Big Creek is an interesting system because a fish weir and diversion dam at an ODFW hatchery, established in 1941 and refurbished in 1957, prevent cutthroat trout from passing upstream, isolating the cutthroat spawning population above the hatchery. Despite this barrier to upstream migration, offspring of resident cutthroat in the upper watershed continue to “smolt” and migrate downstream past the barrier. We were interested in the fate of these fish and their contribution to the adult population. Bear Creek, on the other hand, has always had full access for anadromous cutthroat through much of its drainage. These two systems permit a comparison of life history characteristics, migration, and survival of coastal cutthroat rearing in streams above and below migration barriers, and provide study sites in Oregon to compliment research by USFWS of coastal cutthroat migration behavior in tributaries entering the estuary from the north side of the Columbia River (USFWS 2008; and see Hudson et al. 2008; Johnson 2008; Zydlewski et al. 2008). A major objective of our work in Big Creek and Bear Creek was to increase understanding of coastal cutthroat trout biology and the relationship between resident and migratory cutthroat in lower Columbia tributaries. Additionally, we sought to document habitat use in the Columbia River estuary by migrant cutthroat. Our specific objectives were to: • Estimate abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in Big Creek (above hatchery barrier) and Bear Creek (above and below a large dam) • Quantify the proportions of the cutthroat populations that are migratory, identify which individuals migrate and describe the timing of migration • Describe habitats used by anadromous migrants and characterize migration behavior within the Columbia River estuary • Measure estuarine/marine survival of anadromous individuals and document return to natal streams Close

• 714. [Article] Hood River Bull Trout Abundance, Life History, and Habitat Connectivity, 2007 Progress Reports 2007

