FY07-09 proposal 199101903
Jump to Reviews and Recommendations
Section 1. Administrative
| Proposal title | Hungry Horse Mitigation Program |
| Proposal ID | 199101903 |
| Organization | Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks |
| Short description | Fisheries mitigation for the construction and operation of Hungry Horse Dam. Implements habitat restoration, improves fish passage, protects and recovers native fish populations and reestablishes fish harvest opportunities. |
| Information transfer | The expected outcomes of this project will be quantitative and qualitative. Fisheries and environmental data are archived in electronic format on project computers and backed up on CD. Stream specific fisheries abundance and genetic data are available on MFWP's web page in an interactive file called MFISH. Hatchery outplants are appended annually to a statewide database called FINS. Project results (data, photopoints etc.) are reported in annual agency reports and reports to BPA or published in peer review journals. Model results for Hungry Horse Reservoir and Flathead River are shared with operating agencies or published. |
| Proposal contact person or principal investigator | |
Contacts
| Contact | Organization | |
|---|---|---|
| Form submitter | ||
| Brian Marotz | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks | bmarotz@mt.gov |
| All assigned contacts | ||
| Grant Grisak | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks | ggrisak@mt.gov |
| Brian Marotz | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks | bmarotz@mt.gov |
| Clint Muhlfeld | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks | cmuhlfeld@mt.gov |
Section 2. Locations
Province / subbasin: Mountain Columbia / Flathead
| Latitude | Longitude | Waterbody | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 48 | 113 - 114 | Flathead Watershed | Project area included the Flathead headwaters downstream to Flathead Lake including tributaries and lakes within the Flathead Watershed. |
Section 3. Focal species
primary: Westslope Cutthroatprimary: Bull Trout
primary: Mountain Whitefish
secondary: Northern Pike
secondary: Northern Pikeminnow
secondary: Brook Trout
secondary: Lake Trout
secondary: Rainbow Trout
Additional: Sculpins
Section 4. Past accomplishments
| Year | Accomplishments |
|---|---|
| 2005 | Completed restoration project in Hallowat Creek, a major bull trout spawning and rearing stream; restored abundance and frequency of wood for 3 miles of stream habitat. Reconstructed 1,500 foot channelized reach in Haskill Creek. |
| 2004 | Completed species inventories of Mountain Lakes scheduled for chemical rehabilitation to remove nonnative fish species from the S. F. Flathead River. Completed the Instream Flow model and preliminary report (pre and post dam) for the Flathead River. |
| 2003 | Installed two unpstream barriers to fish migration in Abbot Creek to prevent access by hybrid rainbow trout. Installed an upstream barrier on Gooderich Bayou to prevent rainbow trout spawning. |
| 2002 | Dredged approximately 13,000 cubic feet of sediments and organic material from Dry Bridge Slough to deepen the existing channel and improve conditions for rearing trout, and riparian fencing and stream restoration project in Dayton Creek. |
| 2001 | Restored natural pool frequency to that of undisturbed referenced reaches in Hay Creek, a tributary to the North Fork Flathead River. |
| 2000 | Completed stream restoration on Emery Creek, a minimum instream flow study on the South Fork Flathead River, chemically rehabilitated Whale, Tom Tom, Hubbard Reservoir and Hidden Lakes, and participated in a cooperative fencing project in Rogers Lake. |
| 1999 | Completed fish passage improvement project on Paola Creek, riparian fencing project in lower Hay Creek and Dayton Creek, pursued land acquisition and developed preliminary channel and pond complex designs for Sekokini Springs Experimental Rearing Facility |
| 1998 | Completed study quatifying zooplankton entrainment at HHD, offsite chemical rehabilitation of Little McGregor Lake, Griffin Creek fencing project, construction of Crossover Wetlands project, reconstruction of Taylor's Outflow, and telemetry project. |
| 1997 | Completed cooperative culvert improvement projects on 7 Hungry Horse Reservoir tributaries, offsite chemical rehabilitation of Murray and Dollar Lakes, and food habits study for lake trout and northern pikeminnow in the Flathead River. |
| 1996 | Completed a fish ladder at Taylor's Outflow, baseline data collection of bull trout spawning habitat, culvert improvements on Murray and Riverside, fish passage and habitat enhancement in Hay Creek, willow experiments, chemical rehabilitation of Bootjack. |
| 1995 | Completed sediment source surveys on 6 major bull trout spawning tributaries to HHungry Horse Reservoir.Completed cooperative culvert improvement project on Margaret Creek.Completed thermal modeling and installation of selective withdrawl on Hungry Horse. |
| 1994 | Chemically rehabilitated Devine Lake of introduced brook trout to reduce hybridization threat to bull trout. Completed bank stabilization and sediment abatement project at Big Creek, a major bull trout spawning stream. |
| 1993 | Completed brook trout eradication and habitat enhancement project at Elliott Creek, a direct tributary to the Flathead River. Completed offsite chemical rehabilitation of Rogers Lake. Removed perch and reestablished cutthroat trout and arctic grayling. |
| 1992 | Completed study examining enhancement of benthic insect production in Hungry Horse Reservoir. Completed chemical rehabilitation of Lion Lake. Removed illegally introduced perch and pumpkinseed from the lake located approximately 1 mile from Hungry Horse |
Section 5. Relationships to other projects
| Funding source | Related ID | Related title | Relationship |
|---|---|---|---|
| BPA | 199101901 | Hungry Horse Mitigation/Flathe | CSKT lake monitoring project for joint management of Flathead Lake |
