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• 7261. [Article] Novel methods for crop load management of pear cultivars in the Pacific Northwest

  Novel approaches to crop load management of pear orchards in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) are necessary, but will need to vary according to the unique vegetative and reproductive growth habits of the cultivar. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Novel methods for crop load management of pear cultivars in the Pacific Northwest Author: Arrington, Matthew A. Novel approaches to crop load management of pear orchards in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) are necessary, but will need to vary according to the unique vegetative and reproductive growth habits of the cultivar. 'D'Anjou' is vigorous and non-precocious; thus, strategies to limit vigor and induce early fruiting are required. In contrast, 'Bartlett' possesses a high fruit-setting efficiency and, consequently, is prone to over-setting fruit. Thus, crop reduction is necessary to achieve marketable fruit size, but hand thinning is time-consuming and costly. Two methods were investigated to resolve these issues: Root pruning of 'd'Anjou' pear trees and, chemical thinning of 'Bartlett' pears using abscisic acid (ABA). Root pruning was imposed on one or both sides of the tree row and compared to an untreated control plot at two sites: Moderate-density, 6th leaf 'd'Anjou'/OH x F 87; and, high-density, 4th leaf 'd'Anjou'/OH x F 87. Root pruning two-sides of the tree row consistently reduced shoot growth and the effects were partially dependent on tree age at the time of root pruning. Return bloom was positively affected by root pruning, but fruit weight was often reduced. Reduced fruit weight was not associated with mid-season water or nutrient deficits. Yield and yield efficiency the year following double-sided root pruning were improved with the greatest response occurring in the younger orchard (i.e., ~70% yield increase over control plots). Root pruning is a viable strategy to reduce vigor and improve precocity in high-density 'd'Anjou' plantings when performed in the 3rd or 4th year after planting. Thinning efficacy of abscisic acid (ABA) applied to 'Bartlett' pear trees, between petal fall and 12mm fruit size, was inconsistent. Among four trials, ABA produced a rate-responsive, transient reduction in stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis (Pn) of ~ 80% to 95% within hours of application, the effect lasted one to two days. By day three, Pn returned to ~80% of control plots and was fully recovered by 7-10 days after application. Thinning was best achieved at 100-125 ppm ABA. Higher rates caused greater fruitlet abscission but rates exceeding 400 ppm resulted in phytotoxicity and leaf abscission. In field trials, good thinning was observed in years when low natural light (i.e., cloudy conditions) occurred during the week immediately succeeding ABA applications. Only a few days of low light appeared necessary to elicit ABA-induced fruit abscission. To test the additive effect of shade on ABA-induced thinning, an experiment was designed to expose whole canopies to one of three levels of shade (0%, 44%, or 77%) and two levels of ABA (0 or 125 ppm). Shade houses were erected within hours of ABA application (~petal fall) and were left in place for 15 days. Both ABA and shade affected fruit abscission, but 44% shade did not significantly reduce fruit set compared to control plots. Photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) was reduced relative to the intensity of shade, but Pn was not. Moderate shade (i.e., 44%) led to only minor reductions of Pn, while 77% shade reduced Pn by 50% to 75% for the duration of the treatment period. ABA-induced thinning was not significantly improved by the addition of shade; however, two days of non-forecasted, cloudy conditions (i.e., low light) within the first week of the experiment invalidated comparisons to a true control (i.e., 0% shade). Given the short-term Pn limitation induced by ABA, in combination with the high carbon reserves of pear trees, ABA application may not be consistent enough to warrant commercial application. Title: Novel methods for crop load management of pear cultivars in the Pacific Northwest Author: Arrington, Matthew A. Novel approaches to crop load management of pear orchards in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) are necessary, but will need to vary according to the unique vegetative and reproductive growth habits of the cultivar. 'D'Anjou' is vigorous and non-precocious; thus, strategies to limit vigor and induce early fruiting are required. In contrast, 'Bartlett' possesses a high fruit-setting efficiency and, consequently, is prone to over-setting fruit. Thus, crop reduction is necessary to achieve marketable fruit size, but hand thinning is time-consuming and costly. Two methods were investigated to resolve these issues: Root pruning of 'd'Anjou' pear trees and, chemical thinning of 'Bartlett' pears using abscisic acid (ABA). Root pruning was imposed on one or both sides of the tree row and compared to an untreated control plot at two sites: Moderate-density, 6th leaf 'd'Anjou'/OH x F 87; and, high-density, 4th leaf 'd'Anjou'/OH x F 87. Root pruning two-sides of the tree row consistently reduced shoot growth and the effects were partially dependent on tree age at the time of root pruning. Return bloom was positively affected by root pruning, but fruit weight was often reduced. Reduced fruit weight was not associated with mid-season water or nutrient deficits. Yield and yield efficiency the year following double-sided root pruning were improved with the greatest response occurring in the younger orchard (i.e., ~70% yield increase over control plots). Root pruning is a viable strategy to reduce vigor and improve precocity in high-density 'd'Anjou' plantings when performed in the 3rd or 4th year after planting. Thinning efficacy of abscisic acid (ABA) applied to 'Bartlett' pear trees, between petal fall and 12mm fruit size, was inconsistent. Among four trials, ABA produced a rate-responsive, transient reduction in stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis (Pn) of ~ 80% to 95% within hours of application, the effect lasted one to two days. By day three, Pn returned to ~80% of control plots and was fully recovered by 7-10 days after application. Thinning was best achieved at 100-125 ppm ABA. Higher rates caused greater fruitlet abscission but rates exceeding 400 ppm resulted in phytotoxicity and leaf abscission. In field trials, good thinning was observed in years when low natural light (i.e., cloudy conditions) occurred during the week immediately succeeding ABA applications. Only a few days of low light appeared necessary to elicit ABA-induced fruit abscission. To test the additive effect of shade on ABA-induced thinning, an experiment was designed to expose whole canopies to one of three levels of shade (0%, 44%, or 77%) and two levels of ABA (0 or 125 ppm). Shade houses were erected within hours of ABA application (~petal fall) and were left in place for 15 days. Both ABA and shade affected fruit abscission, but 44% shade did not significantly reduce fruit set compared to control plots. Photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) was reduced relative to the intensity of shade, but Pn was not. Moderate shade (i.e., 44%) led to only minor reductions of Pn, while 77% shade reduced Pn by 50% to 75% for the duration of the treatment period. ABA-induced thinning was not significantly improved by the addition of shade; however, two days of non-forecasted, cloudy conditions (i.e., low light) within the first week of the experiment invalidated comparisons to a true control (i.e., 0% shade). Given the short-term Pn limitation induced by ABA, in combination with the high carbon reserves of pear trees, ABA application may not be consistent enough to warrant commercial application. Close

