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• 8601. [Article] Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2013

  Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2013 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek watersheds support two of the four Major Population Groups (MPG) in the Grande Ronde River basin. These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River Basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide the data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2013 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek watersheds support two of the four Major Population Groups (MPG) in the Grande Ronde River basin. These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River Basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide the data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Close

• 8602. [Article] Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2014

  Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2014 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2014 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Close

• 8603. [Article] Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2015

  Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2015 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2015 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Close

• 8604. [Article] Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2016

  Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2016 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2016 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Close

• 8605. [Article] Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2017

  Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2017 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Title: Steelhead Escapement Monitoring in the Upper Grande Ronde River and Joseph Creek Basins - Annual Technical Report 2017 Abstract -- Summer steelhead in the Grande Ronde River basin fall within the Snake River Distinct Population Segment (DPS) and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (62 FR 43937; August 18, 1997). The Upper Grande Ronde River (UGRR) and Joseph Creek basins support two of the four populations in the Grande Ronde Major Population Group (MPG). These populations are segregated based on topographic, genetic, and behavioral evidence of interactions. Historically, the Grande Ronde River was one of the more significant anadromous fish producing rivers in the Columbia River basin. Despite recovery efforts, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. The goal of this project is to annually evaluate summer steelhead population abundance for the UGRR, and recently Joseph Creek, by conducting surveys of redds and spawning activity. These surveys provide those data needed to estimate adult steelhead escapement, improve our understanding of habitat utilization, and contribute to productivity and survival estimates for these populations. ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) BPA Contract 60987 Close

• 8606. [Article] Hult Reservoir (Siuslaw Basin) Fish Species Composition Size and Relative Abundance_Final2018

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

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

• 8607. [Article] Status of Winter Rearing Habitat in Four Coho Population Units_ODFW AQI Winter Report Final 2008

  Abstract -- We described the status of habitat in four Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) population units (Nehalem, Siuslaw, Coquille, South Umpqua) during winter 2007, estimated the potential ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status of Winter Rearing Habitat in Four Coho Population Units_ODFW AQI Winter Report Final 2008 Abstract -- We described the status of habitat in four Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) population units (Nehalem, Siuslaw, Coquille, South Umpqua) during winter 2007, estimated the potential winter rearing capacity of streams within those population units, and described the differences observed in stream habitat between winter and summer with emphasis on slow water and secondary channel habitats. Sample sites were randomly selected and spatially balanced within the distribution of coho salmon (juvenile and adult) in Oregon coastal watersheds south of the Columbia River. Twenty five sites were targeted within each of the four population units. Each survey was approximately 1000 m in length and adhered to protocols in Moore et al (2007). The Habitat Limiting Factors Model (HLFM) was used to estimate habitat capacity and quality for rearing juvenile coho. The HLFM predicted that the Nehalem and Siuslaw basins could support the highest density of juvenile coho, and the South Umpqua the least. Seasonal changes in habitat were similar to that reported in a previous study. Winter surveys facilitated the assessment of habitat status and estimating capacity because the surveys were conducted at the time when habitat is most limiting to survival of juvenile coho. Winter surveys were particularly valuable in capturing secondary channel and slow water habitat units such as beaver ponds and alcoves. We also performed a sensitivity analysis to determine the number of survey sites necessary to represent each population unit within the desired confidence range of 30% recommended in the Coho Conservation Plan. Twenty five target sites were not adequate to describe the winter parr capacity within a 95% confidence interval of +30% in each population unit. Confidence intervals of estimates of parr per km ranged from 34 to 60% and mean parr per m2 ranged from 20 to 45%. Title: Status of Winter Rearing Habitat in Four Coho Population Units_ODFW AQI Winter Report Final 2008 Abstract -- We described the status of habitat in four Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) population units (Nehalem, Siuslaw, Coquille, South Umpqua) during winter 2007, estimated the potential winter rearing capacity of streams within those population units, and described the differences observed in stream habitat between winter and summer with emphasis on slow water and secondary channel habitats. Sample sites were randomly selected and spatially balanced within the distribution of coho salmon (juvenile and adult) in Oregon coastal watersheds south of the Columbia River. Twenty five sites were targeted within each of the four population units. Each survey was approximately 1000 m in length and adhered to protocols in Moore et al (2007). The Habitat Limiting Factors Model (HLFM) was used to estimate habitat capacity and quality for rearing juvenile coho. The HLFM predicted that the Nehalem and Siuslaw basins could support the highest density of juvenile coho, and the South Umpqua the least. Seasonal changes in habitat were similar to that reported in a previous study. Winter surveys facilitated the assessment of habitat status and estimating capacity because the surveys were conducted at the time when habitat is most limiting to survival of juvenile coho. Winter surveys were particularly valuable in capturing secondary channel and slow water habitat units such as beaver ponds and alcoves. We also performed a sensitivity analysis to determine the number of survey sites necessary to represent each population unit within the desired confidence range of 30% recommended in the Coho Conservation Plan. Twenty five target sites were not adequate to describe the winter parr capacity within a 95% confidence interval of +30% in each population unit. Confidence intervals of estimates of parr per km ranged from 34 to 60% and mean parr per m2 ranged from 20 to 45%. Close

• 8608. [Article] Curry Watersheds Partnerships 2014 Spawning Surveys

  Abstract -- The Curry Watersheds Partnership (Curry SWCD and South Coast and Lower Rogue watershed councils) conducted salmon spawning surveys on 14 stream reaches in the winter of 2014-15. The surveys ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Curry Watersheds Partnerships 2014 Spawning Surveys Abstract -- The Curry Watersheds Partnership (Curry SWCD and South Coast and Lower Rogue watershed councils) conducted salmon spawning surveys on 14 stream reaches in the winter of 2014-15. The surveys took place on small streams that have been the focus of past and/or planned restoration projects, primarily aimed at coho. These surveys are not typically covered by ODFW, and prior to the spawning season the Curry Watersheds Partnership coordinated with ODFW to ensure there was no duplication of effort. Title: Curry Watersheds Partnerships 2014 Spawning Surveys Abstract -- The Curry Watersheds Partnership (Curry SWCD and South Coast and Lower Rogue watershed councils) conducted salmon spawning surveys on 14 stream reaches in the winter of 2014-15. The surveys took place on small streams that have been the focus of past and/or planned restoration projects, primarily aimed at coho. These surveys are not typically covered by ODFW, and prior to the spawning season the Curry Watersheds Partnership coordinated with ODFW to ensure there was no duplication of effort. Close

• 8609. [Article] Cedar Creek 2014 AIP Habitat Survey Report

  Abstract -- In 2014 Curry Watersheds Partnership staff conducted an AIP habitat survey on 3,483 meters of Cedar Creek in the Euchre Creek watershed. The data was processed using the AIP analysis Macro. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Cedar Creek 2014 AIP Habitat Survey Report Abstract -- In 2014 Curry Watersheds Partnership staff conducted an AIP habitat survey on 3,483 meters of Cedar Creek in the Euchre Creek watershed. The data was processed using the AIP analysis Macro. The results of the survey are summarized in this report. Title: Cedar Creek 2014 AIP Habitat Survey Report Abstract -- In 2014 Curry Watersheds Partnership staff conducted an AIP habitat survey on 3,483 meters of Cedar Creek in the Euchre Creek watershed. The data was processed using the AIP analysis Macro. The results of the survey are summarized in this report. Close

• 8610. [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

• 8611. [Article] Spawning distribution and habitat use of adult Pacific and western brook lamprey in Smith River, Oregon Information Reports 2006-1

  Abstract -- Coastal Oregon populations of Pacific lamprey Lampetra tridentata and western brook lamprey L. richardsoni are considered depressed due to habitat loss and passage problems (Close et al. 2002, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Spawning distribution and habitat use of adult Pacific and western brook lamprey in Smith River, Oregon Information Reports 2006-1 Abstract -- Coastal Oregon populations of Pacific lamprey Lampetra tridentata and western brook lamprey L. richardsoni are considered depressed due to habitat loss and passage problems (Close et al. 2002, Nawa 2003, ODFW 2006). Pacific lamprey was listed as an Oregon state sensitive species in 1993 and in 1996 was protected through restriction of harvest (ODFW 2006). Western brook lamprey is not protected and has no special state status. Abundance of Pacific lamprey throughout the coast and Columbia River has declined dramatically since the1960s. Dam counts at Winchester, Bonneville, and Leaburg dams show a dramatic decrease from historical levels (Kostow 2002, Nawa 2003, ODFW 2006). In 2003, eleven environmental groups petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to list Pacific, western brook, and two other lamprey species as endangered in the Pacific Northwest and California (Nawa 2003). Even though the petition cited habitat losses due to reduced in-stream flows, water diversions, dredging, scour and channnelization issues, pollution and degradation of riparian communities, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined the petition did not contain adequate information to warrant a listing (Federal Register, 69 (27 December 2004) 77158-77167). The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recently reviewed the status of western brook and Pacific lamprey and found populations to be ‘at risk’ of extinction (ODFW 2006) due to habitat loss, passage barriers and pollution. However data necessary to conduct a thorough and detailed assessment are lacking. Much of the data lacking are critical to the effective management and conservation of Oregon’s coastal lamprey species. The Columbia River Basin Lamprey Technical Workgroup (CRBLTW 2005) and members of Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC 2004) have identified and prioritized critical data gaps for Pacific lamprey, many of which also apply to western brook lamprey. Among these are 1) methods to assess distribution and abundance of all life stages and appropriate techniques for monitoring population status; 2) population structure and delineation; 3) population dynamics; 4) basic biology including interspecific and community level relationships; 5) limiting factors and threats including passage issues, and 6) habitat needs and requirements. This study addresses information needs pertaining to distribution and habitat use in addition to providing basic descriptive ecology. Our goal was to identify habitat variables associated with spawning Pacific and western brook lamprey in order to infer distribution throughout coastal Oregon. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine distribution of spawning Pacific and western brook lamprey in the Smith River basin; 2) describe redds of both species; and 3) describe associations of spawning Pacific and western brook lamprey in relation to habitat unit and reach scale habitat characteristics. Title: Spawning distribution and habitat use of adult Pacific and western brook lamprey in Smith River, Oregon Information Reports 2006-1 Abstract -- Coastal Oregon populations of Pacific lamprey Lampetra tridentata and western brook lamprey L. richardsoni are considered depressed due to habitat loss and passage problems (Close et al. 2002, Nawa 2003, ODFW 2006). Pacific lamprey was listed as an Oregon state sensitive species in 1993 and in 1996 was protected through restriction of harvest (ODFW 2006). Western brook lamprey is not protected and has no special state status. Abundance of Pacific lamprey throughout the coast and Columbia River has declined dramatically since the1960s. Dam counts at Winchester, Bonneville, and Leaburg dams show a dramatic decrease from historical levels (Kostow 2002, Nawa 2003, ODFW 2006). In 2003, eleven environmental groups petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to list Pacific, western brook, and two other lamprey species as endangered in the Pacific Northwest and California (Nawa 2003). Even though the petition cited habitat losses due to reduced in-stream flows, water diversions, dredging, scour and channnelization issues, pollution and degradation of riparian communities, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined the petition did not contain adequate information to warrant a listing (Federal Register, 69 (27 December 2004) 77158-77167). The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recently reviewed the status of western brook and Pacific lamprey and found populations to be ‘at risk’ of extinction (ODFW 2006) due to habitat loss, passage barriers and pollution. However data necessary to conduct a thorough and detailed assessment are lacking. Much of the data lacking are critical to the effective management and conservation of Oregon’s coastal lamprey species. The Columbia River Basin Lamprey Technical Workgroup (CRBLTW 2005) and members of Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC 2004) have identified and prioritized critical data gaps for Pacific lamprey, many of which also apply to western brook lamprey. Among these are 1) methods to assess distribution and abundance of all life stages and appropriate techniques for monitoring population status; 2) population structure and delineation; 3) population dynamics; 4) basic biology including interspecific and community level relationships; 5) limiting factors and threats including passage issues, and 6) habitat needs and requirements. This study addresses information needs pertaining to distribution and habitat use in addition to providing basic descriptive ecology. Our goal was to identify habitat variables associated with spawning Pacific and western brook lamprey in order to infer distribution throughout coastal Oregon. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine distribution of spawning Pacific and western brook lamprey in the Smith River basin; 2) describe redds of both species; and 3) describe associations of spawning Pacific and western brook lamprey in relation to habitat unit and reach scale habitat characteristics. Close

• 8612. [Article] Methods for Stream Habitat Surveys: Aquatic Inventories Project Information Reports 2007-01

  Abstract -- The Aquatic Inventories Project is designed to provide quantitative information on habitat condition for streams throughout Oregon. This information is used to provide basic information for ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Methods for Stream Habitat Surveys: Aquatic Inventories Project Information Reports 2007-01 Abstract -- The Aquatic Inventories Project is designed to provide quantitative information on habitat condition for streams throughout Oregon. This information is used to provide basic information for biologists and land managers, to establish monitoring programs, and to direct or focus habitat restoration efforts. Development of an Aquatic Inventories Project began within the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) in 1989 with sponsorship by the Restoration and Enhancement Program. Drafting of stream survey methods and implementation of field work began in 1990. The conceptual background for this work came from the experience of project staff and from interactions with Oregon State University, forest industry, and USFS PNW research scientists (Bisson et al. 1982, Grant 1986, Everest et al. 1987, Hankin and Reeves 1988, Moore and Gregory 1989, and Gregory et al. 1991). Significant contributions and review of these methods were provided by ODFW research staff, and from consultation with ODFW and United States Forest Service (USFS) biologists working on similar programs. Members of the Umpqua Basin Fisheries Restoration Initiative and the Oregon Forest Industry Council have provided additional review and consultation. This methodology was designed to be compatible with other stream habitat inventories and classification systems (i.e., Rosgen 1985, Frissell et al. 1986, Cupp 1989, Ralph 1989, USFS Region 6 Level II Inventory 1992, and Hawkins et al. 1993). This compatibility is achieved by systematically identifying and quantifying valley and stream geomorphic features. The resulting matrix of measurements and spatial relationships can then be generalized into frequently occurring valley and channel types or translated into the nomenclature of a particular system. For example, information summarized at the reach level (valley width, channel type, slope, terrace height and width, sinuosity, width, depth, substrate, eroding banks, etc.) can be used to characterize the stream into one of the types described by Rosgen (1985) or to match the parameters collected in other quantitative (USFS) or historic (U.S. Bureau of Fisheries) surveys. The process of conducting a stream survey involves collection of general information from maps and other sources and the direct observation of stream characteristics in the field. This information is both collected and analyzed based on a hierarchical system of regions, basins, streams, reaches, and habitat units. Supervisors are responsible for collecting the general information on regions and basins and for directing the activities of the survey crews. Survey teams will collect field data based on stream, reach and channel unit characteristics. Region and basin data will primarily come from ODFW-EPA region and sub region classifications, and from map analysis. The following instructions and definitions provide the outline for these activities and a description of the tasks involved in conducting ODFW’s stream habitat inventory. Each field crew is comprised of two people with each member responsible for specific tasks. The "Estimator" will focus on the identification of channel unit characteristics. The "Numerator" will focus on the counts and relative distribution of several unit attributes and will verify the length and width estimates for a subset of units. The "Estimator" and "Numerator" share the responsibility for describing reach characteristics, riparian conditions, identifying habitat unit types, and for quantifying the amount of large woody debris. Crew members may switch responsibility for estimator or numerator when they start a new stream. They will not, however, switch estimator and numerator jobs on the same stream. Title: Methods for Stream Habitat Surveys: Aquatic Inventories Project Information Reports 2007-01 Abstract -- The Aquatic Inventories Project is designed to provide quantitative information on habitat condition for streams throughout Oregon. This information is used to provide basic information for biologists and land managers, to establish monitoring programs, and to direct or focus habitat restoration efforts. Development of an Aquatic Inventories Project began within the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) in 1989 with sponsorship by the Restoration and Enhancement Program. Drafting of stream survey methods and implementation of field work began in 1990. The conceptual background for this work came from the experience of project staff and from interactions with Oregon State University, forest industry, and USFS PNW research scientists (Bisson et al. 1982, Grant 1986, Everest et al. 1987, Hankin and Reeves 1988, Moore and Gregory 1989, and Gregory et al. 1991). Significant contributions and review of these methods were provided by ODFW research staff, and from consultation with ODFW and United States Forest Service (USFS) biologists working on similar programs. Members of the Umpqua Basin Fisheries Restoration Initiative and the Oregon Forest Industry Council have provided additional review and consultation. This methodology was designed to be compatible with other stream habitat inventories and classification systems (i.e., Rosgen 1985, Frissell et al. 1986, Cupp 1989, Ralph 1989, USFS Region 6 Level II Inventory 1992, and Hawkins et al. 1993). This compatibility is achieved by systematically identifying and quantifying valley and stream geomorphic features. The resulting matrix of measurements and spatial relationships can then be generalized into frequently occurring valley and channel types or translated into the nomenclature of a particular system. For example, information summarized at the reach level (valley width, channel type, slope, terrace height and width, sinuosity, width, depth, substrate, eroding banks, etc.) can be used to characterize the stream into one of the types described by Rosgen (1985) or to match the parameters collected in other quantitative (USFS) or historic (U.S. Bureau of Fisheries) surveys. The process of conducting a stream survey involves collection of general information from maps and other sources and the direct observation of stream characteristics in the field. This information is both collected and analyzed based on a hierarchical system of regions, basins, streams, reaches, and habitat units. Supervisors are responsible for collecting the general information on regions and basins and for directing the activities of the survey crews. Survey teams will collect field data based on stream, reach and channel unit characteristics. Region and basin data will primarily come from ODFW-EPA region and sub region classifications, and from map analysis. The following instructions and definitions provide the outline for these activities and a description of the tasks involved in conducting ODFW’s stream habitat inventory. Each field crew is comprised of two people with each member responsible for specific tasks. The "Estimator" will focus on the identification of channel unit characteristics. The "Numerator" will focus on the counts and relative distribution of several unit attributes and will verify the length and width estimates for a subset of units. The "Estimator" and "Numerator" share the responsibility for describing reach characteristics, riparian conditions, identifying habitat unit types, and for quantifying the amount of large woody debris. Crew members may switch responsibility for estimator or numerator when they start a new stream. They will not, however, switch estimator and numerator jobs on the same stream. Close

• 8613. [Article] Biology, Behavior, and Resources of Resident and Anadromous Fish in the Lower Willamette River Final Report of Research, 2000-2004

  Abstract -- This document is the final report of research for a project funded by the City of Portland (COP) and conducted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). The general objective was ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biology, Behavior, and Resources of Resident and Anadromous Fish in the Lower Willamette River Final Report of Research, 2000-2004 Abstract -- This document is the final report of research for a project funded by the City of Portland (COP) and conducted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). The general objective was to evaluate aquatic habitat and biotic communities in the lower Willamette River, and provide guidance for protecting species of threatened and endangered salmonids. Our report includes five research papers that describe how we addressed project hypotheses and objectives, how we reached our conclusions, and why we made our recommendations. The papers are listed and numbered in the Table of Contents, and the numbers are used to reference each paper in the Summary. The Summary integrates the results, conclusions, and recommendations, and provides the best overall picture of the status of aquatic resources in the lower Willamette River. The recommendations presented here were developed by the principal investigators, and will not necessarily be adopted as policies or guidelines by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Title: Biology, Behavior, and Resources of Resident and Anadromous Fish in the Lower Willamette River Final Report of Research, 2000-2004 Abstract -- This document is the final report of research for a project funded by the City of Portland (COP) and conducted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). The general objective was to evaluate aquatic habitat and biotic communities in the lower Willamette River, and provide guidance for protecting species of threatened and endangered salmonids. Our report includes five research papers that describe how we addressed project hypotheses and objectives, how we reached our conclusions, and why we made our recommendations. The papers are listed and numbered in the Table of Contents, and the numbers are used to reference each paper in the Summary. The Summary integrates the results, conclusions, and recommendations, and provides the best overall picture of the status of aquatic resources in the lower Willamette River. The recommendations presented here were developed by the principal investigators, and will not necessarily be adopted as policies or guidelines by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Close

• 8614. [Article] Status and Distribution of Native Fishes in the Goose Lake Basin Information Reports number 2008-02

  Abstract -- This study describes the current distribution of the nine native fish species in the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake basin (Lake County): Goose Lake redband trout Oncorhynchus mykiss ssp., ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status and Distribution of Native Fishes in the Goose Lake Basin Information Reports number 2008-02 Abstract -- This study describes the current distribution of the nine native fish species in the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake basin (Lake County): Goose Lake redband trout Oncorhynchus mykiss ssp., Goose Lake lamprey Entosphenus sp., Goose Lake tui chub Siphateles bicolor thalassinus, Goose Lake sucker Catostomus occidentalis lacusanserinus, Modoc sucker Catostomus microps, Pit-Klamath brook lamprey Entosphenus lethophagus, speckled dace Rhinichthys osculus, Pit roach Lavinia symmetricus mitrulus, and Pit sculpin Cottus pitensis. The Goose Lake basin is an endorheic, or topographically closed basin located in south central Oregon and northeastern California. The basin is within the usually closed northeastern extremity of the adjoining Sacramento River basin, astride the Oregon-California boundary. Although most of the lake lies in California, most of its valley and nearly two-thirds of the total drainage area (~722 sq. mi.) are in Oregon. The largest streams in the basin are Drews, Cottonwood, and Thomas Creeks. Annual precipitation averages about 36 cm per year (Phillips and van Denburgh 1971). Goose Lake overflowed briefly into the North Fork Pit River in 1868 and 1881, but storage and diversion of irrigation water has substantially reduced the inflow and future overflow is unlikely (USGS 1971). The lakebed was dry in the summers of 1926, 1929- 1934, and 1992. About half the basin is forestland, 20% is hay fields and pastureland, and 16% is shrub and rangeland. Currently, almost 35% of the inflow is diverted for irrigation (OWRD 1989). The Goose Lake basin is home to four endemic fish taxa: the Goose Lake redband trout, lamprey, sucker, and tui chub. Endemic fishes of the Goose Lake basin split their life histories between Goose Lake and its tributaries, as opposed to the five native but non-endemic species that primarily occupy stream habitats. Pit roach and all endemic fishes except Goose Lake tui chub are listed as a “species of concern” by the USFWS, a designation that implies there is concern about species viability, but not enough information is known to initiate a listing review for threatened or endangered status. The Modoc sucker was listed as a federally endangered species in 1985 (USFWS 1985). No formal recovery plan was required due to an existing “Action Plan for the Recovery of the Modoc Sucker” (USFWS 1984). Most of the recovery actions outlined in the action plan were either completed or are no longer relevant (Stewart Reid, Western Fishes, personal communication). However, actions 26 and 27 pertaining to range expansion remain incomplete. Action 26 suggests reclassification to threatened upon establishment of safe populations (for 3-5 years) throughout the Rush and Turner Creek watersheds in the Pit River basin. Action 27 suggests delisting upon establishing safe populations in two other historic streams. At the time of listing, the historic range of Modoc sucker was thought to have included only two small tributaries of the Pit River in Modoc and Lassen Counties, Ash and Turner Creeks (USFWS 1985). Therefore, a major recovery goal was to expand the species’ range with additional populations (USFWS 1984). In 2001, reexamination of historical documents and museum specimens established that Modoc suckers had also historically occupied Thomas Creek in the Goose Lake basin. Field collections in 2001, with subsequent morphological and genetic analysis, confirmed that the population was still present in Thomas Creek (Stewart Reid, Western Fishes, personal communication); however, the broader range of Modoc sucker in the Goose Lake watershed was not known. In 1995, the Goose Lake Fishes Working Group drafted a conservation plan for “prelisting” recovery of all native fish in response to severe drought and habitat degradation (GLFWG 1995). The Aquatic Inventories Project of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) conducted habitat and fish distribution surveys (1991-1995) to obtain baseline information to help inform recovery efforts (ODFW, unpublished data). Since then, field work to monitor the distribution and abundance of Goose Lake fishes has been limited and sporadic, targeting only Goose Lake redband trout and Modoc sucker (Dambacher 2001; Reid 2007). No comprehensive follow up work has been conducted to evaluate fish response to climatic conditions, habitat restoration projects, and continued irrigation activities. ODFW recently drafted a status review of native fish of Oregon (ODFW 2005). Except for redband trout, Goose Lake fishes were not included in the status review due to a lack of new information since the previous status review in 1995 (Kostow et al. 1995). Further, the review of Goose Lake redband trout was limited by a lack of long-term data series. The first objective of this study was to document the current distribution of native fishes in Oregon’s portion of the Goose Lake basin and assess changes in distribution that may have occurred since the last surveys were conducted 12 years ago. The second objective was to provide new information about the distribution of Modoc suckers within the basin. The third objective was to determine relative abundance and age-class diversity of native fishes at randomly selected sample sites. All objectives were addressed throughout the potential riverine distribution of fish in the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake basin. Information gathered in this study is critical to effective conservation and management of each species and its habitat. In addition, this report describes the distribution and relative abundance of nonnative fishes (fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus), white crappie (Pomoxis annularis), yellow perch (Perca flavescens), pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus), and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis)) in the basin. Unlike prior efforts, this study used a statisticallybased design to select sample points with the aim of achieving a representative sample across the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake watershed. Additionally, a wide array of fish sampling gear was employed to maximize our ability to capture all fish species present across the diversity of habitat types encountered. Title: Status and Distribution of Native Fishes in the Goose Lake Basin Information Reports number 2008-02 Abstract -- This study describes the current distribution of the nine native fish species in the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake basin (Lake County): Goose Lake redband trout Oncorhynchus mykiss ssp., Goose Lake lamprey Entosphenus sp., Goose Lake tui chub Siphateles bicolor thalassinus, Goose Lake sucker Catostomus occidentalis lacusanserinus, Modoc sucker Catostomus microps, Pit-Klamath brook lamprey Entosphenus lethophagus, speckled dace Rhinichthys osculus, Pit roach Lavinia symmetricus mitrulus, and Pit sculpin Cottus pitensis. The Goose Lake basin is an endorheic, or topographically closed basin located in south central Oregon and northeastern California. The basin is within the usually closed northeastern extremity of the adjoining Sacramento River basin, astride the Oregon-California boundary. Although most of the lake lies in California, most of its valley and nearly two-thirds of the total drainage area (~722 sq. mi.) are in Oregon. The largest streams in the basin are Drews, Cottonwood, and Thomas Creeks. Annual precipitation averages about 36 cm per year (Phillips and van Denburgh 1971). Goose Lake overflowed briefly into the North Fork Pit River in 1868 and 1881, but storage and diversion of irrigation water has substantially reduced the inflow and future overflow is unlikely (USGS 1971). The lakebed was dry in the summers of 1926, 1929- 1934, and 1992. About half the basin is forestland, 20% is hay fields and pastureland, and 16% is shrub and rangeland. Currently, almost 35% of the inflow is diverted for irrigation (OWRD 1989). The Goose Lake basin is home to four endemic fish taxa: the Goose Lake redband trout, lamprey, sucker, and tui chub. Endemic fishes of the Goose Lake basin split their life histories between Goose Lake and its tributaries, as opposed to the five native but non-endemic species that primarily occupy stream habitats. Pit roach and all endemic fishes except Goose Lake tui chub are listed as a “species of concern” by the USFWS, a designation that implies there is concern about species viability, but not enough information is known to initiate a listing review for threatened or endangered status. The Modoc sucker was listed as a federally endangered species in 1985 (USFWS 1985). No formal recovery plan was required due to an existing “Action Plan for the Recovery of the Modoc Sucker” (USFWS 1984). Most of the recovery actions outlined in the action plan were either completed or are no longer relevant (Stewart Reid, Western Fishes, personal communication). However, actions 26 and 27 pertaining to range expansion remain incomplete. Action 26 suggests reclassification to threatened upon establishment of safe populations (for 3-5 years) throughout the Rush and Turner Creek watersheds in the Pit River basin. Action 27 suggests delisting upon establishing safe populations in two other historic streams. At the time of listing, the historic range of Modoc sucker was thought to have included only two small tributaries of the Pit River in Modoc and Lassen Counties, Ash and Turner Creeks (USFWS 1985). Therefore, a major recovery goal was to expand the species’ range with additional populations (USFWS 1984). In 2001, reexamination of historical documents and museum specimens established that Modoc suckers had also historically occupied Thomas Creek in the Goose Lake basin. Field collections in 2001, with subsequent morphological and genetic analysis, confirmed that the population was still present in Thomas Creek (Stewart Reid, Western Fishes, personal communication); however, the broader range of Modoc sucker in the Goose Lake watershed was not known. In 1995, the Goose Lake Fishes Working Group drafted a conservation plan for “prelisting” recovery of all native fish in response to severe drought and habitat degradation (GLFWG 1995). The Aquatic Inventories Project of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) conducted habitat and fish distribution surveys (1991-1995) to obtain baseline information to help inform recovery efforts (ODFW, unpublished data). Since then, field work to monitor the distribution and abundance of Goose Lake fishes has been limited and sporadic, targeting only Goose Lake redband trout and Modoc sucker (Dambacher 2001; Reid 2007). No comprehensive follow up work has been conducted to evaluate fish response to climatic conditions, habitat restoration projects, and continued irrigation activities. ODFW recently drafted a status review of native fish of Oregon (ODFW 2005). Except for redband trout, Goose Lake fishes were not included in the status review due to a lack of new information since the previous status review in 1995 (Kostow et al. 1995). Further, the review of Goose Lake redband trout was limited by a lack of long-term data series. The first objective of this study was to document the current distribution of native fishes in Oregon’s portion of the Goose Lake basin and assess changes in distribution that may have occurred since the last surveys were conducted 12 years ago. The second objective was to provide new information about the distribution of Modoc suckers within the basin. The third objective was to determine relative abundance and age-class diversity of native fishes at randomly selected sample sites. All objectives were addressed throughout the potential riverine distribution of fish in the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake basin. Information gathered in this study is critical to effective conservation and management of each species and its habitat. In addition, this report describes the distribution and relative abundance of nonnative fishes (fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus), white crappie (Pomoxis annularis), yellow perch (Perca flavescens), pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus), and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis)) in the basin. Unlike prior efforts, this study used a statisticallybased design to select sample points with the aim of achieving a representative sample across the Oregon portion of the Goose Lake watershed. Additionally, a wide array of fish sampling gear was employed to maximize our ability to capture all fish species present across the diversity of habitat types encountered. Close

• 8615. [Article] Distribution of amphibians in wadeable streams and ponds in western and southeast Oregon, Information Report 2009-02