  Abstract -- Hood River bull trout are thought to exist as two independent reproductive units (USFWS 2004), known as local populations (Rieman and McIntyre 1995). The Clear Branch local population is isolated ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Hood River Bull Trout Abundance, Life History, and Habitat Connectivity, 2007 Progress Reports 2007 Abstract -- Hood River bull trout are thought to exist as two independent reproductive units (USFWS 2004), known as local populations (Rieman and McIntyre 1995). The Clear Branch local population is isolated above Clear Branch Dam, which provides limited downstream fish passage during infrequent and sporadic periods of spill and no upstream passage. Bull trout in this population inhabit Laurance Lake Reservoir and tributaries upstream of Clear Branch Dam. The Hood River local population occurs in the mainstem Hood River and Middle Fork Hood River downstream of the Clear Branch Dam and a small number of adult bull trout migrate each year into the Hood River from the Columbia River (Figure 1). The status of both populations is extremely precarious. The Clear Branch population is at risk of a random extinction event due to low numbers, negative interactions with non-native smallmouth bass, isolation and limited spawning habitat (USFWS, 1998). The Hood River population also appears to be small and is threatened by passage barriers, unscreened irrigation systems, impaired water quality and periodic siltation of spawning substrate by glacial outbursts. Clear Branch bull trout spawn in Clear Branch and Pinnacle Creek. After rearing in these two natal streams for an unknown time period, most are believed to migrate downstream to Laurance Lake Reservoir. Clear Branch bull trout have been documented passing over the dam spillway during high water events (Pribyl et al. 1996) and may provide a recruitment source for the Hood River local population. Adult bull trout tagged at Powerdale Dam have been observed at Coe Branch irrigation diversion and in a trap at the base of Clear Branch dam. These fish may have been attempting to reach spawning areas located upstream of the dam. However, the success of bull trout migrating downstream via the spillway or the possibility of successfully navigating through the diversion network has never been determined. Depending on the water year, the Middle Fork Irrigation District (MFID) may not spill at all, or the timing of the spill may not coincide with the timing of downstream migration, which is currently unknown (East Fork Hood River and Middle Fork Hood River Watershed analysis). Smallmouth bass were discovered in Lake Laurance Reservoir in the 1990s. Creel surveys have shown that large adult bass are caught occasionally in the reservoir and schools of bass fry have been seen by district fish biologist (Rod French, ODFW, personal communication), suggesting that they are spawning successfully. This illegal introduction poses a potential threat to the Clear Branch bull trout population, but its magnitude is unknown because the bass population size and degree of interaction between the two species are unknown. Bull trout and smallmouth bass have significantly different temperature preferences and tolerances, with bull trout being one of the most sensitive coldwater species and bass being a warm water species. Lake Laurance, a relatively high-altitude reservoir at 890 m (2,920 feet), does not provide ideal bass habitat so these two species may have largely non-overlapping distributions or differing activity periods (Terry Shrader, ODFW warmwater fish biologist, personal communication). However, based on past reservoir temperature data (Berger et al. 2005), there are periods in the reservoir when there is potential for bull trout and bass interaction: periods when bull trout are susceptible to bass predation and when juvenile fish might compete for resources. Spawning activity of the Hood River local population has been observed in a few locations within the Middle Fork of Hood River (Figure 1). Although consistent and extensive spawning areas for this population are not known, some of the locations where juvenile rearing or potential bull trout redds have been observed include the Middle Fork Hood River and some of its tributaries: Bear Creek, Compass Creek and Coe Branch (USFWS 2004). However, Coe Branch, Compass Creek, and the Middle Fork are glacial streams with a high volume of sand and silt which may compromise spawning success. No bull trout spawning or rearing has been observed on the East and West Forks of Hood River. The Middle Fork and mainstem Hood River provide foraging, migration and overwintering habitat. Hood River bull trout are also known to migrate into the Columbia River. Two bull trout tagged at Powerdale Dam (RK 7.2 of mainstem Hood River) were recovered near Drano Lake in Washington State; and one was captured 11 kilometers downstream of the confluence of the Hood and Columbia Rivers (USFWS 2004). Every year (usually between May and July), adult bull trout, presumably migrating upstream from the Columbia River, are captured and anchor tagged at Powerdale Dam. Although some of these tagged fish have been observed upstream (one in Coe Branch and three below Clear Branch dam), the spawning destination of fluvial adults within the