| BPA | 199502500 | Flathead River Instream Flow | This project is completed, but we are the using to models to develop flow management recommendations |
| BPA | 199500400 | Libby Reservoir Mitigation Pla | Sister project in the Kootenai. Share data, methods and equipment. |
| BPA | [no entry] | Project 200715200: Evaluation of the Biological Effects of the Northwest Power and Conservation Council’s Mainstem Amendment on the Fisheries Upstream and Downstream of Hungry Horse and Libby Dams, MT | This project cooperatively investigates growth and survival of bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout as related to dam operations. |
| BPA | [no entry] | StreamNet | This project directly benefits from the Geographic Information Services Unit (Streamnet project 3874700) in Helena and Kalispell offices. This GIS support group supports fisheries database management for all related projects. |
Section 6. Biological objectives
| Biological objectives | Full description | Associated subbasin plan | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implement fish habitat restoration projects | Implement stream and habitat restoration projects using natural channel design approaches. | Flathead | Obj. M2, M4, T2-T6 improve stream & riparian habitat; eliminate barriers to improve fish passage, restore connectivity, stabilize stream banks, revegetate riparian areas, fence riparian, eliminate entrainment in diversions and restore channel dimensions. |
| Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project | Manage all aspects of the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project | Flathead | Managing the project includes identifying & prioritizing mitigation projects, administering projects & staff; producing environmental compliance documents; preparing project proposal and annual work statements, budgets, Pisces reports, cut process, etc. |
| Monitor and evaluate fish populations and habitat | Monitor fish populations and habitat characteristics in the upper river system. Evaluate fish population responses and habitat characteristics associated with habitat and passage improvements, dam operations, suppression activities, and management programs. | Flathead | Monitor results of Obj. M3-M4, T1-T5, R2-R4, BT1-4, WCT1-4 using strategies including abundance estimates, genetic analyses, age-growth analyses, survival, redd surveys, habitat and stream channel assessments, water quality, sediment composition & temp. |
| Reduce negative non-native species interactions | Reduce negative non-native species interactions in the upper Flathead River watershed. | Flathead | Strategies to reduce negative effects of non-native taxa on focal species and remove non-native fishes are in Subbasin Objectives BT1, BT2, BT4, WCT3, WCT4 . Use piscicides, barriers and habitat modifications to reduce impacts caused by nonative species. |
| Restore normative dam operations at Hungry Horse | Evaluate alterations in native fish habitat associated with dam operations in the Flathead and Kootenai Watersheds. Monitor effects of selective withdrawal at Hungry Horse Dam on Flathead River ecosystem. | Flathead | Strategies in M3 and R2 restore normative river and reservoir functions to reduce impacts on focal species through minimum flows, flow ramping rates, channel maintenance flows, reduced varial zone width, improved habitat diversity, floodplain connectivity |
Section 7. Work elements (coming back to this)
| Work element name | Work element title | Description | Start date | End date | Est budget |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remove or Relocate Non-predaceous Animals | Objective 1A: Implement the South Fork Flathead Watershed Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. | Work element 1Ad: (167) Animal management: Remove non-predaceous animals We will remove hybrid trout using piscicides as per the FEIS and agency RODs. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $320,000 |
|
Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Remove or Relocate Non-predaceous Animals | Objective 1D: Suppress and eradicate migratory WCT x RBT hybrid populations in the mainstem and North Fork Flathead River | Work element 1Da: Animal management: Remove non-predaceous animals. Remove non-native trout populations using barriers, manual removal of redds and adult fish, and chemical treatment | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $150,000 |
|
Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce Environmental Compliance Documentation | Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project | Work element 5c: Environmental compliance: Produce environmental compliance documentation for all necessary projects. BPA staff will complete this work element. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $60,000 |
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Biological objectives Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project |
Metrics |
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| Produce Environmental Compliance Documentation | Objective 1A: Implement the South Fork Flathead Watershed Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. | Work element 1Aa: (2) BPA Environmental compliance. Each year we will notify the public in advance of scheduled activities through the BPA mailer, agency websites, press releases, and MFWP Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). We’ll secure Montana DEQ 308 permit. Each year we will conduct supplemental analysis for NEPA as necessary. Reporting will include those to Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Montana Department of Agriculture, and MFWP Region 1 CAC. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $40,000 |
|
Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Increase Instream Habitat Complexity | Objective 2A: Restore critical bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout habitat in the upper Flathead River system. | Work element 2Aa: Increase instream habitat complexity. Implement channel and habitat restoration techniquest to enhance instream complexity in critical bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout streams. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $80,000 |
|
Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Increase Instream Habitat Complexity | Objective 2B: Restore the abundance and frequency of wood in two critical bull trout spawning and rearing streams in the North Fork Flathead River. | Work element 2Ba: Increase instream habitat complexity. The objectives of the proposed projects are to re-establish wood to increase channel stability, aquatic habitat complexity, and wood retention. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $50,000 |
|
Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Increase Instream Habitat Complexity | Objective 2D: Implement bank stabilization techniques in the lower Flathead River upstream of Kerr Dam using native vegetation and materials. | Work element 2Da: Increase instream habitat complexity | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
|
Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Plant Vegetation | Objective 2A: Restore critical bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout habitat in the upper Flathead River system. | Work element 2Ae: Plant vegetation | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $50,000 |
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Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Plant Vegetation | Objective 2B: Restore the abundance and frequency of wood in two critical bull trout spawning and rearing streams in the North Fork Flathead River. | Work element 2Ba: Increase instream habitat complexity | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $90,000 |
|
Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Plant Vegetation | Objective 2D: Implement bank stabilization techniques in the lower Flathead River upstream of Kerr Dam using native vegetation and materials. | Work element 2Dc: Plant vegetation | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $60,000 |
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Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Plant Vegetation | Objective 2E: Conduct necessary activities to maintain restored/enhanced condition of property | Work element 2Ea: Maintain and plant vegetation. This project involves implementing habitat restoration activities for lands secured by the joint MFWP/CSKT Project, Secure & Restore Resident Fish Habitat (Project #200200300). Please see Knotek et al. (1997) for a formalized a long-term plan for identifying, prioritizing, and implementing habitat and fish passage improvements in the Flathead River drainage. If this work is capitolized in the lands project, the proposed funds will be dropped. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $250,000 |
|
Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Realign, Connect, and/or Create Channel | Objective 2A: Restore critical bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout habitat in the upper Flathead River system. | Work element 2Ab: Realign, reconnect or create channel. Where deemed necessary, we will use natural channel design approaches to restore proper dimension, profile, and sinuosity of degraded stream channels. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $60,000 |
|
Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Upland Erosion and Sedimentation Control | Objective 2A: Restore critical bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout habitat in the upper Flathead River system. | Work element 2Ac: Upland erosion and sediment control | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $80,000 |
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Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Upland Erosion and Sedimentation Control | Objective 2D: Implement bank stabilization techniques in the lower Flathead River upstream of Kerr Dam using native vegetation and materials. | Work element 2Db: Upland erosion and sediment control | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Build Artificial Production Facility | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | This work element best describes renovation actions in the Master Planning documents. Renovation involves completing the interior of the existing hatchery building, construction of outbuldings and restoration and upgrades of streams and ponds at the site. Engineering diagrams are in the Master Plan. Upon completion of BPA’s NEPA document (Step 2) and the revised Master Plan (Steps 1 and 3), the Council must approve the 3-Step process before construction can begin. Funding for construction was approved for the renovation of Sekokini Springs on July 1, 2005, but MFWP could not utilize the funds pending successful review by ISRP and the Council, and NEPA documentation by BPA. Depending on decisions made during FY 2006, construction should be underway during FY07-09. We anticipate that BPA capital funding will fund renovation of Sekokini Springs. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $960,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Council 3-step Process: Step 2 | Objective 1B: Develop “within-drainage” stocks of westslope cutthroat trout in the South Fork Flathead River and Haskill Basin Creek | Work element 1Ba: (169) Hatchery/ Major Construction: Council’s 3-Step Process Step 2. The Sekokini Springs Master Plan was first completed in 1998 and revised in 2004 for consistency with the overall Hungry horse Mitigation Program and new scientific information. During 2005, the ISRP requested the Master Plan be updated to include actions beneficial to the South Fork Flathead Drainage Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. A long-term research monitoring and evaluation plan was to be added to the new Master Plan. The Master Plan was designed to complete Steps 1 and 3 of the Council’s 3-Step process. BPA began compiling information for the Sekokini Springs NEPA document (Step 2) in FY 2005. NEPA could not be completed until the Council approved Step 1 of the Artificial Production Review Process (APR). Depending on Council’s Step 1 decision during FY 2006, BPA may complete the NEPA document before the end of FY 2006. In that case, this objective will not be necessary in our FY07-09 workplan or budget. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2008 | $50,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Council 3-step Process: Step 3 | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | Work element 1Ca: (170): Hatchery/ Major Construction: Council’s 3-Step Process: Step 3. The Flathead Subbasin Plan, on pages 44-46, direct the cooperating agencies to complete renovation of the Sekokini Springs Natural Rearing Facility to facilitate experimental culture of up to four genetic strains of westslope cutthroat. We will reear juveniles to maturity under nearly natural conditions to conserve wild behavioral traits and produce F1 progeny to restore wild spawning runs in restored or reconnected habitat. Upon completion of BPA’s NEPA document (Step 2) and the revised Master Plan (Steps 1 and 3), the Council must approve the 3-Step process before construction can begin. Funding for construction was approved for the renovation of Sekokini Springs on July 1, 2005, but MFWP could not utilize the funds pending successful review by ISRP and the Council, and NEPA documentation by BPA. Depending on decisions made during FY 2006, construction should be underway during FY07-09. We anticipate that BPA capital funding will fund renovation of Sekokini Springs. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2008 | $75,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Acclimate Juvenile Fish | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | Work element 1Cc: (56): Hatchery O&M: Acclimate juvenile fish The existing isolation room is partially complete and plumbed for a separate water source. The isolation facility currently lacks permanent internal walls and holding tanks. The discharge plumbing needs to be buried and connected to a percolation gallery in an adjacent drainage, so that potential contaminants from the isolation facility cannot enter surface waters on the Sekokini site. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $60,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Maintain Fish Health | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | Work element 1Cd: (60) Hatchery O&M: Maintain Fish Health MFWP Fish Health Specialist coordinates fish health inspections through the Fish Health Lab in Great Falls. State regulations require wild and domestic fish stocks to be inspection prior to transport or outplanting. The FWP fish health specialist schedules inspections, collects appropriate health samples and ensures samples are shipped to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Bozeman Fish Health Center (BFHC) for laboratory testing. FWP maintains a contract with BFHC for laboratory support for fish health inspection work. The price of the contract is based on a fee schedule established by BFHC, and FWP is responsible for paying for each inspection. The fee schedule may be adjusted annually. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Maintain Hatchery | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | Work element 1Ce: (61) Hatchery O&M: Maintain hatchery This work element includes maintaining the facility, raceways, building, stream and pond systems. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $725,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Trap/Collect/Hold/Transport Fish - Hatchery | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | Work element 1Cb: (66) Hatchery O&M: Trap/Collect/Hold Transport Fish – Hatchery Wild juveniles or gametes from up to four donor populations will be collected for transport to the Sekokini Springs Isolation Facility. Upon certification for genetic purity and fish pathogens, WCT populations will be held separately in four outdoor rearing habitats. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $200,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Install Fish Passage Structure | Objective 1D: Suppress and eradicate migratory WCT x RBT hybrid populations in the mainstem and North Fork Flathead River | Work element: 1Db: Instream fish passage: Install fish barriers in Rabe Creek, Taylor's Outflow, Third Creek, and possible other streams that contain hybrid populations. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $90,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Install Fish Passage Structure | Objective 2C: Eliminate barriers to fish migration in critical westslope cutthroat trout streams in the upper Flathead River system | Work element 2Ca: Install fish passage structures | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $50,000 |
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Biological objectives Implement fish habitat restoration projects |
Metrics |
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| Identify and Select Projects | Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Program | Work element 5b: Identify and select and prioritize mitigation projects | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $75,000 |
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Biological objectives Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project |
Metrics |
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| Manage and Administer Projects | Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Program | Work element 5a: Manage and administer the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $150,000 |
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Biological objectives Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project |