  Abstract -- The Oregon Conservation Strategy (ODFW 2006) identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy species”, or Species of Greatest ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Distribution of amphibians in wadeable streams and ponds in western and southeast Oregon, Information Report 2009-02 Abstract -- The Oregon Conservation Strategy (ODFW 2006) identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy species”, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need (per USFWS requirements for State Wildlife Action Plans). The distribution of many species of amphibians in western Oregon is sparsely documented (Oregon Conservation Strategy, page 27). Although a broad-scale survey for amphibian presence would provide much information about amphibian distribution, most studies have focused on limited areas. One cost-effective approach is to combine amphibian observational surveys with existing aquatic habitat surveys conducted as part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OCSRI 1997). The Oregon Plan has been in place since 1997 and the monitoring component provides a survey framework for streams in the lower Columbia River and Oregon coast drainages. The sampling framework is also compatible with implementation of the aquatic components of the Conservation Strategy, as demonstrated by this study. This study describes the presence of amphibians in and along wadeable streams in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages of Oregon, ponds and sloughs in the Willamette Valley, and selected streams in the Great Basin of southeast and central Oregon. As a component of monitoring under the Oregon Plan, the Aquatic Inventories Project (AIP) conducts aquatic habitat surveys at randomly selected and spatially balanced sites across all 1st through 4th order streams (wadeable) in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages. The purpose of the habitat surveys is to describe stream morphology, instream physical habitat, and riparian vegetation. Because the surveyors were already observing features within and alongside the stream channel, they were able to record observations of amphibians. The amphibian component was consistent with the survey protocol used by the US Geological Survey’s Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative. The advantage of coupling an amphibian component with the OR Plan aquatic surveys was that it not only was an efficient use of resources, but more importantly, provided information using a statistically rigorous survey design across a broad geographic area. In the summer of 2006, AIP began collecting amphibian occurrence data during physical stream habitat surveys as a pilot study to determine if our standard survey protocol could be modified to document distribution of amphibians characterized as Strategy Species under the Oregon Conservation Strategy. During the summer season, field crews observed four strategy species of amphibians and eleven amphibian species total. The potential to use these data to fill the gaps within the known current distribution of amphibians and to potentially develop a habitat based distribution models for these species led to the summer 2007 work. Amphibian data are also collected during four other survey projects, and although the site selection procedure does not conform to the same statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design, the projects offer a number of opportunities to collect amphibian occurrence information over a wide variety of habitats. The amphibian observations from these four projects are also included in this report. The four projects are as follows: • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys on selected streams throughout the state. • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys at stream habitat restoration projects in Western Oregon. • Surveys to document the distribution of Oregon chub also record amphibian data from over 1,000 pond and slough sites within the Willamette Valley floodplain since 1991. • The Native Fish Investigations Project began a study in 2007 to document the distribution and abundance of Redband Trout in the Great Basin region of Eastern Oregon. Surveys in the summer of 2007 occurred in 8 of Oregon’s 10 ecoregions (Figure 1)(Omernick 1994). Ecoregions are relatively large areas defined by distinctive geographic and ecological characteristics; flora and fauna communities and geographic conditions are typically distinct. Ecoregions provide an ecological framework for describing amphibian distribution across the state. The goals of our 2007 work were to: • Increase the consistency, efficiency and ability of habitat crews in identifying amphibians through improved training. • Increase knowledge of distribution and habitat associations of amphibians in streams in western Oregon (location, stream size and type), and infer distribution in all coastal and lower Columbia drainages. • Describe temporal changes in stream habitat use by amphibians (seasonal, annual). • Estimate surveyor bias by comparing standard crew data with intensive resurveys. • Describe distribution of amphibians in ponds, sloughs and other off channel aquatic habitats in the Willamette Valley. • Describe distribution of amphibians in the Great Basin of eastern Oregon. Many of Oregon’s amphibians rely on aquatic habitats at some point of their life, either for breeding and juvenile development or to inhabit as adults. Most aquatic amphibians breed from late winter to early summer, and many adults remain in or near their breeding sites into the summer. Most tadpoles and juvenile amphibians are also active in and occupy aquatic habitats during the summer. The aquatic habitat and redband trout surveys are appropriate opportunities to observe species and life stages (breeding adults, tadpoles and juveniles) that occupy aquatic or riparian habitats during the summer. Likewise the Oregon chub surveys are likely to observe amphibian species and life stages in ponds and sloughs during the spring and fall. These types of surveys are an efficient and cost-effective means to collect information on amphibian species that are closely tied to aquatic habitat throughout their life cycle. Amphibian species that are more terrestrial in nature may be better surveyed through a different approach. Title: Distribution of amphibians in wadeable streams and ponds in western and southeast Oregon, Information Report 2009-02 Abstract -- The Oregon Conservation Strategy (ODFW 2006) identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy species”, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need (per USFWS requirements for State Wildlife Action Plans). The distribution of many species of amphibians in western Oregon is sparsely documented (Oregon Conservation Strategy, page 27). Although a broad-scale survey for amphibian presence would provide much information about amphibian distribution, most studies have focused on limited areas. One cost-effective approach is to combine amphibian observational surveys with existing aquatic habitat surveys conducted as part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OCSRI 1997). The Oregon Plan has been in place since 1997 and the monitoring component provides a survey framework for streams in the lower Columbia River and Oregon coast drainages. The sampling framework is also compatible with implementation of the aquatic components of the Conservation Strategy, as demonstrated by this study. This study describes the presence of amphibians in and along wadeable streams in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages of Oregon, ponds and sloughs in the Willamette Valley, and selected streams in the Great Basin of southeast and central Oregon. As a component of monitoring under the Oregon Plan, the Aquatic Inventories Project (AIP) conducts aquatic habitat surveys at randomly selected and spatially balanced sites across all 1st through 4th order streams (wadeable) in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages. The purpose of the habitat surveys is to describe stream morphology, instream physical habitat, and riparian vegetation. Because the surveyors were already observing features within and alongside the stream channel, they were able to record observations of amphibians. The amphibian component was consistent with the survey protocol used by the US Geological Survey’s Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative. The advantage of coupling an amphibian component with the OR Plan aquatic surveys was that it not only was an efficient use of resources, but more importantly, provided information using a statistically rigorous survey design across a broad geographic area. In the summer of 2006, AIP began collecting amphibian occurrence data during physical stream habitat surveys as a pilot study to determine if our standard survey protocol could be modified to document distribution of amphibians characterized as Strategy Species under the Oregon Conservation Strategy. During the summer season, field crews observed four strategy species of amphibians and eleven amphibian species total. The potential to use these data to fill the gaps within the known current distribution of amphibians and to potentially develop a habitat based distribution models for these species led to the summer 2007 work. Amphibian data are also collected during four other survey projects, and although the site selection procedure does not conform to the same statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design, the projects offer a number of opportunities to collect amphibian occurrence information over a wide variety of habitats. The amphibian observations from these four projects are also included in this report. The four projects are as follows: • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys on selected streams throughout the state. • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys at stream habitat restoration projects in Western Oregon. • Surveys to document the distribution of Oregon chub also record amphibian data from over 1,000 pond and slough sites within the Willamette Valley floodplain since 1991. • The Native Fish Investigations Project began a study in 2007 to document the distribution and abundance of Redband Trout in the Great Basin region of Eastern Oregon. Surveys in the summer of 2007 occurred in 8 of Oregon’s 10 ecoregions (Figure 1)(Omernick 1994). Ecoregions are relatively large areas defined by distinctive geographic and ecological characteristics; flora and fauna communities and geographic conditions are typically distinct. Ecoregions provide an ecological framework for describing amphibian distribution across the state. The goals of our 2007 work were to: • Increase the consistency, efficiency and ability of habitat crews in identifying amphibians through improved training. • Increase knowledge of distribution and habitat associations of amphibians in streams in western Oregon (location, stream size and type), and infer distribution in all coastal and lower Columbia drainages. • Describe temporal changes in stream habitat use by amphibians (seasonal, annual). • Estimate surveyor bias by comparing standard crew data with intensive resurveys. • Describe distribution of amphibians in ponds, sloughs and other off channel aquatic habitats in the Willamette Valley. • Describe distribution of amphibians in the Great Basin of eastern Oregon. Many of Oregon’s amphibians rely on aquatic habitats at some point of their life, either for breeding and juvenile development or to inhabit as adults. Most aquatic amphibians breed from late winter to early summer, and many adults remain in or near their breeding sites into the summer. Most tadpoles and juvenile amphibians are also active in and occupy aquatic habitats during the summer. The aquatic habitat and redband trout surveys are appropriate opportunities to observe species and life stages (breeding adults, tadpoles and juveniles) that occupy aquatic or riparian habitats during the summer. Likewise the Oregon chub surveys are likely to observe amphibian species and life stages in ponds and sloughs during the spring and fall. These types of surveys are an efficient and cost-effective means to collect information on amphibian species that are closely tied to aquatic habitat throughout their life cycle. Amphibian species that are more terrestrial in nature may be better surveyed through a different approach. Close

• 8616. [Article] Migration and Passage of Redband Trout in the Donner und Blitzen River, 2007-2009, Information Reports Number 2009-05

  Abstract -- Movement of redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri) was tracked between March 2007 and June 2009 in the Donner und Blitzen River (Blitzen River). We had three primary study objectives: ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Migration and Passage of Redband Trout in the Donner und Blitzen River, 2007-2009, Information Reports Number 2009-05 Abstract -- Movement of redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri) was tracked between March 2007 and June 2009 in the Donner und Blitzen River (Blitzen River). We had three primary study objectives: 1) examine redband trout spawning locations and spawning migration timing, 2) evaluate redband trout passage at diversion dams, and 3) investigate seasonal migration patterns of redband trout as they relate to stream temperature dynamics. We tagged 96 redband trout with radio transmitters and 706 with PIT tags. Radio tracking included both mobile and fixed station detections. We established PIT tag readers at Cato Bridge (Rkm 1), Busse Dam (Rkm 35), Grain Camp Dam (Rkm 48), and Page Dam (Rkm 76) for additional data on large-scale movement patterns. With the PIT antennas at the three diversion dams, we placed one antenna below the dam and one at the upstream exit of the fish ladders to evaluate the passage delays at each dam. Stream temperature was recorded at 10 locations in the Blitzen River throughout the study. Scales of 257 migratory trout were interpreted for age and spawning history. Our results indicated that the majority of Blitzen redband trout migrated upstream of Page Dam to spawn and that most trout spawned in the mainstem and not the tributaries. Upstream trout migration occurred from March to July, but the peak migration occurred during late April and early May. Passage problems were recorded at two of the three dams evaluated. Trout were delayed longest at Busse Dam and 44% of radio-tagged trout that approached the dam were never able to pass. Trout experienced less delay at Grain Camp Dam and only 8% of radio-tagged trout failed to pass the dam. At Page Dam, which has a recently upgraded fish ladder, trout delays were short and only 5% of trout that approached the dam were unable to pass. Potentially stressful or lethal temperatures (>24.3°C) were recorded at all monitoring locations downstream of Fish Creek, except at the site just below Page Springs. The migratory population ranged in age from 1+ to 5+, but only age 3+ and older trout were reproductively mature. This suggests that the spring upstream migration includes both adult trout seeking suitable spawning habitats and immature trout making a seasonal habitat shift for thermal refuge. A fraction of the PIT-tagged fish were observed to make two or three migrations from below Busse Dam to above Page Dam in the spring and returning back to the lower river in the fall. We recommend prioritizing fish passage at the Busse Dam and Grain Camp Dam for conservation and enhancement efforts. Title: Migration and Passage of Redband Trout in the Donner und Blitzen River, 2007-2009, Information Reports Number 2009-05 Abstract -- Movement of redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri) was tracked between March 2007 and June 2009 in the Donner und Blitzen River (Blitzen River). We had three primary study objectives: 1) examine redband trout spawning locations and spawning migration timing, 2) evaluate redband trout passage at diversion dams, and 3) investigate seasonal migration patterns of redband trout as they relate to stream temperature dynamics. We tagged 96 redband trout with radio transmitters and 706 with PIT tags. Radio tracking included both mobile and fixed station detections. We established PIT tag readers at Cato Bridge (Rkm 1), Busse Dam (Rkm 35), Grain Camp Dam (Rkm 48), and Page Dam (Rkm 76) for additional data on large-scale movement patterns. With the PIT antennas at the three diversion dams, we placed one antenna below the dam and one at the upstream exit of the fish ladders to evaluate the passage delays at each dam. Stream temperature was recorded at 10 locations in the Blitzen River throughout the study. Scales of 257 migratory trout were interpreted for age and spawning history. Our results indicated that the majority of Blitzen redband trout migrated upstream of Page Dam to spawn and that most trout spawned in the mainstem and not the tributaries. Upstream trout migration occurred from March to July, but the peak migration occurred during late April and early May. Passage problems were recorded at two of the three dams evaluated. Trout were delayed longest at Busse Dam and 44% of radio-tagged trout that approached the dam were never able to pass. Trout experienced less delay at Grain Camp Dam and only 8% of radio-tagged trout failed to pass the dam. At Page Dam, which has a recently upgraded fish ladder, trout delays were short and only 5% of trout that approached the dam were unable to pass. Potentially stressful or lethal temperatures (>24.3°C) were recorded at all monitoring locations downstream of Fish Creek, except at the site just below Page Springs. The migratory population ranged in age from 1+ to 5+, but only age 3+ and older trout were reproductively mature. This suggests that the spring upstream migration includes both adult trout seeking suitable spawning habitats and immature trout making a seasonal habitat shift for thermal refuge. A fraction of the PIT-tagged fish were observed to make two or three migrations from below Busse Dam to above Page Dam in the spring and returning back to the lower river in the fall. We recommend prioritizing fish passage at the Busse Dam and Grain Camp Dam for conservation and enhancement efforts. Close

• 8617. [Article] Abundance, Life History, and Distribution of Bull Trout in the Hood River Basin: A Summary of Findings from 2006 to 2009 Information Reports number 2010-01

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

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

• 8618. [Article] 2008 Amphibian Distribution Surveys in Wadeable Streams and Ponds in Western and Southeast Oregon, Information Reports Number 2010-05

  Abstract -- The ODFW Oregon Conservation Strategy identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy species”, or Species of Greatest Conservation ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2008 Amphibian Distribution Surveys in Wadeable Streams and Ponds in Western and Southeast Oregon, Information Reports Number 2010-05 Abstract -- The ODFW Oregon Conservation Strategy identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy species”, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need (per USFWS requirements for State Wildlife Action Plans). The distribution of many species of amphibians in western Oregon is sparsely documented (Oregon Conservation Strategy, page 27). Although a broad-scale survey for amphibian presence would provide important baseline information about amphibian species composition and distribution, most studies have focused on limited areas. The majority of Oregon’s amphibians rely on aquatic habitats at some point of their life, either for breeding and juvenile development or to inhabit as adults. Most aquatic amphibians breed from late winter to early summer, and adults frequently remain in or near their breeding sites into the summer. Most tadpoles and juvenile amphibians are also active in and occupy aquatic habitats during the summer. Ongoing aquatic habitat and fish surveys are opportunities to observe species and life stages (breeding adults, tadpoles and juveniles) that occupy aquatic or riparian habitats during the summer. One cost-effective approach is to combine amphibian surveys with existing aquatic habitat and fish surveys such as those conducted as part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OCSRI 1997). The Oregon Plan has been in place since 1997 and the monitoring component provides a survey framework for streams in the lower Columbia River and Oregon coast drainages. The sampling framework is also compatible with implementation of the aquatic components of the Conservation Strategy, as demonstrated by this study. This study describes the presence of amphibians in and along wadeable streams in coast and lower Columbia River drainages of Oregon, ponds and sloughs in the Willamette Valley, and selected streams in the Great Basin of southeast and central Oregon. As a component of monitoring under the Oregon Plan, the Aquatic Inventories Project (AIP) conducts aquatic habitat surveys at randomly selected and spatially balanced sites across all 1st through 4th order streams in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages. The purpose of the habitat surveys is to describe stream morphology, instream physical habitat, and riparian vegetation. Because the surveyors were already observing features within and alongside the stream channel, they were able to record observations of amphibians. The amphibian component was consistent with the survey protocol used by the US Geological Survey’s Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative (http://armi.usgs.gov/). The advantage of coupling an amphibian component with the OR Plan aquatic surveys was that it not only was an efficient use of resources, but more importantly, provided information using a statistically rigorous survey design across a broad geographic area. The Native Fish Investigations Project began a six year study in 2007 to document the distribution and abundance of redband trout in the Great Basin region of Eastern Oregon. The site selection procedure is comparable to the statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design. Amphibian data are also collected during three other survey projects, and although the site selection procedure does not conform to the same statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design, the projects offer a number of opportunities to collect amphibian occurrence information over a wide variety of habitats. The amphibian observations from these three projects are also included in this report. The three projects are as follows: • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys on selected streams throughout the state. • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys at stream habitat restoration projects in Western Oregon. • Native Fish Project conducts surveys of pond and slough sites for Oregon chub in the Willamette Valley. Due to the success of the 2006 and 2007 field studies, we continued our research during the summer of 2008 to improve our knowledge of distribution and community structure of amphibians. The summer 2008 surveys took place in 9 of Oregon’s 10 ecoregions (Figure 1) (Thorson et al. 2003). Ecoregions provide a framework for discussing amphibian distribution across the state because they are relatively large areas defined by distinctive geographic and ecological (flora and fauna) characteristics. The goals of our 2008 work were to: • Increase the consistency, efficiency and ability of habitat crews in identifying amphibians through improved training. • Increase knowledge of distribution, community structure, and habitat associations of amphibians in streams in: o Western Oregon coastal and lower Columbia drainages. o Ponds, sloughs and other off-channel aquatic habitats in the Willamette Valley. o Great Basin of eastern Oregon and selected streams in central Oregon. • Combine the 2008 observations with the 2006-07 results. Title: 2008 Amphibian Distribution Surveys in Wadeable Streams and Ponds in Western and Southeast Oregon, Information Reports Number 2010-05 Abstract -- The ODFW Oregon Conservation Strategy identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy species”, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need (per USFWS requirements for State Wildlife Action Plans). The distribution of many species of amphibians in western Oregon is sparsely documented (Oregon Conservation Strategy, page 27). Although a broad-scale survey for amphibian presence would provide important baseline information about amphibian species composition and distribution, most studies have focused on limited areas. The majority of Oregon’s amphibians rely on aquatic habitats at some point of their life, either for breeding and juvenile development or to inhabit as adults. Most aquatic amphibians breed from late winter to early summer, and adults frequently remain in or near their breeding sites into the summer. Most tadpoles and juvenile amphibians are also active in and occupy aquatic habitats during the summer. Ongoing aquatic habitat and fish surveys are opportunities to observe species and life stages (breeding adults, tadpoles and juveniles) that occupy aquatic or riparian habitats during the summer. One cost-effective approach is to combine amphibian surveys with existing aquatic habitat and fish surveys such as those conducted as part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OCSRI 1997). The Oregon Plan has been in place since 1997 and the monitoring component provides a survey framework for streams in the lower Columbia River and Oregon coast drainages. The sampling framework is also compatible with implementation of the aquatic components of the Conservation Strategy, as demonstrated by this study. This study describes the presence of amphibians in and along wadeable streams in coast and lower Columbia River drainages of Oregon, ponds and sloughs in the Willamette Valley, and selected streams in the Great Basin of southeast and central Oregon. As a component of monitoring under the Oregon Plan, the Aquatic Inventories Project (AIP) conducts aquatic habitat surveys at randomly selected and spatially balanced sites across all 1st through 4th order streams in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages. The purpose of the habitat surveys is to describe stream morphology, instream physical habitat, and riparian vegetation. Because the surveyors were already observing features within and alongside the stream channel, they were able to record observations of amphibians. The amphibian component was consistent with the survey protocol used by the US Geological Survey’s Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative (http://armi.usgs.gov/). The advantage of coupling an amphibian component with the OR Plan aquatic surveys was that it not only was an efficient use of resources, but more importantly, provided information using a statistically rigorous survey design across a broad geographic area. The Native Fish Investigations Project began a six year study in 2007 to document the distribution and abundance of redband trout in the Great Basin region of Eastern Oregon. The site selection procedure is comparable to the statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design. Amphibian data are also collected during three other survey projects, and although the site selection procedure does not conform to the same statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design, the projects offer a number of opportunities to collect amphibian occurrence information over a wide variety of habitats. The amphibian observations from these three projects are also included in this report. The three projects are as follows: • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys on selected streams throughout the state. • AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys at stream habitat restoration projects in Western Oregon. • Native Fish Project conducts surveys of pond and slough sites for Oregon chub in the Willamette Valley. Due to the success of the 2006 and 2007 field studies, we continued our research during the summer of 2008 to improve our knowledge of distribution and community structure of amphibians. The summer 2008 surveys took place in 9 of Oregon’s 10 ecoregions (Figure 1) (Thorson et al. 2003). Ecoregions provide a framework for discussing amphibian distribution across the state because they are relatively large areas defined by distinctive geographic and ecological (flora and fauna) characteristics. The goals of our 2008 work were to: • Increase the consistency, efficiency and ability of habitat crews in identifying amphibians through improved training. • Increase knowledge of distribution, community structure, and habitat associations of amphibians in streams in: o Western Oregon coastal and lower Columbia drainages. o Ponds, sloughs and other off-channel aquatic habitats in the Willamette Valley. o Great Basin of eastern Oregon and selected streams in central Oregon. • Combine the 2008 observations with the 2006-07 results. Close

• 8619. [Article] Status, Distribution, and Life History Investigations of Warner Suckers, 2006-2010 Information Reports number 2011-02

  Abstract -- The Warner sucker Catostomus warnerensis is endemic to the Warner Valley, a subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. This species was historically abundant ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status, Distribution, and Life History Investigations of Warner Suckers, 2006-2010 Information Reports number 2011-02 Abstract -- The Warner sucker Catostomus warnerensis is endemic to the Warner Valley, a subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. This species was historically abundant (Snyder 1908) and its historical range includes three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile creeks). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner Valley is a northeast-southwest trending endorheic basin that extends approximately 90 km (Figure 1). The elevation of the valley floor is approximately 1,370 m and the basin is bound by fault block escarpments, the Warner Rim on the west and Hart Mountain and Poker Jim Ridge on the east. The Warner basin was formed during the middle Tertiary and late Quaternary geologic periods as a result of volcanic and tectonic activity (Baldwin 1974). Abundant precipitation during the Pleistocene Epoch resulted in the formation of Pluvial Lake Warner (Hubbs and Miller 1948). At its maximum extent approximately 11,000 years ago, the lake reached approximately 100 m in depth and 1,300 km2 in area (Snyder et al. 1964; Weide 1975). The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. The metapopulation of Warner suckers is comprised of two life history forms: lake and stream morphs. The lake suckers display a lacustrine-adfluvial pattern in which they spend most of the year in the lake and spawn in the streams. However, when upstream migration is hindered by low stream flows during drought years or by irrigation diversion dams, lake suckers may spawn in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes in the lakes likely reduce sucker recruitment by predation on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). Periodic lake desiccation also threatens the lake suckers. The stream suckers display a fluvial life-history pattern and spawn in the three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Threats specific to the stream form include water withdrawals for irrigation and impacts from grazing. Stream suckers recolonized the lakes after past drying events (mid-1930’s and early-1990’s). The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets three recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that: (1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the drainages of Twentymile Creek, Honey Creek, and below the falls on Deep Creek, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes; (2) passage is restored within and among these drainages so that individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation; and (3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (ODFW’s) Native Fish Investigations Project conducted investigations from 2006 through 2010 to describe the conservation (recovery) status of Warner suckers. The objectives of our investigations were to: 1) describe the current distribution of suckers in the Warner subbasin, 2) estimate their abundance in the lakes and streams, 3) collect life history information, and 4) describe the primary factors that currently limit the sucker’s ability to maintain a functioning metapopulation, including connectivity/fragmentation of habitats and factors affecting successful recruitment in the lake and stream environments. Previous similar studies were conducted in 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, and 2001 (White et al. 1990; White et al. 1991; Allen et al. 1994; Allen et al. 1995; Allen et al. 1996; Bosse et al. 1997; Hartzell et al. 2001). We addressed these objectives by implementing the following tasks: 1) conducting surveys in Hart and Crump Lakes to describe the distribution and quantify the abundance of Warner suckers, search for evidence of recent recruitment, estimate sucker abundance relative to nonnative fish abundance, and describe certain life history characteristics, 2) tagging suckers with Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags in the lakes and tributaries to estimate growth rates and describe seasonal movements, 3) radio tracking suckers in the lakes and tributaries to describe seasonal movements, 4) fishing screw traps in Warner basin tributaries to monitor downstream movements, 5) operating a trap at a fish ladder on a Warner tributary to assess upstream passage success, 6) conducting surveys in Warner basin tributaries to describe the current distribution of stream resident populations of Warner suckers and to quantify their abundance, 7) describing associations between the distribution of suckers and habitat variables in Twentymile Creek, 8) trapping larval suckers in the tributaries to describe the relative abundance and timing of larval movements, 9) describing life history parameters including growth rates, length frequency distributions, length at maturity, and weight-length relationships, 10) evaluating a nonlethal ageing technique, 11) describing the distribution and abundance of the Warner suckers at Summer Lake Wildlife Management area, where a self-sustaining population became established after fish salvage from Hart Lake during the 1992 drought, and 12) collecting tissue samples for future genetic analyses. This report compiles the results of this work, synthesizes and interprets findings relative to the conservation status of the species, and recommends future studies. Title: Status, Distribution, and Life History Investigations of Warner Suckers, 2006-2010 Information Reports number 2011-02 Abstract -- The Warner sucker Catostomus warnerensis is endemic to the Warner Valley, a subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. This species was historically abundant (Snyder 1908) and its historical range includes three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile creeks). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner Valley is a northeast-southwest trending endorheic basin that extends approximately 90 km (Figure 1). The elevation of the valley floor is approximately 1,370 m and the basin is bound by fault block escarpments, the Warner Rim on the west and Hart Mountain and Poker Jim Ridge on the east. The Warner basin was formed during the middle Tertiary and late Quaternary geologic periods as a result of volcanic and tectonic activity (Baldwin 1974). Abundant precipitation during the Pleistocene Epoch resulted in the formation of Pluvial Lake Warner (Hubbs and Miller 1948). At its maximum extent approximately 11,000 years ago, the lake reached approximately 100 m in depth and 1,300 km2 in area (Snyder et al. 1964; Weide 1975). The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. The metapopulation of Warner suckers is comprised of two life history forms: lake and stream morphs. The lake suckers display a lacustrine-adfluvial pattern in which they spend most of the year in the lake and spawn in the streams. However, when upstream migration is hindered by low stream flows during drought years or by irrigation diversion dams, lake suckers may spawn in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes in the lakes likely reduce sucker recruitment by predation on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). Periodic lake desiccation also threatens the lake suckers. The stream suckers display a fluvial life-history pattern and spawn in the three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Threats specific to the stream form include water withdrawals for irrigation and impacts from grazing. Stream suckers recolonized the lakes after past drying events (mid-1930’s and early-1990’s). The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets three recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that: (1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the drainages of Twentymile Creek, Honey Creek, and below the falls on Deep Creek, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes; (2) passage is restored within and among these drainages so that individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation; and (3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (ODFW’s) Native Fish Investigations Project conducted investigations from 2006 through 2010 to describe the conservation (recovery) status of Warner suckers. The objectives of our investigations were to: 1) describe the current distribution of suckers in the Warner subbasin, 2) estimate their abundance in the lakes and streams, 3) collect life history information, and 4) describe the primary factors that currently limit the sucker’s ability to maintain a functioning metapopulation, including connectivity/fragmentation of habitats and factors affecting successful recruitment in the lake and stream environments. Previous similar studies were conducted in 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, and 2001 (White et al. 1990; White et al. 1991; Allen et al. 1994; Allen et al. 1995; Allen et al. 1996; Bosse et al. 1997; Hartzell et al. 2001). We addressed these objectives by implementing the following tasks: 1) conducting surveys in Hart and Crump Lakes to describe the distribution and quantify the abundance of Warner suckers, search for evidence of recent recruitment, estimate sucker abundance relative to nonnative fish abundance, and describe certain life history characteristics, 2) tagging suckers with Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags in the lakes and tributaries to estimate growth rates and describe seasonal movements, 3) radio tracking suckers in the lakes and tributaries to describe seasonal movements, 4) fishing screw traps in Warner basin tributaries to monitor downstream movements, 5) operating a trap at a fish ladder on a Warner tributary to assess upstream passage success, 6) conducting surveys in Warner basin tributaries to describe the current distribution of stream resident populations of Warner suckers and to quantify their abundance, 7) describing associations between the distribution of suckers and habitat variables in Twentymile Creek, 8) trapping larval suckers in the tributaries to describe the relative abundance and timing of larval movements, 9) describing life history parameters including growth rates, length frequency distributions, length at maturity, and weight-length relationships, 10) evaluating a nonlethal ageing technique, 11) describing the distribution and abundance of the Warner suckers at Summer Lake Wildlife Management area, where a self-sustaining population became established after fish salvage from Hart Lake during the 1992 drought, and 12) collecting tissue samples for future genetic analyses. This report compiles the results of this work, synthesizes and interprets findings relative to the conservation status of the species, and recommends future studies. Close

• 8620. [Article] 2011 Warner Sucker Investigations (Honey Creek) Progress Reports 2011

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

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

• 8621. [Article] Status and Biology of Columbia River White Sturgeon (aka What We Know About Columbia River White Sturgeon and How We Know It.) Information Reports number 2014-07

  Abstract -- In July 1986, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) started funding a cooperative study by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status and Biology of Columbia River White Sturgeon (aka What We Know About Columbia River White Sturgeon and How We Know It.) Information Reports number 2014-07 Abstract -- In July 1986, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) started funding a cooperative study by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which later became the U.S. Geologic Survey (USGS), Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to determine the status and habitat requirements of white sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus populations in the Columbia River downstream from Priest Rapids Dam. The scope of work, funding sources, and cooperating agencies have changed over time, and this report covers work done or directed by ODFW, Columbia River Investigations over the last 25 years; work by cooperating agencies is referenced. While this report includes data through 2010, white sturgeon research by ODFW and cooperators continues and annual reports and data in formats similar to those contained within this report will become available as soon as they are published. Columbia River white sturgeon are 1 of 8 species of sturgeons found in North America (Bemis and Kynard 1997). White sturgeon are the largest freshwater fish in North America (Page and Burr 1991), able to reach lengths of 6 m (Scott and Crossman 1973) and weights of 800 kg (Hart 1973). They have a cartilaginous skeleton, a persistent notochord, and lack scales (Scott and Crossman 1973). White sturgeon skin has patches of small denticles and five rows of dermic bone called scutes (Scott and Crossman 1973). White sturgeon scute counts are: (11 – 14 dorsal, 36 – 48 lateral and 9 – 12 ventral scutes) (Scott and Crossman 1973; Moyle 1976; North et al. 2002). White sturgeon can be found in marine and estuarine environments from northern Baja, Mexico to the Aleutian Islands in Alaska (Eschmeyer et al. 1983; Rosales-Casian and Ruz-Cruz 2005). They can be found in freshwater rivers along the Pacific Coast between Monterrey, California and Alaska (Scott and Crossman 1973; Page and Burr 1991). Successful reproduction appears to be limited to the Sacramento-San Joaquin, Columbia, and Fraser river systems (Hanson et al. 1992). White sturgeon inhabit the mainstem Columbia River and major tributaries up to Mica Dam (river kilometer (Rkm) 1,549) (UCWSRI 2002). Construction and operation of the Federal Columbia River hydropower system (FCRPS) have affected the productivity of white sturgeon populations and artificially created a series of restricted reservoirs and river segments. Our work to document the status, habitat requirements, and to provide managers with population estimates was conducted in the mainstem Columbia River (Figure 1) to Priest Rapids Dam (Rkm 13 – 639) and two tributaries, the Willamette River (Rkm 0 – 43) and the Snake River (Rkm 0 – 16 and 397 – 459) (Figure 1). Data collected is used by managing agencies to address mitigation actions and to assist in setting harvest guidelines for sport and commercial fisheries. Commercial fishing in the Columbia River is regulated by the Columbia River Compact (Woods 2008) and is managed by zone. Commercial Fishing Zones 1-5 are downstream of Bonneville Dam and are a non-tribal commercial fishery. Commercial Fishing Zone 6 (hereafter referred to as Zone 6), which includes Bonneville, The Dalles and John Day reservoirs, is tribal commercial and tribal subsistence fisheries. Sport fishing in the Columbia River is regulated by Joint State Hearings and is managed by separate guidelines for areas downstream of Bonneville Dam and each reservoir upstream of Bonneville Dam to McNary Dam. Title: Status and Biology of Columbia River White Sturgeon (aka What We Know About Columbia River White Sturgeon and How We Know It.) Information Reports number 2014-07 Abstract -- In July 1986, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) started funding a cooperative study by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which later became the U.S. Geologic Survey (USGS), Columbia River Intertribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to determine the status and habitat requirements of white sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus populations in the Columbia River downstream from Priest Rapids Dam. The scope of work, funding sources, and cooperating agencies have changed over time, and this report covers work done or directed by ODFW, Columbia River Investigations over the last 25 years; work by cooperating agencies is referenced. While this report includes data through 2010, white sturgeon research by ODFW and cooperators continues and annual reports and data in formats similar to those contained within this report will become available as soon as they are published. Columbia River white sturgeon are 1 of 8 species of sturgeons found in North America (Bemis and Kynard 1997). White sturgeon are the largest freshwater fish in North America (Page and Burr 1991), able to reach lengths of 6 m (Scott and Crossman 1973) and weights of 800 kg (Hart 1973). They have a cartilaginous skeleton, a persistent notochord, and lack scales (Scott and Crossman 1973). White sturgeon skin has patches of small denticles and five rows of dermic bone called scutes (Scott and Crossman 1973). White sturgeon scute counts are: (11 – 14 dorsal, 36 – 48 lateral and 9 – 12 ventral scutes) (Scott and Crossman 1973; Moyle 1976; North et al. 2002). White sturgeon can be found in marine and estuarine environments from northern Baja, Mexico to the Aleutian Islands in Alaska (Eschmeyer et al. 1983; Rosales-Casian and Ruz-Cruz 2005). They can be found in freshwater rivers along the Pacific Coast between Monterrey, California and Alaska (Scott and Crossman 1973; Page and Burr 1991). Successful reproduction appears to be limited to the Sacramento-San Joaquin, Columbia, and Fraser river systems (Hanson et al. 1992). White sturgeon inhabit the mainstem Columbia River and major tributaries up to Mica Dam (river kilometer (Rkm) 1,549) (UCWSRI 2002). Construction and operation of the Federal Columbia River hydropower system (FCRPS) have affected the productivity of white sturgeon populations and artificially created a series of restricted reservoirs and river segments. Our work to document the status, habitat requirements, and to provide managers with population estimates was conducted in the mainstem Columbia River (Figure 1) to Priest Rapids Dam (Rkm 13 – 639) and two tributaries, the Willamette River (Rkm 0 – 43) and the Snake River (Rkm 0 – 16 and 397 – 459) (Figure 1). Data collected is used by managing agencies to address mitigation actions and to assist in setting harvest guidelines for sport and commercial fisheries. Commercial fishing in the Columbia River is regulated by the Columbia River Compact (Woods 2008) and is managed by zone. Commercial Fishing Zones 1-5 are downstream of Bonneville Dam and are a non-tribal commercial fishery. Commercial Fishing Zone 6 (hereafter referred to as Zone 6), which includes Bonneville, The Dalles and John Day reservoirs, is tribal commercial and tribal subsistence fisheries. Sport fishing in the Columbia River is regulated by Joint State Hearings and is managed by separate guidelines for areas downstream of Bonneville Dam and each reservoir upstream of Bonneville Dam to McNary Dam. Close

• 8622. [Article] Sampling Design and Statistical Analysis Methods for the Integrated Biological and Physical Monitoring of Oregon Streams, Report Number OPSW-ODFW02002-07

  Abstract -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has conducted surveys of coho salmon spawning on Oregon coastal streams for over 50 years (Jacobs et al. 2001). The initial surveys were done ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Sampling Design and Statistical Analysis Methods for the Integrated Biological and Physical Monitoring of Oregon Streams, Report Number OPSW-ODFW02002-07 Abstract -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has conducted surveys of coho salmon spawning on Oregon coastal streams for over 50 years (Jacobs et al. 2001). The initial surveys were done on purposefully selected streams. The sampling design was switched to a stratified random probability design in 1990 (Urquhart and Kincaid, 1999). The current concern with long-term viability of coastal coho populations sparked a review of that design, with an objective of achieving an integrated sampling approach for spawning salmon, juvenile salmon, and freshwater physical habitat. For each for these populations, there was an interest not only in current status in terms of fish numbers or habitat quality, but also in regional temporal trends. In addition, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) wanted a much smaller sample from the same stream population to measure water quality. The design discussed in this report addresses all of these objectives. Title: Sampling Design and Statistical Analysis Methods for the Integrated Biological and Physical Monitoring of Oregon Streams, Report Number OPSW-ODFW02002-07 Abstract -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has conducted surveys of coho salmon spawning on Oregon coastal streams for over 50 years (Jacobs et al. 2001). The initial surveys were done on purposefully selected streams. The sampling design was switched to a stratified random probability design in 1990 (Urquhart and Kincaid, 1999). The current concern with long-term viability of coastal coho populations sparked a review of that design, with an objective of achieving an integrated sampling approach for spawning salmon, juvenile salmon, and freshwater physical habitat. For each for these populations, there was an interest not only in current status in terms of fish numbers or habitat quality, but also in regional temporal trends. In addition, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) wanted a much smaller sample from the same stream population to measure water quality. The design discussed in this report addresses all of these objectives. Close

• 8623. [Article] Population Health Goals and Assessment Methods for Steelhead in the Klamath Mountains Province Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2002-08

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

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

• 8624. [Article] Oregon Coast Coho Habitat Assessment 1998-2003 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2005-5