Hood River basin is largely unknown. Dispersing juvenile bull trout and migrating adults in this local population are threatened by flow diversions with inadequate screening and passage facilities. Several structures are suspected to impede upstream migration or entrain juvenile and adult bull trout into irrigation works (Pribyl et al. 1996, HRWG 1999). These structures include: the diversion at Clear Branch Dam (passage and screening), Coe Branch (passage and screening), and the Farmers Irrigation District diversion (screening) on the mainstem Hood River (HRWG 1999). However, little research has been conducted to assess the impacts of these structures on migrating bull trout. Beyond a general knowledge of the distribution of Hood River bull trout and the nature of anthropogenic factors that potentially restrict their life history and habitat connectivity, little is known about this recovery unit. Baseline information about adult abundance is lacking for both local populations, the potential of a source (Clear Branch) and sink (Hood River) relationship between the two local populations has not been explored, and the migratory life history of adult fish caught at Powerdale Dam is unknown. The degree to which irrigation and hydropower diversions hamper connectivity within the Hood River basin is also poorly understood. Migratory life histories have been viewed as key to species persistence (Rieman and McIntyre 1995; Dunham and Rieman 1999), and understanding movement patterns and associated habitat requirements are critical to maintaining those migratory forms (Muhlfeld and Morotz 2005; Hostettler 2005). Gaining this information is also critical to evaluating bull trout recovery in the Hood River Subbasin (Coccoli 2004). The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a study in 2006 to improve our understanding of the abundance, life history, and potential limiting factors of the bull trout in this recovery unit. This report describes findings for the first two years of the study (2006-2007). Specific study objectives for the first two years were: 1. Determine the migratory life history of Hood River bull trout and assess the potential impacts of flow diversions and two new falls on the Middle Fork Hood River (scoured by the November 2006 glacial outburst) on bull trout migrations. 2. Determine current distribution of bull trout reproduction and early rearing in historical and potential bull trout streams in the Hood River Subbasin. 3. Determine the juvenile and adult life history the Clear Branch local population and develop a statistically reliable and cost-effective protocol for monitoring the abundance of adult Clear Branch bull trout. 4. Assess the potential impact of smallmouth bass on bull trout in Laurance Lake Reservoir. Title: Hood River Bull Trout Abundance, Life History, and Habitat Connectivity, 2007 Progress Reports 2007 Abstract -- Hood River bull trout are thought to exist as two independent reproductive units (USFWS 2004), known as local populations (Rieman and McIntyre 1995). The Clear Branch local population is isolated above Clear Branch Dam, which provides limited downstream fish passage during infrequent and sporadic periods of spill and no upstream passage. Bull trout in this population inhabit Laurance Lake Reservoir and tributaries upstream of Clear Branch Dam. The Hood River local population occurs in the mainstem Hood River and Middle Fork Hood River downstream of the Clear Branch Dam and a small number of adult bull trout migrate each year into the Hood River from the Columbia River (Figure 1). The status of both populations is extremely precarious. The Clear Branch population is at risk of a random extinction event due to low numbers, negative interactions with non-native smallmouth bass, isolation and limited spawning habitat (USFWS, 1998). The Hood River population also appears to be small and is threatened by passage barriers, unscreened irrigation systems, impaired water quality and periodic siltation of spawning substrate by glacial outbursts. Clear Branch bull trout spawn in Clear Branch and Pinnacle Creek. After rearing in these two natal streams for an unknown time period, most are believed to migrate downstream to Laurance Lake Reservoir. Clear Branch bull trout have been documented passing over the dam spillway during high water events (Pribyl et al. 1996) and may provide a recruitment source for the Hood River local population. Adult bull trout tagged at Powerdale Dam have been observed at Coe Branch irrigation diversion and in a trap at the base of Clear Branch dam. These fish may have been attempting to reach spawning areas located upstream of the dam. However, the success of bull trout migrating downstream via the spillway or the possibility of successfully navigating through the diversion network has never been determined. Depending on the water year, the Middle Fork Irrigation District (MFID) may not spill at all, or the timing of the spill may not coincide with the timing of downstream migration, which is currently unknown (East Fork Hood River and Middle Fork Hood River Watershed analysis). Smallmouth bass were discovered in Lake Laurance Reservoir in the 1990s. Creel surveys have shown that large adult bass are caught occasionally in the reservoir and schools of bass fry