United States Department of Interior  Fish and Wildlife Service  Klamath Falls Fish and Wildlife Office 6610 Washburn Way Klamath Falls, OR 97603 (541) 885-8481 Fax: (541) 885-7837

BEAR VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE BALD EAGLE HABITAT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT-AN UPDATE

John W. Beckstrand
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Rt. 1, Box 74
Tulelake, CA 96134
Ph: (530)667-2231
email: john_beckstrand@fws.gov

Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established to preserve an important winter communal roost for bald eagles within the Klamath Basin. However, past high-grade logging activities, and fire exclusion have led to excessive fuel loadings and overstocked stand densities, thus placing roost habitat at risk of catastrophic wildfire and forest health problems. Prescribed fire has worked well at lower elevations in the refuge to thin pine stands. However, prescribed fires at higher elevations often turned into potentially devastating crown fires in dense stands of white fir. In 1996, the Final Environmental Assessment for the Bald Habitat Improvement Project was approved with the preferred alternative calling for the utilization of five commercial timber sales over a 10 to fifteen-year period to thin present timber stands to a desired stocking level. The first sale boundary was set up and all leave trees marked in 1996. Two silvicultural prescriptions are used; Prescription A has a target of a 20-foot spacing between trees, leaving an average of 121 trees/acre in treated stands. Prescription B is identical to Prescription A except no trees larger than 14 inches DBH will be removed. No roost trees are to be cut and marking guidelines stipulate that large Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir are the preferred species. In order to assess the impact of forest thinning on eagle use of the refuge, we set up monitoring plots in which roost trees were located by the presence of regurgitated pellets, and data was collected on roost tree characteristics. Six plots were used; two plots each for each prescription and two controls. Pre-treatment data (1996-98) will be compared to post treatment information. In 1998 approximately ½ of the first sale area was completed with the remainder scheduled for 1999.

In 1998, a unique watershed restoration and training program was initiated by the Lower Klamath Restoration partnership's (California Coastal Conservancy, Northern California Indian Development Council (NCIDC), Simpson Timber, Yurok Tribe) with the Yurok Tribe as the lead agency.

This Lower Klamath, Mcgarvey and Ah Pah Watershed Restoration Implementation and Training Project was a multifaceted program. Tribal members and restoration staff (18) were trained in all aspects of state-of-the-art "upslope" watershed enhancement techniques, while restoring critical salmonid habitat in the Ah Pah and McGarvey creek watersheds. Aspects included everything from the identification of potential work sites to the operation of the heavy equipment required to perform the work.

The program consisted of six (6) weeks of classroom and on-the-job field-intensive technical instruction as technicians and heavy equipment operators, followed by a fourteen (14) weeks of on-the-job internship. TerraWave System Inc. was contracted for this state-of-the-art-training program.

The site implementation work focused on the most cost-effective, highest priority, chronic and potential catastrophic sediment sources, primarily associated with the roads that were identified in previous detailed assessment. Primary focus was "hydrological de commissioning" of roads. Stream crossings were excavated back to original profiles, unstable road prisms pulled, while stable road prisms were outsloped.

This project prevented 67,000 cubic yards of sediment from future delivery to the streams. Including the cost of training, site implementation work ending up costing approximately $8 per cubic yard saved, excluding the expense for the watershed assessments.

Funding for the project (~$750,000) came from USFWS ( Jobs in the Woods), USFWS (Klamath River Task Force), BIA, NCIDC, (EDD & CSBG), Trinity River Task Force and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. In-Kind contributions from Simpson Timber Company and the Yurok Tribe totaled approximately $100,000.

The McGarvey and Ah Pah watersheds were identified as high priority for restoration efforts in initial draft Lower Klamath Restoration plan developed by the LKRP.

The McGarvey watershed is 9 square miles in size, having approximately 64 miles of roads. The Ah Pah watershed is 11 square mile watershed having approximately 98 miles of roads.

Development of the technical skills and the long-term availability of watershed restoration jobs for tribal members is one objective of the Yurok tribe's plan for the Lower Klamath river, coordinated effort of the watershed enhancement project on 30 major fish-bearing tributaries. In order to implement a large-scale restoration project there needs to be a large qualified workforce available.

Wetland restoration can play a significant role in the retention of Klamath Lake. Studies performed on Upper Klamath Lake fringe wetlands demonstrates the role wetlands play in terms of aquatic habitat, water chemistry and phosphorus distribution. Pilot studies coupled with conjunctive watershed/lake models demonstrate the role of wetlands in removing and storing particulate forms of phosphorus. Integration of these two roles of wetlands have been utilized in developing a decision support model utilizing optimization techniques, land use loading functions, hydrology and lake level management strategies.

Running Y initiated work on the restoration of portions of its ownership of Caledonia Marsh adjacent to Howard Bay in summer and fall 1996, and completed construction of a perimeter dike for an initial test unit in summer 1997. Both the state (DSL) and federal (COE) wetland fill permits for impacts to wetlands related to resort development required conversion of 90 acres of Prior Converted Cropland to wetland marsh as mitigation. The area of wetland mitigation within the dike is approximately 94 acres. In fall 1997, the area was graded to create islands, and seeded and planted. Upper Klamath Lake water was introduced to the Test Unit on November 26, 1997.

In early summer of 1998 the Test Unit was dominated by emerging obligate wetland vegetation. The mixture of emergent marsh, open water and scattered islands had been proposed to attract particular species of wildlife. Seed dispersal and plantings of willows supplemented natural vegetation development. Sufficient viable seed of various wetland species was present in soil, or introduced through the initial submergence with lake water of the graded surfaces, to produce widespread growth of Eleocharis, Typha and Scirpus.

The results of this initial marsh restoration will provide a basis for proceeding with the conversion of additional farmland adjacent to the Test Unit. Plans are being prepared for the conversion of an additional 460 acres of marsh between the Test Unit and the dikes at Upper Klamath Lake on the north side of Caledonia Marsh.

The Wood River Channel and Wetland Restoration Project has been. developed to restore form, function, and structure for the Wood River channel, delta and adjoining wetlands. Channelization of the lower Wood River began in 1906 for navigation and drainage purposes and was channelized in the 1960's to allow construction of levees to convert wetlands into agricultural land. Oregon Trout conceived the project and began project planning with funding from the USFWS Klamath basin Ecosystem Restoration Program in 1995. Oregon Trout retained a design team in October 1996 to undertake background studies and design documents. Phase One documents were completed in 1997 and a small construction project involving wetland creation and material stockpiling was completed in October 1997. Phase Two design drawings were completed in June 1998. Major construction began in July 1998 with a local Klamath Falls contractor, Andersons Fish and Stream Rehabilitation. Phase Three design for the delta restoration is currently in preparation. The project has numerous partners including U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, Jim Root Ranch, The Klamath Tribes, Oregon Dept. of Environmental Quality, Pacificorp and U.S. Forest Service.

1998 accomplishments included completion of most of the Phase One design involving construction of the new meandering channel, backfill of the wide dredged channel, and planting of wetland species in the backfilled area. A variety of innovative design and construction techniques were used, including installation of vinyl sheetpiling to define new meander bends and provide turbidity control while the new channel was being constructed, use of a suction dredge to remove accumulated sediments from remnants of the historic channel, bioengineering of new streambanks using rootwads, boulders, wetland soil and vegetation blocks, coconut fiber blankets and rolls, willow transplants and cuttings, and extensive wetland species revegetation. A detailed construction sequence was developed to minimize impacts to a variety of species including endangered fisheries resources. Due to substantial Streamflow even in summer months, all channel construction work required operation of excavators on barges and hauling of all construction materials on barges. Channel backfill involved about 15,000 cubic yards of fill placement, which was completed in three days using a work force of 3 excavators, 5 dozers, and 12 trucks.
A portion of the Phase Two channel was also constructed in 1998, with completion expected in 1999.

In 1996, The Nature Conservancy, in partnership with NRCS, LTSFWS, BOR, Paciflcorp, Cell Tech, the Klamath Tribes and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation initiated restoration of 3700 acres on the Williamson River Delta~ The primary objective of this project is to restore riverine habitat for two endangered fish, the Lost River and shortnose suckers, through the re- creation of the historic form and function of the river delta. Restoration of wetlands for water quality and wildlife resources will also occur.

Initial studies provided detailed elevation mapping of the site, identification of cultural resource sites, an evaluation of contaminants and a range of preliminary conceptual design alternatives. As a first phase, our objective has been to re-establish wetland vegetation throughout the site prior to opening the property to the river and the lake. Improvements to internal levees were necessary to protect ongoing agricultural operations and were completed by fall 1997. Once built, these levees allowed floodup of more than 1500 acres in fall 1997. Controlled and natural drawdown of flooded areas during the spring and summer of 1998 resulted in the establishment of wetland plant species on sites that had been in alfalfa or grain the past 40-50 years. Additional levee improvements completed in 1998 allowed for full floodup in December 1998. An area adjacent to the river has been re-contoured to mimic historic elevations and form, and is now flooded. It is anticipated that will lead to the establishment of wetland vegetation later this summer.

Final project design is dependent on two key components: evaluating the feasibility of redirecting the mainstream Williamson River through a portion of the property to benefit fisheries; and second, a cost benefit feasibility assessment of using portions of the site for water quality treatment to remove phosphorus. Completion of these design features will facilitate development of the full restoration plan later in 1999.