  Abstract -- In November 2003, the State of Oregon began a comprehensive review of coho and their habitat in NOAA Fisheries’ Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). The purpose of the review ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon Coast Coho Habitat Assessment 1998-2003 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2005-5 Abstract -- In November 2003, the State of Oregon began a comprehensive review of coho and their habitat in NOAA Fisheries’ Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). The purpose of the review is threefold: 1) provide an analysis of the current status and trend in coho populations, their habitat, and related threats; 2) provide NOAA Fisheries with information it requires to determine whether formalized conservation efforts within the ESU justify not listing coho under the Endangered Species Act as outlined in their Policy for Evaluation of Conservation Efforts; and 3) provide information to state agencies, watershed councils, and others participating in the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OPSW) so they may assess the success of their OPSW programs and modify them where necessary to better achieve their objectives (i.e. adaptive management). This report describes the current status and trend of instream physical habitat for coho in the ESU as well as summarizes and evaluates instream habitat restoration activities conducted from 1997-2003. Title: Oregon Coast Coho Habitat Assessment 1998-2003 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2005-5 Abstract -- In November 2003, the State of Oregon began a comprehensive review of coho and their habitat in NOAA Fisheries’ Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). The purpose of the review is threefold: 1) provide an analysis of the current status and trend in coho populations, their habitat, and related threats; 2) provide NOAA Fisheries with information it requires to determine whether formalized conservation efforts within the ESU justify not listing coho under the Endangered Species Act as outlined in their Policy for Evaluation of Conservation Efforts; and 3) provide information to state agencies, watershed councils, and others participating in the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OPSW) so they may assess the success of their OPSW programs and modify them where necessary to better achieve their objectives (i.e. adaptive management). This report describes the current status and trend of instream physical habitat for coho in the ESU as well as summarizes and evaluates instream habitat restoration activities conducted from 1997-2003. Close

• 8625. [Article] Stream Habitat Conditions in Western Oregon 2005 Monitoring Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-5

  Abstract -- Monitoring programs under the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds were designed to assess the status and trend in fish populations and aquatic habitat in Oregon’s coastal basins. Although ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Stream Habitat Conditions in Western Oregon 2005 Monitoring Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-5 Abstract -- Monitoring programs under the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds were designed to assess the status and trend in fish populations and aquatic habitat in Oregon’s coastal basins. Although the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds was initiated in response to the petition to list Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), monitoring was subsequently expanded to include other salmonids. Through coordinated surveys we are able to evaluate freshwater habitat, fish distribution, and abundance of juvenile and adult coho salmon and steelhead trout. The habitat survey project has the broadest geographic scope of inference and ties to other program components as well – basin surveys, surveys at habitat restoration sites, adult and juvenile coho surveys, and life cycle watersheds (Flitcroft et al. 2002). The Oregon Plan facilitated cooperation and partnerships to study the contemporary life history dynamics of coho salmon in the Oregon coastal ESU (Evolutionary Significant Unit). A viability and status assessment of Oregon coastal Coho (Chilcote 2005) and the Conservation Plan for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (Nicholas 2006) evaluated the relationship of aquatic habitat to the productivity of coho salmon populations and recommended actions to promote recovery. The habitat portion of the viability assessment was based on a review of aquatic and riparian habitat collected by the Aquatic Inventories Project (ODFW) from 1990 to 2004 (Rodgers et al. 2005). The authors of the habitat assessment (Rodgers et al 2005) and viability assessment (Chilcote 2005) concluded that coho productivity in 22 coastal coho populations was limited by the complexity of stream habitat used by juvenile coho during their first winter of freshwater residence. The term “stream complexity” integrates geomorphic and structural characteristics of streams and associated aquatic habitat. Complex geomorphic features may be observed in low gradient streams flowing through wide valley floors with multiple channels and off-channel habitats. Structural complexity refers to the size and configuration of pools, large wood pieces and jams, substrate, and undercut banks. The combination of geomorphic and structural features provides cover and refugia during high winter flows for juvenile coho. Stream reaches that can or have the potential to create these conditions are commonly located in lower reaches of moderate size streams in areas with wide valley floors and are considered to contain high quality habitat for juvenile coho. Burnett et al. (2007) developed spatial models to estimate high-quality habitat rearing potential, termed intrinsic potential, in coastal streams. A stream’s intrinsic potential was modeled using valley width, gradient, and stream flow. Historically, streams identified as having high intrinsic potential may have been the most productive for juvenile coho salmon; restoration of these reaches may be the key to recovery of coho salmon. The viability assessment and Coho Plan recommend that we monitor the trends in total amount and spatial distribution of these habitats in coastal drainages. This report discusses the findings from aquatic habitat surveys conducted in summer 2005 in coastal drainages. Our objectives are to describe and compare channel morphology, instream habitat and complexity, and riparian conditions in all wadeable streams in five monitoring areas. The sample design permitted us to post stratify the sample sites into three additional frames: sites within coho and steelhead distribution, sites outside coho distribution, and sites within high intrinsic potential for coho. We also used two habitat models to integrate habitat attributes to describe the habitat quality and capacity for different life stages of juvenile coho and steelhead. Title: Stream Habitat Conditions in Western Oregon 2005 Monitoring Report Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-5 Abstract -- Monitoring programs under the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds were designed to assess the status and trend in fish populations and aquatic habitat in Oregon’s coastal basins. Although the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds was initiated in response to the petition to list Oregon coastal coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), monitoring was subsequently expanded to include other salmonids. Through coordinated surveys we are able to evaluate freshwater habitat, fish distribution, and abundance of juvenile and adult coho salmon and steelhead trout. The habitat survey project has the broadest geographic scope of inference and ties to other program components as well – basin surveys, surveys at habitat restoration sites, adult and juvenile coho surveys, and life cycle watersheds (Flitcroft et al. 2002). The Oregon Plan facilitated cooperation and partnerships to study the contemporary life history dynamics of coho salmon in the Oregon coastal ESU (Evolutionary Significant Unit). A viability and status assessment of Oregon coastal Coho (Chilcote 2005) and the Conservation Plan for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (Nicholas 2006) evaluated the relationship of aquatic habitat to the productivity of coho salmon populations and recommended actions to promote recovery. The habitat portion of the viability assessment was based on a review of aquatic and riparian habitat collected by the Aquatic Inventories Project (ODFW) from 1990 to 2004 (Rodgers et al. 2005). The authors of the habitat assessment (Rodgers et al 2005) and viability assessment (Chilcote 2005) concluded that coho productivity in 22 coastal coho populations was limited by the complexity of stream habitat used by juvenile coho during their first winter of freshwater residence. The term “stream complexity” integrates geomorphic and structural characteristics of streams and associated aquatic habitat. Complex geomorphic features may be observed in low gradient streams flowing through wide valley floors with multiple channels and off-channel habitats. Structural complexity refers to the size and configuration of pools, large wood pieces and jams, substrate, and undercut banks. The combination of geomorphic and structural features provides cover and refugia during high winter flows for juvenile coho. Stream reaches that can or have the potential to create these conditions are commonly located in lower reaches of moderate size streams in areas with wide valley floors and are considered to contain high quality habitat for juvenile coho. Burnett et al. (2007) developed spatial models to estimate high-quality habitat rearing potential, termed intrinsic potential, in coastal streams. A stream’s intrinsic potential was modeled using valley width, gradient, and stream flow. Historically, streams identified as having high intrinsic potential may have been the most productive for juvenile coho salmon; restoration of these reaches may be the key to recovery of coho salmon. The viability assessment and Coho Plan recommend that we monitor the trends in total amount and spatial distribution of these habitats in coastal drainages. This report discusses the findings from aquatic habitat surveys conducted in summer 2005 in coastal drainages. Our objectives are to describe and compare channel morphology, instream habitat and complexity, and riparian conditions in all wadeable streams in five monitoring areas. The sample design permitted us to post stratify the sample sites into three additional frames: sites within coho and steelhead distribution, sites outside coho distribution, and sites within high intrinsic potential for coho. We also used two habitat models to integrate habitat attributes to describe the habitat quality and capacity for different life stages of juvenile coho and steelhead. Close

• 8626. [Article] 2002 – 2005 Effectiveness Monitoring Report For the Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-6

  Abstract -- Stream restoration has been a commonly employed tool of fish managers in the Pacific Northwest for decades, although monitoring the effect of the restoration rarely received equal support. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2002 – 2005 Effectiveness Monitoring Report For the Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-6 Abstract -- Stream restoration has been a commonly employed tool of fish managers in the Pacific Northwest for decades, although monitoring the effect of the restoration rarely received equal support. The Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program, on the other hand, recognized the necessity to evaluate the effectiveness of the projects and provide feedback to practitioners and managers. We designed the monitoring strategy to quantify the effects of project treatments on stream habitat and to assess the overall impact on fish populations in western Oregon. In this report, we evaluate the site selection and assess changes observed in physical habitat using a pre-post survey design of restoration projects implemented from 2002-2004 in western Oregon. Title: 2002 – 2005 Effectiveness Monitoring Report For the Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-6 Abstract -- Stream restoration has been a commonly employed tool of fish managers in the Pacific Northwest for decades, although monitoring the effect of the restoration rarely received equal support. The Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program, on the other hand, recognized the necessity to evaluate the effectiveness of the projects and provide feedback to practitioners and managers. We designed the monitoring strategy to quantify the effects of project treatments on stream habitat and to assess the overall impact on fish populations in western Oregon. In this report, we evaluate the site selection and assess changes observed in physical habitat using a pre-post survey design of restoration projects implemented from 2002-2004 in western Oregon. Close

• 8627. [Article] Assessment of Oregon Coastal Adult Winter Steelhead – Redd Surveys 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-09

  Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project to monitor spawning winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in coastal ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Assessment of Oregon Coastal Adult Winter Steelhead – Redd Surveys 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-09 Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project to monitor spawning winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in coastal Oregon streams in 2003. This project is designed to assess the yearly status and trend, presence of hatchery fish, and distribution of winter steelhead spawners in six coastal Monitoring Areas (MA) in two Distinct Population Segments (DPS) (Figure 1). A spatially balanced probabilistic sampling design (Stevens 2002) was used to select survey sites across a stream network of winter steelhead spawning habitat. Monitoring of winter steelhead abundance is based on counts of redds instead of live or dead fish, in accordance with prior work conducted by ODFW in Oregon coastal streams (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Repeat visits to each site from February through May generated a total redd count for each survey. Redds were marked with colored rocks and flagging to prevent re-counting, during subsequent surveys. The survey interval of once every fourteen days is based on prior research (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Specific descriptions of project protocols can be found in the annual survey procedures manual (ODFW 2007). More information on methods and study background is available in Suring (In Prep.). Title: Assessment of Oregon Coastal Adult Winter Steelhead – Redd Surveys 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2007-09 Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project to monitor spawning winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in coastal Oregon streams in 2003. This project is designed to assess the yearly status and trend, presence of hatchery fish, and distribution of winter steelhead spawners in six coastal Monitoring Areas (MA) in two Distinct Population Segments (DPS) (Figure 1). A spatially balanced probabilistic sampling design (Stevens 2002) was used to select survey sites across a stream network of winter steelhead spawning habitat. Monitoring of winter steelhead abundance is based on counts of redds instead of live or dead fish, in accordance with prior work conducted by ODFW in Oregon coastal streams (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Repeat visits to each site from February through May generated a total redd count for each survey. Redds were marked with colored rocks and flagging to prevent re-counting, during subsequent surveys. The survey interval of once every fourteen days is based on prior research (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Specific descriptions of project protocols can be found in the annual survey procedures manual (ODFW 2007). More information on methods and study background is available in Suring (In Prep.). Close

• 8628. [Article] Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Oregon Coastal and Lower Columbia Streams, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-1

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

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Oregon Coastal and Lower Columbia Streams, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-1 Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project in 1998 to monitor the trend in abundance and distribution of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) rearing in Oregon coastal streams. Monitoring is currently designed to provide annual abundance and distribution information at the stratum-scale (described in Jepsen and Leader 2007) for each of several coho evolutionarily significant units (ESU’s) and steelhead distinct population segments (DPS’s), and to eventually use these annual data to provide longterm trend information. Ultimately these juvenile fish data will be used to investigate relationships between freshwater habitat characteristics, adult spawner abundance, and juvenile recruitment. This progress report summarizes abundance and distribution data collected in 2007 for each ESU and DPS, and for the Oregon Coast Coho ESU includes a time series for abundance data for all years of monitoring. A fuller description of the OCC, OCS, SONCC and KMPS sampling frames, study design and survey methods, is found in Jepsen and Rodgers (2004) and for the LCRC and LCRS frames in Jepsen and Leader (2007). The strata are diagramed in Figure 1 and organized in subsequent tables. At a subset of the OCC sites, this project also collects water temperature data and macroinvertebrate data in conjunction with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. These data will be reported separately, and can be requested from project staff. In addition, the project re-initiated a snorkel and electrofishing verification study in the Smith River basin, which will be summarized in a separate report. Title: Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Oregon Coastal and Lower Columbia Streams, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-1 Abstract -- As part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project in 1998 to monitor the trend in abundance and distribution of juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) rearing in Oregon coastal streams. Monitoring is currently designed to provide annual abundance and distribution information at the stratum-scale (described in Jepsen and Leader 2007) for each of several coho evolutionarily significant units (ESU’s) and steelhead distinct population segments (DPS’s), and to eventually use these annual data to provide longterm trend information. Ultimately these juvenile fish data will be used to investigate relationships between freshwater habitat characteristics, adult spawner abundance, and juvenile recruitment. This progress report summarizes abundance and distribution data collected in 2007 for each ESU and DPS, and for the Oregon Coast Coho ESU includes a time series for abundance data for all years of monitoring. A fuller description of the OCC, OCS, SONCC and KMPS sampling frames, study design and survey methods, is found in Jepsen and Rodgers (2004) and for the LCRC and LCRS frames in Jepsen and Leader (2007). The strata are diagramed in Figure 1 and organized in subsequent tables. At a subset of the OCC sites, this project also collects water temperature data and macroinvertebrate data in conjunction with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. These data will be reported separately, and can be requested from project staff. In addition, the project re-initiated a snorkel and electrofishing verification study in the Smith River basin, which will be summarized in a separate report. Close

• 8629. [Article] Status of Winter Rearing Habitat In Four Coho Population Units, 2007 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-7

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

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

• 8630. [Article] Assessment of Oregon Coastal Adult Winter Steelhead – Redd Surveys 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-09

  Abstract -- Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project to monitor spawning winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in coastal Oregon streams in 2003. This project is designed to assess the yearly status and trend, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Assessment of Oregon Coastal Adult Winter Steelhead – Redd Surveys 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-09 Abstract -- Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project to monitor spawning winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in coastal Oregon streams in 2003. This project is designed to assess the yearly status and trend, presence of hatchery fish, and distribution of winter steelhead spawners in six coastal Monitoring Areas (MA) in two Distinct Population Segments (DPS) (Figure 1). In 2008 the project was modified to assess status only at the DPS level. A spatially balanced probabilistic sampling design (Stevens 2002) was used to select survey sites across a stream network of winter steelhead spawning habitat. The selection frame was developed using best professional knowledge of biologists from a variety of private and governmental organizations. Monitoring of winter steelhead abundance is based on counts of redds instead of live or dead fish, in accordance with prior work conducted by ODFW in Oregon coastal streams (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Repeat visits to each site from February through May generated a total redd count for each survey. Redds were marked with colored rocks and flagging to prevent re-counting during subsequent surveys. The survey interval of once every fourteen days is based on prior research (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Specific descriptions of project protocols can be found in the annual survey procedures manual (ODFW 2008). More information on methods and study background is available in Suring (In Prep.). Title: Assessment of Oregon Coastal Adult Winter Steelhead – Redd Surveys 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2008-09 Abstract -- Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a project to monitor spawning winter steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in coastal Oregon streams in 2003. This project is designed to assess the yearly status and trend, presence of hatchery fish, and distribution of winter steelhead spawners in six coastal Monitoring Areas (MA) in two Distinct Population Segments (DPS) (Figure 1). In 2008 the project was modified to assess status only at the DPS level. A spatially balanced probabilistic sampling design (Stevens 2002) was used to select survey sites across a stream network of winter steelhead spawning habitat. The selection frame was developed using best professional knowledge of biologists from a variety of private and governmental organizations. Monitoring of winter steelhead abundance is based on counts of redds instead of live or dead fish, in accordance with prior work conducted by ODFW in Oregon coastal streams (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Repeat visits to each site from February through May generated a total redd count for each survey. Redds were marked with colored rocks and flagging to prevent re-counting during subsequent surveys. The survey interval of once every fourteen days is based on prior research (Susac and Jacobs 1999). Specific descriptions of project protocols can be found in the annual survey procedures manual (ODFW 2008). More information on methods and study background is available in Suring (In Prep.). Close

• 8631. [Article] Abundance Monitoring of Juvenile Salmonids In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-1

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

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

• 8632. [Article] The Status and Trend of Physical Habitat and Rearing Potential in Coho Bearing Streams in the Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-5

  Abstract -- In 1997, the Oregon Coastal Restoration Initiative (OCSRI 1997) identified the quality of stream habitat as a potential factor influencing the decline of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Status and Trend of Physical Habitat and Rearing Potential in Coho Bearing Streams in the Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-5 Abstract -- In 1997, the Oregon Coastal Restoration Initiative (OCSRI 1997) identified the quality of stream habitat as a potential factor influencing the decline of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in Oregon coastal streams. In 1998, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) implemented a monitoring program that utilized a random, spatially balanced survey design to provide statistically rigorous information on the status and trend of habitat conditions in Oregon coastal streams. In response to the ESA listing of coho salmon, the State of Oregon published a comprehensive review of aquatic habitat in the Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) in 2005 (Rodgers et al 2005). The NOAA Fisheries more recently published a request for additional information in the 2009 Federal Register notice (Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 81 / Wednesday, April 29, 2009). This report will serve as an update to Rodgers et al (2005), and will provide an analysis of the current status and trends in aquatic habitat from 1998 through 2008 within the Oregon Coastal Coho ESU. The status and trend of instream physical habitat conditions in the Oregon Coastal coho ESU were assessed from twelve variables collected by the ODFW habitat monitoring program from 1998-2008. Habitat conditions were described at the scale of the ESU, four monitoring areas/strata within the ESU, and by six land use categories (agriculture, urban, private non-industrial and industrial forest, and public state and federal forest). The condition of habitat was compared among monitoring areas and land use categories. In addition, the habitat condition at random survey sites was compared to that at sites experiencing minimal human disturbance (i.e. reference sites). Potential winter rearing capacity for juvenile coho salmon was calculated for all available habitat and for high quality habitat at the monitoring area scale and in selected population units. We calculated the rearing potential from high quality habitat because modeling (Nickelson and Lawson 1998) demonstrated that during periods of prolonged poor ocean survival, only areas with high quality habitat will be able to support coho at full seeding during poor marine conditions. The final objective of this report is to discuss whether sufficient habitat capacity exists to support productivity of juvenile coho at the monitoring strata scale during periods of low marine survival. Title: The Status and Trend of Physical Habitat and Rearing Potential in Coho Bearing Streams in the Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-5 Abstract -- In 1997, the Oregon Coastal Restoration Initiative (OCSRI 1997) identified the quality of stream habitat as a potential factor influencing the decline of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) in Oregon coastal streams. In 1998, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) implemented a monitoring program that utilized a random, spatially balanced survey design to provide statistically rigorous information on the status and trend of habitat conditions in Oregon coastal streams. In response to the ESA listing of coho salmon, the State of Oregon published a comprehensive review of aquatic habitat in the Oregon Coastal Coho Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) in 2005 (Rodgers et al 2005). The NOAA Fisheries more recently published a request for additional information in the 2009 Federal Register notice (Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 81 / Wednesday, April 29, 2009). This report will serve as an update to Rodgers et al (2005), and will provide an analysis of the current status and trends in aquatic habitat from 1998 through 2008 within the Oregon Coastal Coho ESU. The status and trend of instream physical habitat conditions in the Oregon Coastal coho ESU were assessed from twelve variables collected by the ODFW habitat monitoring program from 1998-2008. Habitat conditions were described at the scale of the ESU, four monitoring areas/strata within the ESU, and by six land use categories (agriculture, urban, private non-industrial and industrial forest, and public state and federal forest). The condition of habitat was compared among monitoring areas and land use categories. In addition, the habitat condition at random survey sites was compared to that at sites experiencing minimal human disturbance (i.e. reference sites). Potential winter rearing capacity for juvenile coho salmon was calculated for all available habitat and for high quality habitat at the monitoring area scale and in selected population units. We calculated the rearing potential from high quality habitat because modeling (Nickelson and Lawson 1998) demonstrated that during periods of prolonged poor ocean survival, only areas with high quality habitat will be able to support coho at full seeding during poor marine conditions. The final objective of this report is to discuss whether sufficient habitat capacity exists to support productivity of juvenile coho at the monitoring strata scale during periods of low marine survival. Close

• 8633. [Article] Recovery of Wild Coho Salmon in Salmon River Basin, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-10

  Abstract -- Recovery and conservation of naturally self-sustaining salmon populations is a central goal of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. In 1998, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Recovery of Wild Coho Salmon in Salmon River Basin, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-10 Abstract -- Recovery and conservation of naturally self-sustaining salmon populations is a central goal of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. In 1998, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a comprehensive program to monitor the status of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) populations and aquatic habitat in coastal drainages of Oregon (OWEB 2003). A 2005 assessment by ODFW concluded that Oregon coastal coho were viable at the scale of the Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) and demonstrated resilience in response to improving ocean conditions. Yet 7 of 21 (33%) individual populations within the ESU failed one or more of five criteria used to assess viability (Chilcote et al. 2005), and it is uncertain whether productivity levels across the ESU will recover sufficiently to withstand future periods of poor ocean conditions. The coho population in Salmon River was the only population in the ESU to fail all five viability criteria. Uncertainty remains about the response of Oregon coastal coho salmon to different combinations of freshwater and marine limiting factors, complicating recovery efforts (Lawson 1993; Lawson et al. 2004; IMST 2006). Such uncertainty cannot be resolved entirely by existing Oregon Plan monitoring programs, which target only a portion of the habitats and coho salmon life stages in large river basins, and with few exceptions (e.g., Johnson et al. 2005), were not designed to test population responses to individual management manipulations. In 2007, in response to the failure of viability criteria, ODFW managers discontinued releases of hatchery coho salmon into Salmon River as one of the primary management actions under the Oregon Conservation Plan for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit (hereafter “coho plan,” Nicholas 2006). This change affords the first opportunity in Oregon to monitor the results of a large scale experiment in removing hatchery coho salmon from a basin for at least four generations (twelve years). Hatchery production has been a centerpiece of salmon management for decades, but rarely has full recovery from hatchery influence been given a chance to succeed. Salmon River offers a test basin to explore whether an independent population of coho salmon can recover from a prolonged period of very low abundance following removal of the primary factor limiting productivity. Here we describe the first year of a study to monitor the dynamics of the coho salmon population in the Salmon River basin on the central Oregon coast and to determine whether management changes targeting both hatchery influence and stream habitat complexity improve population viability. This research will validate assumptions about factors limiting coho recovery and determine whether recovery measures proposed by the Coho Plan have been effective. Our research is designed to document changes in population abundance, distribution, and life history structure of coho salmon following the removal of hatchery coho salmon from the watershed. It integrates adult, juvenile, and habitat components to establish links and describe variability between juvenile performance and adult recovery. It also monitors the coho salmon population across habitat types and life history stages to identify population responses at a landscape scale. We will establish the link between productivity and survival at each salmon life stage and recovery of the adult population. From these indicators, we will determine the potential resiliency of coho salmon, detail the biological benefits/tradeoffs of returning the ecosystem to natural salmon production, and assess whether supplementation should remain an option in Salmon River. As a conceptual framework, our research design and analyses are guided by the “viable salmonid population” criteria identified by McElhany (2000) and modified by Chilcote et al. (2005) and Nicholas (2006), including abundance, productivity, distribution, diversity, and habitat quality. The results of our new research will be integrated with habitat survey and adult population data collected under the existing Oregon Plan monitoring program and coho salmon population and life history data available from previous Salmon River surveys (Mullen 1978, 1979; Cornwell et al. 2001; Bottom et al 2005; Volk et al. in review). Together these data will address four principal objectives: 1. Quantify viability of the coho salmon population before and after hatchery coho salmon are removed from Salmon River. 2. Assess whether viability of the Salmon River coho population is limited by quantity and complexity of stream habitat. 3. Describe the diversity of juvenile and adult life histories of coho salmon in the Salmon River basin and estimate the relative contributions of alternate juvenile life history to adult returns. 4. Determine salmonid use and benefits of restored tidal wetlands before and after hatchery coho salmon are removed from Salmon River. By synthesizing historic data with new information for the Salmon River basin, we will compare population structure during three distinct periods – pre-hatchery (1974-77), hatchery (1990-2008), and post-hatchery (2009-2013). This annual report discusses the activities and findings from 2008, the first year of the multi-year project, including coho salmon distribution and abundance on the Salmon River spawning grounds, juvenile abundance and distribution in the watershed and estuary, migration timing, and life history diversity. Title: Recovery of Wild Coho Salmon in Salmon River Basin, 2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2009-10 Abstract -- Recovery and conservation of naturally self-sustaining salmon populations is a central goal of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. In 1998, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) initiated a comprehensive program to monitor the status of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) populations and aquatic habitat in coastal drainages of Oregon (OWEB 2003). A 2005 assessment by ODFW concluded that Oregon coastal coho were viable at the scale of the Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) and demonstrated resilience in response to improving ocean conditions. Yet 7 of 21 (33%) individual populations within the ESU failed one or more of five criteria used to assess viability (Chilcote et al. 2005), and it is uncertain whether productivity levels across the ESU will recover sufficiently to withstand future periods of poor ocean conditions. The coho population in Salmon River was the only population in the ESU to fail all five viability criteria. Uncertainty remains about the response of Oregon coastal coho salmon to different combinations of freshwater and marine limiting factors, complicating recovery efforts (Lawson 1993; Lawson et al. 2004; IMST 2006). Such uncertainty cannot be resolved entirely by existing Oregon Plan monitoring programs, which target only a portion of the habitats and coho salmon life stages in large river basins, and with few exceptions (e.g., Johnson et al. 2005), were not designed to test population responses to individual management manipulations. In 2007, in response to the failure of viability criteria, ODFW managers discontinued releases of hatchery coho salmon into Salmon River as one of the primary management actions under the Oregon Conservation Plan for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit (hereafter “coho plan,” Nicholas 2006). This change affords the first opportunity in Oregon to monitor the results of a large scale experiment in removing hatchery coho salmon from a basin for at least four generations (twelve years). Hatchery production has been a centerpiece of salmon management for decades, but rarely has full recovery from hatchery influence been given a chance to succeed. Salmon River offers a test basin to explore whether an independent population of coho salmon can recover from a prolonged period of very low abundance following removal of the primary factor limiting productivity. Here we describe the first year of a study to monitor the dynamics of the coho salmon population in the Salmon River basin on the central Oregon coast and to determine whether management changes targeting both hatchery influence and stream habitat complexity improve population viability. This research will validate assumptions about factors limiting coho recovery and determine whether recovery measures proposed by the Coho Plan have been effective. Our research is designed to document changes in population abundance, distribution, and life history structure of coho salmon following the removal of hatchery coho salmon from the watershed. It integrates adult, juvenile, and habitat components to establish links and describe variability between juvenile performance and adult recovery. It also monitors the coho salmon population across habitat types and life history stages to identify population responses at a landscape scale. We will establish the link between productivity and survival at each salmon life stage and recovery of the adult population. From these indicators, we will determine the potential resiliency of coho salmon, detail the biological benefits/tradeoffs of returning the ecosystem to natural salmon production, and assess whether supplementation should remain an option in Salmon River. As a conceptual framework, our research design and analyses are guided by the “viable salmonid population” criteria identified by McElhany (2000) and modified by Chilcote et al. (2005) and Nicholas (2006), including abundance, productivity, distribution, diversity, and habitat quality. The results of our new research will be integrated with habitat survey and adult population data collected under the existing Oregon Plan monitoring program and coho salmon population and life history data available from previous Salmon River surveys (Mullen 1978, 1979; Cornwell et al. 2001; Bottom et al 2005; Volk et al. in review). Together these data will address four principal objectives: 1. Quantify viability of the coho salmon population before and after hatchery coho salmon are removed from Salmon River. 2. Assess whether viability of the Salmon River coho population is limited by quantity and complexity of stream habitat. 3. Describe the diversity of juvenile and adult life histories of coho salmon in the Salmon River basin and estimate the relative contributions of alternate juvenile life history to adult returns. 4. Determine salmonid use and benefits of restored tidal wetlands before and after hatchery coho salmon are removed from Salmon River. By synthesizing historic data with new information for the Salmon River basin, we will compare population structure during three distinct periods – pre-hatchery (1974-77), hatchery (1990-2008), and post-hatchery (2009-2013). This annual report discusses the activities and findings from 2008, the first year of the multi-year project, including coho salmon distribution and abundance on the Salmon River spawning grounds, juvenile abundance and distribution in the watershed and estuary, migration timing, and life history diversity. Close

• 8634. [Article] Effectiveness Monitoring Report for the Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program, 1999-2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2010-6