• 7262. [Article] Photo-enhanced Toxicity of Oil Constituents and Corexit 9500 to Gulf of Mexico Marine Organisms

  Significant inputs of hydrocarbons are continually released into the environment from anthropogenic and natural sources. Some of the most toxic hydrocarbon compounds are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Photo-enhanced Toxicity of Oil Constituents and Corexit 9500 to Gulf of Mexico Marine Organisms Author: Finch, Bryson E. Significant inputs of hydrocarbons are continually released into the environment from anthropogenic and natural sources. Some of the most toxic hydrocarbon compounds are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are known for their ability to absorb ultraviolet light and enhance toxicity. Generally, PAHs exert their toxicity via narcosis but UV-absorbing PAHs can become photosensitized and significantly exacerbate toxic effects. During crude oil spills, PAHs are released in large amounts that have potential for narcotic and phototoxic effects on aquatic organisms. As a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, effort was placed on quantifying toxic effects of crude oils and oil constituents for aquatic organisms. The following studies attempted to characterize narcotic and phototoxic effects that may have occurred during the Deepwater Horizon incident; however, the results of this research are equally applicable to any PAH exposure scenario. The objectives of the following studies were to: 1) identify susceptible stages of Gulf of Mexico organisms to the photo-enhanced toxicity of PAHs, 2) determine the importance of UV intensity and exposure duration on phototoxicity, 3) determine the effect of alkylation on the phototoxic potency of PAHs, 4) validate the assumption of additivity for phototoxic PAHs mixtures, 5) evaluate the potential for narcotic toxicity and phototoxicity of fresh and weathered Macondo crude oils released from the Deepwater Horizon, and 6) assess the potential for ongoing oil phototoxicity at field sites in the Gulf of Mexico. Model organisms used in studies included the mysid shrimp (Americamysis bahia), inland silverside (Menidia beryllina), sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus), and Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis). Studies demonstrated that organism sensitivity to phototoxicity of PAHs decreased with organism age and increasing pigmentation. Photo-enhanced toxicity was, to some extent, dependent on the degree of organism pigmentation. Generally, high-intensity short-duration UV treatments resulted in greater toxicity than low-intensity long-duration UV treatments at similar UV doses. Fresh Macondo crude oil was more toxic than weathered crude oils, both in the presence and absence of UV light. Differences in toxicity between fresh and weathered crude oils were primarily attributed to the lighter mono and di-aromatic hydrocarbons in fresh crude oils. Phototoxic PAH concentrations were relatively similar among fresh and weathered crude oils, suggesting recalcitrance to oil weathering processes. The addition of Corexit 9500, an oil-dispersant used during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, to crude oil in laboratory experiments increased toxicity compared to tests conducted with crude oil alone. It is anticipated that this enhanced response resulted from the increased concentrations of phototoxic and narcotic PAHs in water-accommodated fractions and the inherent toxicity of Corexit 9500. Weathered crude oil present in previously heavily-oiled Barataria Bay, LA field sites was found to pose little or no phototoxic risk in ambient environmental conditions four years after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Water-accommodated fractions of field-collected oil suggest slight phototoxic potential to mysid shrimp in the laboratory in highly transparent artificial seawater. When examining mixtures of phototoxic PAHs in crude oil, laboratory studies suggested that toxicity adhered to an "additive interactions" model; therefore, predictive toxicity models should consider an additivity model for assessing the toxicity of hydrocarbon mixtures. Furthermore, PAH phototoxic potency seemed to increase with increasing methylation for all phototoxic PAHs examined. In fact, phenanthrene, a non-phototoxic PAH, demonstrated a slight degree of phototoxicity when methylated. Overall, predictive models based on HOMO-LUMO gap were relatively accurate in predicting phototoxicity compared with empirical data generated in the present study. Future models should consider effects of other substituents on photo-enhanced toxicity of PAHs due to toxicity differences between unsubstituted and alkylated PAHs observed in the present studies. Data presented in this dissertation, can be used in part, as the basis for