PURPOSE
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is implementing wetland restoration work on the former Wood River Ranch property (3,200 acres) for the purpose of improving water quality, improving habitats for endangered Lost River and shortnose suckers and other fish and wildlife species, and increasing water quantity within the Wood River watershed of the Upper Klamath Basin.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This project involves several phases to be implemented over a five year time frame. 1996 marked the first year of implementation of the Resource Management Plan. Phase one of the Implementation consisted of three elements needed for establishing and maintaining hydrologic control of the site. A new pump station was constructed in September of 1996. The restoration of approximately six miles of meandering channels, designed to restore the historic wetland hydrology, was completed in 1997. The reconstruction of a levee at the north boundary of the project, to provide control of water entering the wetland, was also completed in 1997. The second phase of the project was to construct a levee across the middle of the project area, to allow seasonal wetland habitat (1,600 acres) to be managed separately from permanent emergent marsh habitat (1,200 acres). Two settling ponds with associated water control structures were also constructed in front of the pump stations during this phase of the project.

The third phase of the project will be to restore 1.7 miles of the lower Wood River channel. Associated with the stream channel work will be the creation of approximately 25 acres of floodplain wetlands adjacent to the reconstructed channel. This phase of the project is critical to improving water quality in both the lower Wood River and Agency Lake. The restoration of the Wood River channel to its historic form and function will provide refugial habitat for larval and juvenile endangered suckers, improve instream habitat for trout, and improve wetland riparian habitat along the lower Wood River for waterfowl and neotropical migrant birds. Construction of this phase of the project started in 1997, with about 3 acres of wetland being created. Approximately 40 % of this phase of the project was completed in 1998, and the remainder will be completed in 1999.

The final phase of the Wood River wetland restoration project will be to develop a more sinuous and vegetatively diverse wetland interface along Sevenmile canal. This phase of the project will provide improved refugial habitat for juvenile fish, as well as improved nesting and brood rearing habitat for waterfowl and neotropical migrant birds. Implementation of the final phase is expected in 2000.

Partners in this project include: Klamath Tribes, USFWS, BOR, Ducks Unlimited(DU), Oregon Trout,PacifiCorp., Oregon Department of Environmental Quality(ODEQ), Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife(ODFW), Oregon Department of Transportation(ODOT), Oregon Governor s watershed enhancement board (GWEB), Klamath Basin Ecosystem Restoration Office (ERO), National Fish and Wildlife Foundation(NFWF), Klamath Basin Working Group, Winema National Forest ,US Forest Service Redwood Sciences Lab, US Geological Survey (USGS ), Jim Root (adjacent private land owner), Henley High School, Lost River High School, Tulelake High School, Butte Valley High School, Chiloquin Elementary School, High Desert Learning Center, Klamath Basin Audubon and Agency Lake Ranch.

Since the beginning of the twentieth century, the future of fish and wildlife resources in the Upper Klamath Basin has been a concern. The establishment of 6 National Wildlife Refuges and 2 State Wildlife Areas from 1908 to 1978, enactment of the Kuchel Act in 1964 and the Federal listing of Lost River and shortnose suckers in 1988 and bulltrout in 1998 reflect this concern. The Klamath Basin Ecosystem Restoration Office (ERO) was established in 1993 to implement watershed restoration projects to positively affect water quality and quantity and to enhance habitat for fish and wildlife. To date, the ERO has been involved with the implementation of over 140 watershed restoration projects. The ERO has recently developed a bioassessment and monitoring plan for habitat restoration for the Upper Klamath Basin. The purpose of this plan is to acquire baseline habitat information and monitor current and completed restoration projects to serve as a reference for planning future watershed restoration activities. Baseline information obtained in 1998 included aerial photography of the Sprague, Williamson, Sycan and Wood Rivers, 3 major marshes, and 7 bulltrout creeks. Also in 1998, rapid bioassessment of benthic invertebrates and selected water quality and physical measurements were collected in the Upper Sycan and Upper Sprague Rivers. Implementation and effectiveness monitoring of restoration projects tracks, quantifies, and evaluates change. The bioassessment and monitoring information will provide biologists with valuable reference data for identifying key areas for habitat restoration activities and a means to determine the level of success of projects.

The Klamath Basin's A-canal remains un-screened because it and the associated Link River power canals represent a complex hydrological environment with no easy physical screening solutions.  Given the obstacles which have slowed installation of fish screening devices: 1) general clogging associated with abundant algae and debris, 2) an intake geometry which changes the fluctuating lake levels, and 3) a bypass area that leads to the nearby un-screened Link River hydropower units there has been a need to evaluate the entrainment problem.  Starting in March of 1997, entrainment studies to determine the actual magnitude, timing, species, and sizes of entrained fishes were initiated.  Due to their endangered status, studies have concentrated on suckers, but all species have been evaluated.  Cell Tech has work cooperatively with Natural Resources Scientists and the Klamath Irrigation District to study A-canal entrainment and has worked with PacifiCorp to study entrainment on Link River east and west power canals. Link River field work has been conducted throughout the year while A-canal work has been completed only while the irrigation system was operational (April 1 - Oct 15).

Trends in juvenile/adult fish entrainment are similar at the different monitoring sites through minor differences in species composition have been noted.  Timing of movement by different species is reviewed, however, in both study years, primary periods of movement and entrainment were early August through mid September.  In 1997 maximum sucker entrainment followed poor water quality conditions (Low dissolved oxygen concentrations(<4ppm) and high temperatures) by about 2 weeks, and several cohorts of suckers were collected in this fish kill situation.  In contrast in 1998, water quality conditions were better and high sucker catch rates cannot be so easily explained.  In 1998, Suckers were most abundant during late August/early September, were almost all age-0 fish, and were in relatively good health. If poor water quality were the driving force behind this year's movements, we would have expected to also collect large suckers, which are generally more susceptible to poor conditions than small fish.

Wetland/cropland rotational management is proposed to alleviate problems with declining wildlife values at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge (TLNWR).  Under this concept, management units on TLNWR would be rotated between wetlands and crops for the benefit of both wildlife and agriculture.  To evaluate the feasibility and impacts of this approach to water quality, wildlife habitat, and crop productivity, three pilot sites have been converted from agriculture to wetlands. Prior to 1998, these sites were managed as seasonal wetlands, flooded in the fall and drained in the spring.  In 1998, the three sites were flooded permanently throughout the summer for the first time, thereby allowing evaluation of water quality impacts from the proposed management regime during this critical period.

The primary purpose of this study was to obtain a preliminary understanding of the impact of wetland rotation on water quality in TLNWR.  We evaluated water quality (DO, pH, temperature, conductivity, total kjeldahl N, ammonia N, nitrate N, ortho-phosphate, and total P) in the inflow, wetland, and seepage outflow of each pilot site.  Dissolved oxygen and pH were generally higher in the wetlands than the inflows, reflecting a predominance of photosynthesis over decomposition  relative to inflows.  Minimum DO concentrations in the wetlands were quite low (<2mg/L) early in the summer but increased later to 5-7 mg/L at two of the three sites.  PH values in the wetlands were usually >9.0 and increased over the summer. The net effect of the restored wetlands on water quality is observed in the seepage outflows.  Outflows were lower in DO, temperature, and pH, and higher in conductivity relative to wetlands and inflows, reflecting the interaction of subsurface flow with soils and sediments.

Nutrient data were more variable.  The wetlands acted as sinks for nitrate and ortho-phosphate when inputs were significant.  Ammonia-N increased in seepage outflows as compared to wetlands and inflows at two of the three sites.  However, because of the lower pH of the seepage outflow, almost all of the ammonia-N was in the ionzed form (NH4+), which is not toxic to aquatic organisms.  Ammonia-N in the seepage outflows is expected to be oxidized to nitrate, consuming DO and increasing bioavailable N downstream.

The net effect of the restored wetlands on water quality is variable, depending on which parameters are considered.  The extent to which seepage waters from these sites influence downstream conditions in the system is important and must be considered when evaluating water quality impacts from restored wetlands.

A major challenge to fisheries biologists is relating annual fluxuations in fish populations to corresponding stream conditions. While it is generally known that fish populations reflect the conditions of their environment we have asked the question, are we able to quantify the interrelationship between annual changes in fish density and/or biomass and stream conditions? Stream restoration projects initiated in the Klamath Basin of Oregon in 1985 were monitored for channel changes and fish population response. Although we found major changes in the fishery between years and between channel segments these did not correspond to the channel features of width, depth or cross-section. Data on thalweg depths were collected to characterize the longitudinal profile from 1995 through 1998 for each stream segment. Our preliminary findings from fourteen stream segments show a strong correlation between channel depth characteristics and redband trout biomass. The results have defined the temporal and spacial scale necessary for monitoring the relationship between resident fish populations and habitat. We will continue this effort in 1999 as our objective is to find a universal relationship between hydrology and fish ecology. We will investigate stream channels with a greater variety of hydrological and geological conditions to describe the functional characteristics of the channel.

Lost River and shortnose suckers, found exclusively in the Klamath Basin, were listed as endangered in 1988. Factors thought to be responsible for their decline include damming of rivers, dredging and draining of marshes, in stream flow diversions, over-harvest, introductions of non-native fish, and a shift toward hypereutrophication and poor water quality in Upper Klamath Lake and waters downstream. Since the early 1990s over 20 investigations have occurred at a cost of several million dollars to obtain scientific information on the status, life history, habitat conditions, and factor limiting populations. A major objective of these research and monitoring studies has been the collection of scientific information useful in the protection and recovery of these species. The Bureau of Reclamation has conducted and/or funded much of the activities.

Lost River and shortnose sucker populations appear to be most stable in Clear Lake. In 1994, adult shortnose and Lost River sucker populations were estimated at 70,000 and 22,000 respectively. Monitoring dat also indicated that year class recruitment occurred regularly and the population age structure was diverse. Although monitoring has not occurred since 1995 populations are believed to have increased due to continued increases in Clear Lake volume and surface area.

Gerber Reservoir, where the only catostomid species is the shortnose sucker, appears to have a healthy sucker population. Although monitoring efforts from 1992-1996 were not as extensive as those in Clear Lake, the data suggests that the population is substantial. Also, numerous age classes were monitored indicating regular recruitment. High reservoir volumes and surface areas since 1995 have been beneficial for the reservoir fisheries.