have been seen by district fish biologist (Rod French, ODFW, personal communication), suggesting that they are spawning successfully. This illegal introduction poses a potential threat to the Clear Branch bull trout population, but its magnitude is unknown because the bass population size and degree of interaction between the two species are unknown. Bull trout and smallmouth bass have significantly different temperature preferences and tolerances, with bull trout being one of the most sensitive coldwater species and bass being a warm water species. Lake Laurance, a relatively high-altitude reservoir at 890 m (2,920 feet), does not provide ideal bass habitat so these two species may have largely non-overlapping distributions or differing activity periods (Terry Shrader, ODFW warmwater fish biologist, personal communication). However, based on past reservoir temperature data (Berger et al. 2005), there are periods in the reservoir when there is potential for bull trout and bass interaction: periods when bull trout are susceptible to bass predation and when juvenile fish might compete for resources. Spawning activity of the Hood River local population has been observed in a few locations within the Middle Fork of Hood River (Figure 1). Although consistent and extensive spawning areas for this population are not known, some of the locations where juvenile rearing or potential bull trout redds have been observed include the Middle Fork Hood River and some of its tributaries: Bear Creek, Compass Creek and Coe Branch (USFWS 2004). However, Coe Branch, Compass Creek, and the Middle Fork are glacial streams with a high volume of sand and silt which may compromise spawning success. No bull trout spawning or rearing has been observed on the East and West Forks of Hood River. The Middle Fork and mainstem Hood River provide foraging, migration and overwintering habitat. Hood River bull trout are also known to migrate into the Columbia River. Two bull trout tagged at Powerdale Dam (RK 7.2 of mainstem Hood River) were recovered near Drano Lake in Washington State; and one was captured 11 kilometers downstream of the confluence of the Hood and Columbia Rivers (USFWS 2004). Every year (usually between May and July), adult bull trout, presumably migrating upstream from the Columbia River, are captured and anchor tagged at Powerdale Dam. Although some of these tagged fish have been observed upstream (one in Coe Branch and three below Clear Branch dam), the spawning destination of fluvial adults within the Hood River basin is largely unknown. Dispersing juvenile bull trout and migrating adults in this local population are threatened by flow diversions with inadequate screening and passage facilities. Several structures are suspected to impede upstream migration or entrain juvenile and adult bull trout into irrigation works (Pribyl et al. 1996, HRWG 1999). These structures include: the diversion at Clear Branch Dam (passage and screening), Coe Branch (passage and screening), and the Farmers Irrigation District diversion (screening) on the mainstem Hood River (HRWG 1999). However, little research has been conducted to assess the impacts of these structures on migrating bull trout. Beyond a general knowledge of the distribution of Hood River bull trout and the nature of anthropogenic factors that potentially restrict their life history and habitat connectivity, little is known about this recovery unit. Baseline information about adult abundance is lacking for both local populations, the potential of a source (Clear Branch) and sink (Hood River) relationship between the two local populations has not been explored, and the migratory life history of adult fish caught at Powerdale Dam is unknown. The degree to which irrigation and hydropower diversions hamper connectivity within the Hood River basin is also poorly understood. Migratory life histories have been viewed as key to species persistence (Rieman and McIntyre 1995; Dunham and Rieman 1999), and understanding movement patterns and associated habitat requirements are critical to maintaining those migratory forms (Muhlfeld and Morotz 2005; Hostettler 2005). Gaining this information is also critical to evaluating bull trout recovery in the Hood River Subbasin (Coccoli 2004). The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a study in 2006 to improve our understanding of the abundance, life history, and potential limiting factors of the bull trout in this recovery unit. This report describes findings for the first two years of the study (2006-2007). Specific study objectives for the first two years were: 1. Determine the migratory life history of Hood River bull trout and assess the potential impacts of flow diversions and two new falls on the Middle Fork Hood River (scoured by the November 2006 glacial outburst) on bull trout migrations. 2. Determine current distribution of bull trout reproduction and early rearing in historical and potential bull trout streams in the Hood River Subbasin. 3. Determine the juvenile and adult life history the Clear Branch local population and develop a statistically reliable and cost-effective protocol for monitoring the abundance of adult Clear Branch bull trout. 4. Assess the potential impact of smallmouth bass on bull trout in Laurance Lake Reservoir. Close