an ecological risk assessment for the photo-enhanced toxicity of oil constituents in the Gulf of Mexico during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Title: Photo-enhanced Toxicity of Oil Constituents and Corexit 9500 to Gulf of Mexico Marine Organisms Author: Finch, Bryson E. Significant inputs of hydrocarbons are continually released into the environment from anthropogenic and natural sources. Some of the most toxic hydrocarbon compounds are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are known for their ability to absorb ultraviolet light and enhance toxicity. Generally, PAHs exert their toxicity via narcosis but UV-absorbing PAHs can become photosensitized and significantly exacerbate toxic effects. During crude oil spills, PAHs are released in large amounts that have potential for narcotic and phototoxic effects on aquatic organisms. As a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, effort was placed on quantifying toxic effects of crude oils and oil constituents for aquatic organisms. The following studies attempted to characterize narcotic and phototoxic effects that may have occurred during the Deepwater Horizon incident; however, the results of this research are equally applicable to any PAH exposure scenario. The objectives of the following studies were to: 1) identify susceptible stages of Gulf of Mexico organisms to the photo-enhanced toxicity of PAHs, 2) determine the importance of UV intensity and exposure duration on phototoxicity, 3) determine the effect of alkylation on the phototoxic potency of PAHs, 4) validate the assumption of additivity for phototoxic PAHs mixtures, 5) evaluate the potential for narcotic toxicity and phototoxicity of fresh and weathered Macondo crude oils released from the Deepwater Horizon, and 6) assess the potential for ongoing oil phototoxicity at field sites in the Gulf of Mexico. Model organisms used in studies included the mysid shrimp (Americamysis bahia), inland silverside (Menidia beryllina), sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus), and Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis). Studies demonstrated that organism sensitivity to phototoxicity of PAHs decreased with organism age and increasing pigmentation. Photo-enhanced toxicity was, to some extent, dependent on the degree of organism pigmentation. Generally, high-intensity short-duration UV treatments resulted in greater toxicity than low-intensity long-duration UV treatments at similar UV doses. Fresh Macondo crude oil was more toxic than weathered crude oils, both in the presence and absence of UV light. Differences in toxicity between fresh and weathered crude oils were primarily attributed to the lighter mono and di-aromatic hydrocarbons in fresh crude oils. Phototoxic PAH concentrations were relatively similar among fresh and weathered crude oils, suggesting recalcitrance to oil weathering processes. The addition of Corexit 9500, an oil-dispersant used during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, to crude oil in laboratory experiments increased toxicity compared to tests conducted with crude oil alone. It is anticipated that this enhanced response resulted from the increased concentrations of phototoxic and narcotic PAHs in water-accommodated fractions and the inherent toxicity of Corexit 9500. Weathered crude oil present in previously heavily-oiled Barataria Bay, LA field sites was found to pose little or no phototoxic risk in ambient environmental conditions four years after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Water-accommodated fractions of field-collected oil suggest slight phototoxic potential to mysid shrimp in the laboratory in highly transparent artificial seawater. When examining mixtures of phototoxic PAHs in crude oil, laboratory studies suggested that toxicity adhered to an "additive interactions" model; therefore, predictive toxicity models should consider an additivity model for assessing the toxicity of hydrocarbon mixtures. Furthermore, PAH phototoxic potency seemed to increase with increasing methylation for all phototoxic PAHs examined. In fact, phenanthrene, a non-phototoxic PAH, demonstrated a slight degree of phototoxicity when methylated. Overall, predictive models based on HOMO-LUMO gap were relatively accurate in predicting phototoxicity compared with empirical data generated in the present study. Future models should consider effects of other substituents on photo-enhanced toxicity of PAHs due to toxicity differences between unsubstituted and alkylated PAHs observed in the present studies. Data presented in this dissertation, can be used in part, as the basis for an ecological risk assessment for the photo-enhanced toxicity of oil constituents in the Gulf of Mexico during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Close