  Abstract -- State and federal agencies have invested millions of dollars to restore streams and watersheds in the Pacific Northwest over the past two decades. In Oregon alone, over 500 million dollars ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Effectiveness Monitoring Report for the Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program, 1999-2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2010-6 Abstract -- State and federal agencies have invested millions of dollars to restore streams and watersheds in the Pacific Northwest over the past two decades. In Oregon alone, over 500 million dollars has been spent on completed projects from 1995 to 2007 (Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board 2009). Restoration practitioners have distributed the investment among watershed scale activities such as road repair, dam removal, and upland management, and stream scale activities such as passage, instream complexity, and riparian plantings. The Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program (WOSRP) was established to work in cooperation with private and corporate landowners to restore stream habitat for juvenile and adult salmonids. In addition to the WOSRP, the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) funds restoration projects with local watershed councils, who commonly partner with state and federal agencies. Eight WOSRP restoration biologists in Tillamook, Newport, Charleston, Gold Beach, Roseburg, Clackamas, and Salem select sites and implement projects consistent with the criteria described in Thom et al (2001). A monitoring component is integrated in the program, with surveys coordinated and reported by a biologist in Corvallis. The goal of the monitoring program is to assess the long term effectiveness of instream restoration projects implemented by WOSRP, and to evaluate progress towards salmon conservation and recovery goals in Oregon’s coastal basins. The WOSRP restoration sites are distributed throughout the Willamette, Lower Columbia, and coastal drainage's. Restoration treatments added large wood and/or boulders, improved fish passage, planted trees in riparian areas, or were a combination of the three. Large wood was placed in complex jams at intervals throughout the stream to increase stream roughness and complexity. Boulders were sometimes used in conjunction with wood jams to provide stability to the structures, and prevent large wood from moving downstream and posing a hazard to culverts and bridges. Bedrock dominated streams were often treated with boulders to collect gravel and cobble, intended to aggrade the streambed. In the future, large wood may be added to these streams. Fish passage projects opened previously inaccessible habitat to juvenile and/or adult salmonids while riparian plantings and fencing were designed to improve riparian vegetation and bank structure. The project length varied from site to site. Fish passage sites were quite short, but provided access to kilometers of fish habitat, and large wood sites were up to several kilometers in length. Large wood and boulder placement projects have become commonplace in the Pacific Northwest to restore complex stream habitat for juvenile coho and other salmonids (Katz et al. 2007, Roni et al. 2008). Detailed assessments have been published for individual projects or experiments (e.g. Moore and Gregory, 1988, Nickelson et al. 1992, Cederholm et al.1997). More extensive evaluations have used a post treatment design (Hicks et al 1991, Roni and Quinn 2001), but none have used a pre- and post treatment design. In this paper we evaluate habitat changes at 103 restoration projects in western Oregon from pre-treatment to one year post treatment to 6 years following treatment. Projects commonly treated 0.5 – 1 km of stream, but some extended up to 6 km. The projects we evaluated in this paper were treated with large logs, usually arranged in jams, and were not cabled or driven into banks or bottom. As of 2008, the OWEB and WOSRP projects have treated approximately 750 km of stream with large wood (Figure 1), 120 km with boulders, and over 4,000 km of stream have been made accessible by replacing and/or removing culverts. Each year, OWEB receives 210 grant applications for restoration projects. These projects generally adhere to a similar selection process and design, so the results of this study can be expected to apply more broadly within the Pacific Northwest. Roni et al (2008), in a synthesis paper, summarized many of the potential physical benefits of restoration; these include pool depth and frequency, habitat complexity, woody debris, and sediment retention and quality of spawning gravel. Some projects in deeply incised channels have reduced the incision and increased bed elevation. Evaluations of biological responses have been confounded by natural variability of populations, duration of study, or length of stream examined. For example, determination of success based on spawning ground counts is problematic because of variation in ocean survival. However, longer duration and watershed scale studies have shown positive responses of juvenile and adult salmon (Johnson et al 2005). Burnett et al. (2008) conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles to examine the effects of large wood placement on salmonid abundance, growth, or survival, or on overall stream habitat complexity. Few publications were both relevant and met the rigorous standards outlined in their review. Although the review supported short term improvements in habitat complexity, the relationship to salmonid productivity was less definitive. Notable exceptions included Johnson et al. (2005) cited above, and Solazzi et al. (2000). An alternative approach to directly assessing biological response is to model potential changes in abundance or productivity. The Habitat Limiting Factors Model (Reeves et al. 1989, Nickelson et al.1992a, Nickelson 1998) was developed to quantify the carrying capacity of coastal streams for juvenile coho during the summer and winter. Use of this model is appropriate because most of the instream restoration projects in western Oregon were intended to improve habitat for juvenile coho. In this paper, we evaluated the physical response directly, and quantified the potential response of juvenile coho salmon by application of the Habitat Limiting Factors Model. Project effectiveness monitoring requires linking the restoration treatment to improved physical conditions for and biological response of salmon (Katz et al. 2007) and defining desired outcomes (Rumps et al. 2007). Because the WOSRP projects were designed to improve ecological and hydrologic stream function specifically for salmonids, we evaluated 1) retention of wood structures, 2) natural recruitment of additional wood, 3) increase in pool number, area, and depth, 4) retention of gravels and sorting of finer substrates, and 5) increase in channel complexity – secondary channels and off-channel habitats. Biological evaluation was based on estimates of the potential carrying capacity for juvenile coho during the overwinter life stage. The primary objectives of this evaluation are to test for these changes one year following treatment and 6 years following treatment. Secondarily, we evaluated the response of the projects by geographic location and position along the stream network. Previous WOSRP monitoring reports (e.g. Jacobsen and Jones 2003, Jacobsen et al. 2007) have focused on conditions one year following treatment, with relatively few sites assessed 2-3 years following restoration. Since 2003, the restoration projects have increased in complexity – more and larger pieces and jams, and treated more kilometers of stream length per site. The WOSRP program has provided a unique opportunity to evaluate the effects of restoration projects over longer times and broader geographic scales than previously feasible. We have been surveying the restoration sites in both summer and winter to monitor changes in stream habitat and evaluate the success of treatments, such as the placement of wood and/or boulders and fish passage. Surveys are logistically easier to manage in the summer, but surveys conducted during the winter provide a more timely and accurate assessment of over-winter rearing potential for juvenile coho. Because we have paired surveys, we are able to assess the added value of revisits across seasons. We test the hypothesis that habitat characteristics at the restoration sites do not change from summer to winter. The findings permit us to modify the survey program if the information is duplicative, and use the resources in another fashion. Title: Effectiveness Monitoring Report for the Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program, 1999-2008 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2010-6 Abstract -- State and federal agencies have invested millions of dollars to restore streams and watersheds in the Pacific Northwest over the past two decades. In Oregon alone, over 500 million dollars has been spent on completed projects from 1995 to 2007 (Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board 2009). Restoration practitioners have distributed the investment among watershed scale activities such as road repair, dam removal, and upland management, and stream scale activities such as passage, instream complexity, and riparian plantings. The Western Oregon Stream Restoration Program (WOSRP) was established to work in cooperation with private and corporate landowners to restore stream habitat for juvenile and adult salmonids. In addition to the WOSRP, the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) funds restoration projects with local watershed councils, who commonly partner with state and federal agencies. Eight WOSRP restoration biologists in Tillamook, Newport, Charleston, Gold Beach, Roseburg, Clackamas, and Salem select sites and implement projects consistent with the criteria described in Thom et al (2001). A monitoring component is integrated in the program, with surveys coordinated and reported by a biologist in Corvallis. The goal of the monitoring program is to assess the long term effectiveness of instream restoration projects implemented by WOSRP, and to evaluate progress towards salmon conservation and recovery goals in Oregon’s coastal basins. The WOSRP restoration sites are distributed throughout the Willamette, Lower Columbia, and coastal drainage's. Restoration treatments added large wood and/or boulders, improved fish passage, planted trees in riparian areas, or were a combination of the three. Large wood was placed in complex jams at intervals throughout the stream to increase stream roughness and complexity. Boulders were sometimes used in conjunction with wood jams to provide stability to the structures, and prevent large wood from moving downstream and posing a hazard to culverts and bridges. Bedrock dominated streams were often treated with boulders to collect gravel and cobble, intended to aggrade the streambed. In the future, large wood may be added to these streams. Fish passage projects opened previously inaccessible habitat to juvenile and/or adult salmonids while riparian plantings and fencing were designed to improve riparian vegetation and bank structure. The project length varied from site to site. Fish passage sites were quite short, but provided access to kilometers of fish habitat, and large wood sites were up to several kilometers in length. Large wood and boulder placement projects have become commonplace in the Pacific Northwest to restore complex stream habitat for juvenile coho and other salmonids (Katz et al. 2007, Roni et al. 2008). Detailed assessments have been published for individual projects or experiments (e.g. Moore and Gregory, 1988, Nickelson et al. 1992, Cederholm et al.1997). More extensive evaluations have used a post treatment design (Hicks et al 1991, Roni and Quinn 2001), but none have used a pre- and post treatment design. In this paper we evaluate habitat changes at 103 restoration projects in western Oregon from pre-treatment to one year post treatment to 6 years following treatment. Projects commonly treated 0.5 – 1 km of stream, but some extended up to 6 km. The projects we evaluated in this paper were treated with large logs, usually arranged in jams, and were not cabled or driven into banks or bottom. As of 2008, the OWEB and WOSRP projects have treated approximately 750 km of stream with large wood (Figure 1), 120 km with boulders, and over 4,000 km of stream have been made accessible by replacing and/or removing culverts. Each year, OWEB receives 210 grant applications for restoration projects. These projects generally adhere to a similar selection process and design, so the results of this study can be expected to apply more broadly within the Pacific Northwest. Roni et al (2008), in a synthesis paper, summarized many of the potential physical benefits of restoration; these include pool depth and frequency, habitat complexity, woody debris, and sediment retention and quality of spawning gravel. Some projects in deeply incised channels have reduced the incision and increased bed elevation. Evaluations of biological responses have been confounded by natural variability of populations, duration of study, or length of stream examined. For example, determination of success based on spawning ground counts is problematic because of variation in ocean survival. However, longer duration and watershed scale studies have shown positive responses of juvenile and adult salmon (Johnson et al 2005). Burnett et al. (2008) conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles to examine the effects of large wood placement on salmonid abundance, growth, or survival, or on overall stream habitat complexity. Few publications were both relevant and met the rigorous standards outlined in their review. Although the review supported short term improvements in habitat complexity, the relationship to salmonid productivity was less definitive. Notable exceptions included Johnson et al. (2005) cited above, and Solazzi et al. (2000). An alternative approach to directly assessing biological response is to model potential changes in abundance or productivity. The Habitat Limiting Factors Model (Reeves et al. 1989, Nickelson et al.1992a, Nickelson 1998) was developed to quantify the carrying capacity of coastal streams for juvenile coho during the summer and winter. Use of this model is appropriate because most of the instream restoration projects in western Oregon were intended to improve habitat for juvenile coho. In this paper, we evaluated the physical response directly, and quantified the potential response of juvenile coho salmon by application of the Habitat Limiting Factors Model. Project effectiveness monitoring requires linking the restoration treatment to improved physical conditions for and biological response of salmon (Katz et al. 2007) and defining desired outcomes (Rumps et al. 2007). Because the WOSRP projects were designed to improve ecological and hydrologic stream function specifically for salmonids, we evaluated 1) retention of wood structures, 2) natural recruitment of additional wood, 3) increase in pool number, area, and depth, 4) retention of gravels and sorting of finer substrates, and 5) increase in channel complexity – secondary channels and off-channel habitats. Biological evaluation was based on estimates of the potential carrying capacity for juvenile coho during the overwinter life stage. The primary objectives of this evaluation are to test for these changes one year following treatment and 6 years following treatment. Secondarily, we evaluated the response of the projects by geographic location and position along the stream network. Previous WOSRP monitoring reports (e.g. Jacobsen and Jones 2003, Jacobsen et al. 2007) have focused on conditions one year following treatment, with relatively few sites assessed 2-3 years following restoration. Since 2003, the restoration projects have increased in complexity – more and larger pieces and jams, and treated more kilometers of stream length per site. The WOSRP program has provided a unique opportunity to evaluate the effects of restoration projects over longer times and broader geographic scales than previously feasible. We have been surveying the restoration sites in both summer and winter to monitor changes in stream habitat and evaluate the success of treatments, such as the placement of wood and/or boulders and fish passage. Surveys are logistically easier to manage in the summer, but surveys conducted during the winter provide a more timely and accurate assessment of over-winter rearing potential for juvenile coho. Because we have paired surveys, we are able to assess the added value of revisits across seasons. We test the hypothesis that habitat characteristics at the restoration sites do not change from summer to winter. The findings permit us to modify the survey program if the information is duplicative, and use the resources in another fashion. Close

• 8635. [Article] Recovery of Wild Coho Salmon In Salmon River Basin, 2008-2010 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2011-10

  Abstract -- Hatcheries have been a centerpiece of salmon management in the Pacific Northwest for more than a century but recent evidence of adverse interactions between hatchery and naturally-produced ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Recovery of Wild Coho Salmon In Salmon River Basin, 2008-2010 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2011-10 Abstract -- Hatcheries have been a centerpiece of salmon management in the Pacific Northwest for more than a century but recent evidence of adverse interactions between hatchery and naturally-produced salmon have resulted in substantial changes in many hatchery programs. In 2007 the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife terminated a 30-year artificial propagation program for coho salmon in the Salmon River basin after a status assessment concluded that wild population viability was threatened by hatchery effects on salmon productivity (Chilcote et al. 2005). Hatchery-reared coho comprised 50-100% of the naturally spawning population in recent years. Low productivity was reflected in a low spawner to recruit ratio, and life-stage specific survival was lower than that of nearby populations. The temporal distribution of adult spawning in the basin was truncated and peaked 1.5 months earlier relative to the pre-hatchery period and adjacent coastal populations. The cessation of hatchery releases into Salmon River not only removed the primary factor believed to limit productivity of the local population, it also constituted a rare management experiment to test whether a naturally-spawning population can recover from a prolonged period of low abundance after interactions with hatchery-produced coho salmon are eliminated. This report summarizes the results of coho population studies at Salmon River for the first three years after the hatchery program was discontinued. The study in Salmon River is timely because ecological interactions between hatchery and wild fish have been implicated in the reduced survival and decreased productivity of wild coho and other salmonid populations (Nickelson 2003, Buhle et al. 2009, Chilcote et al. 2011). Recent studies involving a diversity of salmonid species and watersheds have shown a negative relationship between hatchery spawner abundance and wild population productivity regardless of the duration of hatchery influence (Chilcote et al. 2011). Yet neither the mechanisms of these productivity declines nor their potential reversibility have been investigated. Recent management changes at Salmon River provide an opportunity to experimentally evaluate coho salmon survival and productivity following the elimination of a decades-long hatchery program. The results will provide new insights into the reversibility of hatchery effects and the rate, mechanisms, and trajectory of response by a naturally spawning coho salmon population. Hatchery programs have been shown to change the timing and distribution of naturally spawning adults, but ecological and genetic influences on the spatial structure and life history diversity of juvenile populations are poorly understood. Conventional understanding of the life history of juvenile coho has presumed a relatively fixed pattern of rearing and migration. However, recent studies have found much greater variation in juvenile life history and habitat-use patterns than previously expected (Miller and Sadro 2003, Koski 2009), including evidence that estuaries may play a prominent role in the life histories of some coho salmon populations. A recent study in the Salmon River basin found considerable diversity in the life histories of juvenile Chinook salmon, including extended rearing by fry and other subyearling migrants within the complex network of natural and restored estuarine wetlands (Bottom et al. 2005). Unfortunately, interpretation of juvenile life history variations at Salmon River was confounded by the Chinook hatchery program, which has concentrated spawning activity in the lower river near the hatchery and may directly influence juvenile migration and rearing patterns. Discontinuation of the coho hatchery program at Salmon River provides an opportunity to quantify changes in juvenile life history following the elimination of all hatchery-fish interactions with the naturally spawning population. Such responses may provide important insights into the mechanisms of hatchery influence on wild salmon productivity and population resilience. Our research integrates adult and juvenile life stages, examines linkages to physical habitat conditions in fresh water and the estuary, and describes variability between juvenile performance and adult returns. It also monitors the coho salmon population across habitat types and life history stages to identify population responses at a landscape scale. We will determine productivity and survival at each salmon life stage and monitor the response of the adult population following the cessation of the coho salmon hatchery program. From these indicators, we will determine the potential resiliency of the coho salmon population, and evaluate the biological benefits or tradeoffs of returning the ecosystem to natural salmon production. Our study design encompasses four population phases: (1) pre-hatchery conditions (Mullen 1979), (2) dominance by hatchery-reared spawners (2008), (3) first generation naturally produced juveniles (2009-2011), and (4) second generation naturally produced juveniles (starting in 2012). This research will validate assumptions about factors limiting coho recovery and determine whether recovery actions have been effective. Here, we report on findings from 2008-2010 to address four principal objectives: 1. Quantify life stage specific survival and recruits per spawner ratio of the coho salmon population before and after hatchery coho salmon are removed from Salmon River. 2. Assess whether the Salmon River coho population is limited by capacity and complexity of stream habitat. 3. Describe the diversity of juvenile and adult life histories of coho salmon in the Salmon River basin, and estimate the relative contributions of various juvenile life histories to adult returns. 4. Determine seasonal use of the Salmon River estuary and its tidally-inundated wetlands by juvenile coho salmon. The field sampling that supported the study on coho salmon also captured Chinook salmon and steelhead and cutthroat trout during routine sampling in the watershed and estuary. This report emphasizes coho salmon results, but also summarizes catch, distribution, and migration data for other salmonids to compare densities and abundances in freshwater and the estuary. Additional results for Chinook, steelhead, and cutthroat are presented in Appendix A. See Stein et al. (2011) for more detailed information on life history diversity, migration patterns, habitat use, and abundance of cutthroat trout. Title: Recovery of Wild Coho Salmon In Salmon River Basin, 2008-2010 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2011-10 Abstract -- Hatcheries have been a centerpiece of salmon management in the Pacific Northwest for more than a century but recent evidence of adverse interactions between hatchery and naturally-produced salmon have resulted in substantial changes in many hatchery programs. In 2007 the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife terminated a 30-year artificial propagation program for coho salmon in the Salmon River basin after a status assessment concluded that wild population viability was threatened by hatchery effects on salmon productivity (Chilcote et al. 2005). Hatchery-reared coho comprised 50-100% of the naturally spawning population in recent years. Low productivity was reflected in a low spawner to recruit ratio, and life-stage specific survival was lower than that of nearby populations. The temporal distribution of adult spawning in the basin was truncated and peaked 1.5 months earlier relative to the pre-hatchery period and adjacent coastal populations. The cessation of hatchery releases into Salmon River not only removed the primary factor believed to limit productivity of the local population, it also constituted a rare management experiment to test whether a naturally-spawning population can recover from a prolonged period of low abundance after interactions with hatchery-produced coho salmon are eliminated. This report summarizes the results of coho population studies at Salmon River for the first three years after the hatchery program was discontinued. The study in Salmon River is timely because ecological interactions between hatchery and wild fish have been implicated in the reduced survival and decreased productivity of wild coho and other salmonid populations (Nickelson 2003, Buhle et al. 2009, Chilcote et al. 2011). Recent studies involving a diversity of salmonid species and watersheds have shown a negative relationship between hatchery spawner abundance and wild population productivity regardless of the duration of hatchery influence (Chilcote et al. 2011). Yet neither the mechanisms of these productivity declines nor their potential reversibility have been investigated. Recent management changes at Salmon River provide an opportunity to experimentally evaluate coho salmon survival and productivity following the elimination of a decades-long hatchery program. The results will provide new insights into the reversibility of hatchery effects and the rate, mechanisms, and trajectory of response by a naturally spawning coho salmon population. Hatchery programs have been shown to change the timing and distribution of naturally spawning adults, but ecological and genetic influences on the spatial structure and life history diversity of juvenile populations are poorly understood. Conventional understanding of the life history of juvenile coho has presumed a relatively fixed pattern of rearing and migration. However, recent studies have found much greater variation in juvenile life history and habitat-use patterns than previously expected (Miller and Sadro 2003, Koski 2009), including evidence that estuaries may play a prominent role in the life histories of some coho salmon populations. A recent study in the Salmon River basin found considerable diversity in the life histories of juvenile Chinook salmon, including extended rearing by fry and other subyearling migrants within the complex network of natural and restored estuarine wetlands (Bottom et al. 2005). Unfortunately, interpretation of juvenile life history variations at Salmon River was confounded by the Chinook hatchery program, which has concentrated spawning activity in the lower river near the hatchery and may directly influence juvenile migration and rearing patterns. Discontinuation of the coho hatchery program at Salmon River provides an opportunity to quantify changes in juvenile life history following the elimination of all hatchery-fish interactions with the naturally spawning population. Such responses may provide important insights into the mechanisms of hatchery influence on wild salmon productivity and population resilience. Our research integrates adult and juvenile life stages, examines linkages to physical habitat conditions in fresh water and the estuary, and describes variability between juvenile performance and adult returns. It also monitors the coho salmon population across habitat types and life history stages to identify population responses at a landscape scale. We will determine productivity and survival at each salmon life stage and monitor the response of the adult population following the cessation of the coho salmon hatchery program. From these indicators, we will determine the potential resiliency of the coho salmon population, and evaluate the biological benefits or tradeoffs of returning the ecosystem to natural salmon production. Our study design encompasses four population phases: (1) pre-hatchery conditions (Mullen 1979), (2) dominance by hatchery-reared spawners (2008), (3) first generation naturally produced juveniles (2009-2011), and (4) second generation naturally produced juveniles (starting in 2012). This research will validate assumptions about factors limiting coho recovery and determine whether recovery actions have been effective. Here, we report on findings from 2008-2010 to address four principal objectives: 1. Quantify life stage specific survival and recruits per spawner ratio of the coho salmon population before and after hatchery coho salmon are removed from Salmon River. 2. Assess whether the Salmon River coho population is limited by capacity and complexity of stream habitat. 3. Describe the diversity of juvenile and adult life histories of coho salmon in the Salmon River basin, and estimate the relative contributions of various juvenile life histories to adult returns. 4. Determine seasonal use of the Salmon River estuary and its tidally-inundated wetlands by juvenile coho salmon. The field sampling that supported the study on coho salmon also captured Chinook salmon and steelhead and cutthroat trout during routine sampling in the watershed and estuary. This report emphasizes coho salmon results, but also summarizes catch, distribution, and migration data for other salmonids to compare densities and abundances in freshwater and the estuary. Additional results for Chinook, steelhead, and cutthroat are presented in Appendix A. See Stein et al. (2011) for more detailed information on life history diversity, migration patterns, habitat use, and abundance of cutthroat trout. Close

• 8636. [Article] Life History Variability, Habitat Use, and Migratory Behavior of Coastal Cutthroat Trout in the Salmon River, Oregon Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2012-10

  Abstract -- Coast basins in Oregon support resident and anadromous cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki). Cutthroat trout isolated above barriers are stream resident, but those with access to river, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Life History Variability, Habitat Use, and Migratory Behavior of Coastal Cutthroat Trout in the Salmon River, Oregon Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2012-10 Abstract -- Coast basins in Oregon support resident and anadromous cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki). Cutthroat trout isolated above barriers are stream resident, but those with access to river, estuary, and marine environments may express a variety of life history and migratory patterns. Past studies (e.g. Giger 1972, Sumner 1972, Tipping 1981) indicated that estuaries serve primarily as a migratory corridor or short-term rearing environment. However, recent advances in marking and tracking technology have permitted researchers to gain a better understanding of the complex migratory and habitat use patterns of cutthroat. Krentz (2007) conducted studies in Salmon River on the central Oregon coast to explore migratory patterns of cutthroat and examine the role of the estuary as a rearing environment. Coastal cutthroat trout reared for extended periods of time throughout the available channel habitats in Salmon River estuary (Krentz 2007) during spring, summer, and fall. The estuarine resident population appeared to represent a significant portion of the migratory individuals, and included all older age classes. Estuary growth was similar to that of their ocean migrant counterparts, and survival in the estuary was high. Because cutthroat were collected and marked primarily within the estuary (Krentz 2007), it is unclear what portion of the migrant population reared in the estuary relative to the watershed or ocean, or whether the tagged group was representative of the migratory populations. The current study was designed to track a representative sample of the downstream migrant population, and assess the relative success (survival) of the estuary and ocean migrants. Similar studies in the Columbia River documented directed and rapid migration through the estuary (Zydlewski et al. 2008, Hering et al. 2009). With rare exception, cutthroat trout were not observed to rear in the estuary. In addition, many fish disappeared before reaching the ocean and few of the ocean migrants returned to the natal tributary. In this study we replicated the study design used in the Columbia River studies to further comparisons of estuary migration and rearing strategies between the two estuaries. The primary objective of our work in the Salmon River was to increase understanding of coastal cutthroat trout biology and the relationship between stream-resident and migratory, or “sea-run” cutthroat. Here we use the term “sea-run” to indicate migration into the tidally-inundated, or estuarine portions of the Salmon River watershed or to the ocean. Study objectives were to: 1.Estimate the distribution and abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River watershed 2.Quantify the proportions of the cutthroat populations that are migratory, identify which individuals migrate and describe the timing of migration 3.Describe estuary habitats used by sea-run migrants and characterize behavior within the Salmon River estuary 4.Estimate growth rate of stream and estuary resident cutthroat 5.Estimate estuary and ocean survival of sea-run individuals and document return to estuary and lower river. 6.Compare migratory behavior in Salmon River to that observed in the lower Columbia River Title: Life History Variability, Habitat Use, and Migratory Behavior of Coastal Cutthroat Trout in the Salmon River, Oregon Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2012-10 Abstract -- Coast basins in Oregon support resident and anadromous cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki). Cutthroat trout isolated above barriers are stream resident, but those with access to river, estuary, and marine environments may express a variety of life history and migratory patterns. Past studies (e.g. Giger 1972, Sumner 1972, Tipping 1981) indicated that estuaries serve primarily as a migratory corridor or short-term rearing environment. However, recent advances in marking and tracking technology have permitted researchers to gain a better understanding of the complex migratory and habitat use patterns of cutthroat. Krentz (2007) conducted studies in Salmon River on the central Oregon coast to explore migratory patterns of cutthroat and examine the role of the estuary as a rearing environment. Coastal cutthroat trout reared for extended periods of time throughout the available channel habitats in Salmon River estuary (Krentz 2007) during spring, summer, and fall. The estuarine resident population appeared to represent a significant portion of the migratory individuals, and included all older age classes. Estuary growth was similar to that of their ocean migrant counterparts, and survival in the estuary was high. Because cutthroat were collected and marked primarily within the estuary (Krentz 2007), it is unclear what portion of the migrant population reared in the estuary relative to the watershed or ocean, or whether the tagged group was representative of the migratory populations. The current study was designed to track a representative sample of the downstream migrant population, and assess the relative success (survival) of the estuary and ocean migrants. Similar studies in the Columbia River documented directed and rapid migration through the estuary (Zydlewski et al. 2008, Hering et al. 2009). With rare exception, cutthroat trout were not observed to rear in the estuary. In addition, many fish disappeared before reaching the ocean and few of the ocean migrants returned to the natal tributary. In this study we replicated the study design used in the Columbia River studies to further comparisons of estuary migration and rearing strategies between the two estuaries. The primary objective of our work in the Salmon River was to increase understanding of coastal cutthroat trout biology and the relationship between stream-resident and migratory, or “sea-run” cutthroat. Here we use the term “sea-run” to indicate migration into the tidally-inundated, or estuarine portions of the Salmon River watershed or to the ocean. Study objectives were to: 1.Estimate the distribution and abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River watershed 2.Quantify the proportions of the cutthroat populations that are migratory, identify which individuals migrate and describe the timing of migration 3.Describe estuary habitats used by sea-run migrants and characterize behavior within the Salmon River estuary 4.Estimate growth rate of stream and estuary resident cutthroat 5.Estimate estuary and ocean survival of sea-run individuals and document return to estuary and lower river. 6.Compare migratory behavior in Salmon River to that observed in the lower Columbia River Close

• 8637. [Article] Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2013 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2014-1

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

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

• 8638. [Article] Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2014 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2015-1

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

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

• 8639. [Article] Juvenile Salmonid Monitoring In Coastal Oregon and Lower Columbia Streams, 2015 Report Number: OPSW-ODFW-2016-1

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

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

• 8640. [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

• 8641. [Article] White sturgeon mitigation and restoration in the Columbia and snake rivers upstream from Bonneville dam Annual Progress Report, April 2005 to March 2006

  Abstract -- We report on our progress from April 2005 through March 2006 on determining the effects of mitigative measures on productivity of white sturgeon populations in the Columbia River downstream ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: White sturgeon mitigation and restoration in the Columbia and snake rivers upstream from Bonneville dam Annual Progress Report, April 2005 to March 2006 Abstract -- We report on our progress from April 2005 through March 2006 on determining the effects of mitigative measures on productivity of white sturgeon populations in the Columbia River downstream from McNary Dam, and on determining the status and habitat requirements of white sturgeon populations in the Columbia and Snake rivers upstream from McNary Dam. The study is a cooperative effort by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW; Report A), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW; Report B), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC; Report C), and Montana State University (MSU; Report D). This is a multi-year study with many objectives requiring more than one year to complete; therefore, findings from a given year may be part of more significant findings yet to be reported. Title: White sturgeon mitigation and restoration in the Columbia and snake rivers upstream from Bonneville dam Annual Progress Report, April 2005 to March 2006 Abstract -- We report on our progress from April 2005 through March 2006 on determining the effects of mitigative measures on productivity of white sturgeon populations in the Columbia River downstream from McNary Dam, and on determining the status and habitat requirements of white sturgeon populations in the Columbia and Snake rivers upstream from McNary Dam. The study is a cooperative effort by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW; Report A), Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW; Report B), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC; Report C), and Montana State University (MSU; Report D). This is a multi-year study with many objectives requiring more than one year to complete; therefore, findings from a given year may be part of more significant findings yet to be reported. Close

• 8642. [Article] Summary of Habitat and Fish Monitoring Data From East Fork and Upper Mainstem Lobster Creeks: 1988-2000

  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: 1988-2000 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 1999-00 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: 1988-2000 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 1999-00 sampling season and to put these data in context with past data collected by ODFW. Close

• 8643. [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

• 8644. [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

• 8645. [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

• 8646. [Article] Warner Sucker Investigations (2009)

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

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

• 8647. [Article] Amphibian Distribution in Wadeable Streams and Ponds in Western and Southeast Oregon, 2009-2010 Progress Reports 2011

  Abstract -- The ODFW Oregon Conservation Strategy identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy Species”, or “Species of Greatest Conservation ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Amphibian Distribution in Wadeable Streams and Ponds in Western and Southeast Oregon, 2009-2010 Progress Reports 2011 Abstract -- The ODFW Oregon Conservation Strategy identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy Species”, or “Species of Greatest Conservation Need” (per USFWS requirements for State Wildlife Action Plans). The distribution of many species of amphibians in western Oregon is sparsely documented (Oregon Conservation Strategy, page 27). Although a broad-scale survey for amphibian presence would provide important baseline information about amphibian species composition and distribution, most studies have focused on limited areas. The majority of Oregon’s amphibians rely on aquatic habitats at some point of their life, either for breeding and juvenile development or to inhabit as adults. Most aquatic amphibians breed from late winter to early summer, and adults frequently remain in or near their breeding sites into the summer. Most tadpoles and juvenile amphibians are also active in and occupy aquatic habitats during the summer. Ongoing aquatic habitat and fish surveys are opportunities to observe species and life stages (breeding adults, tadpoles and juveniles) that occupy aquatic or riparian habitats during the summer. One cost-effective approach is to combine amphibian surveys with existing aquatic habitat and fish surveys such as those conducted as part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OCSRI 1997). The Oregon Plan has been in place since 1997 and the monitoring component provides a survey framework for streams in the lower Columbia River and Oregon coast drainages. The sampling framework is also compatible with implementation of the aquatic components of the Conservation Strategy, as demonstrated by this study. This study describes the presence of amphibians in and along wadeable streams in coast and lower Columbia River drainages of Oregon, ponds and sloughs in the Willamette Valley, and selected streams in the Great Basin of southeast and central Oregon. As a component of monitoring under the Oregon Plan, the Aquatic Inventories Project (AIP) conducts aquatic habitat surveys at randomly selected and spatially balanced sites across all 1st through 4th order streams in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages. The purpose of the habitat surveys is to describe stream morphology, instream physical habitat, and riparian vegetation. Because the surveyors were already observing features within and alongside the stream channel, they were able to record observations of amphibians. The advantage of coupling an amphibian component with the OR Plan aquatic surveys was that it not only was an efficient use of resources, but more importantly, provided information using a statistically rigorous survey design across a broad geographic area. The Native Fish Investigations Project began a six year study in 2007 to document the distribution and abundance of redband trout in the Great Basin region of Eastern Oregon. The site selection procedure is comparable to the statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design. Amphibian data are also collected during three other survey projects, and although the site selection procedure does not conform to the same statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design, the projects offer a number of opportunities to collect amphibian occurrence information over a wide variety of habitats. The amphibian observations from these three projects are also included in this report. The three projects are as follows: AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys on selected streams throughout the state. AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys at stream habitat restoration projects in Western Oregon. Native Fish Project conducts surveys of pond and slough sites for Oregon chub in the Willamette Valley. Due to the success of the 2007 and 2008 field studies, we continued our research during the summer of 2009 and 2010 to improve our knowledge of distribution and community structure of amphibians. The summer 2009 and 2010 surveys took place in 9 of Oregon’s 10 ecoregions (Figure 1) (Thorson et al. 2003). Ecoregions provide a framework for discussing amphibian distribution across the state because they are relatively large areas defined by distinctive geographic and ecological (flora and fauna) characteristics. The goals of our 2009-2010 work were to: Increase the consistency, efficiency and ability of habitat crews in identifying amphibians through improved training. Increase knowledge of distribution, community structure, and habitat associations of amphibians in streams in: Western Oregon coastal and lower Columbia drainages. Ponds, sloughs and other off-channel aquatic habitats in the Willamette Valley. Great Basin of eastern Oregon and selected streams in central Oregon. Combine the 2009-2010 observations with the 2007-2008 results. Title: Amphibian Distribution in Wadeable Streams and Ponds in Western and Southeast Oregon, 2009-2010 Progress Reports 2011 Abstract -- The ODFW Oregon Conservation Strategy identified monitoring needs for 17 amphibian species native to the state of Oregon that are designated as “Strategy Species”, or “Species of Greatest Conservation Need” (per USFWS requirements for State Wildlife Action Plans). The distribution of many species of amphibians in western Oregon is sparsely documented (Oregon Conservation Strategy, page 27). Although a broad-scale survey for amphibian presence would provide important baseline information about amphibian species composition and distribution, most studies have focused on limited areas. The majority of Oregon’s amphibians rely on aquatic habitats at some point of their life, either for breeding and juvenile development or to inhabit as adults. Most aquatic amphibians breed from late winter to early summer, and adults frequently remain in or near their breeding sites into the summer. Most tadpoles and juvenile amphibians are also active in and occupy aquatic habitats during the summer. Ongoing aquatic habitat and fish surveys are opportunities to observe species and life stages (breeding adults, tadpoles and juveniles) that occupy aquatic or riparian habitats during the summer. One cost-effective approach is to combine amphibian surveys with existing aquatic habitat and fish surveys such as those conducted as part of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds (OCSRI 1997). The Oregon Plan has been in place since 1997 and the monitoring component provides a survey framework for streams in the lower Columbia River and Oregon coast drainages. The sampling framework is also compatible with implementation of the aquatic components of the Conservation Strategy, as demonstrated by this study. This study describes the presence of amphibians in and along wadeable streams in coast and lower Columbia River drainages of Oregon, ponds and sloughs in the Willamette Valley, and selected streams in the Great Basin of southeast and central Oregon. As a component of monitoring under the Oregon Plan, the Aquatic Inventories Project (AIP) conducts aquatic habitat surveys at randomly selected and spatially balanced sites across all 1st through 4th order streams in coastal and lower Columbia River drainages. The purpose of the habitat surveys is to describe stream morphology, instream physical habitat, and riparian vegetation. Because the surveyors were already observing features within and alongside the stream channel, they were able to record observations of amphibians. The advantage of coupling an amphibian component with the OR Plan aquatic surveys was that it not only was an efficient use of resources, but more importantly, provided information using a statistically rigorous survey design across a broad geographic area. The Native Fish Investigations Project began a six year study in 2007 to document the distribution and abundance of redband trout in the Great Basin region of Eastern Oregon. The site selection procedure is comparable to the statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design. Amphibian data are also collected during three other survey projects, and although the site selection procedure does not conform to the same statistical standards as the Oregon Plan survey design, the projects offer a number of opportunities to collect amphibian occurrence information over a wide variety of habitats. The amphibian observations from these three projects are also included in this report. The three projects are as follows: AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys on selected streams throughout the state. AIP conducts aquatic habitat surveys at stream habitat restoration projects in Western Oregon. Native Fish Project conducts surveys of pond and slough sites for Oregon chub in the Willamette Valley. Due to the success of the 2007 and 2008 field studies, we continued our research during the summer of 2009 and 2010 to improve our knowledge of distribution and community structure of amphibians. The summer 2009 and 2010 surveys took place in 9 of Oregon’s 10 ecoregions (Figure 1) (Thorson et al. 2003). Ecoregions provide a framework for discussing amphibian distribution across the state because they are relatively large areas defined by distinctive geographic and ecological (flora and fauna) characteristics. The goals of our 2009-2010 work were to: Increase the consistency, efficiency and ability of habitat crews in identifying amphibians through improved training. Increase knowledge of distribution, community structure, and habitat associations of amphibians in streams in: Western Oregon coastal and lower Columbia drainages. Ponds, sloughs and other off-channel aquatic habitats in the Willamette Valley. Great Basin of eastern Oregon and selected streams in central Oregon. Combine the 2009-2010 observations with the 2007-2008 results. Close