Endangered sucker populations in Tule Lake were studied from 1993-1995. Spawning migrations from Tule Lake up the Lost River to Anderson Rose Dam have been monitored annually since 1993. Successful spawning was only documented in one of the last six years. Estimates of adult Lost River and shortnose sucker populations in Tule Lake were estimated at approximately 200 for each species. Radio telemetry studies indicated that fish were restricted to small pockets of deep water habitat (3-4 feet).

Sucker populations in Upper Klamath Lake have been the most extensively monitored in the Klamath Basin. Since the 1980s the population dynamics have changed dramatically. In 1986 there were relatively low numbers of adult Lost River and shortnose suckers and these were mostly older fish. There was an infusion of young fish into the spawning population between 1988 and 1998. However, successful recruitment into the adult population was followed by three consecutive years (1995-1997) of fish kills. Spawning population indices have been obtained on the Williamson River from 1995-1998. The index of Lost River suckers captured from the lower Williamson River decreased 76%, 25%, and 11% after 1995 whereas shortnose suckers decreased 43%, 78%, and 60%. The adult Lost River and shortnose sucker populations are now dominated by young adults primarily from the 1991 and 1993 year classes. Spring spawning stocks which were dominated by large Lost River suckers in the 1980s and early 1990s have declined with only a small infusion of adults from the 1991 year class. Shortnose and Lost River sucker populations are probably more abundant than they were at the time of listing but are unstable with a lack of year class diversity.

U.S.G.S.- Biological Resources Division has collaborated with staff from North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, Santa Rosa, CA; PacifiCorps, Portland, OR; and the Bureau of Reclamation Klamath Area Office, Klamath Falls, OR, on a water quality study in the mainstream Klamath River. In 1996 and 1997, 4 sites were continuously monitored using multi parameter recorders. Those sites were Keno Dam, J.C. Boyle Power plant discharge, the Klamath River near the California/Oregon state line, and just below Iron Gate Dam. Water quality sampling was also performed at monthly intervals at these four locations. USBR performed reservoir profiles on Keno and J.C. Boyle Reservoirs. NCRWQCB collected water quality samples at an additional 10 sites in California and PacifiCorps performed reservoir profiles on Copco and Iron Gate Reservoirs. Data collected by all cooperators were used to calibrate and validate a water quality modeling application for the Klamath River reach from Keno, OR to Seiad Valley, CA.

In addition to the modeling application, water quality measurements and lab analysis results were used to display seasonal trends in temperature and dissolved oxygen concentrations and to calculate nutrient loading values. Correlations among various water quality parameters were also performed. Temperature ranged from near zero ⁰C to >25 ⁰C with cooler temperatures in early spring and fall, and maximum temperatures occurring in July and August of each year. Dissolved oxygen concentration ranged from near zero mg/L to >13 mg/L with highest DO occurring in early spring and fall and lowest DO occurring in mid-summer. Total phosphorus loading ranged from 2,811 kg/d - 17,392 kg/d in 1996 and from 4,798 kg/d -29,901 kg/d in 1997. Total nitrogen loading ranged from 43,901 kg/d - 225,468 kg/d in 1996, and 30,990 kg/d - 199,314 kg/d in 1997. Air temperature was generally highly correlated with

water temperature with r values ranging from 0.8 to 0.9 in both 1996 and 1997. Various nutrient parameters were both negatively and positively correlated with electrical conductance with r values ranging from -0.53 to 0.73. Nitrogen to phosphorus ratios indicated a pervasive nitrogen limiting for algal growth condition throughout the study reach in late-spring and summer, but conditions in both the upper and lower study reach were phosphorus limited or co-limited in early spring and fall.

Approximately 85 terrestrial and 90 aquatic surveys were conducted from late April through late September 1998 for birds, fish, and other wildlife potentially affected by pesticides use on lease lands in Tule Lake and Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs). Terrestrial surveys were completed in planted fields and around field perimeters (including berms and buffer zones), while aquatic surveys were performed along canals and drains (including the Klamath Straits Drain), and within Tule Lake sumps and wetlands. In addition to the above surveys, road surveys were typically conducted at random throughout refuge lease lands on a daily basis and surveys were conducted wherever there appeared to be potential for mortalities (e.g., where one dead bird had already been located or in the vicinity of a fertilizer spill). All intact dead birds in fair to excellent condition were examined by gross external necropsy, frequently followed by internal necropsy, pathological examinations, and acetylcholinesterase monitoring. The latter monitoring, indicative or organophosphate and carbamate pesticide exposure, was performed if the cause of death could not be determined by necropsy and/or pathology tests. Pesticide residue analysis was also conducted on ingesta (birds) or whole tissue (fish) when pesticides were a possible cause of mortality. Cooperators in this study included California Fish and Games Pesticide Investigation Unit Pesticide (Rancho Cordova, CA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services National Wildlife Forensics Laboratory (Ashland, OR), and the U.S. Geological Surveys National Wildlife Health Center (Madison, WI).

In the case of fish die-offs, a calibrated Hydrolab was deployed at the site to monitor water quality for the 24-72 hour period following each die-off. In addition, ammonia and fish samples were collected for analysis. Analysis also included volatile organics, chlorophenoxy herbicides, carbamates and organophosphates insecticides, specific fungicides, and aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, depending on site.

There were 85 terrestrial wildlife losses and 5 fish die-offs recorded on the refuges during the sample period in the above surveys. Of the wildlife casualties, we were able to assign probable causes of death for 63 birds and mammals. The remaining specimens were in too poor condition (severely decomposed, desiccated or scavenged) for examination. For birds, the primary causes, in order of significance, were disease (especially Type C Avian Botulism), vehicular strikes, and predators. For mammals, vehicle strikes appeared more important than predators. More dead birds and mammals were found during road surveys than during in-field or crop perimeter surveys, which undoubtedly biased our findings regarding vehicular strikes.

One northern pintail, found dead and entangled in aquatic vegetation, showed acetylcholinesterase depression of 32%, a level of inhibition insufficient for its death to be definitively diagnosed as being pesticide-related (normally >50%). Subsequent analysis of ingesta from the bird failed to detect carbamate or organophosphate pesticide residues, suggesting that the depression may have been caused by a factor other than pesticides. All other dead birds examined for acetylcholinesterase depression were within normal ranges.

Five fish die-offs were investigated, three in the Q Canal at Tule Lake NWR, one in the A-T Canal in Lower Klamath NWR, and one in the Klamath Straits Drain. The fish die-offs included fathead minnows and tui and blue chubs primarily, but also involved Sacramento perch and pumpkin seeds. No endangered suckers were found in any of the kills and none of the die-offs occurred in Tule Lake sumps, where the suckers are known to occur. Low dissolved oxygen (below 2 mg/L and sometimes very close to 0 mg/L) and high temperatures were implicated as the probable cause of at least four of the die-offs. High levels of ammonia (exceeding the freshwater chronic criterion for protection of aquatic life) also occurred. No pesticides or other organ ics were detected in water samples at the aquatic sites of bird or fish mortalities. Analysis of pesticide residues in fish samples are still pending.

In several cases, birds dead of avian botulism poisoning were closely associated with fish die-off sites, suggesting that anoxic conditions in refuge canal waters probably fostered the growth of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum on the dead fish, leading to the bird deaths. Increased attention to improving water quality within and upstream of the refuges is merited.

Blue chubs (selected as surrogates for endangered suckers) from eight sites on the Upper Klamath Lake, Agency Lake, Williamson River, Upper Klamath River, Lost River, Tule Lake, and Clear Lake, were assessed for rates of parasitism, deformities, and health of skin, fins, gills, eyes, and internal organs during two summer sample periods in 1998. Only fish in the 5 - 15 cm size range were examined to minimize among-site differences attributable to size. In general, fish from the lower Williamson River, Upper Klamath River, and Lost River suffered the greatest health problems. Fish from the Williamson River had the highest rates of skin discoloration, Lemia parasitism, black spot, and shortened opercles. These fish also experienced the highest rate of fin erosion (27%) and fish from this site had the only reported incidence of missing fins. Upper Klamath River chubs had the highest rates of eye abnormalities, enlarged/discolored livers, discolored (orange) viseral fat, gastrointestinal tract abnormalities, lordosis/scoliosis, and skin abnormalities. We were only able to sample a small number of Lost River fish during the early summer sample period, and therefore could not compare fish at this site to other sites statistically; however, Lost River blue chubs had the highest rate of kidney abnormalities including white lesions and pale kidneys with Williamson River fish also showing high rates of these abnormalities. Tule Lake fish appeared to be better general health, with no observed skeletal deformities, kidney or gastrointestinal tract abnormalities; no tapeworms, Lemia, or cysts, and comparatively low rates of black spot. However, fish at this site did experience bent/clubbed fins at a similarly high rate as Lost River fish (approximately 5%). Surprisingly, fish from our two selected reference sites, Clear Lake and Upper Klamath Lake at Rocky Point, were not problem-free. Chubs from Clear Lake had a high incidence of hemorrhagic skin lesions and the poorest fin health ratings of any of the sample sites, possibly as a result of the very high water temperatures at that site, whereas fish from the Rocky Point site had the highest rate of tapeworm infection rates, cysts, and black spot of any sample site. However, in most other respects fish health at Clear Lake appeared better than all other sites. Comparisons between early summer and late summer periods revealed no clear differences for most health parameters. Pale/reduced livers were observed during both sample periods, but enlarged/discolored livers were only observed (at a low rate) during the second sample period and only at two sites. Higher rates of shortened opercles, pale or mashed gastrointestinal tracts, when detected at a site, occurred during the first sample period, suggesting that these fish may be subject to higher rates of mortality as the summer progresses.