Metrics |
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| Outreach and Education | Objective 1C: Complete the Council’s 3-step process and build the Sekokini Springs natural rearing facility | Work Element 1Cf: (99) Planning and Coordination: Outreach and Education Project personnel will develop an interpretive nature trail and interactive educational program for the facility. The trail described in the Master Plan traverses 11.4 acres of land adjacent to Flathead River and has interconnecting loops to accommodate walks of varying distances. A partnership will be sought with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Flathead National Forest, National Park Service (NPS) Glacier National Park and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, (USFWS) Creston National Fish Hatchery to design interpretive sites along the trail and interactive lesson plan for student visitors. Personnel from the agencies will be invited to present educational material to area students, teachers and visitors to the facility. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2009 | $50,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce Design and/or Specifications | Objective 1B: Develop “within-drainage” stocks of westslope cutthroat trout in the South Fork Flathead River and Haskill Basin Creek | Work element 1Bc: (175) Planning and Coordination: Produce Design for tools to collect donor populations. Live transport of juvenile WCT or gametes from remote locations such as Gordon Creek in the Bob Marshall Wilderness requires specialized apparatus to maintain oxygen and water temperature within optimal range during transport. This will require developing new tools or adapting existing equipment. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $50,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce Design and/or Specifications | Objective 1G: Assess competitive interactions of non-native lake trout and native bull trout in Swan Lake, and assess the feasibility of suppressing lake trout. | Work element 1Ga: Develop methods and study design for Swan Lake bull trout study. A graduate student will potentially examine the spatial and temporal distribution and habitat use of juvenile lake trout and subadult bull trout in Swan lake using ultrasonic telemetry, and evaluate population characteristics of both species. The potential objectives are to: (1) assess the seasonal movements and habitat use by lake trout and bull trout; (2) identify the timing and location of spawning by adult lake trout; (3) evaluate lake trout and bull trout population characteristics, including age structure, growth rate, and survival rate; and (4) predict the effects varying levels of exploitation may have on the lake trout population, or develop predictive models to forecast population trends of bull trout in response to varying levels of lake trout abundance. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2008 | $35,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce Inventory or Assessment | Objective 1A: Implement the South Fork Flathead Watershed Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. | Work element 1Ab: (115) Planning and coordination: Produce inventory or assessment. Pre-project technical evaluations involve measuring, calculating and confirming lake bathymetry, stream flow, water chemistry, and establishing implementation and monitoring sites. Pre-project biological evaluations involve measuring fish populations and inventories of aquatic insects, plankton and amphibians. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce Plan | Objective 1A: Implement the South Fork Flathead Watershed Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. | Work element 1Ac: (174) Implementation plan. We will develop implementation plans, identify and assign staff duties, conduct safety training, prepare equipment, acquire and prepare materials. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $50,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce/Submit Scientific Findings Report | Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project | Work element 5d: Produce/submit scientific findings reports. Prepare Project Proposal and annual Statement of Work and associated budget. Prepare and produce quarterly, annual and peer reviewed reports that summarize the results of this project. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $90,000 |
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Biological objectives Manage the Hungry Horse Mitigation Project |
Metrics |
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| Produce/Submit Scientific Findings Report | Objective 1A: Implement the South Fork Flathead Watershed Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. | Work element 1Af: (141) Produce Status Report Reporting will include those to Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Montana Department of Agriculture, and MFWP Region 1 CAC, and BPA. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce/Submit Scientific Findings Report | Objective 1E: Develop genetic markers to assess relatedness and genetic composition of native and non-native trout populations | Work element 1Ec: Produce scientific findings report | 7/1/2009 | 6/30/2010 | $10,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce/Submit Scientific Findings Report | Objective 1F: Determine the origin and population structure of WCT, RBT, and WCT x RBT hybrids in the upper Flathead River system using telemetry and scale and otolith chemistry analysis. | Work element 1Fc: Produce scientific findings report | 7/1/2008 | 6/30/2010 | $10,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce/Submit Scientific Findings Report | Objective 1G: Assess competitive interactions of non-native lake trout and native bull trout in Swan Lake, and assess the feasibility of suppressing lake trout. | Work element 1Gd: Produce scientific findings report | 7/1/2008 | 6/30/2009 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Produce/Submit Scientific Findings Report | Objective 3A: Complete and validate the instream flow model for the mainstem Flathead River downstream of Hungry Horse Dam. | Work element 3Ac: Produce scientific findings reports on an annual basis. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $15,000 |