• 715. [Article] Fish Management Plan Drift Creek 1976

  Abstract -- Drift Creek is being managed for wild fish. Good, basic information for management is available because data on cutthroat, steelhead, and coho salmon populations have been collected since 1959 ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Management Plan Drift Creek 1976 Abstract -- Drift Creek is being managed for wild fish. Good, basic information for management is available because data on cutthroat, steelhead, and coho salmon populations have been collected since 1959 as part of the Alsea Watershed Study. Drift Creek enters Alsea Bay at RM 3. It contains approximately 58 miles of fish production water and produces fair populations of resident cutthroat and good numbers of anadromous cutthroat, winter steelhead, and coho and chinook salmon. Fish have not been regularly stocked in Drift Creek, but all four species are released into the Alsea. The main stem of Drift Creek above Bohannon Falls is closed to salmon and steelhead fishing to protect spawning fish. Maintenance of water quality, summertime streamflows, riparian vegetation, and prevention of stream channel alterations are key elements in protecting the capability of this stream to sustain natural production of all salmonids. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to manage Drift Creek for wild trout and steelhead. ·It was also decided to continue managing salmon by relying on natural production until we develop a coast-wide salmon management plan. At that time, staff biologists will decide on a final recommendation to the Fish and Wildlife Commission regarding the need or desirability for releasing hatchery salmon in the system. Title: Fish Management Plan Drift Creek 1976 Abstract -- Drift Creek is being managed for wild fish. Good, basic information for management is available because data on cutthroat, steelhead, and coho salmon populations have been collected since 1959 as part of the Alsea Watershed Study. Drift Creek enters Alsea Bay at RM 3. It contains approximately 58 miles of fish production water and produces fair populations of resident cutthroat and good numbers of anadromous cutthroat, winter steelhead, and coho and chinook salmon. Fish have not been regularly stocked in Drift Creek, but all four species are released into the Alsea. The main stem of Drift Creek above Bohannon Falls is closed to salmon and steelhead fishing to protect spawning fish. Maintenance of water quality, summertime streamflows, riparian vegetation, and prevention of stream channel alterations are key elements in protecting the capability of this stream to sustain natural production of all salmonids. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to manage Drift Creek for wild trout and steelhead. ·It was also decided to continue managing salmon by relying on natural production until we develop a coast-wide salmon management plan. At that time, staff biologists will decide on a final recommendation to the Fish and Wildlife Commission regarding the need or desirability for releasing hatchery salmon in the system. Close