• 7263. [Article] Mass-spectrometric Methods for Quantitative Proteomics and Post-translational Modification Mapping

  Signal transduction within and between cells is at the core of biological activity in all living systems. Signaling networks are required for regulating biological functions, including growth, development ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mass-spectrometric Methods for Quantitative Proteomics and Post-translational Modification Mapping Author: Motorykin, Ievgen Signal transduction within and between cells is at the core of biological activity in all living systems. Signaling networks are required for regulating biological functions, including growth, development and survival. Deregulation of signaling cascades has been linked to chronic and acute diseases and disorders This thesis focuses on mass spectrometry as a high resolution and high mass accuracy technique for the detection and characterization of proteins in biological systems. The thesis presents applications of contemporary mass-spectrometric methods to identify proteins, determine changes in their expression levels, and characterize post-translational modifications, in an effort to study changes in cell signaling in response to stress or disease. Various sample preparation methods to successfully suit needs of different biological questions were developed and applied: (1) extraction of the proteome, (2) chemical tagging and enrichment of the ATPome, a sub proteome comprising nucleotide binding proteins in particularly ATP-binding proteins including kinases, and (3) metal affinity complexation and enrichment of phosphopeptides. We used the following hybrid mass analyzer configurations: a quadrupole time-of-flight (qToF) instrument with ion mobility, a linear ion trap hyphenated with a FT-ICR mass spectrometry (LTQ-FT) and a hybrid ion trap-orbitrap mass spectrometer (Orbitrap Elite). The bioinformatic analysis of the proteomics data required multiple combinations of software packages to sequence proteins, perform absolute and relative quantification, statistically analyze and visualize data. Chapter 3 describes the use of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as one of the few vertebrate models that similar to humans cannot synthesize vitamin C to investigate the system-wide consequences of deficiencies in two essential micronutrients, vitamins E and C, on the proteome biology. A label-free proteomics workflow was applied to detect changes in protein abundance estimates dependent on vitamin regimes. The study reveals suppression in an energy metabolism cycle, glycolysis, in vitamin C and E deficient zebrafish. It was discovered that alternative energy cycle, glutaminolysis, is activated to fulfill energy requirement. Chapter 4 focuses on the determination of proteome differences that can be linked to the propensity of metastasis in osteosarcoma (OS), a bone cancer that predominantly targets the adolescent age group. OS has a high propensity to metastasize to the lungs, which is associated with a poor prognosis. The study utilizes canine osteosarcoma cell lines that were originally obtained from orthotropic primary OS and metastatic cells. Canis familiaris, the domestic dog, is an established large animal model of OS that recapitulate many biological and clinical features of the human malignancy. We applied a two-prone comparative proteomics approach that consisted of: (a) determination of protein abundance levels and (b) focus on kinases, a functional sub-proteome, using a chemical affinity tag for enrichment of ATP-binding proteins. Findings of this study indicated that in the highly metastasizing canine osteosarcoma cell line proteins associated with extracellular adhesion were deregulated, which may enhance metastogenesis. Mitogen activated protein kinases MAP2K6, MAP4K3, MAP4K4, MAP4K5, ZAK and v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1, AKT1, are among those expressed in significantly lower abundance in the highly metastasizing canine osteosarcoma cell line indicating changes in cell signaling. Chapter 5 describes the development and application of a multiple protease protocol (Trypsin, LysC, AspN, Chymotrypsin and GluC) for improving the number of phosphosite identifications in a large-scale phosphoproteomics studies. The method combines immobilized titanium ion affinity chromatography (Ti⁴⁺-IMAC) with a data-dependent, decision tree-based data acquisition technique utilizing two complementary fragmentation methods, namely collision induced dissociation (CID) and electron transfer dissociation. The multiple protease protocol was applied to human leukemic T cell lymphoblasts (Jurkat E6.1) and resulted in the detection of >11,000 unique phosphosites, the most comprehensive identification among methods that use similar phosphopeptide enrichment approach. Title: Mass-spectrometric Methods for Quantitative Proteomics and Post-translational Modification Mapping Author: Motorykin, Ievgen Signal transduction within and between cells is at the core of biological activity in all living systems. Signaling networks are required for regulating biological functions, including growth, development and survival. Deregulation of signaling cascades has been linked to chronic and acute diseases and disorders This thesis focuses on mass spectrometry as a high resolution and high mass accuracy technique for the detection and characterization of proteins in biological systems. The thesis presents applications of contemporary mass-spectrometric methods to identify proteins, determine changes in their expression levels, and characterize post-translational modifications, in an effort to study changes in cell signaling in response to stress or disease. Various sample preparation methods to successfully suit needs of different biological questions were developed and applied: (1) extraction of the proteome, (2) chemical tagging and enrichment of the ATPome, a sub proteome comprising nucleotide binding proteins in particularly ATP-binding proteins including kinases, and (3) metal affinity complexation and enrichment of phosphopeptides. We used the following hybrid mass analyzer configurations: a quadrupole time-of-flight (qToF) instrument with ion mobility, a linear ion trap hyphenated with a FT-ICR mass spectrometry (LTQ-FT) and a hybrid ion trap-orbitrap mass spectrometer (Orbitrap Elite). The bioinformatic analysis of the proteomics data required multiple combinations of software packages to sequence proteins, perform absolute and relative quantification, statistically analyze and visualize data. Chapter 3 describes the use of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as one of the few vertebrate models that similar to humans cannot synthesize vitamin C to investigate the system-wide consequences of deficiencies in two essential micronutrients, vitamins E and C, on the proteome biology. A label-free proteomics workflow was applied to detect changes in protein abundance estimates dependent on vitamin regimes. The study reveals suppression in an energy metabolism cycle, glycolysis, in vitamin C and E deficient zebrafish. It was discovered that alternative energy cycle, glutaminolysis, is activated to fulfill energy requirement. Chapter 4 focuses on the determination of proteome differences that can be linked to the propensity of metastasis in osteosarcoma (OS), a bone cancer that predominantly targets the adolescent age group. OS has a high propensity to metastasize to the lungs, which is associated with a poor prognosis. The study utilizes canine osteosarcoma cell lines that were originally obtained from orthotropic primary OS and metastatic cells. Canis familiaris, the domestic dog, is an established large animal model of OS that recapitulate many biological and clinical features of the human malignancy. We applied a two-prone comparative proteomics approach that consisted of: (a) determination of protein abundance levels and (b) focus on kinases, a functional sub-proteome, using a chemical affinity tag for enrichment of ATP-binding proteins. Findings of this study indicated that in the highly metastasizing canine osteosarcoma cell line proteins associated with extracellular adhesion were deregulated, which may enhance metastogenesis. Mitogen activated protein kinases MAP2K6, MAP4K3, MAP4K4, MAP4K5, ZAK and v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1, AKT1, are among those expressed in significantly lower abundance in the highly metastasizing canine osteosarcoma cell line indicating changes in cell signaling. Chapter 5 describes the development and application of a multiple protease protocol (Trypsin, LysC, AspN, Chymotrypsin and GluC) for improving the number of phosphosite identifications in a large-scale phosphoproteomics studies. The method combines immobilized titanium ion affinity chromatography (Ti⁴⁺-IMAC) with a data-dependent, decision tree-based data acquisition technique utilizing two complementary fragmentation methods, namely collision induced dissociation (CID) and electron transfer dissociation. The multiple protease protocol was applied to human leukemic T cell lymphoblasts (Jurkat E6.1) and resulted in the detection of >11,000 unique phosphosites, the most comprehensive identification among methods that use similar phosphopeptide enrichment approach. Close

• 7264. [Article] Dispersal Behavior in African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) : Tradeoffs Between Nutritional Resources and Disease Exposure