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Biological objectives Restore normative dam operations at Hungry Horse |
Metrics |
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| Analyze/Interpret Data | Objective 1E: Develop genetic markers to assess relatedness and genetic composition of native and non-native trout populations | Work element 1Eb: Analyze data Conduct nuclear DNA analyses at the University of Montana, Missoula. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $150,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Analyze/Interpret Data | Objective 1F: Determine the origin and population structure of WCT, RBT, and WCT x RBT hybrids in the upper Flathead River system using telemetry and scale and otolith chemistry analysis. | Work element 1Fb: Analyze data. Elemental analyses of scales and otholiths will be conducted by Dr. Simon Thorrold (Woods Hole Laboratory, Massachusetts). | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $90,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Analyze/Interpret Data | Objective 1G: Assess competitive interactions of non-native lake trout and native bull trout in Swan Lake, and assess the feasibility of suppressing lake trout. | Work element 1Gc: Analyze data | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2009 | $25,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Analyze/Interpret Data | Objective 3A: Complete and validate the instream flow model for the mainstem Flathead River downstream of Hungry Horse Dam. | Work element 3Ab: Analyze data. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Restore normative dam operations at Hungry Horse |
Metrics |
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| Analyze/Interpret Data | Objective 4A: Monitor watershed level fish and habitat parameters in cooperation with fish management staff and other BPA projects | Work element 4Ab: RM&E: Analyze and interpret data. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $30,000 |
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Biological objectives Monitor and evaluate fish populations and habitat |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 1A: Implement the South Fork Flathead Watershed Westslope Cutthroat Trout Conservation Project. | Work element 1Ae: (157) Collect/Generate/Validate field and lab data. We will conduct post-project evaluations for fish and non-target organisms, complete detoxification processes and monitoring. As soon as waters are deemed “no longer toxic” according to product labels, we’ll facilitate restocking with fish by helicopter and horseback. The post project monitoring for each lake and stream will last for 1-5 years and involve angler surveys, gill netting, angling, condition assessments, spawning surveys and genetic testing. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $200,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 1B: Develop “within-drainage” stocks of westslope cutthroat trout in the South Fork Flathead River and Haskill Basin Creek | Work element 1Bb: (157) RM& E and Data Management: Collect field and Lab Data. Genetic surveys and disease samples during 2004 and 2005 were used to identify donor populations for use in developing within-drainage stocks of WCT for use in restoration. Initially we will experiment using non-essential stocks from an easily accessible source (e.g. Haskill Creek). Once techniques are established for safely collecting individuals from donor populations, the Montana WCT committee selected Gordon Creek in the Bob Marshall Wilderness as the highest priority for replication at Sekokini Springs. Genetic and disease samples must be obtained from wild donor populations within one year prior to fish collections, and repeated after collection. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $150,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 1E: Develop genetic markers to assess relatedness and genetic composition of native and non-native trout populations | Work element 1Ea: Collect field data (fin clips). Field crews will collect fin clips from sampled fish throughout the upper Flathead River basin while conducting fish population surveys. Diagnostic alleles at these loci will be used to describe the population genetic structure and degree of introgression of selected tributary populations in the upper Flathead River system. Further, we will identify some of the mechanisms responsible for the rapid spread of hybridization in the Flathead River. Also, we will examine the temporal distribution of adult fish (WCT, RBT, and hybrids) captured during spawning in two recently invaded streams (Langford and Cyclone creeks) in the North Fork Flathead River from 2003 to 2010. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $60,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 1F: Determine the origin and population structure of WCT, RBT, and WCT x RBT hybrids in the upper Flathead River system using telemetry and scale and otolith chemistry analysis. | Work element 1Fa: Collect field data (telemetry, scales and otoliths). In this study, we will compare spatial and temporal distribution of spawning by WCT, RBT, and WCTxRBT hybrids using radiotelemetry data collected from 2000-2009, and determine the natal origin of hybrid and pure trout through analysis of otolith and scale microchemistry in spawning streams in the upper Flathead River system. Further, we will determine whether elemental signatures are sufficiently stable over time to allow for accurate classification of adult fish after emigration from natal streams. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $40,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 1G: Assess competitive interactions of non-native lake trout and native bull trout in Swan Lake, and assess the feasibility of suppressing lake trout. | Work element 1Gb: Collect field data | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2009 | $60,000 |