To assess instream flow and water quality requirements for maintenance of healthy habitat for anadromous fishes in the reach of the Klamath River below Iron Gate Dam essential field data and technical tools (e.g., mathematical models) were developed. Iron Gate Reservoir and the Klamath River from Iron Gate Dam (river mile 190)10 the USGS Gage (river mile 129) near Seiad Valley were modeled for flow and water quality.

Iron Gate Reservoir was represented as a one-dimensional vertically stratified system using the model Water Quality for River-Reservoir Systems (WQRRS). The Klamath River was characterized by a one-dimensional longitudinal network. The river was modeled for flow and water quality using the finite element models RMA-2 and RMA11, respectively. The flow model uses a mathematical representation of system geometry to produce a time series of velocities, depths, and flows throughout the system. The temperature model employs flow model output and identical geometry to simulate the fate and transport of heat energy through the system. The reservoir and river models were applied in series, with the reservoir model simulations completed first, providing release quantity, temperature, and water quality for the downstream river models.

The river and reservoir models were calibrated and verified over the 1996 and 1997 field seasons, respectively. Preliminary model application to historical periods provided significant insight to system response under various hydrological, meteorological and waters quality conditions. Subsequently, the models were applied to a range of hydrologic, climatic, and operating conditions identified in the Klamath Basin Task Force Technical Work Group Scoping Study completed in 1998. Analysis explored hydrology, engineering, water temperature, and water quality issues. Examples included:

• Relationships between flow and travel time with respect to Iron Gate Dam releases and tributary contributions;
• Feasibility to alter outlet or reservoir configuration to release cold water from Iron Gate Reservoir and how would such measures affect the reservoir thermal profile and water quality
• Defining the thermal and water quality diversity of the Klamath River
• Estimating impact of tributary contributions on water temperature and quality
• Illustrating spatially and temporally where river water temperature thresholds are exceeded
• Exploring impact of variable flow rate on water temperature and quality

The Hovey Point Unit is the newest agricultural field to be incorporated into the Wetland-Cropland Rotation Program on the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The Unit is unusual because its southern segment (study unit) has a concentric 30.5 cm depth gradient (0-152.4 cm). As water is drawn off during the growing season, different portions (zones) of the study unit are available for seed germination. By studying the plant species on the study unit after each drawdown and growing season, we hope to identify those plant species which germinate following specific periods of inundation. The desirability of individual plant species and resultant plant communities will be evaluated based on inundation period (shorter requiring less water) and their value as food and cover for aquatic wildlife. This information is critical to the success of wetland restoration efforts as water will continue to be a limited resource in the Basin.

Summer 1997 was the first of three consecutive field seasons in which the vegetative community within each zone will be evaluated based on differences in the timing of drawdowns: 1 April (Zone 1), 24 April (Zone 2), 17 May (Zone 3), 9 June (Zone 4), and 2 July (Zone 5). Five equidistant transects were established within the study unit radiating out from a point on the northern dike. Five m²plots were positioned in Zones 1,3-5 and 10 plots in Zone 2 (width was 2x that of other zones) to determine species composition and percent cover (total=150 plots). Above ground biomass (dry weight/species and total) was determined in an additional 3 plots/zone/transect (total=75). Soil cores were collected from the middle plot of transects A, C, and E to determine soil characteristics. A second set of cores was collected from the middle plots along each transect in Zone 4 for seed bank analysis.

In 1997, most plants were mature and had seeds by 25 August. Zones 1-3 had a dense cover of Avenafatua (wild oats). In comparison, many areas of Zones 4 and 5 were devoid of vegetation; others contained a few plants of Amaranthus albus (Tumble Pigweed) and A. Powell (Powells Amaranth) that grew quite large and resembled shrubs. Seed bank studies indicated the study unit contained seeds of plant species that were not observed on the site, possibly because of differences in moisture regimes. Data collected in 1998 are being analyzed and results from the two years will be compared.

Freshwater mollusks were collected and identified from some 300 sites scattered throughout the Upper Klamath Lake Basin, encompassing the Lost, Williamson, and Sprague river drainage as well as the bake itself. At least 71 mollusk species were encountered, including 47 native and 2 introduced gastropods, plus 22 bivalves, only one introduced. The fauna represents a unique mix of coastal and Great Basin elements. Especially notable are the 29 strict or regional endernics, among which are at least 18 undescribed taxa Upper Klamath Lake is an old system (Miocene?) perhaps constituting the best surviving North. American example of an ancient lake and its associated endemic species swarm. Endernics are often limited to one or a few sites but include some of the most common species encountered in the Basin. Endemisrn is particularly concentrated in three families, the Hydrobidae, Pleurocendae, and Planorbidae, a pattern common to ancient lakes worldwide. However, few endemics are obligate lake forms. Rather, endemics may be found most often in springs, whether in or associated with Upper Klamath Lake itself, or (at least as often) associated with the tributary river drainages. The malacofauna of Upper Klamath Lake is mostly not unique to the generic level and shows strong affiliations with that of the upper Sacramento system, as does its icthyofauna. However, at least one species group does probably constitute an endemic Basin genus. Most of the Basins mollusks are obligate cold-water stenoriherms, quite often associated with exceptional water quality and hard substrate habitats, factors that probably contribute to their current limited distribution in most cases. Preservation of the unique mollusks requires retention and restoration of cold, clear, habitat characterized by otigotrophic nutrient conditions, high dissolved oxygen, and hard substrate. Because mollusks are particularly characteristic of a wide range of local aquatic habitats prior to human modification, they are also good, highly local indicators of both the current status of and of the effects of restoration efforts on regional water bodies.

A new wetland management strategy, Wetland-Cropland Rotation, was initiated on the Tule Lake NWR in October 1995. Concurrently, we began monitoring habitat within 4 created seasonal wetlands and a reference wetland. Plant communities were studied from October 1995 to September 1997 and species composition was described and compared among sites and across seasons and years. Criteria for assessing the progress of plant communities toward interim management goals were evaluated.

Plant cover surveys were conducted during September 1996 and 1997 within 10 paired study plots (1 enclosed and 1 open) on 5 seasonal wetland study sites: Freys Island Unit D, Unit E, Unit F, Headquarters, and the Reference site (10 open plots only). DECORANA ordination and TWINSPAN classification were employed for descriptions and characterizations. Significant differences in plant composition between enclosed and open plots were not found.

Based on plant composition and percent cover, the seasonal wetland plant communities were discrete among sites and between years. Analysis indicated that the Reference site was most distinct from the four created wetlands. Shifts in species composition occurred between years due to the arrival of new species, loss of former species, and changes in percent cover. A Plant Community Desirability Index was devised and used to compare the proportion of undesirable to desirable plants and evaluate progress towards management objectives. Desirability rankings from 1 (highly undesirable) to 5 (highly desirable) were based on each species wetland indicator status, native or non-native status, weediness, and waterfowl food potential. During 1996, the average ranks of the created wetland sites were generally low (2.6-3.4), but increased on all sites in 1997 (3.1-3.8), due to an increase in the proportion of desirable moist-soil species (Smartweed, Barnyard grass, Red-goosefoot, Witchgrass, and Bidens sp.) and the establishment of emergent perennials (Alkali Bulrush, Hardstem Bulrush, and Common Cattail).

Based on our results, the initial habitat responses in the newly created seasonal wetlands on Tule Lake NWR met the expectations and management objectives of the Wetland-Cropland Rotation Program: a) introduce new, dynamic habitats, thereby increasing habitat diversity; and b) provide food and cover for waterbird and other wildlife. Seasonal wetlands should be considered an essential component of habitat management on the Refuge. Seed bank, soil nutrient and moisture measurements may allow Refuge managers to predict plant community response.

Macroinvertebrate communities were studied within 4 created seasonal wetlands, Tule Lake, and a reference wetland from October 1995 to September 1997 and their taxa compositions were compared among sites and across seasons and years. Water quality parameters, including pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), specific conductance and temperature were assessed. Criteria for assessing the succession of aquatic invertebrate communities were evaluated.

Macroinvertebrate sampling was conducted within 10 paired study plots (1 exclosed and 1 open) on 5 seasonal wetland study sites (Freys Island Unit D, Unit E, Unit F, Headquarters, and the Reference site) and within 10 open study plots on Tule Lake. Water column and benthic macroinvertebrates were collected during spring and fall each year (8 sample collection periods of 5 days each). DECORANA ordination and TWINSPAN classification analysis were employed for characterization and comparison of these communities.

Comparisons among sites indicated that the invertebrate communities on Tule Lake and the Reference site were most distinct during each collection period; Headquarters was distinct in 5 of 8 collection periods; and few differences were observed among the Freys Island sites. Results of comparisons across seasons and years indicated that communities on each seasonal site were distinct during the spring sample collection periods, whereas those on Tule Lake did not differ between collection periods, but were distinct during spring and fall. Colonizers were the predominant taxa on the newly created wetlands, including Copepoda, Oligochaeta, Chironomidae, Corixidae, Hydrachnida, and Daphnia. Later arrivals included Amphipoda, Ephydridae, Zygoptera, Tricoptera, Gastropoda, and Macrothricidae. The Tule Lake invertebrate community was relatively stable and had consistently higher taxa richness than the other sites.

Based on EPA criteria, water quality conditions recorded during monitoring would be unlikely to pose threats to the health of aquatic organisms. Dissolved oxygen (DO) was occasionally below recommended EPA levels (<6.5 mg/L), but sampling limitations precluded using this to draw any conclusions. Better defined water quality criteria for seasonal and permanent wetlands should be developed.

Based on our results, macroinvertebrate communities in the newly created wetlands were representative of typical seasonal wetlands. Seasonal wetlands should be considered an essential component of aquatic habitat management on the Refuge. Finally, a broader ecological perspective would consider additional aquatic organisms such as algae, fish, and amphibians, thus providing a more complete assessment of wetland status and health.