• 8648. [Article] 2006 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2006

  Abstract -- Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake in Harney County, Oregon. The Borax Lake chub is a small ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2006 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2006 Abstract -- Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake in Harney County, Oregon. The Borax Lake chub is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in Oregon’s Alvord Basin (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake is a natural lake, perched 10 meters above the desert floor on sinter deposits, which is fed almost exclusively by thermal groundwater. The Borax Lake chub was listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Population abundance estimates obtained in 1991-1996 indicated a fluctuating population ranging from a low of 8,144 fish to a high of 34,634 fish (Salzer 1997). The basis for the Borax Lake chub’s listed status was not population size, but the security of a very limited, unique, isolated, and vulnerable habitat. Because Borax Lake is situated above salt deposits on the desert floor, alteration of the salt crust shoreline could reduce lake levels and the habitat quantity and quality available to Borax Lake chub. At the time of the listing, Borax Lake was threatened by habitat alteration caused by geothermal energy development and alteration of the lake shore crust to provide irrigation to surrounding pasture lands. The Borax Lake chub federal recovery plan, completed in 1987, advocated protection of the lake ecosystem through the acquisition of key private lands, protection of groundwater and surface waters, controls on access, and the removal of livestock grazing (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1987). Numerous recovery measures implemented since listing have improved the conservation status of Borax Lake chub and protection of its habitat (Williams and Macdonald 2003). When the species was listed, critical habitat was designated on 259 hectares of land surrounding the lake, including 129 hectares of public lands and two 65- hectare parcels of private land. In 1983, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management designated the public land as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Nature Conservancy began leasing the private lands in 1983 and purchased them in 1993, bringing the entire critical habitat into public or conservation ownership. The Nature Conservancy ended water diversion from the lake for irrigation and livestock grazing within the critical habitat. Passage of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act of 2000 removed the public BLM lands from mineral and geothermal development within a majority of the basin. These actions, combined with detailed studies of the chub and their habitat have added substantially to our knowledge of the Borax Lake ecosystem (Scoppettone et al. 1995, Salzer 1992, Perkins et al. 1996). However, three primary threats remain. These include the threat to the fragile lake shoreline, wetlands, and soils from a recent increase in recreational use around the lake (particularly off-road vehicle usage), the threat of introduction of nonnative species, and potential negative impacts to the aquifer from geothermal groundwater withdrawal if groundwater pumping were to occur on private lands outside the protected areas (Williams and Macdonald 2003). Although an increase in abundance is not a goal in the successful recovery of this species, monitoring trends in abundance over time is an important management tool to assess species status. From 1998-2004, data describing the abundance of the Borax Lake chub population are not available. Abundance estimates were obtained from 1986- 1997 by The Nature Conservancy (Salzer 1997) (Figure 1). Abundance estimates for 1986-1990 are not comparable with those obtained in 1991-1997. Prior to 1991, estimates were obtained only from traps set around the perimeter of the lake. In 1991, estimates were obtained from traps set on a regularly spaced grid throughout the lake. A study comparing the methods suggests that prior to 1991 abundance was under estimated, perhaps by as much as 50 percent (Salzer 1992). A recent review of the conservation status of the Borax Lake chub by Williams and Macdonald (2003) cited the lack of recent and ongoing population and ecosystem monitoring as one argument against downlisting or delisting the species at this time. The chub population has experienced substantial fluctuations in abundance over the time period (1986-1997) when abundance data are available (Figure 1). At the time of the review, the most recent abundance estimates that were obtained in 1996 and 1997 were some of the lowest estimates since 1991. Borax Lake chub population abundance estimates from 1986 to 1997 and 2005 to 2006. Horizontal bars represent 95% confidence limits. In 1986-1990 (solid symbols), only the perimeter of the lake was trapped. After 1990 (open symbols) the entire lake was trapped. Estimates are not directly comparable across these time periods. There are limited data on population age structure that offer valuable insight into the productivity of Borax Lake chub. Williams and Bond (1983) examined lengthfrequency data and concluded that the population consisted primarily of age 1 fish, with few age 2 and age 3 fish present. Limited opercle bone aging of chub collected in 1992- 1993 also indicated that most Borax Lake were less than one year of age (67-79%), yet a few individuals were aged at 10+ years (Scoppettone 1995). Because Borax Lake chub are only found in one location and the population is apparently dominated by a single year-class of adults, the species has a high inherent risk of extinction. 3 The objectives of this study were to: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of Borax Lake chub, and 2) to evaluate ways to reduce handling of Borax Lake chub when monitoring population abundance both by modifying previous mark-recapture protocols and by developing snorkeling survey protocols to use as an alternative to mark-recapture estimates. In addition, we collected data regarding lake temperatures, chub size (age) structure, and the condition of the fragile lake shoreline and outflows. Title: 2006 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2006 Abstract -- Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake in Harney County, Oregon. The Borax Lake chub is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in Oregon’s Alvord Basin (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake is a natural lake, perched 10 meters above the desert floor on sinter deposits, which is fed almost exclusively by thermal groundwater. The Borax Lake chub was listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Population abundance estimates obtained in 1991-1996 indicated a fluctuating population ranging from a low of 8,144 fish to a high of 34,634 fish (Salzer 1997). The basis for the Borax Lake chub’s listed status was not population size, but the security of a very limited, unique, isolated, and vulnerable habitat. Because Borax Lake is situated above salt deposits on the desert floor, alteration of the salt crust shoreline could reduce lake levels and the habitat quantity and quality available to Borax Lake chub. At the time of the listing, Borax Lake was threatened by habitat alteration caused by geothermal energy development and alteration of the lake shore crust to provide irrigation to surrounding pasture lands. The Borax Lake chub federal recovery plan, completed in 1987, advocated protection of the lake ecosystem through the acquisition of key private lands, protection of groundwater and surface waters, controls on access, and the removal of livestock grazing (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1987). Numerous recovery measures implemented since listing have improved the conservation status of Borax Lake chub and protection of its habitat (Williams and Macdonald 2003). When the species was listed, critical habitat was designated on 259 hectares of land surrounding the lake, including 129 hectares of public lands and two 65- hectare parcels of private land. In 1983, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management designated the public land as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Nature Conservancy began leasing the private lands in 1983 and purchased them in 1993, bringing the entire critical habitat into public or conservation ownership. The Nature Conservancy ended water diversion from the lake for irrigation and livestock grazing within the critical habitat. Passage of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act of 2000 removed the public BLM lands from mineral and geothermal development within a majority of the basin. These actions, combined with detailed studies of the chub and their habitat have added substantially to our knowledge of the Borax Lake ecosystem (Scoppettone et al. 1995, Salzer 1992, Perkins et al. 1996). However, three primary threats remain. These include the threat to the fragile lake shoreline, wetlands, and soils from a recent increase in recreational use around the lake (particularly off-road vehicle usage), the threat of introduction of nonnative species, and potential negative impacts to the aquifer from geothermal groundwater withdrawal if groundwater pumping were to occur on private lands outside the protected areas (Williams and Macdonald 2003). Although an increase in abundance is not a goal in the successful recovery of this species, monitoring trends in abundance over time is an important management tool to assess species status. From 1998-2004, data describing the abundance of the Borax Lake chub population are not available. Abundance estimates were obtained from 1986- 1997 by The Nature Conservancy (Salzer 1997) (Figure 1). Abundance estimates for 1986-1990 are not comparable with those obtained in 1991-1997. Prior to 1991, estimates were obtained only from traps set around the perimeter of the lake. In 1991, estimates were obtained from traps set on a regularly spaced grid throughout the lake. A study comparing the methods suggests that prior to 1991 abundance was under estimated, perhaps by as much as 50 percent (Salzer 1992). A recent review of the conservation status of the Borax Lake chub by Williams and Macdonald (2003) cited the lack of recent and ongoing population and ecosystem monitoring as one argument against downlisting or delisting the species at this time. The chub population has experienced substantial fluctuations in abundance over the time period (1986-1997) when abundance data are available (Figure 1). At the time of the review, the most recent abundance estimates that were obtained in 1996 and 1997 were some of the lowest estimates since 1991. Borax Lake chub population abundance estimates from 1986 to 1997 and 2005 to 2006. Horizontal bars represent 95% confidence limits. In 1986-1990 (solid symbols), only the perimeter of the lake was trapped. After 1990 (open symbols) the entire lake was trapped. Estimates are not directly comparable across these time periods. There are limited data on population age structure that offer valuable insight into the productivity of Borax Lake chub. Williams and Bond (1983) examined lengthfrequency data and concluded that the population consisted primarily of age 1 fish, with few age 2 and age 3 fish present. Limited opercle bone aging of chub collected in 1992- 1993 also indicated that most Borax Lake were less than one year of age (67-79%), yet a few individuals were aged at 10+ years (Scoppettone 1995). Because Borax Lake chub are only found in one location and the population is apparently dominated by a single year-class of adults, the species has a high inherent risk of extinction. 3 The objectives of this study were to: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of Borax Lake chub, and 2) to evaluate ways to reduce handling of Borax Lake chub when monitoring population abundance both by modifying previous mark-recapture protocols and by developing snorkeling survey protocols to use as an alternative to mark-recapture estimates. In addition, we collected data regarding lake temperatures, chub size (age) structure, and the condition of the fragile lake shoreline and outflows. Close

• 8649. [Article] 2009 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2009

  Abstract -- The Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in the Alvord Basin in Harney County, Oregon (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake chub are ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2009 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2009 Abstract -- The Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in the Alvord Basin in Harney County, Oregon (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake chub are represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake. Borax Lake is a natural lake perched 10 meters above the desert floor on sinter deposits, which is fed almost exclusively by thermal groundwater. The Borax Lake chub was listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Population abundance estimates obtained since 1991 indicate a fluctuating population ranging between approximately 4,000 and 34,000 fish (Salzer 1997; Scheerer and Jacobs 2008). The basis for the Borax Lake chub’s listed status was not population size, but the security of a very limited, unique, isolated, and vulnerable habitat. Because Borax Lake is situated above salt deposits on the desert floor, alteration of the salt crust shoreline could reduce lake levels and the habitat quantity and quality available to Borax Lake chub. At the time of the listing, Borax Lake was threatened by habitat alteration caused by geothermal energy development and alteration of the lake shore crust to provide irrigation to surrounding pasture lands. The Borax Lake chub federal recovery plan, completed in 1987, advocated protection of the lake ecosystem through the acquisition of key private lands, protection of groundwater and surface waters, controls on access, and the removal of livestock grazing (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1987). Recovery measures implemented since listing have improved the conservation status of Borax Lake chub and protection of its habitat (Williams and Macdonald 2003). When the species was listed, critical habitat was designated on 259 hectares of land surrounding the lake, including 129 hectares of public lands and two 65-hectare parcels of private land. In 1983, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management designated the public land as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Nature Conservancy began leasing the private lands in 1983 and purchased them in 1993, bringing the entire critical habitat into public or conservation ownership. The Nature Conservancy ended water diversion from the lake for irrigation and livestock grazing within the critical habitat. Passage of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act of 2000 removed the public BLM lands from mineral and geothermal development within a majority of the basin. These actions, combined with detailed studies of the chub and their habitat, have added substantially to our knowledge of the Borax Lake ecosystem (Scoppettone et al. 1995, Salzer 1992, Perkins et al. 1996). However, three primary threats remain. These include the threat to the fragile lake shoreline, wetlands, and soils from a recent increase in recreational use around the lake (particularly off-road vehicle usage), the threat of introduction of nonnative species, and potential negative impacts to the aquifer from geothermal groundwater withdrawal if groundwater pumping were to occur on private lands outside the protected areas (Williams and Macdonald 2003). A review of the conservation status of the Borax Lake chub by Williams and Macdonald (2003) cited the lack of recent and ongoing population and ecosystem monitoring as one argument against downlisting or delisting the species at that time. Although an increase in abundance is not a goal in the successful recovery of this species, monitoring trends in abundance over time is an important management tool to assess species status. The objectives of this study were to: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of Borax Lake chub and 2) to evaluate habitat conditions at Borax Lake, including the condition of the fragile lake shoreline and outflows. This report describes results from monitoring conducted by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Native Fish Investigations Project in 2009. Title: 2009 Borax Lake Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2009 Abstract -- The Borax Lake chub (Gila boraxobius) is a small minnow endemic to Borax Lake and adjacent wetlands in the Alvord Basin in Harney County, Oregon (Williams and Bond 1980). Borax Lake chub are represented by a single population that inhabits a 4.1 hectare geothermally-heated alkaline lake. Borax Lake is a natural lake perched 10 meters above the desert floor on sinter deposits, which is fed almost exclusively by thermal groundwater. The Borax Lake chub was listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1982 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1982). Population abundance estimates obtained since 1991 indicate a fluctuating population ranging between approximately 4,000 and 34,000 fish (Salzer 1997; Scheerer and Jacobs 2008). The basis for the Borax Lake chub’s listed status was not population size, but the security of a very limited, unique, isolated, and vulnerable habitat. Because Borax Lake is situated above salt deposits on the desert floor, alteration of the salt crust shoreline could reduce lake levels and the habitat quantity and quality available to Borax Lake chub. At the time of the listing, Borax Lake was threatened by habitat alteration caused by geothermal energy development and alteration of the lake shore crust to provide irrigation to surrounding pasture lands. The Borax Lake chub federal recovery plan, completed in 1987, advocated protection of the lake ecosystem through the acquisition of key private lands, protection of groundwater and surface waters, controls on access, and the removal of livestock grazing (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1987). Recovery measures implemented since listing have improved the conservation status of Borax Lake chub and protection of its habitat (Williams and Macdonald 2003). When the species was listed, critical habitat was designated on 259 hectares of land surrounding the lake, including 129 hectares of public lands and two 65-hectare parcels of private land. In 1983, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management designated the public land as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. The Nature Conservancy began leasing the private lands in 1983 and purchased them in 1993, bringing the entire critical habitat into public or conservation ownership. The Nature Conservancy ended water diversion from the lake for irrigation and livestock grazing within the critical habitat. Passage of the Steens Mountain Cooperative Management and Protection Act of 2000 removed the public BLM lands from mineral and geothermal development within a majority of the basin. These actions, combined with detailed studies of the chub and their habitat, have added substantially to our knowledge of the Borax Lake ecosystem (Scoppettone et al. 1995, Salzer 1992, Perkins et al. 1996). However, three primary threats remain. These include the threat to the fragile lake shoreline, wetlands, and soils from a recent increase in recreational use around the lake (particularly off-road vehicle usage), the threat of introduction of nonnative species, and potential negative impacts to the aquifer from geothermal groundwater withdrawal if groundwater pumping were to occur on private lands outside the protected areas (Williams and Macdonald 2003). A review of the conservation status of the Borax Lake chub by Williams and Macdonald (2003) cited the lack of recent and ongoing population and ecosystem monitoring as one argument against downlisting or delisting the species at that time. Although an increase in abundance is not a goal in the successful recovery of this species, monitoring trends in abundance over time is an important management tool to assess species status. The objectives of this study were to: 1) obtain a mark-recapture population estimate of Borax Lake chub and 2) to evaluate habitat conditions at Borax Lake, including the condition of the fragile lake shoreline and outflows. This report describes results from monitoring conducted by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Native Fish Investigations Project in 2009. Close

• 8650. [Article] 2006 Oregon Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2006

  Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette Valley, were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993. Factors implicated in the decline ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2006 Oregon Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2006 Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette Valley, were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993. Factors implicated in the decline of this species include changes in flow regimes and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. We continued surveys initiated in 1991 in the Willamette River drainage to quantify the abundance of known Oregon chub populations, search for unknown populations, evaluate potential introduction sites, and monitor introduced populations as part of the implementation of the Oregon Chub Recovery Plan. We sampled a total of 103 sites in 2006. No new populations of Oregon chub were discovered. Thirty-five of the 103 sites were new locations that were sampled for the first time in 2006. Sixty-eight sites, sampled on at least one occasion between 1991-2005, were revisited. We confirmed the continued existence of Oregon chub at 33 locations. These included 23 naturally occurring and 10 introduced populations. Locations of naturally occurring populations were: Santiam drainage (Geren Island, Santiam I-5 Side Channels, Santiam Conservation Easement, Stayton Public Works Pond, Green’s Bridge Backwater, Pioneer Park, Santiam Conservation Easement, and Gray Slough), Mid-Willamette drainage (Finley Gray Creek Swamp), McKenzie drainage (Shetzline Pond and Big Island), Coast Fork Willamette drainage (Coast Fork Side Channels and Lynx Hollow), and the Middle Fork Willamette drainage (two Dexter Reservoir alcoves, East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Buckhead Creek, two Elijah Bristow State Park sloughs and an island pond, Barnhard Slough, and Hospital Pond). Introduced populations were located in the Middle Fork Willamette (Wicopee Pond and Fall Creek Spillway Ponds), Santiam (Foster Pullout Pond), McKenzie (Russell Pond), Coast Fork Willamette (Herman Pond), and Mid-Willamette drainages (Dunn Wetland, Finley Display Pond, Finley Cheadle Pond, Ankeny Willow Marsh, and Jampolsky Wetlands). We did not find Oregon chub at 14 locations where they were collected on at least one occasion between 1991-2005 (Jasper Park Slough, Wallace Slough, East Ferrin Pond, Dexter East Alcove, Hospital Impoundment Pond, Rattlesnake Creek, Elijah Bristow Large Gravel Pit, Elijah Bristow Small Gravel Pit, Little Muddy Creek tributary, Bull Run Creek, Camas Swale, Barnhard Slough, Camous Creek, and Dry Muddy Creek). Nonnative fish were collected at most of these locations. We obtained abundance estimates of naturally occurring populations of Oregon chub at 18 locations in the Middle Fork Willamette (East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Elijah Bristow State Park Sloughs and Island Pond, Hospital Pond, Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, Haws Pond, and Buckhead Creek), Santiam (Geren Island, Gray Slough, Stayton Public Works Pond, Pioneer Park Pond, and Santiam I-5 Side Channels), McKenzie (Big Island and Shetzline Pond), and Mid-Willamette drainages (Finley Gray Creek) (Table 1). We obtained abundance estimates for 10 introduced populations of Oregon chub, located in Fall Creek Spillway Ponds, Wicopee Pond, Dunn Wetland Ponds, Finley Display Pond, Finley Cheadle Pond, Ankeny Willow Marsh, Jampolsky Wetlands, Foster Pullout Pond, Herman Pond, and Russell Pond. The three largest populations in 2006 were introduced populations. In addition, we evaluated eleven potential Oregon chub introduction sites in the Willamette River drainage. We introduced Oregon chub into the South Stayton Pond, a recently restored site located on ODFW property in the Santiam drainage, from Stayton Public Works Pond and Pioneer Park Pond. The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set recovery criteria for downlisting the species to “threatened” and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species are: 1) establish and manage 10 populations of at least 500 adult fish, 2) all of these populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years, and 3) at least three populations meeting criterion 1 and 2 must be located in each of the three recovery areas (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, and Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2006, there were 18 populations totaling 500 or more individuals (Table 1). Thirteen of these populations also met the second criteria. Of the 13 populations meeting criteria 1 and 2, eight were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage, three were located in the Mid-Willamette drainage, and two were located in the Santiam drainage. With the addition of one more stable population in the Santiam drainage, the downlisting criteria will be met. Findings to date indicate that Oregon chub remain at risk due to the loss of suitable habitat and the continued threats posed by the proliferation of non-native fishes, illegal water withdrawals, accelerated sedimentation, and potential chemical spills or careless pesticide applications. Their status has improved in recent years, resulting primarily from successful introductions and the discovery of previously undocumented populations. Title: 2006 Oregon Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2006 Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette Valley, were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993. Factors implicated in the decline of this species include changes in flow regimes and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. We continued surveys initiated in 1991 in the Willamette River drainage to quantify the abundance of known Oregon chub populations, search for unknown populations, evaluate potential introduction sites, and monitor introduced populations as part of the implementation of the Oregon Chub Recovery Plan. We sampled a total of 103 sites in 2006. No new populations of Oregon chub were discovered. Thirty-five of the 103 sites were new locations that were sampled for the first time in 2006. Sixty-eight sites, sampled on at least one occasion between 1991-2005, were revisited. We confirmed the continued existence of Oregon chub at 33 locations. These included 23 naturally occurring and 10 introduced populations. Locations of naturally occurring populations were: Santiam drainage (Geren Island, Santiam I-5 Side Channels, Santiam Conservation Easement, Stayton Public Works Pond, Green’s Bridge Backwater, Pioneer Park, Santiam Conservation Easement, and Gray Slough), Mid-Willamette drainage (Finley Gray Creek Swamp), McKenzie drainage (Shetzline Pond and Big Island), Coast Fork Willamette drainage (Coast Fork Side Channels and Lynx Hollow), and the Middle Fork Willamette drainage (two Dexter Reservoir alcoves, East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Buckhead Creek, two Elijah Bristow State Park sloughs and an island pond, Barnhard Slough, and Hospital Pond). Introduced populations were located in the Middle Fork Willamette (Wicopee Pond and Fall Creek Spillway Ponds), Santiam (Foster Pullout Pond), McKenzie (Russell Pond), Coast Fork Willamette (Herman Pond), and Mid-Willamette drainages (Dunn Wetland, Finley Display Pond, Finley Cheadle Pond, Ankeny Willow Marsh, and Jampolsky Wetlands). We did not find Oregon chub at 14 locations where they were collected on at least one occasion between 1991-2005 (Jasper Park Slough, Wallace Slough, East Ferrin Pond, Dexter East Alcove, Hospital Impoundment Pond, Rattlesnake Creek, Elijah Bristow Large Gravel Pit, Elijah Bristow Small Gravel Pit, Little Muddy Creek tributary, Bull Run Creek, Camas Swale, Barnhard Slough, Camous Creek, and Dry Muddy Creek). Nonnative fish were collected at most of these locations. We obtained abundance estimates of naturally occurring populations of Oregon chub at 18 locations in the Middle Fork Willamette (East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Elijah Bristow State Park Sloughs and Island Pond, Hospital Pond, Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, Haws Pond, and Buckhead Creek), Santiam (Geren Island, Gray Slough, Stayton Public Works Pond, Pioneer Park Pond, and Santiam I-5 Side Channels), McKenzie (Big Island and Shetzline Pond), and Mid-Willamette drainages (Finley Gray Creek) (Table 1). We obtained abundance estimates for 10 introduced populations of Oregon chub, located in Fall Creek Spillway Ponds, Wicopee Pond, Dunn Wetland Ponds, Finley Display Pond, Finley Cheadle Pond, Ankeny Willow Marsh, Jampolsky Wetlands, Foster Pullout Pond, Herman Pond, and Russell Pond. The three largest populations in 2006 were introduced populations. In addition, we evaluated eleven potential Oregon chub introduction sites in the Willamette River drainage. We introduced Oregon chub into the South Stayton Pond, a recently restored site located on ODFW property in the Santiam drainage, from Stayton Public Works Pond and Pioneer Park Pond. The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set recovery criteria for downlisting the species to “threatened” and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species are: 1) establish and manage 10 populations of at least 500 adult fish, 2) all of these populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years, and 3) at least three populations meeting criterion 1 and 2 must be located in each of the three recovery areas (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, and Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2006, there were 18 populations totaling 500 or more individuals (Table 1). Thirteen of these populations also met the second criteria. Of the 13 populations meeting criteria 1 and 2, eight were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage, three were located in the Mid-Willamette drainage, and two were located in the Santiam drainage. With the addition of one more stable population in the Santiam drainage, the downlisting criteria will be met. Findings to date indicate that Oregon chub remain at risk due to the loss of suitable habitat and the continued threats posed by the proliferation of non-native fishes, illegal water withdrawals, accelerated sedimentation, and potential chemical spills or careless pesticide applications. Their status has improved in recent years, resulting primarily from successful introductions and the discovery of previously undocumented populations. Close

• 8651. [Article] 2007 Oregon Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2007

  Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette Valley, were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993. Factors implicated in the decline ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2007 Oregon Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2007 Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette Valley, were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993. Factors implicated in the decline of this species include changes in flow regimes and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. We continued surveys initiated in 1991 in the Willamette River drainage to quantify the abundance of known Oregon chub populations, search for unknown populations, evaluate potential introduction sites, and monitor introduced populations as part of the implementation of the Oregon Chub Recovery Plan. We sampled a total of 70 sites in 2007. New populations of Oregon chub were discovered at Green Island in the lower McKenzie River and in the Muddy Creek drainage (Linn County). We confirmed the continued existence of Oregon chub at 34 locations. These included 23 naturally occurring and 11 introduced populations. We did not find Oregon chub at nine locations where they were collected on at least one occasion between 1991-2006. Nonnative fish were collected at most of these locations. We obtained abundance estimates of 18 naturally occurring populations and 11 introduced populations of Oregon chub located in the Middle Fork Willamette, Santiam, McKenzie, and Mid-Willamette drainages (Table 1). We introduced additional Oregon chub into the South Stayton Pond in the Santiam drainage and into Cheadle and Display Ponds in the Mid-Willamette drainage. The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set recovery criteria for downlisting the species to “threatened” and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species are: 1) establish and manage 10 populations of at least 500 adult fish, 2) all of these populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years, and 3) at least three populations meeting criterion 1 and 2 must be located in each of the three recovery areas (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, and Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2007, there were 20 populations totaling 500 or more individuals (Table 1). Fifteen of these populations also met the second criteria. Of the 15 populations meeting criteria 1 and 2, eight were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage, four were located in the Mid-Willamette drainage, and three were located in the Santiam drainage. In 2007, we met the downlisting criteria. Findings to date indicate that Oregon chub remain at risk due to the loss of suitable habitat and the continued threats posed by the proliferation of non-native fishes, illegal water withdrawals, accelerated sedimentation, and potential chemical spills or careless pesticide applications. Their status has improved in recent years, resulting primarily from successful introductions and the discovery of previously undocumented populations. Title: 2007 Oregon Chub Investigations Progress Reports 2007 Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette Valley, were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993. Factors implicated in the decline of this species include changes in flow regimes and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. We continued surveys initiated in 1991 in the Willamette River drainage to quantify the abundance of known Oregon chub populations, search for unknown populations, evaluate potential introduction sites, and monitor introduced populations as part of the implementation of the Oregon Chub Recovery Plan. We sampled a total of 70 sites in 2007. New populations of Oregon chub were discovered at Green Island in the lower McKenzie River and in the Muddy Creek drainage (Linn County). We confirmed the continued existence of Oregon chub at 34 locations. These included 23 naturally occurring and 11 introduced populations. We did not find Oregon chub at nine locations where they were collected on at least one occasion between 1991-2006. Nonnative fish were collected at most of these locations. We obtained abundance estimates of 18 naturally occurring populations and 11 introduced populations of Oregon chub located in the Middle Fork Willamette, Santiam, McKenzie, and Mid-Willamette drainages (Table 1). We introduced additional Oregon chub into the South Stayton Pond in the Santiam drainage and into Cheadle and Display Ponds in the Mid-Willamette drainage. The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set recovery criteria for downlisting the species to “threatened” and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species are: 1) establish and manage 10 populations of at least 500 adult fish, 2) all of these populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years, and 3) at least three populations meeting criterion 1 and 2 must be located in each of the three recovery areas (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, and Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2007, there were 20 populations totaling 500 or more individuals (Table 1). Fifteen of these populations also met the second criteria. Of the 15 populations meeting criteria 1 and 2, eight were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage, four were located in the Mid-Willamette drainage, and three were located in the Santiam drainage. In 2007, we met the downlisting criteria. Findings to date indicate that Oregon chub remain at risk due to the loss of suitable habitat and the continued threats posed by the proliferation of non-native fishes, illegal water withdrawals, accelerated sedimentation, and potential chemical spills or careless pesticide applications. Their status has improved in recent years, resulting primarily from successful introductions and the discovery of previously undocumented populations. Close

• 8652. [Article] Life history variability, habitat use, and migratory behavior of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River, Oregon Annual Progress Report

  Abstract -- A previous study characterized a diversity of life history strategies of coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki) in Salmon River (Krentz 2007). In contrast to life history patterns ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Life history variability, habitat use, and migratory behavior of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River, Oregon Annual Progress Report Abstract -- A previous study characterized a diversity of life history strategies of coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki) in Salmon River (Krentz 2007). In contrast to life history patterns in other Oregon estuaries (Giger 1972), cutthroat trout of all sizes resided for extended periods of time throughout the available channel habitats in Salmon River estuary. The estuarine resident population appeared to represent a significant portion of the migratory individuals, and included all age classes. Estuary growth was similar to that of their ocean migrant counterparts, and survival in the estuary was high. Because cutthroat were collected and marked primarily within the estuary (Krentz 2007), it is unclear what portion of the migrant population remained in the estuary relative to the ocean migrants, or whether the tagged group was representative of the anadromous populations. The current study was designed to track a representative sample of the downstream migrant population, and assess the relative success (survival) of the estuary and ocean migrants. Similar studies in the Columbia River documented directed and rapid migration through the estuary (Zydlewski et al. 2008, Hering et al. 2009). With one exception, cutthroat trout were not observed to rear in the estuary. In addition, many fish disappeared before reaching the ocean and few of the ocean migrants returned to the site of release. In this study we replicated the study design used in the Columbia River studies to allow comparison of estuary migration and rearing strategies between the two estuaries. The primary objective of our work in the Salmon River was to increase understanding of coastal cutthroat trout biology and the relationship between resident and migratory cutthroat. Study objectives were to: 1. Estimate the distribution and abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River watershed 2. Quantify the proportions of the cutthroat populations that are migratory, identify which individuals migrate and describe the timing of migration 3. Describe habitats used by anadromous migrants and characterize migration behavior within the Salmon River estuary 4. Estimate growth rate of estuary resident cutthroat 5. Estimate estuarine/marine survival of anadromous individuals and document return to estuary 6. Compare migratory patterns and survival with cutthroat in the Columbia River In this report, we will discuss migration patterns, habitat use, and growth. The study will be continued in 2010 to meet objectives (1), (2), and (6), and provide more detail to objectives (3), (4), and (5). Title: Life history variability, habitat use, and migratory behavior of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River, Oregon Annual Progress Report Abstract -- A previous study characterized a diversity of life history strategies of coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki clarki) in Salmon River (Krentz 2007). In contrast to life history patterns in other Oregon estuaries (Giger 1972), cutthroat trout of all sizes resided for extended periods of time throughout the available channel habitats in Salmon River estuary. The estuarine resident population appeared to represent a significant portion of the migratory individuals, and included all age classes. Estuary growth was similar to that of their ocean migrant counterparts, and survival in the estuary was high. Because cutthroat were collected and marked primarily within the estuary (Krentz 2007), it is unclear what portion of the migrant population remained in the estuary relative to the ocean migrants, or whether the tagged group was representative of the anadromous populations. The current study was designed to track a representative sample of the downstream migrant population, and assess the relative success (survival) of the estuary and ocean migrants. Similar studies in the Columbia River documented directed and rapid migration through the estuary (Zydlewski et al. 2008, Hering et al. 2009). With one exception, cutthroat trout were not observed to rear in the estuary. In addition, many fish disappeared before reaching the ocean and few of the ocean migrants returned to the site of release. In this study we replicated the study design used in the Columbia River studies to allow comparison of estuary migration and rearing strategies between the two estuaries. The primary objective of our work in the Salmon River was to increase understanding of coastal cutthroat trout biology and the relationship between resident and migratory cutthroat. Study objectives were to: 1. Estimate the distribution and abundance of coastal cutthroat trout in the Salmon River watershed 2. Quantify the proportions of the cutthroat populations that are migratory, identify which individuals migrate and describe the timing of migration 3. Describe habitats used by anadromous migrants and characterize migration behavior within the Salmon River estuary 4. Estimate growth rate of estuary resident cutthroat 5. Estimate estuarine/marine survival of anadromous individuals and document return to estuary 6. Compare migratory patterns and survival with cutthroat in the Columbia River In this report, we will discuss migration patterns, habitat use, and growth. The study will be continued in 2010 to meet objectives (1), (2), and (6), and provide more detail to objectives (3), (4), and (5). Close

• 8653. [Article] 2009 Foskett Spring Speckled Dace Investigations Progress Report 2009

  Abstract -- Speckled dace (Rhinichthys osculus) are geographically widespread throughout the western United States and occur in many isolated subbasins and interior drainages in south-central Oregon. The ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2009 Foskett Spring Speckled Dace Investigations Progress Report 2009 Abstract -- Speckled dace (Rhinichthys osculus) are geographically widespread throughout the western United States and occur in many isolated subbasins and interior drainages in south-central Oregon. The Foskett Spring speckled dace (R. osculus ssp.) is represented by a single population that inhabits Foskett Spring (Figure 1) on the west side of Coleman Lake (Warner Lakes subbasin) in Lake County, Oregon. Foskett speckled dace was listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1985 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Foskett speckled dace became isolated in Foskett Spring at the end of the Pluvial period (~9,000-10,000 years ago). Foskett Spring is a natural spring that rises from a springhead pool, flows through a narrow spring brook into a series of shallow marshes, and then disappears into the soil of the normally dry Coleman Lake (Figure 1). A second population in Dace Spring, located approximately 0.8 kilometer south of Foskett Spring, was established from an introduction of 100 fish from Foskett Spring in 1979-1980 (Williams et al. 1990); however recent surveys have failed to document their continued existence at this location. In 1987, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) acquired, through exchange, the 65 hectare parcel of land containing Foskett and Dace Springs. Both sites were fenced to exclude livestock. The Recovery Plan for the threatened and rare native fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin states that Foskett speckled dace will probably not be delisted in the near future because of its extremely isolated range and potential for degradation of its habitat from localized events (USFWS 1997). The primary recovery objective for this species is long-term persistence through preservation of its native ecosystem. The plan further states that the conservation and long term sustainability of this species will be met when: 1) long-term protection of its habitat, including spring source aquifers, springpools and outflow channels, and surrounding lands is assured; 2) long-term habitat management guidelines are developed and implemented to ensure the continued persistence of important habitat features and guidelines include monitoring of current habitat and investigation for and evaluation of new spring habitats; and 3) research into life-history, genetics, population trends, habitat use and preference, and other important parameters is conducted to assist in further developing or refining criteria 1) and 2), above. Actions needed to meet these criteria include protecting the fish population and its habitat, conserving genetic diversity of the fish population, ensuring adequate water supplies are available, monitoring of the dace population and habitat conditions, and evaluating long-term effects of climatic trends on recovery of this fish population. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the status of the federally listed Foskett Spring speckled dace and its habitat. This report updates a monitoring program initiated in 2005 by ODFW (Scheerer and Jacobs 2005) by providing results of monitoring conducted in 2009. Specifically, this monitoring program calls for biannual estimates of population abundance, assessments of distribution and demographic parameters and assessments of physical habitat conditions. Title: 2009 Foskett Spring Speckled Dace Investigations Progress Report 2009 Abstract -- Speckled dace (Rhinichthys osculus) are geographically widespread throughout the western United States and occur in many isolated subbasins and interior drainages in south-central Oregon. The Foskett Spring speckled dace (R. osculus ssp.) is represented by a single population that inhabits Foskett Spring (Figure 1) on the west side of Coleman Lake (Warner Lakes subbasin) in Lake County, Oregon. Foskett speckled dace was listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act in 1985 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Foskett speckled dace became isolated in Foskett Spring at the end of the Pluvial period (~9,000-10,000 years ago). Foskett Spring is a natural spring that rises from a springhead pool, flows through a narrow spring brook into a series of shallow marshes, and then disappears into the soil of the normally dry Coleman Lake (Figure 1). A second population in Dace Spring, located approximately 0.8 kilometer south of Foskett Spring, was established from an introduction of 100 fish from Foskett Spring in 1979-1980 (Williams et al. 1990); however recent surveys have failed to document their continued existence at this location. In 1987, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) acquired, through exchange, the 65 hectare parcel of land containing Foskett and Dace Springs. Both sites were fenced to exclude livestock. The Recovery Plan for the threatened and rare native fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin states that Foskett speckled dace will probably not be delisted in the near future because of its extremely isolated range and potential for degradation of its habitat from localized events (USFWS 1997). The primary recovery objective for this species is long-term persistence through preservation of its native ecosystem. The plan further states that the conservation and long term sustainability of this species will be met when: 1) long-term protection of its habitat, including spring source aquifers, springpools and outflow channels, and surrounding lands is assured; 2) long-term habitat management guidelines are developed and implemented to ensure the continued persistence of important habitat features and guidelines include monitoring of current habitat and investigation for and evaluation of new spring habitats; and 3) research into life-history, genetics, population trends, habitat use and preference, and other important parameters is conducted to assist in further developing or refining criteria 1) and 2), above. Actions needed to meet these criteria include protecting the fish population and its habitat, conserving genetic diversity of the fish population, ensuring adequate water supplies are available, monitoring of the dace population and habitat conditions, and evaluating long-term effects of climatic trends on recovery of this fish population. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the status of the federally listed Foskett Spring speckled dace and its habitat. This report updates a monitoring program initiated in 2005 by ODFW (Scheerer and Jacobs 2005) by providing results of monitoring conducted in 2009. Specifically, this monitoring program calls for biannual estimates of population abundance, assessments of distribution and demographic parameters and assessments of physical habitat conditions. Close