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Biological objectives Reduce negative non-native species interactions |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 3A: Complete and validate the instream flow model for the mainstem Flathead River downstream of Hungry Horse Dam. | Work element 3Aa: Collect and validate field data. Estimations of usable habitat from the calibrated IFIM models will be used to rank the alternative operating strategies based on the amount of available habitat for each target species and lifecycle stage of salmonids in the Flathead and Kootenai Rivers. Using the IFIM models, estimates of total usable area will be obtained for each species and life stage for three specific operational strategies: historic (pre-dam), water budget flow augmentation for anadromous fish recovery, and the proposed Mainstem Amendments. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $60,000 |
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Biological objectives Restore normative dam operations at Hungry Horse |
Metrics |
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| Collect/Generate/Validate Field and Lab Data | Objective 4A: Monitor watershed level fish and habitat parameters in cooperation with fish management staff and other BPA projects | Work element 4Aa: RM&E: Collect field data. This objective is designed to evaluate fish population responses and habitat characteristics associated with habitat improvements, dam operations, and suppression activities. | 7/1/2007 | 6/30/2010 | $265,000 |
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Biological objectives Monitor and evaluate fish populations and habitat |
Metrics |
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Section 8. Budgets
Itemized estimated budget
| Item | Note | FY07 | FY08 | FY09 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personnel | Cost estimates are estimated based on predicted pay-plan adjustments | $500,000 | $575,000 | $600,000 |
| Fringe Benefits | Cost estimates are estimated based on predicted pay-plan adjustments | $140,000 | $155,000 | $165,000 |
| Travel | [blank] | $60,000 | $65,000 | $70,000 |
| Other | Contracted Services | $500,000 | $525,000 | $550,000 |
| Supplies | [blank] | $125,000 | $130,000 | $135,000 |
| Capital Equipment | [blank] | $75,000 | $80,000 | $85,000 |
| Overhead | Assumes approximately 19% average overhead, which is subject to change. | $255,000 | $285,000 | $300,000 |
| Totals | $1,655,000 | $1,815,000 | $1,905,000 | |
Total estimated FY 2007-2009 budgets
| Total itemized budget: | $5,375,000 |
| Total work element budget: | $5,375,000 |
Cost sharing
| Funding source/org | Item or service provided | FY 07 est value ($) | FY 08 est value ($) | FY 09 est value ($) | Cash or in-kind? | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSKT | Implement mitigation projects | $200,000 | $200,000 | $200,000 | Cash | Confirmed |
| DNRC | Fish and habitat monitoring | $25,000 | $25,000 | $25,000 | In-Kind | Confirmed |
| Montana State University | Graduate advisor and statistical consultation | $50,000 | $50,000 | $50,000 | In-Kind | Confirmed |
| NPS | Water quality monitoring | $50,000 | $50,000 | $50,000 | Cash | Confirmed |
| University of Montana | Graduate advisor | $20,000 | $20,000 | $20,000 | In-Kind | Confirmed |
| University of Montana | Water quality and fish hard part analyses | $25,000 | $25,000 | $25,000 | In-Kind | Confirmed |
| USFS | Fish and habitat monitoring | $25,000 | $25,000 | $25,000 | Cash | Confirmed |
| USFS | Habitat restoration | $200,000 | $200,000 | $200,000 | Cash | Under Development |
| USGS | Water quality and quantity monitoring | $20,000 | $20,000 | $20,000 | In-Kind | Confirmed |
| Totals | $615,000 | $615,000 | $615,000 | |||
Section 9. Project future
|
FY 2010 estimated budget: $1,600,000 FY 2011 estimated budget: $1,600,000 |
Comments: Project budgets are estimates and subject to change, depending on the scope of the project. |
Future O&M costs:
Termination date: no termination
Comments: This project will continue indefinately. In 1991, Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes published the Fisheries Mitigation Plan for Losses Attributable to the Construction and Operation of Hungry Horse Dam (MFWP and CSKT 1991). This Mitigation Plan presented fisheries losses, mitigation options, and recommendations to protect, mitigate, and enhance resident fish and aquatic habitat impacted by the dam. The Northwest Power and Conservation Council (Council, formerly NW Power Planning Council) approved the loss statement: including annual losses of 250,000 juvenile bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and 65,000 juvenile westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi), plus 124 km of critical, low gradient spawning and rearing habitat that was inundated and lost when Hungry Horse Reservoir filled. The Council then directed MFWP and CSKT to immediately develop an Implementation Plan, which was adopted for Hungry Horse Dam (MFWP and CSKT 1993). On-the-ground mitigation activities began in 1992. This project is one of a few federally funded, Columbia River mitigation projects carrying out a plan to offset a loss statement that has been specifically adopted by the Council. Fisheries losses were to be offset by modifying dam operation, restoring or reconnecting habitat, implementing hatchery technology and offsite mitigation. To date, this program has improved approximately 25.8 km of stream habitat and facilitated improvements in dam operation. The Council subsequently adopted the Flathead Subbasin Plan (CSKT and MFWP 2004).