Aquatic bird use and time-activity budgets were studied at 4 seasonally flooded agricultural fields and 10 sump sites on the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge in fall 1995, 96 and spring 1996, 97. A reference wetland on the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge was added in fall 1996. The influence of habitat, time of day, season and year on use and time-activity budgets were of primary interest. The diurnal activity budgets of 5 species of dabbling ducks and 2 species of diving ducks, geese and "other aquatic birds" were compared among habitats and years.

Numbers of dabbling ducks on the flooded fields with dense emergent vegetation were greater than sites where vegetation was sparse, especially during the night. In contrast, diving ducks, geese, swans and gulls generally preferred flooded fields with open water and sparse vegetation. However, most species of "other aquatic birds" readily used sites where dense vegetation was present.

Dabbling ducks, diving ducks and "other aquatic birds" generally used the flooded fields and sumps in greater numbers during the fall than during the spring. A consistent pattern of use was not observed among geese and swans.

Nocturnal use by dabbling ducks and geese was highest on the flooded fields during the fall and in 1996 exceeded use during the day. In the spring, geese also used the flooded fields in greater numbers at night. Diving ducks and "other aquatic birds" generally used the flooded fields in greater numbers during the day and the sumps in greater numbers at night.

The amount of time spent in different activities varied among species, habitats, and years. Feeding, loafing and swimming were generally the predominant activities among all bird groups. Dabbling ducks and diving ducks spent more time feeding on the flooded fields and reference wetland than on the sumps, especially during the spring. Canada and White-fronted Geese used the flooded fields and sumps primarily for loafing, while on the reference wetland, White-fronted Geese were often observed feeding on submerged aquatic vegetation. American Coots and Ring-billed Gulls spent more time feeding on the flooded fields than on the sumps during the spring.

Lost River (Deltistes luxatus) and shortnose (Chasm istes brevirosiris) suckers are federally endangered species endemic to the Klamath River Basin in southern Oregon and northern California. Of the few lakes that still support these lacustrine suckers, Upper Klamath Lake is by far the largest, arid represents the majority of habitat that remains for both species Substantial fish kills occurred in this lake each year from 1995 to 1997, and included thousands of endangered suckers. Most dead suckers (80-90%) were found during a 15-20 day period that began between mid August and mid September. The fish kills were preceded by large algal blooms (>150 jig LI chlorophyll a) comprised mostly of Aphanizomenonflos-aqziae. Algal photosynthesis caused extended periods (30-90 days) of high pH (9-10), which led to a large proportion of the total ammonia being maintained in the toxic, un-ionized form (200-2000 jig U NH₃). The peak of each fish kill was associated with sharply decreased algal abundance and decreased dissolved oxygen throughout the water column that persisted for up to several days. The decreased oxygen levels during the period of algal decline were presumably from decreased photosynthesis and the decomposition of dead algae. Fish mortality continued to be observed for 20-30 days after the period of low dissolved oxygen. From these observations we concluded that high pH and ammonia acted primarily as chronic stressors that increased the susceptibility of fish to low dissolved oxygen levels. This coincidence of fish kill peaks with periods of hypoxia, along with a bias toward larger fish in the die-offs. strongly suggests that hypoxia triggered the fish kills. Exposure to water quality sitessors also made fish susceptible to disease (Fkxvobacierium columnare), which probably caused much of the post-hypoxic mortality. Stock assessments of suckers after the fish kills indicated dramatic decreases in the abundance of adult spawners. Degraded water quality that results from the algae blooms is clearly one of the main threats to the long-term persistence of the endangered suckers, not only because of catastrophic mortality events, but also because of reduced fitness and survival as a result of chronic stress. The likelihood of continuing poor water quality and the occurrence of three consecutive major fish kills raises the concern that the long-term viability of the populations may be jeopardized. Ecosystem restoration and management that will result in improved water quality is critical for the conservation of these endangered suckers.

The composition, abundance and availability of plants and invertebrates and the interspersion of cover and open water appeared to be most important factors determining aquatic bird use and activities. Results indicate that seasonal wetlands created for the Cropland Wetland Rotation Program will benefit many, but not all, species of aquatic birds.

In 1996, The Nature Conservancy initiated a riparian and wetland restoration project on approximately 3,700 acres of agricultural land near the mouth of the Williamson River in Klamath County, Oregon- initial stages of this project include conversion of agricultural cropland to wetland habitat by manipulating hydrologic conditions to promote natural colonization and establishment of wetland plant species. Monitoring the effectiveness of this passive conversion process required development of an efficient and cost-effective method for detecting changes in vegetation cover types and plant species composition. After consideration of a number of remote sensing techniques, the Aerial Data Acquisition and Registration (ADAR) digital aerial photography system in combination with digital image spectral analysis were selected for monitoring vegetation change. The ADAR system combines the advantage of high spatial resolution (1-meter x 1-meter) with robust multi-spectral reflectance data that is critical for discriminating and mapping detailed vegetation communities using image processing software.

The process of vegetation conversion on the Williamson River Delta Preserve commenced in fall 1997 by flooding approximately 1,500 acres. Subsequent to suffice water draw down and establishment of vegetation in summer 1998, multi-spectral ADAR imagery, along with color analog aerial photography, of the preserve were collected. Classification of vegetation cover types involved an iterative process utilizing both supervised and unsupervised digital image classification techniques, field ground-truthing, and visual interpretation of aerial photographs. The unique mapping approach utilized in this effort took full advantage of the strengths of both aerial photo interpretation and digital image processing. Computer driven digital image processing algorithms provided the detailed discrimination and delineations of vegetation types, while photo interpretation and field observations were employed to assign the appropriate vegetation class label to the computer-delineated types.

Results of this initial study indicate that the ADAR system in combination with more traditional monitoring techniques is an effective alternative for discriminating and mapping distinct vegetation cover classes. Over thirty different cover classes were differentiated and mapped on the preserve using this process. The utility of ADAR for monitoring subtle, but ecologically significant, changes in species composition over time, however, has yet to be determined.

Water quality, water elevation and fluctuation, and habitat are compared between Upper Klamath Lake and three Lower Klamath River reservoirs (J.C. Boyle, Copco, Iron Gate) to elucidate trends in habitat use of different life history stages of endangered suckers. Habitat variables and fish community composition of the lake and reservoirs are compared to explain distribution of certain species. Habitat surveys in 1998 revealed a decline in juvenile littoral habitat after June sampling in all three reservoirs. No confirmed specimens of Lost River sacker were captured in any of the reservoirs but the endangered shortnose was found in every reservoir with a substantial adult population documented in Copco reservoir.

We conducted 30-day toxicity tests with larval and juvenile Lost River suckers (Deltistes luxatus) exposed to (1) low dissolved oxygen concentrations, (2) elevated pH, (3) a combination of elevated pH and elevated ammonia concentrations, and (4) a combination of elevated pH and elevated ammonia concentrations followed by low dissolved oxygen concentrations. Juvenile suckers exposed continuously to low dissolved oxygen concentrations exhibited significantly lower survival and growth at 1.5 ppm DO than did controls exposed to 6.3 ppm DO, whereas survival and growth of suckers exposed to 2.0 ppm DO did not differ significantly from controls. Larval suckers exposed continuously to pHs as high as 10 did not exhibit reduced survival or growth (compared to controls exposed to pH 8.0), although whole-body Na concentrations were significantly lower at pH 10. Survival (but not growth and whole-body ion concentrations) of larval suckers exposed to 0.69 and 1.16 mg NH₃-N/L (unionized ammonia nitrogen) at pH 9.5 was significantly reduced (compared to controls exposed to 0.01 mg NH₃-N/L at pH 9.5), but suckers exposed to 0.37 mg NH₃-N/L at pH 9.5 did not differ significantly from controls. In the final test, we pre-exposed juvenile suckers continuously to either 0.02, 0.28 or 0.52 mg NH₃-N/L at pH 9.5 for 14 days, after which suckers from each pre-exposure were then exposed continuously to either 2.0, 3.1 or 5.8 ppm DO for another 14 days. Survival, growth, whole-body ions and swimming performance did not differ significantly between controls (the 0.01 mg NH₃-N/L pre-exposure followed by the 5.8 ppm DO exposure) and treatments (all other pre-exposure and exposure combinations) We conclude Lost River suckers tolerate more extreme water-quality conditions than do some other fish species (e.g., rainbow trout).

Increasing attention has been focused on the fate of anadromous fishes of the Shasta River. To assess possible habitat restoration measures, hydrodynamic and water temperature models were constructed and preliminary application completed. The study area extended from Dwinnell Reservoir to confluence with the Klamath River, a distance of approximately 40 miles. Key features of the study area include significant spring flow in the upper reaches, increased water resources development in the middle reaches, and river inflows and outflows of various quantity and quality. The flow and temperature model application was the third phase of a three-phase project funded by the State Water Resources Control Board 2050) Clean Water Act Grant Program. Phases one and two included a data inventory and identification of riparian vegetation location, respectively.

The mathematical models for selected for hydrodynamics and temperature simulation were RMA-2 and RMA-1 1, finite element models currently under development at UC Davis. The flow model uses a mathematical representation of system geometry to produce a time series of velocities, depths, and flows throughout the system. The temperature model employs flow model output and identical geometry to simulate the fate and transport of heat energy through the system.

Field studies were completed to secure flow and temperature information required for model input. Initial testing and application of the model exposed data limitations, namely geometric representation, quantification of accretions and depletions, and riparian shading conditions. Model results were sufficiently sensitive such that calibration and verification of the model was not completed with a high degree of confidence. However, model applications were completed for various flow, temperature, and riparian shading scenarios to illustrate the sensitivity of the system. Issues of channel roughness, travel time, headwater flow and temperature conditions, system inflow quantity and quality, and riparian vegetation shading all play potentially important roles in the hydrologic and thermal regime of the Shasta River. Continuing work on the Shasta River flow and temperature models aims to calibrate and verify the model for various hydrologic, climatic, and water temperature conditions.