  Dispersal facilitates population health and maintains resilience in species via gene flow. Adult dispersal occurs in some species, is often facultative, and is poorly understood, but has important management ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Dispersal Behavior in African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) : Tradeoffs Between Nutritional Resources and Disease Exposure Author: Spaan, Robert Steven Dispersal facilitates population health and maintains resilience in species via gene flow. Adult dispersal occurs in some species, is often facultative, and is poorly understood, but has important management implications, particularly with respect to disease spread. Although the role of adult dispersal in spreading disease has been documented, the potential influence of disease on dispersal has received little attention. African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) are wide ranging and harbor many pathogens that can affect nearby livestock. Dispersal of adult buffalo has been well documented, but ecological and social drivers of buffalo dispersal are poorly understood. At the individual level, animals must balance the potential benefits of dispersal against its costs. Costs may be incurred in the form of risk, such as mortality or potential injury while dispersing, energetic and time costs associated with the energy and time invested in dispersing, and costs associated with lost opportunities, e.g. reduced fecundity due to unfamiliar surroundings and social groups. Disease in particular is another poorly-understood but potentially important factor influencing costs and benefits of dispersal. Dispersal from a crowded habitat may offer an escape from high pathogen and parasite exposure risk, conversely dispersing individuals in this stressful period may have reduced immunity and consequently be more susceptible to infections. In addition, if pathogen exposure profiles differ among social groups, dispersing animals may face new pathogen challenges to which they are immunologically naïve to, when they arrive at a new social group. However, few studies have estimated dispersal costs of large mammals, particularly those with facultative adult dispersal. First, we investigated drivers of adult buffalo dispersal to determine whether likelihood of dispersal for individual female buffalo was influenced by (1) animal traits, including age, condition, and reproductive status (2) herd membership, (3) environmental variables - season and year, (4) gastro-intestinal parasites - strongyles, coccidia and schistosomes and (5) microparasite infections - bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) and brucellosis (Brucella abortus). The likelihood and drivers of buffalo dispersal varied by herd, area and year. In the Lower Sabie herd younger individuals were more likely to disperse, with most dispersal occurring in the early wet season and during an unusually dry year, 2009. In the Crocodile Bridge area buffalo in poor condition were most likely to disperse. Our findings suggest that dispersal of female buffalo is driven by either seasonal (Lower Sabie), or perhaps social (Crocodile Bridge) resource restriction. We found no direct effects of infections on buffalo dispersal, assuaging fears that highly infectious individuals might be more prone to dispersing, which could accelerate the spatial spread of infectious diseases. Second, we investigated: (1) effects of dispersal on fitness, by comparing survival, and fecundity of dispersing and philopatric (control) buffalo, as well as comparing the difference in pre and post dispersal body condition of dispersers with the change of body condition of philopatric control animals for the same period; (2) disease risks associated with dispersal, by determining whether burdens of gastro-intestinal parasites and the incidence of bacterial and viral infections changed during dispersal. No significant difference in mortality risk or fecundity was observed between dispersing and philopatric control animals, nor did change in body condition differ. However, we detected disease consequences of dispersal that varied by location. Dispersers from the resource-limited herd suffered more bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis infections after dispersal, both of which are chronic infections with clear, long term effects on survival and fecundity, when compared to controls from the same location. Dispersers from the less resource-limited herds had increases in schistosome burdens. Schistosomes are parasitic worms with relatively minor health effects; relatively long-lived but not as long as the life of the host (i.e., buffalo can reduce their burdens). Previous work has shown that adult buffalo disperse in response to resource limitation due to seasonal forage shortages or density dependent Title: Dispersal Behavior in African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) : Tradeoffs Between Nutritional Resources and Disease Exposure Author: Spaan, Robert Steven Dispersal facilitates population health and maintains resilience in species via gene flow. Adult dispersal occurs in some species, is often facultative, and is poorly understood, but has important management implications, particularly with respect to disease spread. Although the role of adult dispersal in spreading disease has been documented, the potential influence of disease on dispersal has received little attention. African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) are wide ranging and harbor many pathogens that can affect nearby livestock. Dispersal of adult buffalo has been well documented, but ecological and social drivers of buffalo dispersal are poorly understood. At the individual level, animals must balance the potential benefits of dispersal against its costs. Costs may be incurred in the form of risk, such as mortality or potential injury while dispersing, energetic and time costs associated with the energy and time invested in dispersing, and costs associated with lost opportunities, e.g. reduced fecundity due to unfamiliar surroundings and social groups. Disease in particular is another poorly-understood but potentially important factor influencing costs and benefits of dispersal. Dispersal from a crowded habitat may offer an escape from high pathogen and parasite exposure risk, conversely dispersing individuals in this stressful period may have reduced immunity and consequently be more susceptible to infections. In addition, if pathogen exposure profiles differ among social groups, dispersing animals may face new pathogen challenges to which they are immunologically naïve to, when they arrive at a new social group. However, few studies have estimated dispersal costs of large mammals, particularly those with facultative adult dispersal. First, we investigated drivers of adult buffalo dispersal to determine whether likelihood of dispersal for individual female buffalo was influenced by (1) animal traits, including age, condition, and reproductive status (2) herd membership, (3) environmental variables - season and year, (4) gastro-intestinal parasites - strongyles, coccidia and schistosomes and (5) microparasite infections - bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) and brucellosis (Brucella abortus). The likelihood and drivers of buffalo dispersal varied by herd, area and year. In the Lower Sabie herd younger individuals were more likely to disperse, with most dispersal occurring in the early wet season and during an unusually dry year, 2009. In the Crocodile Bridge area buffalo in poor condition were most likely to disperse. Our findings suggest that dispersal of female buffalo is driven by either seasonal (Lower Sabie), or perhaps social (Crocodile Bridge) resource restriction. We found no direct effects of infections on buffalo dispersal, assuaging fears that highly infectious individuals might be more prone to dispersing, which could accelerate the spatial spread of infectious diseases. Second, we investigated: (1) effects of dispersal on fitness, by comparing survival, and fecundity of dispersing and philopatric (control) buffalo, as well as comparing the difference in pre and post dispersal body condition of dispersers with the change of body condition of philopatric control animals for the same period; (2) disease risks associated with dispersal, by determining whether burdens of gastro-intestinal parasites and the incidence of bacterial and viral infections changed during dispersal. No significant difference in mortality risk or fecundity was observed between dispersing and philopatric control animals, nor did change in body condition differ. However, we detected disease consequences of dispersal that varied by location. Dispersers from the resource-limited herd suffered more bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis infections after dispersal, both of which are chronic infections with clear, long term effects on survival and fecundity, when compared to controls from the same location. Dispersers from the less resource-limited herds had increases in schistosome burdens. Schistosomes are parasitic worms with relatively minor health effects; relatively long-lived but not as long as the life of the host (i.e., buffalo can reduce their burdens). Previous work has shown that adult buffalo disperse in response to resource limitation due to seasonal forage shortages or density dependent Close

• 7265. [Article] The impact of Oregon’s Coordinated Care Organizations on Prenatal Care Access and Quality : A Difference-in-Differences Analysis