• 8654. [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

• 8655. [Article] Population Assessment of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, 2005 Progress Report 2006

  Abstract -- Five of the six native Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi) populations in Oregon exist in the Coyote Lakes basin of southeast Harney County (ODFW 2005). The major drainage's ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Population Assessment of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, 2005 Progress Report 2006 Abstract -- Five of the six native Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi) populations in Oregon exist in the Coyote Lakes basin of southeast Harney County (ODFW 2005). The major drainage's in the Coyote Lakes Basin are Willow and Whitehorse Creeks. Both drainage's originate on the north slope of Trout Creek Mountain, terminate in the dry Coyote lake bed and are currently isolated from each other or any other basin. Populations of Lahontan cutthroat in Willow and Whitehorse Creeks have been protected under the ESA as a threatened species since 1991 and are also listed as threatened under State of Oregon statute (Hanson et al.1993). Along with changes in management and land use activities, the federal recovery plan for Lahontan cutthroat trout requires the assessment of habitat conditions and population abundance at five year intervals (Coffin and Cowan 1995). Population monitoring of cutthroat in Willow and Whitehorse creeks was initiated in 1985 and has occurred on a five year interval since then (Jones et al. 1998, ODFW Aquatic Inventory Project unpublished data). The goals of this project was to continue population monitoring by obtaining an estimate of Lahontan cutthroat trout in Willow Creek and Whitehorse Creek, and to test the application of the EMAP sampling design (Stevens and Olsen 2004) to obtain this estimate. Additionally, we determined distribution of cutthroat trout in tributaries where presence was suspected but not verified, and monitored distributions of the Antelope Creek populations. Title: Population Assessment of Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, 2005 Progress Report 2006 Abstract -- Five of the six native Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi) populations in Oregon exist in the Coyote Lakes basin of southeast Harney County (ODFW 2005). The major drainage's in the Coyote Lakes Basin are Willow and Whitehorse Creeks. Both drainage's originate on the north slope of Trout Creek Mountain, terminate in the dry Coyote lake bed and are currently isolated from each other or any other basin. Populations of Lahontan cutthroat in Willow and Whitehorse Creeks have been protected under the ESA as a threatened species since 1991 and are also listed as threatened under State of Oregon statute (Hanson et al.1993). Along with changes in management and land use activities, the federal recovery plan for Lahontan cutthroat trout requires the assessment of habitat conditions and population abundance at five year intervals (Coffin and Cowan 1995). Population monitoring of cutthroat in Willow and Whitehorse creeks was initiated in 1985 and has occurred on a five year interval since then (Jones et al. 1998, ODFW Aquatic Inventory Project unpublished data). The goals of this project was to continue population monitoring by obtaining an estimate of Lahontan cutthroat trout in Willow Creek and Whitehorse Creek, and to test the application of the EMAP sampling design (Stevens and Olsen 2004) to obtain this estimate. Additionally, we determined distribution of cutthroat trout in tributaries where presence was suspected but not verified, and monitored distributions of the Antelope Creek populations. Close

• 8656. [Article] Native Trout Studies, Annual Progress Report, Project # F-136-R-13

  Abstract -- We developed a proposal for studies to better describe 1) the seasonal movements and locations of adult westslope cutthroat trout in the mainstem John Day River subbasin, and 2) the characteristics ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Native Trout Studies, Annual Progress Report, Project # F-136-R-13 Abstract -- We developed a proposal for studies to better describe 1) the seasonal movements and locations of adult westslope cutthroat trout in the mainstem John Day River subbasin, and 2) the characteristics of habitats associated with these locations. We radio-tagged a total of 41 adult cutthroat trout, including six from Deardorff Creek, 18 from Roberts Creek, and 17 from Rail Creek to initiate efforts to describe their seasonal movements. We began to measure the characteristics of habitats used by these fish. In August, we helped survey Vinegar Creek (Middle Fork John Day River subbasin) for the presence of bull trout. Vinegar Creek was thought to no longer support bull trout, but these surveys led to the discovery of one. Title: Native Trout Studies, Annual Progress Report, Project # F-136-R-13 Abstract -- We developed a proposal for studies to better describe 1) the seasonal movements and locations of adult westslope cutthroat trout in the mainstem John Day River subbasin, and 2) the characteristics of habitats associated with these locations. We radio-tagged a total of 41 adult cutthroat trout, including six from Deardorff Creek, 18 from Roberts Creek, and 17 from Rail Creek to initiate efforts to describe their seasonal movements. We began to measure the characteristics of habitats used by these fish. In August, we helped survey Vinegar Creek (Middle Fork John Day River subbasin) for the presence of bull trout. Vinegar Creek was thought to no longer support bull trout, but these surveys led to the discovery of one. Close

• 8657. [Article] 2006 OPRD- Oregon Chub Population Monitoring on Oregon State Park Lands Progress Reports 2006

  Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette River drainage of western Oregon (Markle et al. 1991), were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2006 OPRD- Oregon Chub Population Monitoring on Oregon State Park Lands Progress Reports 2006 Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette River drainage of western Oregon (Markle et al. 1991), were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993 (Markle and Pearsons 1990; Rhew 1993). This species was formerly distributed throughout the Willamette River Valley (Snyder 1908) in off-channel habitats such as beaver ponds, oxbows, backwater sloughs, and flooded marshes. These habitats usually have little or no water flow, have silty and organic substrate, and have an abundance of aquatic vegetation and cover for hiding and spawning. In the last 100 years, off-channel habitats have disappeared because of changes in seasonal flows and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands for bottomland agriculture. This loss of habitat combined with the introduction of non-native species to the Willamette Valley resulted in a restricted distribution and sharp decline in Oregon chub abundance. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. To evaluate abundance and distribution of Oregon chub populations, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has conducted surveys since 1991. Information collected also included the presence of non-native and native species, the characteristics of Oregon chub habitats, the characteristics of potential introduction sites, evaluation of Oregon chub introductions, and life history characteristics (Scheerer 2002, Scheerer and McDonald 2003, Scheerer et al. 2006). The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set recovery criteria for downlisting the species to “threatened” and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species are: 1) establish and manage 10 populations of at least 500 adult fish, 2) all of these populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years, and 3) at least three populations meeting criterion 1 and 2 must be located in each of the three recovery areas (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, and Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2006, there were 18 populations totaling 500 or more individuals. Thirteen of these populations met the above criteria. Eight were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage, three were located in the Mid-Willamette drainage, and two were located in the Santiam drainage (Scheerer et al. 2006). The status of this species has improved substantially over the past decade and with the addition of a single Santiam population, the downlisting criteria will be met (Scheerer et al. 2006). Title: 2006 OPRD- Oregon Chub Population Monitoring on Oregon State Park Lands Progress Reports 2006 Abstract -- Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, small minnows endemic to the Willamette River drainage of western Oregon (Markle et al. 1991), were federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1993 (Markle and Pearsons 1990; Rhew 1993). This species was formerly distributed throughout the Willamette River Valley (Snyder 1908) in off-channel habitats such as beaver ponds, oxbows, backwater sloughs, and flooded marshes. These habitats usually have little or no water flow, have silty and organic substrate, and have an abundance of aquatic vegetation and cover for hiding and spawning. In the last 100 years, off-channel habitats have disappeared because of changes in seasonal flows and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands for bottomland agriculture. This loss of habitat combined with the introduction of non-native species to the Willamette Valley resulted in a restricted distribution and sharp decline in Oregon chub abundance. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. To evaluate abundance and distribution of Oregon chub populations, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has conducted surveys since 1991. Information collected also included the presence of non-native and native species, the characteristics of Oregon chub habitats, the characteristics of potential introduction sites, evaluation of Oregon chub introductions, and life history characteristics (Scheerer 2002, Scheerer and McDonald 2003, Scheerer et al. 2006). The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set recovery criteria for downlisting the species to “threatened” and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species are: 1) establish and manage 10 populations of at least 500 adult fish, 2) all of these populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years, and 3) at least three populations meeting criterion 1 and 2 must be located in each of the three recovery areas (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, and Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2006, there were 18 populations totaling 500 or more individuals. Thirteen of these populations met the above criteria. Eight were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage, three were located in the Mid-Willamette drainage, and two were located in the Santiam drainage (Scheerer et al. 2006). The status of this species has improved substantially over the past decade and with the addition of a single Santiam population, the downlisting criteria will be met (Scheerer et al. 2006). Close

• 8658. [Article] Warner Valley Fish Investigations- Warner Suckers Progress Reports 2008

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

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Warner Valley Fish Investigations- Warner Suckers Progress Reports 2008 Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. This species was historically abundant and its historical range includes three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner Valley is a northeast-southwest trending endorheic basin which extends approximately 90 km (Figure 1). The elevation of the valley floor is approximately 1,370 m and the basin is bound by fault block escarpments, the Warner Rim on the west and Hart Mountain and Poker Jim Ridge on the east. The Warner basin was formed during the middle Tertiary and late Quaternary geologic periods as a result of volcanic and tectonic activity (Baldwin 1976). Abundant precipitation during the Pleistocene Epoch resulted in the formation of Pluvial Lake Warner (Hubbs and Miller 1948). At its maximum extent approximately 11,000 years ago, the lake reached approximately 100 m in depth and 1,300 km2 in area (Snyder et al. 1964, Weide 1975). In 2008, precipitation and snow pack were near average and Hart and Crump Lakes never filled completely. In 2007, Crump Lake water levels were very low with less than a quarter of the surface area wetted during the winter. Both lakes have been watered continuously since 1993. The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. Two life history forms are present that comprise the metapopulation of Warner suckers: lake and stream morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish which normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during dry water years or by irrigation diversion dams and spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in the three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes in the lakes likely reduce sucker recruitment by predation on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that (1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes, (2) passage is restored within and among the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages so that the individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation, and (3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. In 2008, we conducted investigations in Hart and Crump Lakes to quantify the abundance and distribution of Warner suckers, to search for evidence of recent recruitment, and to estimate sucker abundance relative to nonnative fish abundance. In addition we investigated growth and movement patterns. We used Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagged suckers to determine growth rates and movements, tracked radio-tagged suckers to document seasonal spawning migrations, fished a screw trap in Twelvemile Creek to monitor downstream movements, and operated a trap at the Dyke diversion dam on Twentymile Creek to monitor upstream movements. Title: Warner Valley Fish Investigations- Warner Suckers Progress Reports 2008 Abstract -- The Warner sucker (Catostomus warnerensis) is endemic to the Warner Valley, an endorheic subbasin of the Great Basin in southeastern Oregon and northwestern Nevada. This species was historically abundant and its historical range includes three permanent lakes (Hart, Crump, and Pelican), several ephemeral lakes, a network of sloughs and diversion canals, and three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Warner sucker abundance and distribution has declined over the past century and it was federally listed as threatened in 1985 due to habitat fragmentation and threats posed by the proliferation of piscivorous non-native game fishes (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1985). The Warner Valley is a northeast-southwest trending endorheic basin which extends approximately 90 km (Figure 1). The elevation of the valley floor is approximately 1,370 m and the basin is bound by fault block escarpments, the Warner Rim on the west and Hart Mountain and Poker Jim Ridge on the east. The Warner basin was formed during the middle Tertiary and late Quaternary geologic periods as a result of volcanic and tectonic activity (Baldwin 1976). Abundant precipitation during the Pleistocene Epoch resulted in the formation of Pluvial Lake Warner (Hubbs and Miller 1948). At its maximum extent approximately 11,000 years ago, the lake reached approximately 100 m in depth and 1,300 km2 in area (Snyder et al. 1964, Weide 1975). In 2008, precipitation and snow pack were near average and Hart and Crump Lakes never filled completely. In 2007, Crump Lake water levels were very low with less than a quarter of the surface area wetted during the winter. Both lakes have been watered continuously since 1993. The Warner sucker inhabits the lakes and low gradient stream reaches of the Warner Valley. Two life history forms are present that comprise the metapopulation of Warner suckers: lake and stream morphs. The lake suckers are lacustrine adfluvial or potamodromous fish which normally spawn in the streams. However, upstream migration may be blocked by low stream flows during dry water years or by irrigation diversion dams and spawning may occur in nearshore areas of the lakes (White et al. 1990). The stream suckers inhabit and spawn in the three major tributary drainages (Honey, Deep, and Twentymile Creeks). Large lake-dwelling populations of introduced fishes in the lakes likely reduce sucker recruitment by predation on young suckers (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998). The Recovery Plan for the Threatened and Rare Native Fishes of the Warner Basin and Alkali Subbasin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) sets recovery criteria for delisting the species. These criteria require that (1) a self-sustaining metapopulation is distributed throughout the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages, and in Pelican, Crump, and Hart Lakes, (2) passage is restored within and among the Twentymile, Honey, and Deep Creek (below the falls) drainages so that the individual populations of Warner suckers can function as a metapopulation, and (3) no threats exist that would likely threaten the survival of the species over a significant portion of its range. In 2008, we conducted investigations in Hart and Crump Lakes to quantify the abundance and distribution of Warner suckers, to search for evidence of recent recruitment, and to estimate sucker abundance relative to nonnative fish abundance. In addition we investigated growth and movement patterns. We used Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagged suckers to determine growth rates and movements, tracked radio-tagged suckers to document seasonal spawning migrations, fished a screw trap in Twelvemile Creek to monitor downstream movements, and operated a trap at the Dyke diversion dam on Twentymile Creek to monitor upstream movements. Close

• 8659. [Article] Information Report 2018-01; Winter Habitat Condition of Oregon Coast Coho Salmon Populations, 2007-2014

  Abstract -- In this report we summarize results of eight years (2007-2014) of habitat surveys for 18 independent Oregon coast coho salmon populations across four monitoring strata (North Coast, Mid Coast, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Information Report 2018-01; Winter Habitat Condition of Oregon Coast Coho Salmon Populations, 2007-2014 Abstract -- In this report we summarize results of eight years (2007-2014) of habitat surveys for 18 independent Oregon coast coho salmon populations across four monitoring strata (North Coast, Mid Coast, MidSouth Coast, and Umpqua) in the Oregon Coast Coho Salmon Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). We also sampled dependent population blocks across three monitoring strata (North Coast, Mid Coast, and Mid-South Coast). Using a spatially balanced site selection process (Generalized Random Tessellation Stratification; GRTS) we surveyed 451 unique sites within the range of coho salmon spawning or rearing. With the exception of the 2014 survey year, habitat data were collected during winter conditions (February – March). Habitat sampled in 2014 occurred within the summer field season (June – September). We used a Habitat Limiting Factors Model (HLFM) to estimate habitat capacity for winter coho parr and the HabRate model to assess habitat quality for each surveyed stream reach. HLFM estimates were expanded based on the total coho distribution in each population. Based on the habitat data the HLFM predicted the Floras population could support the highest density of juvenile coho (1568 parr/km), while the streams in the Siltcoos watershed could support the least (290 parr/km). At the ESU-level, there was no detectable change of high quality rearing habitat (= 1850 parr/km) when compared to previous studies, but changes were observed among populations over the course of these survey years. We compared individual habitat metrics across populations, land use, geology, and between independent and dependent populations. While no significant differences were observed between independent and dependent populations, differences in habitat metrics were detected among individual populations, land use types, and geologies. In addition, we detected a difference in reproductive habitat quality (spawning and emergence) between both populations and land use types. Title: Information Report 2018-01; Winter Habitat Condition of Oregon Coast Coho Salmon Populations, 2007-2014 Abstract -- In this report we summarize results of eight years (2007-2014) of habitat surveys for 18 independent Oregon coast coho salmon populations across four monitoring strata (North Coast, Mid Coast, MidSouth Coast, and Umpqua) in the Oregon Coast Coho Salmon Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). We also sampled dependent population blocks across three monitoring strata (North Coast, Mid Coast, and Mid-South Coast). Using a spatially balanced site selection process (Generalized Random Tessellation Stratification; GRTS) we surveyed 451 unique sites within the range of coho salmon spawning or rearing. With the exception of the 2014 survey year, habitat data were collected during winter conditions (February – March). Habitat sampled in 2014 occurred within the summer field season (June – September). We used a Habitat Limiting Factors Model (HLFM) to estimate habitat capacity for winter coho parr and the HabRate model to assess habitat quality for each surveyed stream reach. HLFM estimates were expanded based on the total coho distribution in each population. Based on the habitat data the HLFM predicted the Floras population could support the highest density of juvenile coho (1568 parr/km), while the streams in the Siltcoos watershed could support the least (290 parr/km). At the ESU-level, there was no detectable change of high quality rearing habitat (= 1850 parr/km) when compared to previous studies, but changes were observed among populations over the course of these survey years. We compared individual habitat metrics across populations, land use, geology, and between independent and dependent populations. While no significant differences were observed between independent and dependent populations, differences in habitat metrics were detected among individual populations, land use types, and geologies. In addition, we detected a difference in reproductive habitat quality (spawning and emergence) between both populations and land use types. Close

• 8660. [Article] Information Report 2018-04, Smolt Abundance Estimates for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit

  Abstract -- Analysis of Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) smolt abundance can provide insight on freshwater habitat capacity and factors affecting salmonid persistence. To explore these relationships ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Information Report 2018-04, Smolt Abundance Estimates for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit Abstract -- Analysis of Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) smolt abundance can provide insight on freshwater habitat capacity and factors affecting salmonid persistence. To explore these relationships we linked multi-year data sets of overwinter survival rates from three streams within the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit (OCC) to summer parr abundance estimates from calibrated OCC-wide snorkel survey counts to estimate annual Coho Salmon smolt abundance from 2000-2017. Smolt abundance estimates ranged from a low of 0.9 million in 2000 to a high of 4.1 million in 2013 within the OCC. Accuracy of the smolt abundance estimates was tested using two datasets: (i) adult abundance modeled from the corresponding smolt abundance estimate was compared with adult abundance derived empirically from spawning ground surveys and (ii) our smolt abundance estimates were compared with smolt abundance estimates from trapping efforts in select basins within the OCC. Adult abundance modeled from smolt abundance estimates was highly correlated with adult abundance from spawning ground surveys (r = 0.88, p < 0.001) and smolt abundance estimates correlated with abundance from smolt trapping efforts (r = 0.81, p <0.001). Graphical relationships between smolt abundance and parental abundance suggest that freshwater productivity may be limited in the OCC by density dependent processes at spawner levels observed since 1998. Additionally, smolt abundance estimates have potential use as a variable in adult forecast models and could be used to assess trends in freshwater productivity and to probe factors of density dependence. Title: Information Report 2018-04, Smolt Abundance Estimates for the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit Abstract -- Analysis of Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) smolt abundance can provide insight on freshwater habitat capacity and factors affecting salmonid persistence. To explore these relationships we linked multi-year data sets of overwinter survival rates from three streams within the Oregon Coast Coho Evolutionarily Significant Unit (OCC) to summer parr abundance estimates from calibrated OCC-wide snorkel survey counts to estimate annual Coho Salmon smolt abundance from 2000-2017. Smolt abundance estimates ranged from a low of 0.9 million in 2000 to a high of 4.1 million in 2013 within the OCC. Accuracy of the smolt abundance estimates was tested using two datasets: (i) adult abundance modeled from the corresponding smolt abundance estimate was compared with adult abundance derived empirically from spawning ground surveys and (ii) our smolt abundance estimates were compared with smolt abundance estimates from trapping efforts in select basins within the OCC. Adult abundance modeled from smolt abundance estimates was highly correlated with adult abundance from spawning ground surveys (r = 0.88, p < 0.001) and smolt abundance estimates correlated with abundance from smolt trapping efforts (r = 0.81, p <0.001). Graphical relationships between smolt abundance and parental abundance suggest that freshwater productivity may be limited in the OCC by density dependent processes at spawner levels observed since 1998. Additionally, smolt abundance estimates have potential use as a variable in adult forecast models and could be used to assess trends in freshwater productivity and to probe factors of density dependence. Close

• 8661. [Article] Oregon Hunting and Angling License Agents

  Abstract -- Locations of license agents in Oregon, including ODFW offices, that sell Hunting and Fishing Licenses, Angling Tags, Controlled Hunt Applications, Game Bird Validations and Permits, Hunting ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon Hunting and Angling License Agents Abstract -- Locations of license agents in Oregon, including ODFW offices, that sell Hunting and Fishing Licenses, Angling Tags, Controlled Hunt Applications, Game Bird Validations and Permits, Hunting Tags, Raffles, ODFW Wildlife Area Parking Permits, and Habitat Conservation Stamps. Title: Oregon Hunting and Angling License Agents Abstract -- Locations of license agents in Oregon, including ODFW offices, that sell Hunting and Fishing Licenses, Angling Tags, Controlled Hunt Applications, Game Bird Validations and Permits, Hunting Tags, Raffles, ODFW Wildlife Area Parking Permits, and Habitat Conservation Stamps. Close

• 8662. [Article] Downstream rearing of juvenile Chinook salmon abundance, distribution and growth in the Upper Mainstem of the John Day River

  Abstract -- Juvenile spring Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) emerge from the gravel in the late winter or early spring, and most follow a life history pattern known as Natal Reach Rearing (NRR) in which ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Downstream rearing of juvenile Chinook salmon abundance, distribution and growth in the Upper Mainstem of the John Day River Abstract -- Juvenile spring Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) emerge from the gravel in the late winter or early spring, and most follow a life history pattern known as Natal Reach Rearing (NRR) in which juvenile fish remain in the stream reaches where they were spawned until their second spring of life when they start migrating towards the ocean (Healey 1991). However, in Columbia River tributaries, some juveniles have been observed following a Downstream Rearing (DSR) life history, in which they start moving downstream during their first spring towards other nursery habitats or perhaps ocean rearing (Copeland & Venditti 2009; Schroeder et al. 2016). Rearing in different habitats during their first year gives fish with these two life histories access to diverse food resources and, it is hypothesized that, this leads to different survival and growth advantages for these two groups. Differences in growth are of interest in efforts to conserve this threatened species because size is positively correlated to survival for salmon across multiple stages of their life cycle (Groot & Margolis 1991; Healey 1991; Quinn & Peterson 1996; Roni et al. 2012) Chinook salmon in the upper John Day River, Oregon, exhibit both NRR and DSR life history patterns. Fish following the DSR life history pattern are larger than NRR fish late in the spring, possibly due to factors such as higher fish density, lower stream productivity, and colder water temperatures in their natal reach than in the downstream reaches. However, this size advantage may be lost due to adverse summer conditions. Hot summer days combined with the withdrawal of water for agriculture lead to stream water temperatures well above lethal thresholds for salmon in many downstream reaches. DSR fish have been observed in tributaries of the mainstem John Day River, however their growth and survival during summer is unknown. Title: Downstream rearing of juvenile Chinook salmon abundance, distribution and growth in the Upper Mainstem of the John Day River Abstract -- Juvenile spring Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) emerge from the gravel in the late winter or early spring, and most follow a life history pattern known as Natal Reach Rearing (NRR) in which juvenile fish remain in the stream reaches where they were spawned until their second spring of life when they start migrating towards the ocean (Healey 1991). However, in Columbia River tributaries, some juveniles have been observed following a Downstream Rearing (DSR) life history, in which they start moving downstream during their first spring towards other nursery habitats or perhaps ocean rearing (Copeland & Venditti 2009; Schroeder et al. 2016). Rearing in different habitats during their first year gives fish with these two life histories access to diverse food resources and, it is hypothesized that, this leads to different survival and growth advantages for these two groups. Differences in growth are of interest in efforts to conserve this threatened species because size is positively correlated to survival for salmon across multiple stages of their life cycle (Groot & Margolis 1991; Healey 1991; Quinn & Peterson 1996; Roni et al. 2012) Chinook salmon in the upper John Day River, Oregon, exhibit both NRR and DSR life history patterns. Fish following the DSR life history pattern are larger than NRR fish late in the spring, possibly due to factors such as higher fish density, lower stream productivity, and colder water temperatures in their natal reach than in the downstream reaches. However, this size advantage may be lost due to adverse summer conditions. Hot summer days combined with the withdrawal of water for agriculture lead to stream water temperatures well above lethal thresholds for salmon in many downstream reaches. DSR fish have been observed in tributaries of the mainstem John Day River, however their growth and survival during summer is unknown. Close

• 8663. [Article] Aquatic Health Basin-Wide Baseline Monitoring

  Abstract -- The Harney Basin has never been systematically inventoried for aquatic health. In addition, carp distribution is undocumented across the Basin. In this effort, we completed fish assemblage ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Aquatic Health Basin-Wide Baseline Monitoring Abstract -- The Harney Basin has never been systematically inventoried for aquatic health. In addition, carp distribution is undocumented across the Basin. In this effort, we completed fish assemblage surveys, collected water quality and physical habitat data, and collected macroinvertebrate samples focusing on the Silver Creek, Silvies River and Dunner und Blitzen River drainage's. This data will form the baseline for comparison with the future carp-controlled and habitat improvement conditions in the Harney Basin. Title: Aquatic Health Basin-Wide Baseline Monitoring Abstract -- The Harney Basin has never been systematically inventoried for aquatic health. In addition, carp distribution is undocumented across the Basin. In this effort, we completed fish assemblage surveys, collected water quality and physical habitat data, and collected macroinvertebrate samples focusing on the Silver Creek, Silvies River and Dunner und Blitzen River drainage's. This data will form the baseline for comparison with the future carp-controlled and habitat improvement conditions in the Harney Basin. Close

• 8664. [Article] Clear Lake Fish Management Plan 1990

  Abstract -- Clear Lake, the origin of the McKenzie River, is located about 80 miles east of Eugene in Linn County, Oregon. The 148 acre lake is within the Willamette National Forest at an elevation of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Clear Lake Fish Management Plan 1990 Abstract -- Clear Lake, the origin of the McKenzie River, is located about 80 miles east of Eugene in Linn County, Oregon. The 148 acre lake is within the Willamette National Forest at an elevation of 3,012 feet. Clear Lake is biologically unusual. Although the underwater trees are not petrified, decomposition has been very slow because of the _low level of biological activity in the water. Biological activity is confined mainly to benthic algae in the northern end of the lake and to planktonic diatoms (primarily "Asterionella" and "Fragilaria") in the southern portion. Cutthroat trout is apparently the only indigenous salmonid species in Clear Lake. A 1922 Forest Service report describes Fish Lake and Hackleman Creek as being the most important spawning and juvenile rearing habitat for Clear Lake trout. Title: Clear Lake Fish Management Plan 1990 Abstract -- Clear Lake, the origin of the McKenzie River, is located about 80 miles east of Eugene in Linn County, Oregon. The 148 acre lake is within the Willamette National Forest at an elevation of 3,012 feet. Clear Lake is biologically unusual. Although the underwater trees are not petrified, decomposition has been very slow because of the _low level of biological activity in the water. Biological activity is confined mainly to benthic algae in the northern end of the lake and to planktonic diatoms (primarily "Asterionella" and "Fragilaria") in the southern portion. Cutthroat trout is apparently the only indigenous salmonid species in Clear Lake. A 1922 Forest Service report describes Fish Lake and Hackleman Creek as being the most important spawning and juvenile rearing habitat for Clear Lake trout. Close

• 8665. [Article] Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout: Coastal Chinook Salmon Plan

  Abstract -- This is the fourth in a series of individual species plans concerning management of anadromous salmonid populations in the state of Oregon. This plan focuses on the actions the agency will ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout: Coastal Chinook Salmon Plan Abstract -- This is the fourth in a series of individual species plans concerning management of anadromous salmonid populations in the state of Oregon. This plan focuses on the actions the agency will take regarding chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha populations produced in Oregon Coastal watersheds from the Necanicum River in the north to the Winchuck River at the Oregon-California border. Management of chinook salmon in the Columbia River basin is shaped by a cooperative agreement with the state of Washington, the Columbia River Treaty Indian Tribes, and the Federal Government. This management plan for wild and hatchery coastal chinook salmon in coastal river basins is the product of an ongoing planning process. The process began with the preparation of a report that contains descriptions of the life histories and assessments of recent trends in the run strengths of chinook salmon stocks in Oregon coastal river basins (Nicholas and Hankin 1988). ODFW staff and public representatives developed a comprehensive list of issues of concern and actions needed to improve management of coastal chinook salmon. These actions were based in part on a review of historic and contemporary habitat, harvest, and enhancement management practices in Oregon and on a review of the fisheries scientific literature. Title: Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout: Coastal Chinook Salmon Plan Abstract -- This is the fourth in a series of individual species plans concerning management of anadromous salmonid populations in the state of Oregon. This plan focuses on the actions the agency will take regarding chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha populations produced in Oregon Coastal watersheds from the Necanicum River in the north to the Winchuck River at the Oregon-California border. Management of chinook salmon in the Columbia River basin is shaped by a cooperative agreement with the state of Washington, the Columbia River Treaty Indian Tribes, and the Federal Government. This management plan for wild and hatchery coastal chinook salmon in coastal river basins is the product of an ongoing planning process. The process began with the preparation of a report that contains descriptions of the life histories and assessments of recent trends in the run strengths of chinook salmon stocks in Oregon coastal river basins (Nicholas and Hankin 1988). ODFW staff and public representatives developed a comprehensive list of issues of concern and actions needed to improve management of coastal chinook salmon. These actions were based in part on a review of historic and contemporary habitat, harvest, and enhancement management practices in Oregon and on a review of the fisheries scientific literature. Close

• 8666. [Article] Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout: Part I. General Considerations

  Abstract -- A comprehensive plan was prepared for managing Oregon's anadromous salmon and trout resources. The plan provides the basic framework for managing individual anadromous species, presenting an ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout: Part I. General Considerations Abstract -- A comprehensive plan was prepared for managing Oregon's anadromous salmon and trout resources. The plan provides the basic framework for managing individual anadromous species, presenting an organized approach rather than an empirical approach to management problems. It also provides the primary focus for developing subsidiary management plans for individual subbasins. The management goals, status of the stocks, planning definitions, and administrative guidelines constraining the planning process are described or documented in developing the plan. The plan applies four fundamental concepts on wild fish, stocks, stock-recruitment relationships, and habitat requirements as underlying principles required for prudent management of anadromous fish resources. The concepts and their role in the planning effort are documented. Various economic goals and associated problems are described to attain efficient and equitable utilization of anadromous fish resources by harvesters and to satisfy the broader concerns of society in managing the stocks. Title: Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout: Part I. General Considerations Abstract -- A comprehensive plan was prepared for managing Oregon's anadromous salmon and trout resources. The plan provides the basic framework for managing individual anadromous species, presenting an organized approach rather than an empirical approach to management problems. It also provides the primary focus for developing subsidiary management plans for individual subbasins. The management goals, status of the stocks, planning definitions, and administrative guidelines constraining the planning process are described or documented in developing the plan. The plan applies four fundamental concepts on wild fish, stocks, stock-recruitment relationships, and habitat requirements as underlying principles required for prudent management of anadromous fish resources. The concepts and their role in the planning effort are documented. Various economic goals and associated problems are described to attain efficient and equitable utilization of anadromous fish resources by harvesters and to satisfy the broader concerns of society in managing the stocks. Close

• 8667. [Article] Crooked River Fish Management Plan 1979

  Abstract -- The Crooked River is a major tributary to the Deschutes River and has the habitat to produce a good rainbow trout population, especially between Prineville Dam and Rice-Baldwin Dam. However, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Crooked River Fish Management Plan 1979 Abstract -- The Crooked River is a major tributary to the Deschutes River and has the habitat to produce a good rainbow trout population, especially between Prineville Dam and Rice-Baldwin Dam. However, winter streamflow is minimal and high turbidity is common. The. river is not stocked but various ages and sizes of hatchery fish emigrate from Prineville Reservoir during periods of spill; and these fish constitute a sizable portion of the trout population in the river. The Crooked River has maintained a successful fishery on the combination of wild and hatchery (from Prinevi11e Reservoir) trout under general statewide regulations. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage this portion of Crooked River for wild and hatchery fish. Hatchery fish will not be stocked in this section of the river, but large numbers of hatchery trout migrate from Prineville Reservoir into the river below the dam. Title: Crooked River Fish Management Plan 1979 Abstract -- The Crooked River is a major tributary to the Deschutes River and has the habitat to produce a good rainbow trout population, especially between Prineville Dam and Rice-Baldwin Dam. However, winter streamflow is minimal and high turbidity is common. The. river is not stocked but various ages and sizes of hatchery fish emigrate from Prineville Reservoir during periods of spill; and these fish constitute a sizable portion of the trout population in the river. The Crooked River has maintained a successful fishery on the combination of wild and hatchery (from Prinevi11e Reservoir) trout under general statewide regulations. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage this portion of Crooked River for wild and hatchery fish. Hatchery fish will not be stocked in this section of the river, but large numbers of hatchery trout migrate from Prineville Reservoir into the river below the dam. Close

• 8668. [Article] Lower Deschutes River Subbasin Management Plan 1997

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

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

• 8669. [Article] Upper Deschutes River Fish Management Plan - Draft

  Abstract -- The Upper Deschutes River Fish Management Plan provides information on habitat, fish management, location and ownership, fish stocking history, angling regulations, management issues and management ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Upper Deschutes River Fish Management Plan - Draft Abstract -- The Upper Deschutes River Fish Management Plan provides information on habitat, fish management, location and ownership, fish stocking history, angling regulations, management issues and management alternatives. In the Habitat and Fish Management sections of the following discussion, the Deschutes River will be divided into two sections; Wickiup Dam to Benham Falls, and Benham Falls to Bend (North Canal Dam). The reason for this is based on stream morphology and changes in fish populations. Benham Falls is a high gradient natural cascade which separates the Deschutes River into two logical sections with low gradient above the falls and high gradient below. Similarly, fish population composition changes at Benham Falls with brown trout dominant above and rainbow trout dominant below. The remaining sections; location and ownership, fish stocking history, angling regulations, management issues, summary of alternatives and alternatives will be presented as (1) Deschutes River, and (2) Tributaries. Title: Upper Deschutes River Fish Management Plan - Draft Abstract -- The Upper Deschutes River Fish Management Plan provides information on habitat, fish management, location and ownership, fish stocking history, angling regulations, management issues and management alternatives. In the Habitat and Fish Management sections of the following discussion, the Deschutes River will be divided into two sections; Wickiup Dam to Benham Falls, and Benham Falls to Bend (North Canal Dam). The reason for this is based on stream morphology and changes in fish populations. Benham Falls is a high gradient natural cascade which separates the Deschutes River into two logical sections with low gradient above the falls and high gradient below. Similarly, fish population composition changes at Benham Falls with brown trout dominant above and rainbow trout dominant below. The remaining sections; location and ownership, fish stocking history, angling regulations, management issues, summary of alternatives and alternatives will be presented as (1) Deschutes River, and (2) Tributaries. Close