Over the course of six years, 75 suckers (30 Lost River, 38 shortnose, and 7 Klamath large scale) and 13 redband trout were implanted with radio tags and tracked in Upper Klamath Lake and its tributaries. Fish were captured from different locations including the Williamson River, Sprague River, Wood River, Sucker Springs and other locations in Upper Klamath Lake. The major objective of the study was to determine the temporal and spatial distribution of the radio-tagged fish and associated environmental factors. Other objectives were to: determine if different spawning stocks had different distributions and movement patterns; identify summer refugial areas and the impacts of fish die-off events; and to document spawning areas and timing.

Tagged fish were monitored weekly from May through October during the algal bloom period (relatively poor water quality). At the other times of year, monitoring was less frequent (once to twice a month). Tracking involved initial aerial location followed by boat surveys to pinpoint the fish. Data collected for each fish included GPS location, water depth, and water quality. Water quality was monitored using Hydrolab Surveyor and Datasonde instruments that measured temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and specific conductance. Algal bloom condition and Secchi Disk depth were also recorded. During 1997 and 1998 additional information was obtained on fish depth using special depth sensing radio tags.

Most Lost River and shortnose suckers were located in the upper third of Upper Klamath Lake during the summer months. During periods of poor water quality fish were confined to areas near Pelican Bay and other freshwater inflow sources. During the fall and winter, suckers were distributed throughout the lake above Howard Bay. In April and May, during spawning, most suckers were located in tributaries and at springs at various times.

Four out of the five Klamath large scale suckers tagged at the Sprague River dam fish ladder migrated to springs near Beatty to spawn, spent 1 -4 weeks there and then migrated downstream.  Some large scale suckers died after spawning, some remained in the lower Williamson River, while others migrated into Upper Klamath Lake.

Redband trout were tagged in the Wood River (n = 10), Pelican Bay (n = 2), and at Hagelstein Park (n = 1). A few trout died soon after tagging, some remained in the Wood River and in Pelican Bay, while others migrated into Agency and Upper Klamath Lakes.

The relative quality of Upper Klamath Lake water at the inlet to the A-canal headworks (data provided by the Bureau of Reclamation) is compared to A-canal water quality collected 13.8 km downstream at the Cell Tech algae harvest facility. Potential impacts of degraded water conditions on the canal fish community and the effects of algae harvest on canal water quality are evaluated.

Dissolved oxygen concentration (DO), pH, specific conductivity, temperature, and secchi data were collected at both the harvest facility and the inlet to the A-canal headworks throughout the irrigation season. The headworks inlet remains in the lake environment and is generally more productive for algae than the canal. Accordingly, diurnal fluctuations in temperature, pH, and DO are typically more extreme there than in the A-canal. Mixing of sediment at the headworks is also assumed to increase sediment and/or biological oxygen demand in the canal. As a result, DO readings at the harvest facility are regularly lower by 1 to 5 ppm.

During August, typically the poorest water quality of the year, decreases in DO between the headworks and the harvest site are likely the most detrimental to the aquatic community. The number of days in August where DO readings went below 4 ppm at the headworks were 10 (1996), 9 (1997), and 7 (1998). The corresponding days below 4 ppm at the harvest site were 23 (1996), 28 (1997) and 23 (1998). Furthermore, at the harvest facility daily DO levels dropped to below 2 ppm for extended periods. Preliminary A-canal fish movement data suggests that poor water quality periods correspond to increased fish mortality and movement into the canal system. Increasingly poor A-canal water quality is expected to limit fish survival in the canal systems. Consequently, end of season efforts to flush fish from the canal and to collect remaining suckers may only be able to salvage those fish which were entrained following extended poor water quality periods.

Post-harvest site water quality data indicates that algae harvest operations aerate canal water. This aeration reduces diurnal DO fluctuations and DO to saturation levels, and appears to slightly reduce pH under supersaturated conditions. Under hypoxic conditions, harvest augments canal DO to near 75% of saturation and appears to slightly increase pH. The large scale removal of algal biomass (e.g., 3200 metric tons in 1995 by Cell Tech) may reduce biological oxygen demand (BOD) and nutrient loading downstream. Algae harvest operations in the Klamath Basin therefore have the potential to contribute to watershed improvement efforts.

During May -- July of 1995 - 1998 we investigated the breeding ecology of the yellow rail (Coturnicops noveboracensis) in the Upper Klamath Basin in south central Oregon. We focused our efforts in the Wood River Valley (particularly Fourmile Creek and Mares Egg Spring), Klamath Co, but also explored additional areas suspected of harboring breeding yellow rails, including Sycan Marsh and Klamath Marsh. In 1998 the maximum number of calling male yellow rails detected on a full survey of Fourmile Creek was 73. This compares to 49 rails in 1997, and 37 rails in 1996, Water depth at 561 male yellow rail calling sites from 1995 - 1998 averaged approximately 7 cm. Although water levels in the Fourmile Creek study area fell dramatically in late June arid July, water depths at yellow rail calling sites dropped only slightly. Radio telemetry showed that the males were moving their territories out of an area as it began to dry up into an area where water levels were higher.

Over the last four years, weve banded a total of 159 male yellow rails at six different study areas, including 140 males at the Fourmile Creek and Mares Egg Spring sites. However, weve only recaptured a total of 14 male yellow rails the year after they were banded. This low level of site fidelity is unexpected given that the rails have consistently used these two sites and few other breeding areas are known in the Klamath Basin, and none outside southcenxtral Oregon west of the Rocky Mountains. An alternate explanation is that annual survivorship is very low. No rails have been recaptured more than one year past their original banding date. Also, all 14 recaptures have been close to their original capture site, averaging less than 200 m for the 7 recaptures in 1998.

We have found a total number of 34 yellow rail nests (including 8 active nests) in the Fourmile Creek area dining the last four years. Documented banding dates are from 8 June to 9 August Vegetation at nest sites is characterized by Corer simulata and a layer of senescent vegetation. Each provided approximately 50%cover.

The Miller Lake lamprey, Lampetra minima, is generally thought to have been extirpated by the poisoning of Miller Lake with Toxaphene in 1958. The recent discovery of unidentified lampreys in Miller Creek raised the possibility that L. minima was not extinct. Soon after, additional specimens of small parasitic lampreys were found in the upper Williamson and Sycan rivers. These findings spurred a project to assess the taxonomic status of the new specimens and to determine the distribution of similar lampreys in the upper Klamath basin. Our findings indicate that the Miller Lake lamprey is not extinct and that it is in fact present in upper tributaries throughout much of the upper Klamath basin."Rediscovery of the Miller Lake lamprey"

The Klamath River Basin in is home to four species of suckers; the shortnose sucker, the Lost River sucker, the Klamath largescale sucker, and the Klamath smallscale sucker. The shortnose and Lost River suckers were once among the most abundant lake-dwelling fish in the Klamath River Basin and supported large fisheries earlier in the century. Overexploitation and the large-scale degradation of the Klamath River ecosystem caused the rapid decline of shortnose and Lost River suckers in the 1960s and led to their 1988 listing as endangered species. Federal, state, and academic groups are conducting research to understand the biology of these endangered species and their habitats in order to manage them for recovery. In many cases, however, morphologic differences confuse the identification of individuals from several populations. Earlier morphologic and genetic studies were unable to resolve questions regarding reproductive isolation, classification, and the systematic relationships among these and other sucker taxa. Additionally, these investigations suggest that recent or historical introgressive hybridization has occurred among Klamath Basin suckers. In particular, there are concerns that shortnose suckers have hybridized with both smallscale and Lost River suckers. The taxonomic and reproductive status of Klamath Basin suckers must be resolved or it is of little use to have extensive biological data for these groups.

The Shortnose-Lost River Sucker Recovery Plan requires a genetic evaluation of these species throughout their range. Performing phylogenetic and population genetic analysis in conjunction is a powerful approach for identifying evolutionary significant units and units for management.

Knowledge of phylogenetic relationships allows for the consideration of the origins of variation and identification of unique gene pools. Determining the amount of gene flow occurring between populations reveals the degree of population independence and structuring. An understanding of which populations are functionally independent will enhance the success of management plans designed for the conservation and recovery of these species.
 

Several different laboratories are using independent strategies to find genetic markers to resolve questions regarding reproductive isolation, classification, systematic relationships, and

extent of hybridization among Klamath Basin suckers. The objective of our first phase is to develop allozyme and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers characteristic for Klamath Basin suckers. These markers will be used in the future to determine the taxonomic relationships, intraspecific population structure and the extent of introgressive hybridization among Klamath Basin suckers.

Although the importance of monitoring restoration activities is recognized, a truly sound monitoring plan is elusive for many groups. The necessary budget and technical skill may not be available. This is especially true for community and watershed groups who rely heavily on government grants and/or volunteers. This presentation will provide an overview of the monitoring efforts of a community-based group: who we are, what we are currently doing, what gaps remain, and what we are planning- Discussion and comments encouraged.

The Siskiyou Resource Conservation District (RCD) and the Scott River Watershed Coordinated Resource Management Planning (CRMP) Council are developing a long term monitoring plan to determine the effectiveness of restoration activities for fisheries benefit in the Scott River Basin. We feel that monitoring at both the PROJECT level and the restoration PROGRAM level is necessary to measure success. For example, at the PROJECT level, a riparian planting project will be monitored to determine:

• percent survival and growth rates for different planting styles and species
• planting densities
• percent shade.

• reducing stream temperatures;
• reducing instream sediment; and,
• improving flow volume and timing.

The centerpiece is a grazing plan which combines private and public riparian and upland areas into a system which maximizes ecological benefits to the resource while maintaining an economically viable cattle operation. In cooperation with the USFS, after consultation with the USEWS, and with the assistance of a host of others¹ we have implemented a pasture rotation system which distributes hot season use into the adjacent, historically under utilized, uplands. Improvements including wells, pumping equipment, water troughs, and fencing, have been installed with funding from many sources², the USFS, and ourselves. Additionally treatment of juniper encroachment has been funded by U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and ourselves, in an effort to recapture the historical spring flows which feed connected potential habitat for the suckers, as well as favor the re-establishment of understory for wildlife and watershed values.