• 716. [Article] Fish Management Plan Middle Creek (Tributary of North Fork Coquille River) 1979

  Abstract -- Middle Creek is a large tributary of the North Fork Coquille River, entering at RM 19. The stream is about 62 miles long, but only 45 miles are available to anadromous fish. The watershed contains ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Management Plan Middle Creek (Tributary of North Fork Coquille River) 1979 Abstract -- Middle Creek is a large tributary of the North Fork Coquille River, entering at RM 19. The stream is about 62 miles long, but only 45 miles are available to anadromous fish. The watershed contains fair to good habitat, and physical stream survey information has been collected. Middle Creek contains resident and anadromous cutthroat trout, winter steelhead, and coho salmon. Hatchery fish are not released into the system. There are no special angling regulations in effect at present. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage Middle Creek for wild trout and steelhead. Choosing a management option for salmon will be deferred until ODFW develops a coast-wide salmon management plan. At that time, staff biologists will decide on a final recommendation to the Commission regarding the need or desirability for releasing hatchery salmon into Middle Creek. Title: Fish Management Plan Middle Creek (Tributary of North Fork Coquille River) 1979 Abstract -- Middle Creek is a large tributary of the North Fork Coquille River, entering at RM 19. The stream is about 62 miles long, but only 45 miles are available to anadromous fish. The watershed contains fair to good habitat, and physical stream survey information has been collected. Middle Creek contains resident and anadromous cutthroat trout, winter steelhead, and coho salmon. Hatchery fish are not released into the system. There are no special angling regulations in effect at present. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage Middle Creek for wild trout and steelhead. Choosing a management option for salmon will be deferred until ODFW develops a coast-wide salmon management plan. At that time, staff biologists will decide on a final recommendation to the Commission regarding the need or desirability for releasing hatchery salmon into Middle Creek. Close

• 717. [Article] Coho Life History in Tide Gated Lowland Coastal Streams, 2016-2018

  Abstract -- Coos Watershed Association’s (CoosWA) coho life history in tide gated lowland coastal streams, a life cycle monitoring (LCM) project, examines the ecology of tidal rearing for coho in the Coos ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Coho Life History in Tide Gated Lowland Coastal Streams, 2016-2018 Abstract -- Coos Watershed Association’s (CoosWA) coho life history in tide gated lowland coastal streams, a life cycle monitoring (LCM) project, examines the ecology of tidal rearing for coho in the Coos River Basin. This project has adapted to and advanced the recent paradigm shift in juvenile coho life histories, rearing and foraging strategies, growth, survival, migrations, and sub-basin level population productivity in the tidal zone. Temporal and spatial components of coho over-winter rearing strategies, in relation to habitat use and project effectiveness monitoring, is the monitoring focus in the paired study streams of Palouse and Willanch Creeks. Project results further reveal the fundamental mechanisms that promote juvenile coho growth and survival in the estuarine ecotone. In conjunction with prior and current data, results highlight the critical importance of these diverse habitats for recovering viable and resilient Oregon Coast coho populations. Title: Coho Life History in Tide Gated Lowland Coastal Streams, 2016-2018 Abstract -- Coos Watershed Association’s (CoosWA) coho life history in tide gated lowland coastal streams, a life cycle monitoring (LCM) project, examines the ecology of tidal rearing for coho in the Coos River Basin. This project has adapted to and advanced the recent paradigm shift in juvenile coho life histories, rearing and foraging strategies, growth, survival, migrations, and sub-basin level population productivity in the tidal zone. Temporal and spatial components of coho over-winter rearing strategies, in relation to habitat use and project effectiveness monitoring, is the monitoring focus in the paired study streams of Palouse and Willanch Creeks. Project results further reveal the fundamental mechanisms that promote juvenile coho growth and survival in the estuarine ecotone. In conjunction with prior and current data, results highlight the critical importance of these diverse habitats for recovering viable and resilient Oregon Coast coho populations. Close