• 8670. [Article] Grande Ronde River Fish Management Plan 1993- Draft

  Abstract -- The Fish Management Policy of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife directs that fish management plans will be prepared for each basin or management unit. The Fish Management Plan for ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Grande Ronde River Fish Management Plan 1993- Draft Abstract -- The Fish Management Policy of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife directs that fish management plans will be prepared for each basin or management unit. The Fish Management Plan for the Grande Ronde River Basin (hereafter referred to as the Grande Ronde River Basin Plan or the Plan) is just one part of the overall planning effort of the ODFW. Individual species plans contain statewide policies and guidelines, and provide general direction for writing basin plans. The Grande Ronde River Basin Plan incorporates appropriate portions of the above plans, and will be the primary document used to guide fishery management of the public resource in this basin. The Grande Ronde River Basin Plan was developed through an advisory process that included ODFW staff, tribal agencies, a committee of citizen advisors [Public Advisory Committee (PAC)] representing a diversity of interests in the basin, and a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) with members representing several agencies including land management and tribal representation. Title: Grande Ronde River Fish Management Plan 1993- Draft Abstract -- The Fish Management Policy of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife directs that fish management plans will be prepared for each basin or management unit. The Fish Management Plan for the Grande Ronde River Basin (hereafter referred to as the Grande Ronde River Basin Plan or the Plan) is just one part of the overall planning effort of the ODFW. Individual species plans contain statewide policies and guidelines, and provide general direction for writing basin plans. The Grande Ronde River Basin Plan incorporates appropriate portions of the above plans, and will be the primary document used to guide fishery management of the public resource in this basin. The Grande Ronde River Basin Plan was developed through an advisory process that included ODFW staff, tribal agencies, a committee of citizen advisors [Public Advisory Committee (PAC)] representing a diversity of interests in the basin, and a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) with members representing several agencies including land management and tribal representation. Close

• 8671. [Article] Fish Management Plan Little Deschutes River Above Gilchrist Mill Pond 1979

  Abstract -- The Little Deschutes River is a major tributary to, and enters, the Deschutes at RM 193 above Bend. This management plan only covers the system above Gilchrist because we have little opportunity ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Management Plan Little Deschutes River Above Gilchrist Mill Pond 1979 Abstract -- The Little Deschutes River is a major tributary to, and enters, the Deschutes at RM 193 above Bend. This management plan only covers the system above Gilchrist because we have little opportunity to create a successful trout program downstream due to extensive populations of rough fish and stunted brown bullheads. A proposed chemical treatment program in 1973 below Gilchrist failed to get total landowner approval. Large populations of small brown trout are present in the Little Deschutes where good habitat exists. Growth is slow and angling pressure and harvest is light. No special angling regulations are in effect at present. In July 1979, the Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue managing the Little Deschutes River above Gilchrist Mill Pond for wild trout. Title: Fish Management Plan Little Deschutes River Above Gilchrist Mill Pond 1979 Abstract -- The Little Deschutes River is a major tributary to, and enters, the Deschutes at RM 193 above Bend. This management plan only covers the system above Gilchrist because we have little opportunity to create a successful trout program downstream due to extensive populations of rough fish and stunted brown bullheads. A proposed chemical treatment program in 1973 below Gilchrist failed to get total landowner approval. Large populations of small brown trout are present in the Little Deschutes where good habitat exists. Growth is slow and angling pressure and harvest is light. No special angling regulations are in effect at present. In July 1979, the Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue managing the Little Deschutes River above Gilchrist Mill Pond for wild trout. Close

• 8672. [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

• 8673. [Article] Oregon's Trout Plan: A Plan for the Management of Oregon's Trout 1987

  Abstract -- The Statewide Trout Management Plan is part of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's (ODFW) planning program to provide a comprehensive, systematic, long-term approach to the management ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon's Trout Plan: A Plan for the Management of Oregon's Trout 1987 Abstract -- The Statewide Trout Management Plan is part of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's (ODFW) planning program to provide a comprehensive, systematic, long-term approach to the management of Oregon's fish resources. The Plan contains specific goals, objectives, strategies, and guidelines for the statewide management of trout, which are based on state laws, as well as general goals and policies adopted by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, (hereafter referred to as the Commission). In turn, the Plan provides direction for basin, subbasin, and mini plans developed for individual rivers and water bodies. The relationship of the Statewide Trout Management Plan to other ODFW plans is further discussed in Appendix A. This Statewide Management Plan will direct future trout management and will be reviewed in 6 years. The plan contains brief descriptions of Oregon's trout waters, species, anglers, and economic consequences. The importance of habitat and the use of angling regulations are also discussed. The plan covers all species of native and introduced resident trout and Pacific salmon that are managed in the resident trout program (Atlantic salmon, kokanee, coho salmon, and Chinook salmon) and the anadromous form (searun) of cutthroat trout. Appendix B contains a complete list of fish treated as trout in the plan. Title: Oregon's Trout Plan: A Plan for the Management of Oregon's Trout 1987 Abstract -- The Statewide Trout Management Plan is part of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's (ODFW) planning program to provide a comprehensive, systematic, long-term approach to the management of Oregon's fish resources. The Plan contains specific goals, objectives, strategies, and guidelines for the statewide management of trout, which are based on state laws, as well as general goals and policies adopted by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, (hereafter referred to as the Commission). In turn, the Plan provides direction for basin, subbasin, and mini plans developed for individual rivers and water bodies. The relationship of the Statewide Trout Management Plan to other ODFW plans is further discussed in Appendix A. This Statewide Management Plan will direct future trout management and will be reviewed in 6 years. The plan contains brief descriptions of Oregon's trout waters, species, anglers, and economic consequences. The importance of habitat and the use of angling regulations are also discussed. The plan covers all species of native and introduced resident trout and Pacific salmon that are managed in the resident trout program (Atlantic salmon, kokanee, coho salmon, and Chinook salmon) and the anadromous form (searun) of cutthroat trout. Appendix B contains a complete list of fish treated as trout in the plan. Close

• 8674. [Article] Part IV. Anadromous Fish Production Plans

  Abstract -- Early-returning coho salmon in the Sandy Subbasin are produced at the Sandy Hatchery and managed as a hatchery stock. They also produce naturally in numerous tributaries and the upper mainstern. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Part IV. Anadromous Fish Production Plans Abstract -- Early-returning coho salmon in the Sandy Subbasin are produced at the Sandy Hatchery and managed as a hatchery stock. They also produce naturally in numerous tributaries and the upper mainstern. Numbers for early-run coho that return to spawn naturally are represented best by Marmot Darn counts. Although some spawning habitat for coho exists below Marmot Darn, the optimum tributaries are above the darn in upper tributaries and side channels of the mainstem. Construction of Marmot Dam and the Bull Run Reservoir system has reduced the available habitat historically used by coho salmon. Although Marmot Darn is laddered, flows for many years after construction were not adequate to attract or allow passage above the dam. Minimum flow agreements now maintain flows adequate for fish passage and attraction. The Bull Run River remains blocked for anadrornous fish passage above the dam for Reservoir 2; the city of Portland mitigates for the loss of habitat by funding the release of juvenile fish elsewhere in the subbasin. Title: Part IV. Anadromous Fish Production Plans Abstract -- Early-returning coho salmon in the Sandy Subbasin are produced at the Sandy Hatchery and managed as a hatchery stock. They also produce naturally in numerous tributaries and the upper mainstern. Numbers for early-run coho that return to spawn naturally are represented best by Marmot Darn counts. Although some spawning habitat for coho exists below Marmot Darn, the optimum tributaries are above the darn in upper tributaries and side channels of the mainstem. Construction of Marmot Dam and the Bull Run Reservoir system has reduced the available habitat historically used by coho salmon. Although Marmot Darn is laddered, flows for many years after construction were not adequate to attract or allow passage above the dam. Minimum flow agreements now maintain flows adequate for fish passage and attraction. The Bull Run River remains blocked for anadrornous fish passage above the dam for Reservoir 2; the city of Portland mitigates for the loss of habitat by funding the release of juvenile fish elsewhere in the subbasin. Close

• 8675. [Article] Sandy River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Draft

  Abstract -- The Sandy River and its tributaries originate high on the west and south slopes of Mount Hood, flow approximately 55 miles in a northwesterly direction and enter the Columbia River near Troutdale ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Sandy River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Draft Abstract -- The Sandy River and its tributaries originate high on the west and south slopes of Mount Hood, flow approximately 55 miles in a northwesterly direction and enter the Columbia River near Troutdale (Columbia RM 120.5). The Sandy basin is situated in Multnomah and Clackamas counties (EPA reach 17080001), and drains approximately 508 square miles. The Sandy River basin is comprised of several subbasins, many of which are uniquely distinct hydrologically and geomorphologically. Principle tributaries include the Zigzag River, Still Creek, and the Salmon River in the upper basin and the Bull Run River, Gordon, Cedar, and Beaver creeks in the lower basin. Many other smaller tributaries located throughout the basin contribute significantly to stream flows and provide habitat for a wide array of fish and wildlife assemblages. The Sandy River is well known for its sport fishing. Winter steelhead, summer steelhead, and spring chinook are the most sought after species. Both winter and summer steelhead, coho, and spring chinook are supplemented with hatchery produced fish. Rainbow trout and fall chinook are no longer stocked in flowing waters of the Sandy River basin. In the late 1980's the Northwest Power Planning Council administered a planning process to create a management plan for the Columbia River basin. As a part of that process, a subbasin plan concerning management of steelhead and salmon was written for the Sandy River basin. This document, the draft "Sandy River Basin Fish Management Plan", significantly expands on the Northwest Power Planning Council document by adding resident fish species and new information on anadromous species and will ultimately produce the final plan used to guide fish resource management in the basin for the next 5 to 10 years. Title: Sandy River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Draft Abstract -- The Sandy River and its tributaries originate high on the west and south slopes of Mount Hood, flow approximately 55 miles in a northwesterly direction and enter the Columbia River near Troutdale (Columbia RM 120.5). The Sandy basin is situated in Multnomah and Clackamas counties (EPA reach 17080001), and drains approximately 508 square miles. The Sandy River basin is comprised of several subbasins, many of which are uniquely distinct hydrologically and geomorphologically. Principle tributaries include the Zigzag River, Still Creek, and the Salmon River in the upper basin and the Bull Run River, Gordon, Cedar, and Beaver creeks in the lower basin. Many other smaller tributaries located throughout the basin contribute significantly to stream flows and provide habitat for a wide array of fish and wildlife assemblages. The Sandy River is well known for its sport fishing. Winter steelhead, summer steelhead, and spring chinook are the most sought after species. Both winter and summer steelhead, coho, and spring chinook are supplemented with hatchery produced fish. Rainbow trout and fall chinook are no longer stocked in flowing waters of the Sandy River basin. In the late 1980's the Northwest Power Planning Council administered a planning process to create a management plan for the Columbia River basin. As a part of that process, a subbasin plan concerning management of steelhead and salmon was written for the Sandy River basin. This document, the draft "Sandy River Basin Fish Management Plan", significantly expands on the Northwest Power Planning Council document by adding resident fish species and new information on anadromous species and will ultimately produce the final plan used to guide fish resource management in the basin for the next 5 to 10 years. Close

• 8676. [Article] Siuslaw River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997

  Abstract -- The Siuslaw River Basin is one in a series of similar watersheds in the Oregon coastal mountain range extending from the Nehalem to the Coquille. Rivers and streams in these watersheds generally ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Siuslaw River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Abstract -- The Siuslaw River Basin is one in a series of similar watersheds in the Oregon coastal mountain range extending from the Nehalem to the Coquille. Rivers and streams in these watersheds generally occur in a forest dominated landscape, have moderate gradients, and medium to large estuaries. There are few dams that substantially affect anadromous fish runs. Water withdrawals impact only a small portion of the total miles of stream habitat. Water quality and temperatures are suitable for salmonids for the entire year in most areas. Rainfall throughout the area is heavy, resulting in a high density of streams relative to watershed area. The Siuslaw River system alone has over one thousand contiguous miles of stream suitable for salmonids. Some of these stream reaches are highly productive, while others are severely degraded. Title: Siuslaw River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Abstract -- The Siuslaw River Basin is one in a series of similar watersheds in the Oregon coastal mountain range extending from the Nehalem to the Coquille. Rivers and streams in these watersheds generally occur in a forest dominated landscape, have moderate gradients, and medium to large estuaries. There are few dams that substantially affect anadromous fish runs. Water withdrawals impact only a small portion of the total miles of stream habitat. Water quality and temperatures are suitable for salmonids for the entire year in most areas. Rainfall throughout the area is heavy, resulting in a high density of streams relative to watershed area. The Siuslaw River system alone has over one thousand contiguous miles of stream suitable for salmonids. Some of these stream reaches are highly productive, while others are severely degraded. Close

• 8677. [Article] Yachats River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997

  Abstract -- The Yachats River Basin is one in a series of similar watersheds in the Oregon coastal mountain range extending from the Nehalem to the Coquille. Rivers and streams in these watersheds generally ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Yachats River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Abstract -- The Yachats River Basin is one in a series of similar watersheds in the Oregon coastal mountain range extending from the Nehalem to the Coquille. Rivers and streams in these watersheds generally occur in a forest dominated landscape, have moderate gradients, and medium to large estuaries. There are few dams that substantially affect anadromous fish runs. Water withdrawals impact only a small portion of the total miles of stream habitat. Water quality and temperatures are suitable for salmonids for the entire year in most areas. Rainfall throughout the area is heavy, resulting in a high density of streams relative to watershed area. The Yachats River system has about 69 contiguous miles of stream suitable for salmonids. Some of these stream reaches are highly productive. The Yachats River Basin has traditionally been managed for production of wild salmonids. Few hatchery fish have been released in the Yachats River Basin historically and none has been released in the past several decades. All salmonid species in the Yachats River Basin are at depressed levels with the exception of resident cutthroat trout. The depressed status of Yachats River Basin fish stocks has resulted from human induced factors including habitat degradation, excessive harvest, and hatchery influence (from adjacent streams) in combination with natural events such as droughts, floods and El Nino ocean conditions. As human induced factors are controlled and corrected, it is expected that fish abundance will increase substantially, but it is not possible to accurately forecast the shape recovery will take. In addition to the confounding effects of natural environmental variation, the recovery of individual fish species due to reduction in human impacts can only be loosely surmised. For this reason, this management plan will treat specific management targets for individual species as secondary to recovery of the entire basin and assemblage of fish species. Title: Yachats River Basin Fish Management Plan 1997 Abstract -- The Yachats River Basin is one in a series of similar watersheds in the Oregon coastal mountain range extending from the Nehalem to the Coquille. Rivers and streams in these watersheds generally occur in a forest dominated landscape, have moderate gradients, and medium to large estuaries. There are few dams that substantially affect anadromous fish runs. Water withdrawals impact only a small portion of the total miles of stream habitat. Water quality and temperatures are suitable for salmonids for the entire year in most areas. Rainfall throughout the area is heavy, resulting in a high density of streams relative to watershed area. The Yachats River system has about 69 contiguous miles of stream suitable for salmonids. Some of these stream reaches are highly productive. The Yachats River Basin has traditionally been managed for production of wild salmonids. Few hatchery fish have been released in the Yachats River Basin historically and none has been released in the past several decades. All salmonid species in the Yachats River Basin are at depressed levels with the exception of resident cutthroat trout. The depressed status of Yachats River Basin fish stocks has resulted from human induced factors including habitat degradation, excessive harvest, and hatchery influence (from adjacent streams) in combination with natural events such as droughts, floods and El Nino ocean conditions. As human induced factors are controlled and corrected, it is expected that fish abundance will increase substantially, but it is not possible to accurately forecast the shape recovery will take. In addition to the confounding effects of natural environmental variation, the recovery of individual fish species due to reduction in human impacts can only be loosely surmised. For this reason, this management plan will treat specific management targets for individual species as secondary to recovery of the entire basin and assemblage of fish species. Close

• 8678. [Article] Fish Management Plan North Fork of Middle Fork Willamette River 1979

  Abstract -- The North Fork is a moderate-sized tributary originating at Waldo Lake and entering the Middle Fork Willamette near the town of Oakridge. The river and its tributaries contain approximately ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Management Plan North Fork of Middle Fork Willamette River 1979 Abstract -- The North Fork is a moderate-sized tributary originating at Waldo Lake and entering the Middle Fork Willamette near the town of Oakridge. The river and its tributaries contain approximately 160 miles of trout producing water. The habitat is generally capable of producing a good trout population. Native cutthroat and rainbow are present throughout the system and brook trout, having moved out of Waldo Lake, are found a short distance downstream. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage the North Fork, Middle Fork Willamette River for wild trout. The Commission concurrently imposed a fly angling only restriction to fishing in this stream. Title: Fish Management Plan North Fork of Middle Fork Willamette River 1979 Abstract -- The North Fork is a moderate-sized tributary originating at Waldo Lake and entering the Middle Fork Willamette near the town of Oakridge. The river and its tributaries contain approximately 160 miles of trout producing water. The habitat is generally capable of producing a good trout population. Native cutthroat and rainbow are present throughout the system and brook trout, having moved out of Waldo Lake, are found a short distance downstream. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the Department's recommendation to continue to manage the North Fork, Middle Fork Willamette River for wild trout. The Commission concurrently imposed a fly angling only restriction to fishing in this stream. Close

• 8679. [Article] Fish Management Plan Yachats River, 1979

  Abstract -- The Yachats River is a moderate-sized tributary to the Pacific Ocean containing 55 stream miles and a small estuary. This is an excellent small system that is not stocked with hatchery fish ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Management Plan Yachats River, 1979 Abstract -- The Yachats River is a moderate-sized tributary to the Pacific Ocean containing 55 stream miles and a small estuary. This is an excellent small system that is not stocked with hatchery fish since the habitat is capable of producing a good population of wild fish. The stream receives light angling pressure; but we believe this will increase and more restrictive angling regulations may eventually be needed, although none are necessary now. The Yachats produces resident and anadromous cutthroat trout, fall Chinook and coho salmon, and winter steelhead. Releases of hatchery steelhead were terminated in 1969; cutthroat trout in 1978; and the only known release of salmon was made in 1958. There are no special angling regulations in effect at present. 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 al] salmonids. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the following Department recommendations: The Yachats River will be managed for wild trout. The Yachats River will be managed for wild steelhead for the immediate future. However, if ODFW determines that steelheaders are opposed to this option, the Fish and Wildlife Commission will consider authorizing the release of hatchery smolts to enhance the fishery. The choice of a management option for salmon will be deferred until a coast-wide salmon management plan is developed. 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 into the system. Title: Fish Management Plan Yachats River, 1979 Abstract -- The Yachats River is a moderate-sized tributary to the Pacific Ocean containing 55 stream miles and a small estuary. This is an excellent small system that is not stocked with hatchery fish since the habitat is capable of producing a good population of wild fish. The stream receives light angling pressure; but we believe this will increase and more restrictive angling regulations may eventually be needed, although none are necessary now. The Yachats produces resident and anadromous cutthroat trout, fall Chinook and coho salmon, and winter steelhead. Releases of hatchery steelhead were terminated in 1969; cutthroat trout in 1978; and the only known release of salmon was made in 1958. There are no special angling regulations in effect at present. 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 al] salmonids. In July 1979, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission accepted the following Department recommendations: The Yachats River will be managed for wild trout. The Yachats River will be managed for wild steelhead for the immediate future. However, if ODFW determines that steelheaders are opposed to this option, the Fish and Wildlife Commission will consider authorizing the release of hatchery smolts to enhance the fishery. The choice of a management option for salmon will be deferred until a coast-wide salmon management plan is developed. 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 into the system. Close

• 8680. [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

• 8681. [Article] Oregon Chub Investigations, Progress Report 2001

  Abstract -- Populations of Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, endemic to the Willamette Valley, have been drastically reduced. Factors in the decline of this fish include changes in flow regimes and habitat ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon Chub Investigations, Progress Report 2001 Abstract -- Populations of Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, endemic to the Willamette Valley, have been drastically reduced. Factors in the decline of this fish include changes in flow regimes and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, small mouth bass M. dolomieui, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. We surveyed in the Willamette River drainage in April-October 2000 to quantify existing Oregon chub populations, search for unknown populations, evaluate potential introduction sites, and monitor introduced populations. We sampled a total of 77 sites in 2000. We collected Oregon chub for the first time from Barnard Slough in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage. Oregon chub were last collected from this location in 1983 (Bond 1984). Thirty-one of the 77 sites were new sites that were sampled for the first time in 2000. Forty-six sites, sampled in 1991-1999, were revisited. Three sites were sampled twice. We confirmed the continued existence of Oregon chub at 20 locations. These include naturally occurring populations in the Santiam drainage (Geren Island, Santiam Conservation Easement, Gray Slough, Santiam 1-5 backwaters, Pioneer Park backwater, Santiam Public Works Pond), Mid-Willamette drainage (Finley Gray Creek Swamp) and Middle Fork Willamette drainage (Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Buckhead Creek, Oakridge Slough, Elijah Bristow State Park, Rattlesnake Creek, and Hospital Pond) and introduced populations in the Middle Fork Willamette (Wicopee Pond, Fall Creek Spillway Ponds), Santiam (Foster Pullout Pond), and Mid-Willamette drainages (Dunn Wetland, Finley Display Pond). Oregon chub were not found at several locations (Jasper Park Slough, Wallace Slough, East Ferrin Pond, Dexter East Alcove, Hospital lmpoundment Pond, Logan Slough, Green's Bridge Backwater, Camas Swale) where they were collected on at least one occasion between 1991-1999 (Scheerer et. al. 1992; 1993; 1994; 1995; 1996; 1998; 1999; 2000; Scheerer and Jones 1997). Non-native fish were common in off-channel habitats that were surveyed in the Willamette River drainage. Non-native fish were collected from 23 of the 31 new sites sampled in 1999 (74%); no fish were collected at three locations (10%). Western mosquitofish and centrarchids (largemouth bass and bluegill) were the most common non-native fish collected. Oregon chub were introduced into Menear's Bend Pond in the Santiam River drainage in the October 2000. Additional Oregon chub were introduced into Foster Pullout Pond in October 2000, to supplement the 85 fish introduced in 1999. In the summer of 2000, a habitat enhancement project creating new habitat to benefit Oregon chub was completed in the Long Tom drainage (Mid-Willamette River). Seven potential Oregon chub reintroduction sites were monitored and evaluated. These included four sites in the Mid-Willamette River drainage (Finley National Wildlife Refuge Beaver and Cattail Ponds, Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge Dunlin-Woodduck Pond, Long Tom Ranch Pond), one site in the Santiam River drainage (Menear's Bend Pond), one site in the McKenzie River drainage (Russell Pond), and one site in the Coast Fork Willamette drainage (Layng Pond). Estimates of abundance were obtained for naturally occurring populations of Oregon chub in East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Elijah Bristow State Park Sloughs, Hospital Pond, Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, Buckhead Creek, Oakridge Slough, Santiam Conservation Easement Sloughs, Geren Island Ponds, and Finley Gray Creek Swamp. Five of these populations showed an increase in abundance in 2000 (East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Middle Buckhead Creek, Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, Finley Gray Creek Swamp). Four populations decreased in abundance (or remain depressed) in 2000 (Geren Island, Santiam Conservation Easement, Elijah Bristow Sloughs, Oakridge Slough) (Table 1 ). Abundance estimates for introduced populations of Oregon chub were also obtained. The Oregon chub population in East Ferrin Pond declined from 7,200 fish in 1997 to O fish in 2000, and is presumed extinct. The Oregon chub population in the Fall Creek Spillway Pond totaled 5,030 fish in 2000, compared to 6,300 fish in 1999. The Oregon chub population in Wicopee Pond expanded dramatically from ~50 fish in 1999 to 4,580 fish in 2000. The Oregon chub population in the Dunn Wetland Ponds increased from 4,860 fish in 1999 to 14,090 fish in 2000. The Oregon chub population in Finley Display Pond increased from 360 fish in 1999 to 1,750 fish in 2000. Three of the four largest populations in 2000 were introduced populations. The Middle Fork Willamette River drainage supported the largest number of Oregon chub populations (n=12), followed by the Santiam drainage (n=B), and the Mid-Willamette drainage (n=5). The most abundant Oregon chub populations were found in the Middle Fork Willamette and Mid-Willamette drainages. The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set a recovery goal for downlisting the species to "threatened" and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species was to establish and manage ten populations of at least 500 adult fish. All populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years. At least three populations must be located in each of the three sub-basins (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2000, there were 11 populations totaling 500 or more individuals and six of these populations exhibited a stable or increasing trend for the past five years (Table 1 ). Five of these six populations were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage. In summary, Oregon chub remain at risk due to their limited distribution compared with their historic geographic range in the Willamette Valley, the loss of suitable habitat and the continued threats posed by the proliferation of non-native fishes, illegal water withdrawals, unauthorized fill and removal operations, and potential chemical spills or careless pesticide applications. Title: Oregon Chub Investigations, Progress Report 2001 Abstract -- Populations of Oregon chub Oregonichthys crameri, endemic to the Willamette Valley, have been drastically reduced. Factors in the decline of this fish include changes in flow regimes and habitat characteristics resulting from the construction of flood control dams, revetments, channelization, diking, and the drainage of wetlands. The Oregon chub is further threatened by predation and competition by non-native species such as largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, small mouth bass M. dolomieui, crappies Pomoxis sp., sunfishes Lepomis sp., bullheads Ameiurus sp., and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis. We surveyed in the Willamette River drainage in April-October 2000 to quantify existing Oregon chub populations, search for unknown populations, evaluate potential introduction sites, and monitor introduced populations. We sampled a total of 77 sites in 2000. We collected Oregon chub for the first time from Barnard Slough in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage. Oregon chub were last collected from this location in 1983 (Bond 1984). Thirty-one of the 77 sites were new sites that were sampled for the first time in 2000. Forty-six sites, sampled in 1991-1999, were revisited. Three sites were sampled twice. We confirmed the continued existence of Oregon chub at 20 locations. These include naturally occurring populations in the Santiam drainage (Geren Island, Santiam Conservation Easement, Gray Slough, Santiam 1-5 backwaters, Pioneer Park backwater, Santiam Public Works Pond), Mid-Willamette drainage (Finley Gray Creek Swamp) and Middle Fork Willamette drainage (Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Buckhead Creek, Oakridge Slough, Elijah Bristow State Park, Rattlesnake Creek, and Hospital Pond) and introduced populations in the Middle Fork Willamette (Wicopee Pond, Fall Creek Spillway Ponds), Santiam (Foster Pullout Pond), and Mid-Willamette drainages (Dunn Wetland, Finley Display Pond). Oregon chub were not found at several locations (Jasper Park Slough, Wallace Slough, East Ferrin Pond, Dexter East Alcove, Hospital lmpoundment Pond, Logan Slough, Green's Bridge Backwater, Camas Swale) where they were collected on at least one occasion between 1991-1999 (Scheerer et. al. 1992; 1993; 1994; 1995; 1996; 1998; 1999; 2000; Scheerer and Jones 1997). Non-native fish were common in off-channel habitats that were surveyed in the Willamette River drainage. Non-native fish were collected from 23 of the 31 new sites sampled in 1999 (74%); no fish were collected at three locations (10%). Western mosquitofish and centrarchids (largemouth bass and bluegill) were the most common non-native fish collected. Oregon chub were introduced into Menear's Bend Pond in the Santiam River drainage in the October 2000. Additional Oregon chub were introduced into Foster Pullout Pond in October 2000, to supplement the 85 fish introduced in 1999. In the summer of 2000, a habitat enhancement project creating new habitat to benefit Oregon chub was completed in the Long Tom drainage (Mid-Willamette River). Seven potential Oregon chub reintroduction sites were monitored and evaluated. These included four sites in the Mid-Willamette River drainage (Finley National Wildlife Refuge Beaver and Cattail Ponds, Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge Dunlin-Woodduck Pond, Long Tom Ranch Pond), one site in the Santiam River drainage (Menear's Bend Pond), one site in the McKenzie River drainage (Russell Pond), and one site in the Coast Fork Willamette drainage (Layng Pond). Estimates of abundance were obtained for naturally occurring populations of Oregon chub in East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Elijah Bristow State Park Sloughs, Hospital Pond, Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, Buckhead Creek, Oakridge Slough, Santiam Conservation Easement Sloughs, Geren Island Ponds, and Finley Gray Creek Swamp. Five of these populations showed an increase in abundance in 2000 (East Fork Minnow Creek Pond, Shady Dell Pond, Middle Buckhead Creek, Dexter Reservoir Alcoves, Finley Gray Creek Swamp). Four populations decreased in abundance (or remain depressed) in 2000 (Geren Island, Santiam Conservation Easement, Elijah Bristow Sloughs, Oakridge Slough) (Table 1 ). Abundance estimates for introduced populations of Oregon chub were also obtained. The Oregon chub population in East Ferrin Pond declined from 7,200 fish in 1997 to O fish in 2000, and is presumed extinct. The Oregon chub population in the Fall Creek Spillway Pond totaled 5,030 fish in 2000, compared to 6,300 fish in 1999. The Oregon chub population in Wicopee Pond expanded dramatically from ~50 fish in 1999 to 4,580 fish in 2000. The Oregon chub population in the Dunn Wetland Ponds increased from 4,860 fish in 1999 to 14,090 fish in 2000. The Oregon chub population in Finley Display Pond increased from 360 fish in 1999 to 1,750 fish in 2000. Three of the four largest populations in 2000 were introduced populations. The Middle Fork Willamette River drainage supported the largest number of Oregon chub populations (n=12), followed by the Santiam drainage (n=B), and the Mid-Willamette drainage (n=5). The most abundant Oregon chub populations were found in the Middle Fork Willamette and Mid-Willamette drainages. The Oregon Chub Recovery Plan (U .S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1998) set a recovery goal for downlisting the species to "threatened" and for delisting the species. The criteria for downlisting the species was to establish and manage ten populations of at least 500 adult fish. All populations must exhibit a stable or increasing trend for five years. At least three populations must be located in each of the three sub-basins (Middle Fork Willamette River, Santiam River, Mid-Willamette River tributaries). In 2000, there were 11 populations totaling 500 or more individuals and six of these populations exhibited a stable or increasing trend for the past five years (Table 1 ). Five of these six populations were located in the Middle Fork Willamette drainage. In summary, Oregon chub remain at risk due to their limited distribution compared with their historic geographic range in the Willamette Valley, the loss of suitable habitat and the continued threats posed by the proliferation of non-native fishes, illegal water withdrawals, unauthorized fill and removal operations, and potential chemical spills or careless pesticide applications. Close

• 8682. [Article] Progress Reports 2004: 2004 Oregon Chub Investigations

  Abstract -- Oregon chub are endemic to the Willamette River drainage of western Oregon (Markle et al. 1991). This species was formerly distributed throughout the Willamette River Valley (Snyder 1908) in ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Progress Reports 2004: 2004 Oregon Chub Investigations Abstract -- Oregon chub are endemic to the Willamette River drainage of western Oregon (Markle et al. 1991). This species was formerly distributed throughout the Willamette River Valley (Snyder 1908) in off-channel habitats such as beaver ponds, oxbows, stable backwater sloughs, and flooded marshes. These habitats usually have little or no water flow, have silty and organic substrate, and have an abundance of aquatic vegetation and cover for hiding and spawning. In the last 100 years, off-channel habitats have disappeared because of changes in seasonal flows resulting from the construction of dams throughout the basin, channelization of the Willamette River and its tributaries, and agricultural practices. This loss of habitat combined with the introduction of non-native species to the Willamette Valley resulted in a sharp decline in Oregon chub abundance. The reduction of habitat and the restricted distribution of the Oregon chub resulted in a determination of "endangered" status under the federal endangered species act (Markle and Pearsons 1990; Rhew 1993). To evaluate Oregon chub population abundance and distribution, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted surveys in April-October 2004. We conducted similar surveys in 1991-2003 (Scheerer et. al. 1992; 1993; 1994; 1995; 1996; 1998; 1999; 2000; 2001; 2002; 2003; 2004; Scheerer and Jones 1997). The survey objectives were to collect information on the status, distribution, and abundance of Oregon chub, the presence of non-native and native species, the characteristics of Oregon chub habitats, the characteristics of potential introduction sites, and to evaluate the success of Oregon chub introductions. In addition, we reviewed and evaluated projects and activities with the potential to impact Oregon chub and their habitats and provided summaries to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Title: Progress Reports 2004: 2004 Oregon Chub Investigations Abstract -- Oregon chub are endemic to the Willamette River drainage of western Oregon (Markle et al. 1991). This species was formerly distributed throughout the Willamette River Valley (Snyder 1908) in off-channel habitats such as beaver ponds, oxbows, stable backwater sloughs, and flooded marshes. These habitats usually have little or no water flow, have silty and organic substrate, and have an abundance of aquatic vegetation and cover for hiding and spawning. In the last 100 years, off-channel habitats have disappeared because of changes in seasonal flows resulting from the construction of dams throughout the basin, channelization of the Willamette River and its tributaries, and agricultural practices. This loss of habitat combined with the introduction of non-native species to the Willamette Valley resulted in a sharp decline in Oregon chub abundance. The reduction of habitat and the restricted distribution of the Oregon chub resulted in a determination of "endangered" status under the federal endangered species act (Markle and Pearsons 1990; Rhew 1993). To evaluate Oregon chub population abundance and distribution, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife conducted surveys in April-October 2004. We conducted similar surveys in 1991-2003 (Scheerer et. al. 1992; 1993; 1994; 1995; 1996; 1998; 1999; 2000; 2001; 2002; 2003; 2004; Scheerer and Jones 1997). The survey objectives were to collect information on the status, distribution, and abundance of Oregon chub, the presence of non-native and native species, the characteristics of Oregon chub habitats, the characteristics of potential introduction sites, and to evaluate the success of Oregon chub introductions. In addition, we reviewed and evaluated projects and activities with the potential to impact Oregon chub and their habitats and provided summaries to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Close

• 8683. [Article] Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative Sections 18-27: Appendix 1- 4 1997