¹ University of California, Modoc County Extension Services, Private Environmental Engineering
  Consultants, County of Modoc, California Cattlemens Association, California Farm Bureau Federation

²  US. Bureau of Reclamation-Klamath Basin Area Office, Ecological Restoration Office-
   Partners in Wildlife Program; North Coast Water Control Board/ Lava Beds R.C.D./
   USFS-E.P.A. 319th Grant; Modoc Forest Riparian T.E.S. Working Group/ USFS-
   Challenge Cost Share Grant, Klamath Basin Water Users Association

The Western Ecosystems Research Team at the Midcontinent Ecological science Center, a part of the US Geological Survey (USGS), has developed a System Impact Assessment Model (SIAM) for resource management on the Klamath River. SIAM is an integrated set of computer models that quantify selected relationships among some physical (temperature, microhabitat, and geomorphic features), chemical (dissolved oxygen, water temperature) and biological variables (young-of-year salmonid production), and stream flow in a river. SIAM was developed for the lower Klamath River from Keno, Oregon, to Seiad Valley, California, using data and models selected to be appropriate for the riverine portion of that study area. These models and data are assembled to evaluate and compare the potential impacts of water management alternatives from an ecological perspective. The goals of the Western Ecosystems Research Team are:

• to provide objective, scientifically based, quantitative methods for assessing water quantity, quality, and habitat as they affect fish production;
• to examine the Klamath-Trinity River ecosystem on a landscape scale as a single system; and
• to provide resource managers with a set of "user Friendly" decision support tools.

In 1996, The Nature Conservancy initiated a riparian and wetland restoration project on approximately 3,700 acres of agricultural land near the mouth of the Williamson River in Klamath County, Oregon- initial stages of this project include conversion of agricultural cropland to wetland habitat by manipulating hydrologic conditions to promote natural colonization and establishment of wetland plant species. Monitoring the effectiveness of this passive conversion process required development of an efficient and cost-effective method for detecting changes in vegetation cover types and plant species composition. After consideration of a number of remote sensing techniques, the Aerial Data Acquisition and Registration (ADAR) digital aerial photography system in combination with digital image spectral analysis were selected for monitoring vegetation change. The ADAR system combines the advantage of high spatial resolution (1-meter x 1-meter) with robust multi-spectral reflectance data that is critical for discriminating and mapping detailed vegetation communities using image processing software.

The process of vegetation conversion on the Williamson River Delta Preserve commenced in fall 1997 by flooding approximately 1,500 acres. Subsequent to suffice water draw down and establishment of vegetation in summer 1998, multi-spectral ADAR imagery, along with color analog aerial photography, of the preserve were collected. Classification of vegetation cover types involved an iterative process utilizing both supervised and unsupervised digital image classification techniques, field ground-truthing, and visual interpretation of aerial photographs. The unique mapping approach utilized in this effort took full advantage of the strengths of both aerial photo interpretation and digital image processing. Computer driven digital image processing algorithms provided the detailed discrimination and delineations of vegetation types, while photo interpretation and field observations were employed to assign the appropriate vegetation class label to the computer-delineated types.

Results of this initial study indicate that the ADAR system in combination with more traditional monitoring techniques is an effective alternative for discriminating and mapping distinct vegetation cover classes. Over thirty different cover classes were differentiated and mapped on the preserve using this process. The utility of ADAR for monitoring subtle, but ecologically significant, changes in species composition over time, however, has yet to be determined.

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge (TLNWR) was considered the most important waterfowl refuge in North America during the 1950s and 1960s when peak concentrations exceeded 2.5 million ducks and 1.0 million geese. Unfortunately, perceived restrictions on wetland management under the Kuchel Act, eliminated the ecological processes critical to the refuges sustained wetland diversity and productivity. Currently, TLNWR supports a fraction of its past waterfowl use, species diversity has declined, and its value to endangered species has diminished.

Agricultural production has also declined due to increases in soil- born pathogens and decreases in soil organic matter. Wetland/cropland rotational management is proposed to alleviate problems with both declining wildlife values and agricultural productivity. The purpose of this program is to reestablish the ecological processes that historically created Tule Lakes productive wetlands and deep water habitats while maintaining economically viable and sustainable agriculture. Research is currently underway to assess the feasibility of this approach and evaluate its impacts to wetland habitats, wildlife use, water quality, nutrient cycles, and cropping patterns. This program offers new perspectives on integrating wetlands and sustainable agricultural systems within the refuge and has implications wherever wetlands and agriculture coexist. The speakers which follow will present preliminary results from the feasibility research.

Sycan Marsh is a 30,000 acre mosaic of wetland and meadow communities located in the headwaters of the Klamath Basin. Conditions at Sycan have been modified over the past 130 yearsby livestock grazing, and by hydrologic manipulations to accommodate grazing. The Nature Conservancy began restoring its Katharine Ordway Sycan Marsh Preserve in 1993. Our goal is to restore pre-settlement species composition, structure and function to the Marsh within current site, watershed and legal constraints. Key steps to reach this goal include restoration of natural hydrology and improvement in grazing management. Historic conditions were reconstructed from General Land Office survey notes, records of early explorers, soil surveys and aerial photographs. Ecological studies quantified current conditions of vegetation and wildlife. Engineering studies determined condition of water control structures and identified alternative designs. Site-specific ecological models, a water budget and a forage balance were developed to guide decision making. Development of a Coordinated Resource Management Plan with our ranching partner and other neighbors and agencies was critical to improving grazing management. Over half of the 200+ water control structures were replaced or modified within water rights constraints to restore hydrologic conditions, including the distribution of water, characteristics of conveyance and residence time. Grazing practices shifted from high intensity, season-long use to a program of light to moderate intensity, short duration, deferred rotation grazing. A comprehensive program of monitoring and research is being developed to support adaptive management. On-going monitoring includes quantifying streamflow, ground water, water quality, plant species composition and productivity, actual use and utilization by cattle, and status of key wildlife and non-native plant species. Research is being conducted on evapotranspirative losses in wetlands and meadows, effects of livestock grazing on soil infiltration rates and subsequent year plant productivity, and methods to quantify landscape-level changes in vegetation and surface water distribution. Results of these investigations will be used to guide future restoration and management decisions. Restoration efforts have resulted in on-site and downstream benefits including restoration of over 10,000 acres of wetland habitat, increased use by migrating and nesting waterbirds, and improved habitat for aquatic species and groun&nesting birds. Funding for restoration and monitoring came from regional foundations, federal and state agencies, and natural resource-based corporations. Upcoming projects include initiation of a prescribed burning program, initiation of a project to assess and restore aquatic habitat for native fishes and invertebrates, and reconfiguration of an abandoned rail grade and drainage ditches to natural topography.

This presentation will describe the efforts which are being made on Crooked Creek (a tributary of the Wood River) to restore the form. and function of the creek, and its wetlands for the support of the many species which rely on a properly functioning spring creek system.

Considerations are given to the fact that the spring creek is surrounded by irrigated pasture land which needs to be managed for production purposes.

As watershed councils and other community groups increase their role in trying to improve conditions in their local watersheds, the need for focused, affordable training also increases. A series of self-paced computerized mini-courses being developed by faculty in Oregon Institute of Technologys Applied Environmental Sciences program may help address this need for nonspecialist training.

The following courses are being developed under a grant from the National Science Foundation:

• ENV 102: Internet data retrieval, basic spreadsheet and database methods for data analysis
• ENY 103: introduction to Geographic Infonnation Systems (GIS)
• ENV 104: ArcView GIS® certification
• ENV 105: map, compass, and Global Positioning System (GPS) technology
• ENV 215: riparian assessment methods including proper functioning condition (PFC)
• ENV 216: systems modeling
• ENV 217: streamwater chemistry
• ENV 218: streamwater sampling methods

Courses were initially designed to replace traditional classes in the core curriculum of the BS in Applied Environmental Sciences but most are also well suited to non-majors, including non-degree students. This provides an opportunity for members of local watershed councils and other interested citizens to become familiar with some of the basic skills used in watershed analysis.

We expect the courses in GIS, riparian assessment, and streamwater chemistry and sampling to be of particular interest to watershed council members and other members of the community involved with watershed planning and restoration activities.

At the height of the drought in July of 1994, Senator Hatfield held a U.S. Senate hearing in Klamath Falls to discuss how best to address ecosystem restoration in the Klamath Basin. These restoration efforts would target ecosystem recovery and water quality enhancement, which would also benefit basin economics and reduce drought impacts.

Early in 1995 the Senator asked the federal land and fish and wildlife management agencies to convene and participate in a citizen-led working group to develop a set of consensus based actions for ecosystem restoration in the Klamath Basin.

This initial group of 25 stakeholders drawn from a cross section of community interests has been meeting monthly ever since. Now grown to over 30 members and formalized by the Oregon Resources Conservation Act (ORCA) of the 104^th Congress, the "Hatfield Group" is authorized to receive a 1 million-dollar a year appropriation for this restoration work. This has funded a good track record of projects on the ground and other efforts at outreach and education coordinated through the non-profit sister organization Klamath Basin Ecosystem Foundation.

In addition, the enabling legislation requires the Hatfield Working Group to coordinate with the other restoration groups in the watershed; the Klamath Compact Commission, the Klamath River Fisheries Task Force and the Trinity River Task Force. This coordination will ensure that efforts are complimentary wherever possible and that maximum benefits to the ecosystem be derived from the energy and funds expended.