• 718. [Article] OWEB Project Number 216-5042-12451 Phase IV - Wallowa Mountains Bull Trout Monitoring, Final Report

  Abstract -- Bull trout were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1998 due to declining populations. Spawning survey data is important for determining relative abundance and distribution ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: OWEB Project Number 216-5042-12451 Phase IV - Wallowa Mountains Bull Trout Monitoring, Final Report Abstract -- Bull trout were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1998 due to declining populations. Spawning survey data is important for determining relative abundance and distribution trends in bull trout populations. Without adequate funding, it has been difficult to find sufficient numbers of experienced bull trout surveyors and packers for surveys in the back-country, and to obtain adequate supplies to get the work accomplished. OWEB funding supported the continued survey of bull trout spawning areas in years 2016 through 2018 in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha drainages of northeast Oregon. Surveys were conducted by fisheries consultants, the Service, Nez Perce Tribe, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, Freshwater Trust, Wallowa Resources, Anderson Perry, Inc., Grande Ronde Model Watershed, and volunteers. Timing of spawning, total redds, redd sizes, and redd locations are documented in the attached report. In 2016-2018, surveys were located on the Lostine and Imnaha Rivers, and Big Sheep and Bear Creeks. In addition, the Upper Minam and Wenaha were surveyed in 2018. OWEB funding helped to accomplish a total of 43.3, 41.1, and 71.7 stream miles surveyed in 2016, 2017, and 2018, respectively. Title: OWEB Project Number 216-5042-12451 Phase IV - Wallowa Mountains Bull Trout Monitoring, Final Report Abstract -- Bull trout were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1998 due to declining populations. Spawning survey data is important for determining relative abundance and distribution trends in bull trout populations. Without adequate funding, it has been difficult to find sufficient numbers of experienced bull trout surveyors and packers for surveys in the back-country, and to obtain adequate supplies to get the work accomplished. OWEB funding supported the continued survey of bull trout spawning areas in years 2016 through 2018 in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha drainages of northeast Oregon. Surveys were conducted by fisheries consultants, the Service, Nez Perce Tribe, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, Freshwater Trust, Wallowa Resources, Anderson Perry, Inc., Grande Ronde Model Watershed, and volunteers. Timing of spawning, total redds, redd sizes, and redd locations are documented in the attached report. In 2016-2018, surveys were located on the Lostine and Imnaha Rivers, and Big Sheep and Bear Creeks. In addition, the Upper Minam and Wenaha were surveyed in 2018. OWEB funding helped to accomplish a total of 43.3, 41.1, and 71.7 stream miles surveyed in 2016, 2017, and 2018, respectively. Close

• 719. [Article] Tenmile Lake Basin Partnership - OWEB Final Report: Grant 217-2051