  Background: Prenatal care (PNC) is an important preventive health service that can influence the health of the four million women who give birth annually in the United States, and the health their infants. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The impact of Oregon’s Coordinated Care Organizations on Prenatal Care Access and Quality : A Difference-in-Differences Analysis Author: Muoto, Ifeoma O. Background: Prenatal care (PNC) is an important preventive health service that can influence the health of the four million women who give birth annually in the United States, and the health their infants. Despite efforts to increase women’s access to PNC services, significant disparities in PNC utilization and maternal/child health outcomes by insurance type and race/ethnicity persist in the United States. The past decade has witnessed several major health reforms at both national and state levels. However, the impact of these reforms on the quality of PNC, and on disparities in PNC utilization is not known. In 2012, the state of Oregon established Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) as comprehensive providers of care for Oregon’s Medicaid beneficiaries. CCOs are characterized by a global budget payment mechanism and financial incentives for high quality care. Timely initiation of PNC – which has been associated with improved maternal and infant health and utilization outcomes – is one of seventeen quality metrics for which CCOs can receive incentive payments. Objectives: The first objective of the current study was to estimate the impact of CCO implementation on the probability of initiating PNC in the first trimester, and on PNC adequacy among Oregon Medicaid beneficiaries. The second objective of the study was to determine if the implementation of CCOs influenced disparities in PNC utilization between Medicaid and privately-insured women, and between non-Hispanic White women and Hispanic/non-Hispanic Black women. Study Design: This quasi-experimental retrospective observational study drew from two data sources: Oregon Vital Records (Birth Certificate statistical files) from the department of Health Analytics of the Oregon state public health department and Washington State’s Linked Birth- CHARS (Comprehensive Hospital Abstract Reporting System) data from the Washington State department of health. A difference-in-differences approach examined PNC utilization before and after CCO implementation. Washington State served as the control group, as its Medicaid financing and delivery systems remained unchanged. Multivariable linear probability analysis was used to control for confounding factors, including maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, parity, marital status, smoking history, previous preterm birth, and maternal morbidity. Population Studied: All births in Oregon and Washington from 2008 – 2013, which were covered by either Medicaid or private insurance, were included in the analysis. Since CCOs started operating mid-year in 2012, June through December 2012 was considered a transition period and births during this period were excluded from the analysis. Principal Findings: CCO implementation was associated with a significant increase in the probability of PNC initiation in the first trimester and a reduction in insurance-type disparities in first trimester PNC initiation and PNC adequacy among Oregon Medicaid beneficiaries. Racial/ethnic disparities did not change following CCO implementation. Conclusions: The implementation of CCOs in Oregon had a positive impact on the timeliness of PNC initiation among Medicaid beneficiaries, and also reduced disparities in PNC quality between Medicaid and privately-insured women. Implications for Policy or Practice: The ongoing health system transformation in Oregon provides an ideal setting to assess the impact of a novel health service delivery model on PNC utilization. If Oregon is successful in this bold and unprecedented move, it could serve as a model for other Medicaid and commercial health plans seeking to improve PNC quality. Further study on the longer-term effects of CCO implementation on PNC quality as well as the effect of CCOs on other health care domains, is warranted. Title: The impact of Oregon’s Coordinated Care Organizations on Prenatal Care Access and Quality : A Difference-in-Differences Analysis Author: Muoto, Ifeoma O. Background: Prenatal care (PNC) is an important preventive health service that can influence the health of the four million women who give birth annually in the United States, and the health their infants. Despite efforts to increase women’s access to PNC services, significant disparities in PNC utilization and maternal/child health outcomes by insurance type and race/ethnicity persist in the United States. The past decade has witnessed several major health reforms at both national and state levels. However, the impact of these reforms on the quality of PNC, and on disparities in PNC utilization is not known. In 2012, the state of Oregon established Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) as comprehensive providers of care for Oregon’s Medicaid beneficiaries. CCOs are characterized by a global budget payment mechanism and financial incentives for high quality care. Timely initiation of PNC – which has been associated with improved maternal and infant health and utilization outcomes – is one of seventeen quality metrics for which CCOs can receive incentive payments. Objectives: The first objective of the current study was to estimate the impact of CCO implementation on the probability of initiating PNC in the first trimester, and on PNC adequacy among Oregon Medicaid beneficiaries. The second objective of the study was to determine if the implementation of CCOs influenced disparities in PNC utilization between Medicaid and privately-insured women, and between non-Hispanic White women and Hispanic/non-Hispanic Black women. Study Design: This quasi-experimental retrospective observational study drew from two data sources: Oregon Vital Records (Birth Certificate statistical files) from the department of Health Analytics of the Oregon state public health department and Washington State’s Linked Birth- CHARS (Comprehensive Hospital Abstract Reporting System) data from the Washington State department of health. A difference-in-differences approach examined PNC utilization before and after CCO implementation. Washington State served as the control group, as its Medicaid financing and delivery systems remained unchanged. Multivariable linear probability analysis was used to control for confounding factors, including maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, parity, marital status, smoking history, previous preterm birth, and maternal morbidity. Population Studied: All births in Oregon and Washington from 2008 – 2013, which were covered by either Medicaid or private insurance, were included in the analysis. Since CCOs started operating mid-year in 2012, June through December 2012 was considered a transition period and births during this period were excluded from the analysis. Principal Findings: CCO implementation was associated with a significant increase in the probability of PNC initiation in the first trimester and a reduction in insurance-type disparities in first trimester PNC initiation and PNC adequacy among Oregon Medicaid beneficiaries. Racial/ethnic disparities did not change following CCO implementation. Conclusions: The implementation of CCOs in Oregon had a positive impact on the timeliness of PNC initiation among Medicaid beneficiaries, and also reduced disparities in PNC quality between Medicaid and privately-insured women. Implications for Policy or Practice: The ongoing health system transformation in Oregon provides an ideal setting to assess the impact of a novel health service delivery model on PNC utilization. If Oregon is successful in this bold and unprecedented move, it could serve as a model for other Medicaid and commercial health plans seeking to improve PNC quality. Further study on the longer-term effects of CCO implementation on PNC quality as well as the effect of CCOs on other health care domains, is warranted. Close

• 7266. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2005 Annual Progress Report

  Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2005. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2005 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2005. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring data collected in the Grande Ronde Basin by the Nez Perce Tribe (NPT) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The main objectives of this report are to document and evaluate spring Chinook salmon culture performance for hatchery programs and achievement of management objectives in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde river basins. These data are used to design culture practices to optimize egg-to-smolt survival rate, smolt quality, smolt-to-adult survival rate, and successful spawning in nature by hatcheryreared adults, as well as to provide information to adapt the programs to most effectively meet management objectives. This report provides information on rearing and release operations for the 2003 brood year of juvenile Chinook salmon smolts, the collection, spawning, and adult characteristics of adult Chinook salmon in the 2005 return year, and the collection of eggs for the 2005 brood year. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2005 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2005. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring data collected in the Grande Ronde Basin by the Nez Perce Tribe (NPT) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The main objectives of this report are to document and evaluate spring Chinook salmon culture performance for hatchery programs and achievement of management objectives in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde river basins. These data are used to design culture practices to optimize egg-to-smolt survival rate, smolt quality, smolt-to-adult survival rate, and successful spawning in nature by hatcheryreared adults, as well as to provide information to adapt the programs to most effectively meet management objectives. This report provides information on rearing and release operations for the 2003 brood year of juvenile Chinook salmon smolts, the collection, spawning, and adult characteristics of adult Chinook salmon in the 2005 return year, and the collection of eggs for the 2005 brood year. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 7267. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2006 Annual Progress Report

  Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2006. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2006 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2006. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring data collected in the Grande Ronde Basin by the Nez Perce Tribe (NPT) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The main objectives of this report are to document and evaluate spring Chinook salmon culture performance for hatchery programs and achievement of management objectives in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde river basins. These data are used to design culture practices to optimize egg-to-smolt survival rate, smolt quality, smolt-to-adult survival rate, and successful spawning in nature by hatcheryreared adults, as well as to provide information to adapt the programs to most effectively meet management objectives. This report provides information on rearing and release operations for the 2004 brood year of juvenile Chinook salmon smolts, the collection, spawning, and adult characteristics of adult Chinook salmon in the 2006 return year, and the collection of eggs for the 2006 brood year. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2006 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2006. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring data collected in the Grande Ronde Basin by the Nez Perce Tribe (NPT) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The main objectives of this report are to document and evaluate spring Chinook salmon culture performance for hatchery programs and achievement of management objectives in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde river basins. These data are used to design culture practices to optimize egg-to-smolt survival rate, smolt quality, smolt-to-adult survival rate, and successful spawning in nature by hatcheryreared adults, as well as to provide information to adapt the programs to most effectively meet management objectives. This report provides information on rearing and release operations for the 2004 brood year of juvenile Chinook salmon smolts, the collection, spawning, and adult characteristics of adult Chinook salmon in the 2006 return year, and the collection of eggs for the 2006 brood year. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 7268. [Article] Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2007 Annual Progress Report

  Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2007. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2007 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2007. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring data collected in the Grande Ronde Basin by our co-managers the Nez Perce Tribe (NPT) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The main objectives of this report are to document and evaluate spring Chinook salmon culture performance for hatchery programs and achievement of management objectives in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde river basins. These data are used to design culture practices to optimize eggto-smolt survival rate, smolt quality, smolt-to-adult survival rate, successful spawning in nature by hatchery-reared adults, and to provide information to adapt programs to most effectively meet management objectives. This report provides information on rearing and release operations for the 2005 brood year of juvenile Chinook salmon smolts, the collection of eggs for the 2007 brood year, Chinook spawning in nature, adult characteristics of adult Chinook salmon in the 2007 return year, and Bacterial Kidney Disease (BKD) monitoring. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Title: Lower Snake River Compensation Plan; Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon Evaluation Studies - 2007 Annual Progress Report Abstract -- This annual progress report summarizes spring Chinook salmon monitoring data for the Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) facilities in 2007. Also summarized are adult broodstock monitoring data collected in the Grande Ronde Basin by our co-managers the Nez Perce Tribe (NPT) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). The main objectives of this report are to document and evaluate spring Chinook salmon culture performance for hatchery programs and achievement of management objectives in the Imnaha and Grande Ronde river basins. These data are used to design culture practices to optimize eggto-smolt survival rate, smolt quality, smolt-to-adult survival rate, successful spawning in nature by hatchery-reared adults, and to provide information to adapt programs to most effectively meet management objectives. This report provides information on rearing and release operations for the 2005 brood year of juvenile Chinook salmon smolts, the collection of eggs for the 2007 brood year, Chinook spawning in nature, adult characteristics of adult Chinook salmon in the 2007 return year, and Bacterial Kidney Disease (BKD) monitoring. Lower Snake River Compensation Plan (LSRCP) ODFW- Eastern Oregon Fish Research (EOFR) Close

• 7269. [Article] Oregon North Coast Spring Chinook Stock Assessment – 2005-06 Information Reports 2008-01

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

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

• 7270. [Image] Status of Oregon's bull trout : distribution, life history, limiting factors, management considerations, and status