  Abstract -- Oregon developed a conservation plan known as Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative (OCSRI) to guide the protection and restoration of anadromous fish in coastal river basins. The ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative Sections 18-27: Appendix 1- 4 1997 Abstract -- Oregon developed a conservation plan known as Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative (OCSRI) to guide the protection and restoration of anadromous fish in coastal river basins. The four appendices include informational documents related to the OCSRI. Appendix 1 contains briefing papers covering policy, cumulative effects, physical habitats, water quantity, water quality and fishery management. Appendix 2 is the monitoring program documentation covering the OCSRI monitoring background and working documents, development of benchmark values for analysis, assessment, and evaluation of progress toward objectives and federal measures that support or coordinate with OCSRI monitoring. Appendix 3 covers the population dynamics model, and includes the introduction, methods, habitat quality component, forward simulation component, depiction of habitat quality, forward simulations and results and discussion. Appendix 4 includes core mapping documentation like maps, list of core areas and documentation for each core area. Title: Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative Sections 18-27: Appendix 1- 4 1997 Abstract -- Oregon developed a conservation plan known as Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative (OCSRI) to guide the protection and restoration of anadromous fish in coastal river basins. The four appendices include informational documents related to the OCSRI. Appendix 1 contains briefing papers covering policy, cumulative effects, physical habitats, water quantity, water quality and fishery management. Appendix 2 is the monitoring program documentation covering the OCSRI monitoring background and working documents, development of benchmark values for analysis, assessment, and evaluation of progress toward objectives and federal measures that support or coordinate with OCSRI monitoring. Appendix 3 covers the population dynamics model, and includes the introduction, methods, habitat quality component, forward simulation component, depiction of habitat quality, forward simulations and results and discussion. Appendix 4 includes core mapping documentation like maps, list of core areas and documentation for each core area. Close

• 8684. [Article] A Plan for Reintroduction of Anadromous Fish in the Upper Klamath Basin 2008

  Abstract -- The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission (OFWC) has adopted statewide species plans for Chinook and coho salmon, steelhead, trout, and warmwater gamefish. These plans guide the development of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Plan for Reintroduction of Anadromous Fish in the Upper Klamath Basin 2008 Abstract -- The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission (OFWC) has adopted statewide species plans for Chinook and coho salmon, steelhead, trout, and warmwater gamefish. These plans guide the development of localized plans for species management units, and individual river basins. A fish management plan was adopted by the OFWC in 1997 for the Klamath River Basin. Basin fish management plans serve several functions. They present a logical, systematic approach to conserving our aquatic resources; establish management priorities, and direct attention to the most critical problems affecting our fisheries. In November 2002, the OFWC adopted the Native Fish Conservation Policy (NFCP) that calls for development of conservation plans for each species management unit to ensure conservation and recovery of native fishes in Oregon. Intent of the NFCP is to provide a basis for managing hatcheries, fisheries, habitat, predators, competitors, and pathogens in balance with sustainable production of naturally produced native fish. The policy has three areas of emphasis. The first is defensive, to ensure avoidance of serious depletion of native fish. The second is more proactive, to restore and maintain native fish at levels providing ecological and societal benefits. The third area of emphasis ensures that, consist with native fish conservation, opportunities for fisheries and other societal resource uses are not unnecessarily constrained. The NFCP acknowledges that basin fish management plans will provide fish management guidance until conservation plans can be completed. Title: A Plan for Reintroduction of Anadromous Fish in the Upper Klamath Basin 2008 Abstract -- The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission (OFWC) has adopted statewide species plans for Chinook and coho salmon, steelhead, trout, and warmwater gamefish. These plans guide the development of localized plans for species management units, and individual river basins. A fish management plan was adopted by the OFWC in 1997 for the Klamath River Basin. Basin fish management plans serve several functions. They present a logical, systematic approach to conserving our aquatic resources; establish management priorities, and direct attention to the most critical problems affecting our fisheries. In November 2002, the OFWC adopted the Native Fish Conservation Policy (NFCP) that calls for development of conservation plans for each species management unit to ensure conservation and recovery of native fishes in Oregon. Intent of the NFCP is to provide a basis for managing hatcheries, fisheries, habitat, predators, competitors, and pathogens in balance with sustainable production of naturally produced native fish. The policy has three areas of emphasis. The first is defensive, to ensure avoidance of serious depletion of native fish. The second is more proactive, to restore and maintain native fish at levels providing ecological and societal benefits. The third area of emphasis ensures that, consist with native fish conservation, opportunities for fisheries and other societal resource uses are not unnecessarily constrained. The NFCP acknowledges that basin fish management plans will provide fish management guidance until conservation plans can be completed. Close

• 8685. [Article] Upper Calapooia River Fish Monitoring

  Abstract -- The project will occur on the Upper Calapooia River, between the Holley Bridge (USGS RM 45.5) and the perceived end of anadromy for salmonids (USGS RM 72.9). Historically the Calapooia River ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Upper Calapooia River Fish Monitoring Abstract -- The project will occur on the Upper Calapooia River, between the Holley Bridge (USGS RM 45.5) and the perceived end of anadromy for salmonids (USGS RM 72.9). Historically the Calapooia River marked the upper end of winter steelhead distribution in the Willamette Basin, and a spawning tributary for spring chinook. These are both DPS/ESU listed species, and little is known about their distribution and life history in the Calapooia River. A Rapid Bioassessment was completed in 2015 as well as winter steelhead redd survey in 2017 to try and establish baseline data including spawning gravel abundance/seeding availability, adult escapement, a foundation for long term trend analysis, as well as identify anchor habitats. The survey was also intended to inform ODFW with vital information regarding the possibility of jump-start seeding the Calapooia with Chinook, as well as guide the Calapooia WC’s restoration approach in this vital area. The 2017 return of Winter steelhead over the Willamette Falls (pinch point for all anadromy in the Willamette Valley) was the lowest on record, and the CWC and partners do not feel a proper baseline was established. The CWC proposes to complete 2 years of STW redd Surveys to create a baseline of adult escapement from 2 different cohorts, as well as collect summer water temperature data through the deployment of Hobo temperature loggers. This data can be used to create a reach wide restoration plan that will focus CWC restoration efforts in areas where they will be the most efficient and effective. Partners include ODFW, Weyerhaeuser, US Forest Service, Miners Association, and private residents. Title: Upper Calapooia River Fish Monitoring Abstract -- The project will occur on the Upper Calapooia River, between the Holley Bridge (USGS RM 45.5) and the perceived end of anadromy for salmonids (USGS RM 72.9). Historically the Calapooia River marked the upper end of winter steelhead distribution in the Willamette Basin, and a spawning tributary for spring chinook. These are both DPS/ESU listed species, and little is known about their distribution and life history in the Calapooia River. A Rapid Bioassessment was completed in 2015 as well as winter steelhead redd survey in 2017 to try and establish baseline data including spawning gravel abundance/seeding availability, adult escapement, a foundation for long term trend analysis, as well as identify anchor habitats. The survey was also intended to inform ODFW with vital information regarding the possibility of jump-start seeding the Calapooia with Chinook, as well as guide the Calapooia WC’s restoration approach in this vital area. The 2017 return of Winter steelhead over the Willamette Falls (pinch point for all anadromy in the Willamette Valley) was the lowest on record, and the CWC and partners do not feel a proper baseline was established. The CWC proposes to complete 2 years of STW redd Surveys to create a baseline of adult escapement from 2 different cohorts, as well as collect summer water temperature data through the deployment of Hobo temperature loggers. This data can be used to create a reach wide restoration plan that will focus CWC restoration efforts in areas where they will be the most efficient and effective. Partners include ODFW, Weyerhaeuser, US Forest Service, Miners Association, and private residents. Close

• 8686. [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

• 8687. [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

• 8688. [Article] Escapement and Productivity of Summer Steelhead and Spring Chinook Salmon in the John Day River; Annual Report 2017

  Abstract -- The John Day River, located in northeastern Oregon, supports five wild populations of summer steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and three populations of wild spring chinook (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Escapement and Productivity of Summer Steelhead and Spring Chinook Salmon in the John Day River; Annual Report 2017 Abstract -- The John Day River, located in northeastern Oregon, supports five wild populations of summer steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and three populations of wild spring chinook (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha) with no hatchery supplementation. However, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. In 1999, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) listed the Middle Columbia River summer steelhead Distinct Population Segment (DPS), which includes the John Day River Major Population Group (MPG), as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Although numerous habitat protection and rehabilitation projects have been implemented within the John Day River basin to improve steelhead and other salmonid freshwater production and survival, it has been difficult to estimate the effectiveness of these projects without a systematic program in place to collect information on the status, trends, and distribution of spawning activity, juvenile salmonids, and aquatic habitat conditions within the basin. Prior to the inception of this project, population and environmental monitoring of steelhead in the basin consisted of a combination of index spawning surveys and periodic monitoring of some status and trend indicators. While index spawning data is useful for drawing inference about long-term trends in adult steelhead abundance, they are limited for determining the status of steelhead escapement or distribution at the population or MPG scale because survey sites are not randomly selected and are likely biased towards streams with higher fish abundance. A broader approach to the monitoring and evaluation of status and trends in anadromous and resident salmonid populations and their habitats was needed to provide data to effectively support restoration efforts and guide alternative future management actions in the basin. The Independent Scientific Review Panel (ISRP) recommended that the region move away from index surveys and embrace probabilistic sampling for most population and habitat monitoring. To meet the ISRP recommendation, the structure and methods employed by the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds Monitoring Program were extended to the John Day basin. This approach incorporates the sampling strategy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP). This research effort employs a statistically based and spatially explicit sampling design to answer key monitoring questions, integrate on-going sampling efforts, and improve agency coordination. The current program seeks to integrate project objectives focused on summer steelhead spawning metrics, juvenile salmonid metrics, and aquatic habitat conditions. Title: Escapement and Productivity of Summer Steelhead and Spring Chinook Salmon in the John Day River; Annual Report 2017 Abstract -- The John Day River, located in northeastern Oregon, supports five wild populations of summer steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and three populations of wild spring chinook (Oncorhynchus tschawytscha) with no hatchery supplementation. However, these populations remain depressed relative to historic levels. In 1999, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) listed the Middle Columbia River summer steelhead Distinct Population Segment (DPS), which includes the John Day River Major Population Group (MPG), as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Although numerous habitat protection and rehabilitation projects have been implemented within the John Day River basin to improve steelhead and other salmonid freshwater production and survival, it has been difficult to estimate the effectiveness of these projects without a systematic program in place to collect information on the status, trends, and distribution of spawning activity, juvenile salmonids, and aquatic habitat conditions within the basin. Prior to the inception of this project, population and environmental monitoring of steelhead in the basin consisted of a combination of index spawning surveys and periodic monitoring of some status and trend indicators. While index spawning data is useful for drawing inference about long-term trends in adult steelhead abundance, they are limited for determining the status of steelhead escapement or distribution at the population or MPG scale because survey sites are not randomly selected and are likely biased towards streams with higher fish abundance. A broader approach to the monitoring and evaluation of status and trends in anadromous and resident salmonid populations and their habitats was needed to provide data to effectively support restoration efforts and guide alternative future management actions in the basin. The Independent Scientific Review Panel (ISRP) recommended that the region move away from index surveys and embrace probabilistic sampling for most population and habitat monitoring. To meet the ISRP recommendation, the structure and methods employed by the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds Monitoring Program were extended to the John Day basin. This approach incorporates the sampling strategy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP). This research effort employs a statistically based and spatially explicit sampling design to answer key monitoring questions, integrate on-going sampling efforts, and improve agency coordination. The current program seeks to integrate project objectives focused on summer steelhead spawning metrics, juvenile salmonid metrics, and aquatic habitat conditions. Close

• 8689. [Article] Fish Propagation Annual Report 2007

  Abstract -- The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Fish Propagation Annual Report 2007 Abstract -- The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The Department is charged by statute (ORS 506.036) to protect and propagate fish in the state. This includes direct responsibility for regulating harvest of fish, protection of fish, enhancement of fish populations tlu·ough habitat improvement, and the rearing and release offish into public waters. ODFW maintains hatcheries throughout the state to provide fish for program needs. Operation of these facilities is governed by the following: The Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, a comprehensive plan for the conservation of salmon and the protection of their habitat which coordinates the actions of all state agencies that affect aquatic resources. The Native Fish Conservation Policy, which provides a basis for managing hatcheries in balance with sustainable production of naturally produced native fish. The Fish Hatchery Management Policy, which provides general fish culture and facility guidelines and measures to maintain genetic resources of native fish populations spawned or reared in captivity. The Fish Health Management Policy, which describes measures that minimize the impact of fish diseases on the state's fish resources. Information about the Oregon Plan can be viewed at http://www.oregon-plan.org. The complete texts of the Fish Hatchery Management Policy, the Native Fish Conservation Policy, and the Fish Health Management Policy may be viewed at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/nfcp/. In addition to these salmon and hatchery specific state policy and plan guidelines, ODFW's hatchery program works with and responds to local watershed interests; other federal, tribal, and state comanagers; federal and state Endangered Species Act (ESA) guidelines; and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Title: Fish Propagation Annual Report 2007 Abstract -- The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The Department is charged by statute (ORS 506.036) to protect and propagate fish in the state. This includes direct responsibility for regulating harvest of fish, protection of fish, enhancement of fish populations tlu·ough habitat improvement, and the rearing and release offish into public waters. ODFW maintains hatcheries throughout the state to provide fish for program needs. Operation of these facilities is governed by the following: The Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds, a comprehensive plan for the conservation of salmon and the protection of their habitat which coordinates the actions of all state agencies that affect aquatic resources. The Native Fish Conservation Policy, which provides a basis for managing hatcheries in balance with sustainable production of naturally produced native fish. The Fish Hatchery Management Policy, which provides general fish culture and facility guidelines and measures to maintain genetic resources of native fish populations spawned or reared in captivity. The Fish Health Management Policy, which describes measures that minimize the impact of fish diseases on the state's fish resources. Information about the Oregon Plan can be viewed at http://www.oregon-plan.org. The complete texts of the Fish Hatchery Management Policy, the Native Fish Conservation Policy, and the Fish Health Management Policy may be viewed at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/nfcp/. In addition to these salmon and hatchery specific state policy and plan guidelines, ODFW's hatchery program works with and responds to local watershed interests; other federal, tribal, and state comanagers; federal and state Endangered Species Act (ESA) guidelines; and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Close

• 8690. [Article] Habitat Protection Policies and Standards of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 1991

  Abstract -- The Habitat Protection Policies and Standards collected in this document are intended to provide guidance to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife employees. It is a working and evolving document ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Habitat Protection Policies and Standards of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 1991 Abstract -- The Habitat Protection Policies and Standards collected in this document are intended to provide guidance to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife employees. It is a working and evolving document that responds to changing laws, habitat conditions, social and political attitudes, and increased knowledge. The Habitat Conservation Division of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife developed these habitat protection policies and standards using intra-agency task forces comprised of experts from throughout the state. Those policies and standards that significantly affect the public interest have been or will be developed into administrative rules through a public review and comment process. Title: Habitat Protection Policies and Standards of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 1991 Abstract -- The Habitat Protection Policies and Standards collected in this document are intended to provide guidance to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife employees. It is a working and evolving document that responds to changing laws, habitat conditions, social and political attitudes, and increased knowledge. The Habitat Conservation Division of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife developed these habitat protection policies and standards using intra-agency task forces comprised of experts from throughout the state. Those policies and standards that significantly affect the public interest have been or will be developed into administrative rules through a public review and comment process. Close

• 8691. [Article] McKenzie River Plan Summary, Mailing

  Abstract -- The McKenzie River subbasin is an area rich in natural beauty and resources. The tradition of fishing the McKenzie runs deep, and its notoriety reaches far and wide. The McKenzie River is one ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: McKenzie River Plan Summary, Mailing Abstract -- The McKenzie River subbasin is an area rich in natural beauty and resources. The tradition of fishing the McKenzie runs deep, and its notoriety reaches far and wide. The McKenzie River is one of the most popular rivers for fishing in Oregon. During the 1983 trout season, an estimated 54,000 anglers fished from Blue River to Armitage Park. The most sought after species include native rainbow and cutthroat trout, spring chinook, and in recent years, an introduced run of summer steelhead. To meet angling demand, hatchery rainbow trout are stocked in portions of the mainstem, Blue River, and the South Fork. During the past year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists and a public advisory team from the McKenzie River/Eugene-Springfield area, jointly developed a draft plan to guide the management of the fisheries in the McKenzie subbasin. The draft plan includes management guidelines, objectives, priorities, and recommended actions to solve the principal fisheries' problems concerning: • Habitat • Management of major fish species or groups of species • Angling access This summary covers some of the key elements of the draft plan. Title: McKenzie River Plan Summary, Mailing Abstract -- The McKenzie River subbasin is an area rich in natural beauty and resources. The tradition of fishing the McKenzie runs deep, and its notoriety reaches far and wide. The McKenzie River is one of the most popular rivers for fishing in Oregon. During the 1983 trout season, an estimated 54,000 anglers fished from Blue River to Armitage Park. The most sought after species include native rainbow and cutthroat trout, spring chinook, and in recent years, an introduced run of summer steelhead. To meet angling demand, hatchery rainbow trout are stocked in portions of the mainstem, Blue River, and the South Fork. During the past year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists and a public advisory team from the McKenzie River/Eugene-Springfield area, jointly developed a draft plan to guide the management of the fisheries in the McKenzie subbasin. The draft plan includes management guidelines, objectives, priorities, and recommended actions to solve the principal fisheries' problems concerning: • Habitat • Management of major fish species or groups of species • Angling access This summary covers some of the key elements of the draft plan. Close

• 8692. [Article] Public Draft: A Plan for Oregon Coho Salmon | Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout, Part II Coho Salmon Plan

  Abstract -- Most of us agree we have a "coho problem." Generally stated, the problem is that our coho salmon populations have slumped to the level we had almost 20 years ago after an apparently successful ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Public Draft: A Plan for Oregon Coho Salmon | Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout, Part II Coho Salmon Plan Abstract -- Most of us agree we have a "coho problem." Generally stated, the problem is that our coho salmon populations have slumped to the level we had almost 20 years ago after an apparently successful hatchery program had increased them to a record high in 1976. There is no simple explanation for, or solution to, the coho production problem. If we want to obtain a permanent increase in coho abundance, we must develop an organized and well-founded-program to lead us there. That is why we need a plan. A plan is like a map-it shows us how to get from one place to another. We are at a point of low coho abundance, and we want to get back to the level of abundance we enjoyed in the early 1970's. Production is not Oregon's only coho problem. There are many other issues dealing with allocation, harvest, stocks, surplus fish, escapements, habitat, etc. (see lA). Most of these are interrelated, and many are a part of the coho production problem. Although these are all important considerations in the development of Oregon's coho management plan, the coho production problem has been emphasized. Title: Public Draft: A Plan for Oregon Coho Salmon | Comprehensive Plan for Production and Management of Oregon's Anadromous Salmon and Trout, Part II Coho Salmon Plan Abstract -- Most of us agree we have a "coho problem." Generally stated, the problem is that our coho salmon populations have slumped to the level we had almost 20 years ago after an apparently successful hatchery program had increased them to a record high in 1976. There is no simple explanation for, or solution to, the coho production problem. If we want to obtain a permanent increase in coho abundance, we must develop an organized and well-founded-program to lead us there. That is why we need a plan. A plan is like a map-it shows us how to get from one place to another. We are at a point of low coho abundance, and we want to get back to the level of abundance we enjoyed in the early 1970's. Production is not Oregon's only coho problem. There are many other issues dealing with allocation, harvest, stocks, surplus fish, escapements, habitat, etc. (see lA). Most of these are interrelated, and many are a part of the coho production problem. Although these are all important considerations in the development of Oregon's coho management plan, the coho production problem has been emphasized. Close

• 8693. [Article] Umpqua Fish Management District Guide to Restoration Site Selection

  Abstract -- Research in Oregon coastal areas indicates there is potential to improve the productive capacity of freshwater rearing streams, principally by improving the quality of over-winter rearing habitat ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Umpqua Fish Management District Guide to Restoration Site Selection Abstract -- Research in Oregon coastal areas indicates there is potential to improve the productive capacity of freshwater rearing streams, principally by improving the quality of over-winter rearing habitat for juvenile salmonids. The objective of this document is to identify stream reaches where habitat restoration work may improve the status of anadromous salmonids. This document also represents a contribution to the Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative. In this report, we identify stream reaches in the Umpqua basin with habitat restoration potential. We also discuss selection of appropriate restoration techniques. The list of potential restoration reaches was compiled based on analysis of Aquatic Habitat Inventory Data and recommendations of ODFW biologists. Our work is designed to complement ongoing habitat protection and restoration efforts by ODFW personnel. The selected reaches may be suitable for various instream and riparian-zone restoration activities specific to perceived limiting factors, thereby increasing capacity to produce salmonids. The reaches have relatively low gradient (<5%), moderate active channel width (3-12 m), and are within relatively broad valleys. These physical characteristics offer the highest potential capacity to support juvenile anadromous fish. The proposed work is intended to help restore natural stream and riparian processes to a condition that will support more production of anadromous fish than is currently possible. Data from almost 1,200 stream reaches were screened to identify the 215 potential restoration sites described in this report. The sites are primarily on private industrial timberlands. A full description of each potential restoration site was limited by our timetable. As work proceeds on these reaches in the future, prioritization of current sites and identification of additional restoration reaches will occur. In guides prepared for other basins, the sites or reaches were presented as "probably suitable" for restoration activities to begin immediately. In this guide, however, we could not reduce the list to those sites appropriate for immediate project design. Consequently, the reaches described should be evaluated further before making any commitments to project design. An approach to further evaluation of the proposed restoration sites is described in this report. Title: Umpqua Fish Management District Guide to Restoration Site Selection Abstract -- Research in Oregon coastal areas indicates there is potential to improve the productive capacity of freshwater rearing streams, principally by improving the quality of over-winter rearing habitat for juvenile salmonids. The objective of this document is to identify stream reaches where habitat restoration work may improve the status of anadromous salmonids. This document also represents a contribution to the Oregon's Coastal Salmon Restoration Initiative. In this report, we identify stream reaches in the Umpqua basin with habitat restoration potential. We also discuss selection of appropriate restoration techniques. The list of potential restoration reaches was compiled based on analysis of Aquatic Habitat Inventory Data and recommendations of ODFW biologists. Our work is designed to complement ongoing habitat protection and restoration efforts by ODFW personnel. The selected reaches may be suitable for various instream and riparian-zone restoration activities specific to perceived limiting factors, thereby increasing capacity to produce salmonids. The reaches have relatively low gradient (<5%), moderate active channel width (3-12 m), and are within relatively broad valleys. These physical characteristics offer the highest potential capacity to support juvenile anadromous fish. The proposed work is intended to help restore natural stream and riparian processes to a condition that will support more production of anadromous fish than is currently possible. Data from almost 1,200 stream reaches were screened to identify the 215 potential restoration sites described in this report. The sites are primarily on private industrial timberlands. A full description of each potential restoration site was limited by our timetable. As work proceeds on these reaches in the future, prioritization of current sites and identification of additional restoration reaches will occur. In guides prepared for other basins, the sites or reaches were presented as "probably suitable" for restoration activities to begin immediately. In this guide, however, we could not reduce the list to those sites appropriate for immediate project design. Consequently, the reaches described should be evaluated further before making any commitments to project design. An approach to further evaluation of the proposed restoration sites is described in this report. Close

• 8694. [Article] 2007 Annual Report John Day Fish District, Northeast Region

  Abstract -- none

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2007 Annual Report John Day Fish District, Northeast Region Abstract -- none Title: 2007 Annual Report John Day Fish District, Northeast Region Abstract -- none Close

• 8695. [Article] Northeast Region Stock Status Review, John Day Fish District, 1993

  Abstract -- None

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Northeast Region Stock Status Review, John Day Fish District, 1993 Abstract -- None Title: Northeast Region Stock Status Review, John Day Fish District, 1993 Abstract -- None Close

• 8696. [Article] A Radio Telemetry of Steelhead in the North Umpqua River Basin, 1998-2001

  Abstract -- The North Umpqua steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) represents one of the few remaining native anadromous fish populations in Oregon still at a relatively healthy level. The sustainability of ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Radio Telemetry of Steelhead in the North Umpqua River Basin, 1998-2001 Abstract -- The North Umpqua steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) represents one of the few remaining native anadromous fish populations in Oregon still at a relatively healthy level. The sustainability of the North Umpqua steelhead population and its' habitat is a very high priority. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) develops, on a continuing basis, practices designed to ensure the health and viability of this population. However, continued management success depends critically on the availability of data necessary for a detailed understanding of relevant life history issues. To address these data needs, ODFW began a radio-telemetry study of North Umpqua steelhead in June of 1998. Tagging at Winchester dam was terminated 10/26/00 but monitoring continued until the end of May 2001. This study has provided detailed information on movement patterns of adult steelhead in the basin at a level that is available in no other way and is the most comprehensive project of its type for the Umpqua Basin. A radio tagging study whose scope was limited to the Steamboat Creek subbasin was carried out previously (Wroble, 1990). Also, a previous study of temperature trends in that subbasin is of interest (Hostetler, 1991). Although similar radio telemetry studies ( e.g. Hockersmith et al, 1995) have been carried out in other basins, they are few. Title: A Radio Telemetry of Steelhead in the North Umpqua River Basin, 1998-2001 Abstract -- The North Umpqua steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) represents one of the few remaining native anadromous fish populations in Oregon still at a relatively healthy level. The sustainability of the North Umpqua steelhead population and its' habitat is a very high priority. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) develops, on a continuing basis, practices designed to ensure the health and viability of this population. However, continued management success depends critically on the availability of data necessary for a detailed understanding of relevant life history issues. To address these data needs, ODFW began a radio-telemetry study of North Umpqua steelhead in June of 1998. Tagging at Winchester dam was terminated 10/26/00 but monitoring continued until the end of May 2001. This study has provided detailed information on movement patterns of adult steelhead in the basin at a level that is available in no other way and is the most comprehensive project of its type for the Umpqua Basin. A radio tagging study whose scope was limited to the Steamboat Creek subbasin was carried out previously (Wroble, 1990). Also, a previous study of temperature trends in that subbasin is of interest (Hostetler, 1991). Although similar radio telemetry studies ( e.g. Hockersmith et al, 1995) have been carried out in other basins, they are few. Close

• 8697. [Article] Wallowa River Habitat Protection and Restoration Strategies

  Abstract -- None

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Wallowa River Habitat Protection and Restoration Strategies Abstract -- None Title: Wallowa River Habitat Protection and Restoration Strategies Abstract -- None Close

• 8698. [Article] Progress Reports 2017, Distribution and Abundance of Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp Creeks, Oregon

  Abstract -- Pit Sculpin Cottus pitensis are endemic to Goose Lake basin, south-central Oregon. The species was listed as sensitive by the U.S. Forest Service Region 6 and Bureau of Land Management and ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Progress Reports 2017, Distribution and Abundance of Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp Creeks, Oregon Abstract -- Pit Sculpin Cottus pitensis are endemic to Goose Lake basin, south-central Oregon. The species was listed as sensitive by the U.S. Forest Service Region 6 and Bureau of Land Management and by the State of Oregon. Recent surveys suggested Pit Sculpin have a restricted range in Oregon. The objectives of our surveys were to: 1) describe the current distribution and estimate the abundance of Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp creeks, 2) describe the fish assemblages in Drews and Camp creeks, and 3) describe stream habitat conditions and collect habitat covariate data at each sampling location for modelling capture probabilities and abundance. We found Pit Sculpin distribution was limited to approximately 5.2 km of Drews Creek and 0.8 km of Camp Creek. Pit Sculpin primarily occupied riffles with gravel substrate. We estimated 12,331 and 1,518 Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp creeks, respectively. Title: Progress Reports 2017, Distribution and Abundance of Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp Creeks, Oregon Abstract -- Pit Sculpin Cottus pitensis are endemic to Goose Lake basin, south-central Oregon. The species was listed as sensitive by the U.S. Forest Service Region 6 and Bureau of Land Management and by the State of Oregon. Recent surveys suggested Pit Sculpin have a restricted range in Oregon. The objectives of our surveys were to: 1) describe the current distribution and estimate the abundance of Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp creeks, 2) describe the fish assemblages in Drews and Camp creeks, and 3) describe stream habitat conditions and collect habitat covariate data at each sampling location for modelling capture probabilities and abundance. We found Pit Sculpin distribution was limited to approximately 5.2 km of Drews Creek and 0.8 km of Camp Creek. Pit Sculpin primarily occupied riffles with gravel substrate. We estimated 12,331 and 1,518 Pit Sculpin in Drews and Camp creeks, respectively. Close

• 8699. [Article] 2015 Calapooia River Rapid Bio-Assessments Inventory

  Abstract -- The 2015 Rapid Bio-Assessment inventory of the Calapooia basin covered 37.2 miles of stream habitat. The effort encompassed all of the mainstem and tributary habitats, upstream of the Holley ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: 2015 Calapooia River Rapid Bio-Assessments Inventory Abstract -- The 2015 Rapid Bio-Assessment inventory of the Calapooia basin covered 37.2 miles of stream habitat. The effort encompassed all of the mainstem and tributary habitats, upstream of the Holley Bridge (USGS RM 45.5). Tributary inventories extended to the end of significant rearing potential for anadromous salmonids. In addition, a spring chinook resting count inventory encompassing the same mainstem reach and an additional 9.5 miles downstream to the deconstructed Brownsville Dam site (USGS RM36) was conducted in an attempt to quantify the abundance of adult Spring Chinook returning to the basin to spawn. An inventory of spawning gravel abundance was also conducted in the 30 miles of mainstem and tributary stream habitats exhibiting any anadromous potential (only spawning gravel sites appropriate for steelhead were quantified). Title: 2015 Calapooia River Rapid Bio-Assessments Inventory Abstract -- The 2015 Rapid Bio-Assessment inventory of the Calapooia basin covered 37.2 miles of stream habitat. The effort encompassed all of the mainstem and tributary habitats, upstream of the Holley Bridge (USGS RM 45.5). Tributary inventories extended to the end of significant rearing potential for anadromous salmonids. In addition, a spring chinook resting count inventory encompassing the same mainstem reach and an additional 9.5 miles downstream to the deconstructed Brownsville Dam site (USGS RM36) was conducted in an attempt to quantify the abundance of adult Spring Chinook returning to the basin to spawn. An inventory of spawning gravel abundance was also conducted in the 30 miles of mainstem and tributary stream habitats exhibiting any anadromous potential (only spawning gravel sites appropriate for steelhead were quantified). Close

• 8700. [Article] Habitat use and activity patterns of Deacon Rockfish (Sebastes diaconus) at seasonal scales and in response to episodic hypoxia.

  Abstract -- Knowledge of fish movements and residency are key to design and interpretation of results from bioacoustic sonar and visual survey methods, which are being developed as tools for use in nearshore ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Habitat use and activity patterns of Deacon Rockfish (Sebastes diaconus) at seasonal scales and in response to episodic hypoxia. Abstract -- Knowledge of fish movements and residency are key to design and interpretation of results from bioacoustic sonar and visual survey methods, which are being developed as tools for use in nearshore rocky reef surveys to estimate biomass and species composition. Fishers in Oregon report that an important component of the nearshore catch, Deacon Rockfish (Sebastes diaconus), become unavailable to harvest seasonally, and suggest periodic migration away from nearshore reef areas. Seasonal and spatial variation in landings data potentially support this theory. We used a high-resolution acoustic telemetry array and a combination of presence/absence receiver arrays, to study the daily and seasonal movements and the activity patterns of 11 acoustically tagged Deacon Rockfish on a nearshore rocky reef off Seal Rock, Oregon. Over the 11-month study period, most fish (n=6) exhibited high site fidelity. For the duration of the high-resolution array (5 mo), these fish had small home ranges (mean 95% KDE=4907 m2) and consistent activity patterns, except during seasonal hypoxia (defined as dissolved oxygen concentration [DO] < 2 mg l-1). During the summer months, resident fish were strongly diurnal with high levels of daytime activity above the bottom in relatively rugose habitat, followed by nighttime rest periods in deeper water in habitat of relatively less rugosity. During hypoxia, fish exhibited moderate activity levels with no rest periods and moved well away from their core activity areas on long, erratic forays. Wintertime activity levels were moderate with less defined daily patterns, but fish continued to remain within the array area. We suggest that Deacon Rockfish remain on nearshore reefs throughout the year, but their visual capabilities and prey preferences for seasonally occurring planktonic organisms strongly influences their catchability. Habitat use and activity patterns exhibited by Deacon Rockfish are conducive to bioacoustic sonar and visual survey methods if season, daylight, and oxygen levels are considered. Title: Habitat use and activity patterns of Deacon Rockfish (Sebastes diaconus) at seasonal scales and in response to episodic hypoxia. Abstract -- Knowledge of fish movements and residency are key to design and interpretation of results from bioacoustic sonar and visual survey methods, which are being developed as tools for use in nearshore rocky reef surveys to estimate biomass and species composition. Fishers in Oregon report that an important component of the nearshore catch, Deacon Rockfish (Sebastes diaconus), become unavailable to harvest seasonally, and suggest periodic migration away from nearshore reef areas. Seasonal and spatial variation in landings data potentially support this theory. We used a high-resolution acoustic telemetry array and a combination of presence/absence receiver arrays, to study the daily and seasonal movements and the activity patterns of 11 acoustically tagged Deacon Rockfish on a nearshore rocky reef off Seal Rock, Oregon. Over the 11-month study period, most fish (n=6) exhibited high site fidelity. For the duration of the high-resolution array (5 mo), these fish had small home ranges (mean 95% KDE=4907 m2) and consistent activity patterns, except during seasonal hypoxia (defined as dissolved oxygen concentration [DO] < 2 mg l-1). During the summer months, resident fish were strongly diurnal with high levels of daytime activity above the bottom in relatively rugose habitat, followed by nighttime rest periods in deeper water in habitat of relatively less rugosity. During hypoxia, fish exhibited moderate activity levels with no rest periods and moved well away from their core activity areas on long, erratic forays. Wintertime activity levels were moderate with less defined daily patterns, but fish continued to remain within the array area. We suggest that Deacon Rockfish remain on nearshore reefs throughout the year, but their visual capabilities and prey preferences for seasonally occurring planktonic organisms strongly influences their catchability. Habitat use and activity patterns exhibited by Deacon Rockfish are conducive to bioacoustic sonar and visual survey methods if season, daylight, and oxygen levels are considered. Close