  Abstract -- Pacific Lamprey are native to the Tenmile Watershed and culturally important to the local Native American Tribes. Likewise, Salmon and Steelhead have both an economic and cultural significance ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Tenmile Lake Basin Partnership - OWEB Final Report: Grant 217-2051 Abstract -- Pacific Lamprey are native to the Tenmile Watershed and culturally important to the local Native American Tribes. Likewise, Salmon and Steelhead have both an economic and cultural significance to the local citizens and Tribes. Pacific Lamprey were historically harvested by the people of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI), but it was unknown if Pacific Lamprey were still present in the Tenmile Watershed. A fish trap was built on Eel Lake by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) in 1989 for the purpose of fish capture and rearing. The trap is effective in capturing Salmon and Steelhead but may act as a barrier to the passage of Pacific Lamprey. This monitoring effort was designed to assess the presence/absence of Pacific Lamprey in the Tenmile Watershed, identify migration timing, potential lamprey passage barriers and rearing/spawning habitats, and collect and organize data from Eel Lake Trap on native Coho, Cutthroat, and native/hatchery Steelhead returns and trends. Lamprey larvae (ammocoete) monitoring was conducted in the summer of 2017 using electro-shockers. Shocking occurred on 3 tributaries of Tenmile Lakes (Big Creek, Johnson Creek, and Shutter Creek), and 3 creeks within the Eel Lake basin (Eel Creek, Clear Creek, and Winters Arm Creek). Two species of lamprey were identified, Western Brook (Lampetra richardsoni) and Pacific (Entosphenus tridentatus). Western Brook were found in all sampled Tenmile Lakes Basin streams, but only in the streams above Eel Lake Trap in the Eel Lake Basin. No Western Brook were identified in Eel Creek below the Trap. Pacific Lamprey were found in Johnson Creek and Big Creek in the Tenmile Lakes Basin, and in Eel Creek in the Eel Lake Basin. No Pacific Lamprey were identified above the Eel Lake Trap, suggesting that it may act as a complete passage barrier to that species. In addition, over 200 adult Pacific Lamprey were salvaged from an ODOT culvert enhancement project on Eel Creek near Hwy 101. Pacific Lamprey larvae were identified upstream of this project, but it is likely that it was a partial barrier. Two other ODOT culverts were identified as potential partial lamprey barriers on Eel Cr. Spawning areas for Pacific and Western Brook Lamprey are similar to spawning areas for salmon. Upper reaches of all the Tenmile Lake tributaries have appropriate spawning gravel. Lower stream areas are often high in sediment which is conducive to rearing lamprey larvae. This was confirmed in Johnson creek with high numbers of Pacific Lamprey larvae found at the mouth as it enters South Tenmile Lake. Farther upstream in the Johnson Creek system, larvae were abundant, but much smaller with many being too small to identify (<65mm). Western Brook larvae were found, but no Pacific Lamprey larvae were identified, perhaps amongst those unidentified specimens. Western Brook ammocoetes were also found at the lower site on Johnson Creek, and in Big Creek and Shutter Creek. Pacific Lamprey migration into the watershed is difficult to determine due to the elusive nature of the species and their life cycle trait of migrating in from the ocean in the spring of one year, then holding over until the next spring before spawning. When specimens are captured, it is difficult to determine whether it is a fresh migrant or last year’s holdover. Even if it can be determined which year it is from, it is still difficult to know how long it has been in the system before it was captured. In Phase 2 of this project, we will capture Pacific Lamprey either in traps near the mouth of Eel Cr, or at the lower culverts. This should give us a better sense of migration timing. Native Coho salmon counts at Eel Lake Trap were down significantly from the recorded high at the Trap of 441 in 2012, with only 66 native Coho returning in 2018 (the winter of 2017-2018). The previous 2 years were also low with 2016 and 2017 showing returns of only 53 and 118 respectively. The Coho numbers for most of the Oregon Coast also showed low returns. Hatchery Winter Steelhead counts were 502 for 2018. This compares to a record high of 828 in 2007, 595 in 2016, and 226 in 2017. Returning native Steelhead only numbered 10 for the 2018 season. The average return for Native Steelhead is 24. In 2018, 60 Steelhead were spawned including 2 native males, but no native females. 252 hatchery Steelhead were recycled into Saunders Lake, and 148 into Butterfield Lake. ODFW allocated 25,000 smolts for the Tenmile Watershed, which were acclimated and then released in April 2018. Title: Tenmile Lake Basin Partnership - OWEB Final Report: Grant 217-2051 Abstract -- Pacific Lamprey are native to the Tenmile Watershed and culturally important to the local Native American Tribes. Likewise, Salmon and Steelhead have both an economic and cultural significance to the local citizens and Tribes. Pacific Lamprey were historically harvested by the people of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI), but it was unknown if Pacific Lamprey were still present in the Tenmile Watershed. A fish trap was built on Eel Lake by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) in 1989 for the purpose of fish capture and rearing. The trap is effective in capturing Salmon and Steelhead but may act as a barrier to the passage of Pacific Lamprey. This monitoring effort was designed to assess the presence/absence of Pacific Lamprey in the Tenmile Watershed, identify migration timing, potential lamprey passage barriers and rearing/spawning habitats, and collect and organize data from Eel Lake Trap on native Coho, Cutthroat, and native/hatchery Steelhead returns and trends. Lamprey larvae (ammocoete) monitoring was conducted in the summer of 2017 using electro-shockers. Shocking occurred on 3 tributaries of Tenmile Lakes (Big Creek, Johnson Creek, and Shutter Creek), and 3 creeks within the Eel Lake basin (Eel Creek, Clear Creek, and Winters Arm Creek). Two species of lamprey were identified, Western Brook (Lampetra richardsoni) and Pacific (Entosphenus tridentatus). Western Brook were found in all sampled Tenmile Lakes Basin streams, but only in the streams above Eel Lake Trap in the Eel Lake Basin. No Western Brook were identified in Eel Creek below the Trap. Pacific Lamprey were found in Johnson Creek and Big Creek in the Tenmile Lakes Basin, and in Eel Creek in the Eel Lake Basin. No Pacific Lamprey were identified above the Eel Lake Trap, suggesting that it may act as a complete passage barrier to that species. In addition, over 200 adult Pacific Lamprey were salvaged from an ODOT culvert enhancement project on Eel Creek near Hwy 101. Pacific Lamprey larvae were identified upstream of this project, but it is likely that it was a partial barrier. Two other ODOT culverts were identified as potential partial lamprey barriers on Eel Cr. Spawning areas for Pacific and Western Brook Lamprey are similar to spawning areas for salmon. Upper reaches of all the Tenmile Lake tributaries have appropriate spawning gravel. Lower stream areas are often high in sediment which is conducive to rearing lamprey larvae. This was confirmed in Johnson creek with high numbers of Pacific Lamprey larvae found at the mouth as it enters South Tenmile Lake. Farther upstream in the Johnson Creek system, larvae were abundant, but much smaller with many being too small to identify (<65mm). Western Brook larvae were found, but no Pacific Lamprey larvae were identified, perhaps amongst those unidentified specimens. Western Brook ammocoetes were also found at the lower site on Johnson Creek, and in Big Creek and Shutter Creek. Pacific Lamprey migration into the watershed is difficult to determine due to the elusive nature of the species and their life cycle trait of migrating in from the ocean in the spring of one year, then holding over until the next spring before spawning. When specimens are captured, it is difficult to determine whether it is a fresh migrant or last year’s holdover. Even if it can be determined which year it is from, it is still difficult to know how long it has been in the system before it was captured. In Phase 2 of this project, we will capture Pacific Lamprey either in traps near the mouth of Eel Cr, or at the lower culverts. This should give us a better sense of migration timing. Native Coho salmon counts at Eel Lake Trap were down significantly from the recorded high at the Trap of 441 in 2012, with only 66 native Coho returning in 2018 (the winter of 2017-2018). The previous 2 years were also low with 2016 and 2017 showing returns of only 53 and 118 respectively. The Coho numbers for most of the Oregon Coast also showed low returns. Hatchery Winter Steelhead counts were 502 for 2018. This compares to a record high of 828 in 2007, 595 in 2016, and 226 in 2017. Returning native Steelhead only numbered 10 for the 2018 season. The average return for Native Steelhead is 24. In 2018, 60 Steelhead were spawned including 2 native males, but no native females. 252 hatchery Steelhead were recycled into Saunders Lake, and 148 into Butterfield Lake. ODFW allocated 25,000 smolts for the Tenmile Watershed, which were acclimated and then released in April 2018. Close

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

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

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