The Hatfield Working Group, as the name implies, labors with some of the most intractable and controversial issues in the Basin including the implementation of the Endangered Species Act, the alternate dispute resolution of the Basin's water rights adjudication process, and the compatibility determination for lease lands on the wildlife refuges. What keeps the members enrolled and at the table will be presented, together with a vision of the restoration work ongoing in the Klamath Basin.

Although cyanobacterial blooms are often considered a nuisance and sometimes a health hazard, they can be turned into a positive economic factor. In the early 1980s Cell Tech began harvesting Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) from Upper Klamath Lake, in southern Oregon. The company has since turned a nuisance algae bloom of AFA into a novel health food product (Super Blue Green® Algae), with a gross market

value of over a 100 million dollars annually. The AFA is harvested from an irrigation canal at the southern end of the lake, by diverting the water flow into a flume that overflows on a series of screens. The concentrated algae is separated from extraneous material and dewatered by a series of centrifugal devices, and immediately frozen. Later, harvested AFA is freeze dried and encapsulated and/or tabletized to be distributed as a food supplement. Before being made available for human consumption, the presence of hepatotoxins (ELISA). neurotoxins (enzyme assay, mouse bioassay, HPLC), pheophorbides (HPLC), pesticides (GC), heavy metals (AA) and microorganisms is monitored by independent outside laboratories and product is released only when meeting regulations and/or specifications. Current medical research is showing that eating AFA stimulates immune functions, improves nervous and cognitive functions², and lowers blood cholesterol levels³. Many other beneficial effects on health have been empirically reported. In addition, studies have shown that large-scale harvesting of AFA could improve downstream water quality and thereby assist in the recovery of endangered fishes⁴.

¹ Manoukiart, R Citton, M., Huerta, P., Rhode, B., Drapeau, C., and Jensen, G.S. (1998) Effects of the blue green algae Aphanizomenon flos aquae (L.) Ralphs (AFA) on human natural killer cells. In Phytoceuticals: Examining the health benefits and pharmaceutical properties of natural antioxidants and phytochemicals Lynn M. Savage, Ed., IBC Library Series, Vol. 1911, p.233-241.

² In preparation.

³ In preparation.

⁴ Gutermuth, B.D. Beckstrand, and S. Peck. 1997. New Earth harvest site monitoring project; annual study report, 1996. New Earth/Cell Tech Research and Development dept., technical report to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 93pp.

The role of the Klamath River Compact Commission for the last couple of years has been as a forum to discuss and help formulate consensus based processes for solving current water resource issues is the Klamath Basin. A primary role of the Compact Commission has been to provide a forum for public input into the Water Supply Initiative (WSI) process, a partnership among the Bureau of Reclamation, Klamath Compact Commission, and the States of Oregon and California

The driving force behind the WSI process was a need expressed by local citizens as well as governmental bodies to identify potential options for adding to the water supply in the Basin, developing a broad base of support for promising options, and to provide at least a preliminary evaluation of those options. The WSJ was envisioned as offering a reference tool for use by any citizen, government agency or coalition of interests to use as a starting point for further exploration of promising options. Compiling the list of options and conducting a preliminary review based on the stated objectives and screening criteria was completed in the summer of 1998.

Many of the concepts in the report were simply sketchy ideas. Other concepts were fairly well developed and more readily suited for further exploration at this time.

We hope the next steps will come as local interests, whether existing Watershed Councils; CRMPs, local, state or Federal agencies; tribal governments; or other groups yet to be formed, use the list of WSJ options to focus their efforts and identify projects of interest to them. The Klamath Compact Commission and other partners who participated in the WSJ stand ready to provide whatever background information we can from our process, and to assist with providing a forum for public involvement and developing a broad base of support for promising options.

Copies of the Water Supply Initiative are available at the Bureau of Reclamation office 6600 Washburn Way, Klamath Falls Oregon 97603

The Scott River Watershed CRMP Council is made up of a wide interest base, but trying to get the community at large aware of what the Council is and does is an important and difficult part of the whole process.

Having been a high school teacher and drama director for 16 years before becoming the Scott River Watershed CRMP Coordinator, I had a sense for the difficulty of getting the word out in a small community. After three years, I am just beginning to feel that when people ask me what I am doing and I say the acronym "CRMP", they have an idea of what I am talking about without going into a long explanation. Repetition and personal contact with as many individuals as possible seem to have had a positive effect, Short of going door to door, there are some steps one can take to get the word out.

Rural people have a very different outlook from urban folks, especially those whose families have inhabited the land for generations. There is a shyness and sometimes a distrust which is difficult to breach. The issues raised by endangered and threatened species have further eroded trust of organizations of any kind.

The only lasting and self perpetuating way for recovery of anadromous populations or any other endangered or at-risk species is to educate and to convince the population at large of the significance and reality of their extinction, Rural populations more than any other are sensitive to the workings of nature and can be brought into the effort best by respecting and listening to them first and, then, including them in as much of the process of protection and restoration as possible. The responsibility ultimately needs to be handed over to those people living and working in the riparian areas.

Some of the outreach techniques which have been effective are the formation of subwatershed groups, writing regular newspaper articles, speaking to other community groups, sending and setting out newsletters, daring to have honest discussions with people whose opinions you know are different, sponsoring educational workshops for the community at large and promoting watershed educational projects and curriculum in the schools.

The Six Rivers National Forest Fisheries staff are monitoring the results of the small scale chinook salmon hatchery operation in the Horse Linto Watershed, physical restoration work, and natural recovery. We have had many partners in our work in this watershed including (in alphabetical order): AmeriCorps Watershed Stewards Project, Bureau of Reclamation, California Conservation Corps, California Department of Fish and Game, Hoopa Valley Tribal Fisheries, Pacific Coast Federation of Fisherman's Association, private landowners, Willow Creek Community services District and Yurok Tribe Fisheries Program.

Forest Service monitoring efforts focus first on spawning surveys, then on production estimates of naturally spawned fish. Additional data, such as coded wire tag recovery, scale collection, tissue collection, migration timing, and data collection concerning coho and steelhead were offshoots of this work. Spawning surveys allow us to obtain an index of how many spawners return to the watershed each year and how they are responding to habitat enhancement work and natural recovery in the watershed. Downstream migrant trapping provides us with an index of how many naturally spawned juveniles survive to out migrate.

Our monitoring documents a fairly steady increase in the number of spawners during the 1990's. The number of out migrants and subsequent adult returns has been variable as would be expected in a natural system given the vagaries of weather and stream flows. Thus is the final year we can expect to see returns from the Horse Linto hatchery. The facility appears to have been very successful at jump-starting the chinook fishery in the short-term. Continued monitoring will help evaluate how well this fishery can sustain itself in the long-term given all the natural and human pressures which chinook face.

A fundamental issue common to several Klamath Basin citizen action groups as well as to federal and state agencies is the analysis and display of spatial data. Access to spatial data is facilitated through the use of a Geographic Information System (GIS). Such access is necessary in order to develop a comprehensive restoration strategy, an assessment of proposed land use changes, as well as the monitoring of habitat changes.

Through an initial grant from the U.S. Forest Service and through activities of the Klamath Lake Forest Health Partnership and the Natural Resource Conservation Service, a GIS service center has been created at the Oregon Institute of Technology. This center is being used to provide operational support for the mapping and delineation of base map information (i.e., roads, streams, watershed boundaries, generalized land use, etc.) and the location of existing and proposed restoration site activities for local watershed council activities.

Contingent upon the acquisition of additional funding, these maps (i.e., data layers) will be available for public viewing and basic manipulation via the WEB. Additional activities of the GIS service center will include training in the use of various levels of GIS software.

The Salmon River Restoration Council (SRRC) takes the Lead roll in heightening community awareness and enlisting cooperative support to rehabilitate the anadromous fisheries and the related resources of the Salmon River. Our mission is to assess, protect, maintain and restore the Salmon River ecosystems, focusing on the. restoration of the anadromous fisheries. This is being accomplished through diversifying the local economic base and by improving communication and cooperation between the community, managing agendas, native American tribes, resource-use stakeholders, and general public.

Since 1992, the SRRC has planned and implemented an annual series of volunteer ecosystem awareness workshops and restoration training work daysOver 2200 volunteer days have been contributed by community members, technical assistants, and other supporters in the planning and implementation of over 100 SRRC sponsored Workshops. Workdays, and associated activities Ways to reduce negative impacts connected to various resource uses are identified and utilized in areas, such as: fishing. mining, forestry, grazing, recreation, road management, and residential use- Since its inception, the SRRC has participated in yearly Salmon and Steelhead population and habitat surveys.

The SRRC annually performs fuels reduction on private and public Lands to protect riparian and upslope habitats as well as residences and towns. This year the SRRC is participating in .a project to reduce the effects of future wildfires on the town of Cecilville. A SRRC crew and the USFS will cooperatively under burn over 2,000 acres of private and federal land. Annual revegetation projects increase shade and control erosion at sites associated with Landslides, scoured stream banks, road failure, heavily burned riparian areas, historic mining tailing, and logged area.

The SRRC is coordinating Watershed Education Programs in three Salmon River schools. In addition to curriculum development and project coordination key activities include: monitoring water temperatures, hosting a Watershed Fair, a local History Day, raising salmon in the classroom, participating fall chinook surveys. The on-going integration of the local schools in our Program has expanded the educational component of SRRCs activities within the community.

The Council believes that educating and. empowering the riverine communities to know and do the right thing for the ecosystem should be a centerpiece in the recovery of our watershed/fisheries resources. Rural communities like ours must play a major role in assisting in the recovery and maintenance of the damaged ecosystems

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is committed to developing lasting partnerships based on trust and mutually agreeable solutions to protect, enhance and maintain fish and wildlife populations on private lands. Several state programs are available to assist private landowners and Watershed Groups fund and implement fish and wildlife projects throughout Klamath and Lake counties. To date, there have been a number of successful projects implemented on private lands in the Klamath Basin using funds from these programs.