  	EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Limited historical references indicate that bull trout Salvelinus confluentus in Oregon were once widely spread throughout at least 12 basins in the Klamath River and Columbia River ...
  	Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Status of Oregon's bull trout : distribution, life history, limiting factors, management considerations, and status Author: Buchanan, David V; Hanson, Mary L; Hooton, Robert M Year: 1997, 2007, 2005 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Limited historical references indicate that bull trout Salvelinus confluentus in Oregon were once widely spread throughout at least 12 basins in the Klamath River and Columbia River systems. No bull trout have been observed in Oregon's coastal systems. A total of 69 bull trout populations in 12 basins are currently identified in Oregon. A comparison of the 1991 bull trout status (Ratliff and Ho well 1992) to the revised 1996 status found that 7 populations were newly discovered and 1 population showed a positive or upgraded status while 22 populations showed a negative or downgraded status. The general downgrading of 32% of Oregon's bull trout populations appears largely due to increased survey efforts and increased survey accuracy rather than reduced numbers or distribution. However, three populations in the upper Klamath Basin, two in the Walla Walla Basin, and one in the Willamette Basin showed decreases in estimated population abundance or distribution. Some Oregon river basins have bull trout populations at extreme risk of extinction. This statewide status review listed only 19% of the bull trout populations in Oregon with a ulow risk of extinction" or "of special concern." Therefore, 81% of Oregon's bull trout populations are considered to be at a "moderate risk of extinction," "high risk of extinction," or "probably extinct." Populations in the Hood, Klamath, and Powder basins, as well as the Odell Lake population in the Deschutes basin, which contain only a few remaining bull trout, are examples of populations having a "moderate" or "high risk" of extinction. Approximately 55% of current bull trout distribution occurs on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. A much smaller proportion occurs on Bureau of Land Management managed lands (2%). Only 16% of current bull trout distribution occurs within a protected area defined as Wilderness, Wild and Scenic River, or within a National Park. The Northwest Forest Plan, Inland Native Fish Strategy, and Interim Strategies for Managing Anadromous Fish-producing Watersheds in Eastern Oregon and Washington, Idaho, and Portions of California have provided increased protection for bull trout habitat depending on their scope and geographic areas affected, and the extent to which they are being effectively implemented in watersheds containing bull trout. Recent reduction in timber production on National Forests (up to 50% in western Oregon National Forests and over 30% in eastern Oregon National Forests) should help improve riparian and stream habitat conditions for bull trout. The remaining bull trout distribution occurs on private, state, or tribal owned lands. A comparison of approximately 39 locations throughout the state with protective angling regulations on bull trout (in some areas more than one bull trout population is protected by one regulation) shows that all state managed areas were upgraded in a protective angling status or at least maintained in 1996 compared to 1989. Restrictive angling regulations prohibit angler harvest of all bull trout populations in Oregon except for one in the Deschutes Basin. Restrictive bull trout angling regulation changes (including the elimination of bull Vll trout harvest in all spawning areas) may be the major reasons why the Metolius River/Lake Billy Chinook and mainstem McKenzie River populations have shown significant increases in abundance. Statewide stocking of non-native brook trout, including the high lakes stocking program, has been discontinued in locations where managers believe brook trout could migrate downstream and potentially interact with native bull trout. Hatchery stocking of legal rainbow trout to promote recreational fisheries has been discontinued in most locations near bull trout populations to avoid incidental catch of bull trout. The spatial and temporal distributions of bull trout reported for each river basin in this status report should be used as an accurate baseline for fisheries managers. Current distribution and relative change of distribution should be useful indicators of population health and status. The GIS maps in this report provide a template to add new layers of data such as critical spawning and juvenile rearing areas, or as a method to compare distribution changes through time. Length frequency data are presented for most Oregon bull trout populations. This should provide estimates for the presence of multiple age classes and the percent of fluvial size life history component. Vlll Title: Status of Oregon's bull trout : distribution, life history, limiting factors, management considerations, and status Author: Buchanan, David V; Hanson, Mary L; Hooton, Robert M Year: 1997, 2007, 2005 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Limited historical references indicate that bull trout Salvelinus confluentus in Oregon were once widely spread throughout at least 12 basins in the Klamath River and Columbia River systems. No bull trout have been observed in Oregon's coastal systems. A total of 69 bull trout populations in 12 basins are currently identified in Oregon. A comparison of the 1991 bull trout status (Ratliff and Ho well 1992) to the revised 1996 status found that 7 populations were newly discovered and 1 population showed a positive or upgraded status while 22 populations showed a negative or downgraded status. The general downgrading of 32% of Oregon's bull trout populations appears largely due to increased survey efforts and increased survey accuracy rather than reduced numbers or distribution. However, three populations in the upper Klamath Basin, two in the Walla Walla Basin, and one in the Willamette Basin showed decreases in estimated population abundance or distribution. Some Oregon river basins have bull trout populations at extreme risk of extinction. This statewide status review listed only 19% of the bull trout populations in Oregon with a ulow risk of extinction" or "of special concern." Therefore, 81% of Oregon's bull trout populations are considered to be at a "moderate risk of extinction," "high risk of extinction," or "probably extinct." Populations in the Hood, Klamath, and Powder basins, as well as the Odell Lake population in the Deschutes basin, which contain only a few remaining bull trout, are examples of populations having a "moderate" or "high risk" of extinction. Approximately 55% of current bull trout distribution occurs on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. A much smaller proportion occurs on Bureau of Land Management managed lands (2%). Only 16% of current bull trout distribution occurs within a protected area defined as Wilderness, Wild and Scenic River, or within a National Park. The Northwest Forest Plan, Inland Native Fish Strategy, and Interim Strategies for Managing Anadromous Fish-producing Watersheds in Eastern Oregon and Washington, Idaho, and Portions of California have provided increased protection for bull trout habitat depending on their scope and geographic areas affected, and the extent to which they are being effectively implemented in watersheds containing bull trout. Recent reduction in timber production on National Forests (up to 50% in western Oregon National Forests and over 30% in eastern Oregon National Forests) should help improve riparian and stream habitat conditions for bull trout. The remaining bull trout distribution occurs on private, state, or tribal owned lands. A comparison of approximately 39 locations throughout the state with protective angling regulations on bull trout (in some areas more than one bull trout population is protected by one regulation) shows that all state managed areas were upgraded in a protective angling status or at least maintained in 1996 compared to 1989. Restrictive angling regulations prohibit angler harvest of all bull trout populations in Oregon except for one in the Deschutes Basin. Restrictive bull trout angling regulation changes (including the elimination of bull Vll trout harvest in all spawning areas) may be the major reasons why the Metolius River/Lake Billy Chinook and mainstem McKenzie River populations have shown significant increases in abundance. Statewide stocking of non-native brook trout, including the high lakes stocking program, has been discontinued in locations where managers believe brook trout could migrate downstream and potentially interact with native bull trout. Hatchery stocking of legal rainbow trout to promote recreational fisheries has been discontinued in most locations near bull trout populations to avoid incidental catch of bull trout. The spatial and temporal distributions of bull trout reported for each river basin in this status report should be used as an accurate baseline for fisheries managers. Current distribution and relative change of distribution should be useful indicators of population health and status. The GIS maps in this report provide a template to add new layers of data such as critical spawning and juvenile rearing areas, or as a method to compare distribution changes through time. Length frequency data are presented for most Oregon bull trout populations. This should provide estimates for the presence of multiple age classes and the percent of fluvial size life history component. Vlll Close