Final deliverables: We anticipate that the fisheries losses attributable to the construction of Hungry Horse dam can be offset in the future through onsite and offsite actions outlined in the Mitigation Plans and Flathead Subbasin Plan. Annual fisheries losses due to the operation of Hungry Horse Dam, however, will occur and require mitigation for the life of the dam.
Section 10. Narrative and other documents
| Response to ISRP Hungry Horse Mitigation | Jul 2006 |
Reviews and recommendations
| FY07 budget | FY08 budget | FY09 budget | Total budget | Type | Category | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NPCC FINAL FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS (Oct 23, 2006) [full Council recs] | ||||||
| $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | Capital | ProvinceCapital | Under Review |
| NPCC FINAL FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS (Oct 23, 2006) [full Council recs] | ||||||
| $1,655,000 | $1,719,000 | $1,809,000 | $5,183,000 | Expense | ProvinceExpense | Fund |
| NPCC DRAFT FUNDING RECOMMENDATIONS (Sep 15, 2006) [full Council recs] | ||||||
| $1,655,000 | $1,719,000 | $1,809,000 | $0 | ProvinceExpense | ||
|
Comments: Work elements associated with Sekokini Springs Natural Rearing Facility and Educational Center are dependent on favorable step review. Master plan due end of FY 07. Capital review for construction needed. |
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ISRP PRELIMINARY REVIEW (Jun 2, 2006)
Recommendation: Response requested
NPCC comments: The Hungry Horse Mitigation Program is an ongoing project that addresses the mitigation programs associated with construction and operation of the Hungry Horse Dam and impoundment. Impoundment has led to an annual loss of 250,000 juvenile bull trout, 65,000 juvenile westslope cutthroat trout, and nearly 124 km of critical habitat. The project is proposed to fulfill requirements of the CSKT and MFWP mitigations plans of 1991 and 1993. The Project recognizes priorities outlined in the Flathead-Kootenai Subbasin Plan and uses a combination of the 4-H's on-site and off-site to mitigate these and other associated losses. Approximately one-half of the mitigation is addressed through improvements to operation of the hydrosystem. The remainder of the losses are to be addressed through removal of non-native species and their hybrids with natives, reintroduction of native fish (Objective 1 and sub-objectives), habitat improvements (Objective 2 and sub-objectives), return of normative flow regimes (Objective 3), monitoring of fish populations and habitats (Objective 4), and administration of the entire project including information, facilities, and personnel management (Objective 5). This is a well-written proposal including a good literature review and synthesis. It would be helpful if they had a mitigation rationale with each action/work element. Even though not required, it would be very helpful if this lengthy list of projects and activities had better individual justification for mitigation responsibility. The subbasin has gotten some mitigation by changed operation at the dams. The other half of mitigation must come through these other actions. With this in mind, the ISRP identified several concerns that should be addressed. The sponsors need to provide a prioritization of tasks (by objective). The subbasin plans for Kootenai and Flathead were comprehensive and of high quality. It seems the prioritization efforts from the subbasin plans (QHA) could be better applied to prioritize the various proposed actions in this project. The response needs to include details of the specific monitoring designs, hypotheses, and metrics to evaluate effectiveness and benefits of the efforts. Five specific objectives (with detailed sub-objectives) are identified. Most are measurable and amenable to monitoring and evaluation, although specific hypotheses and metrics are not included. The response needs to include data to show that this project is making progress in attaining the numerical goals in fish abundance. Monitoring of stream channel alterations for fish in the Flathead system do not show great benefit to-date from the enhancement strategies employed. The response needs to include convincing evidence to show that the continued application of these strategies is warranted. The different components of this proposal are not all equally relevant to mitigation efforts. The proposal would benefit if the disparate projects were ranked for relevancy to accomplishing program goals. Some of the proposal components would probably drop out. A major component is the master planning for the renovation and operation of the Sekokini Springs Hatchery, which is intended to provide for westslope cutthroat trout conservation and restoration. Sekokini Springs will still need to be dealt with in the Three-Step process. The proposal and ISRP review of the proposal do not get to the detail of the Three-Step review. A number of issues associated with this plan are presently under discussion by the ISRP and sponsors.
ISRP FINAL REVIEW (Aug 31, 2006)
Recommendation: Fundable (Qualified)
NPCC comments: Qualification is on three points; 1) analysis and evaluation of results from previous, but similar actions; 2) completing Three-Step Review and revision for Sekokini Springs Master Plan; and 3) completing a prioritization of activities. Funding of implementation activities should be contingent upon completion of a robust analysis of their efforts to date in terms of benefits to fish, or at a minimum, a demonstration that the analysis is occurring (and when findings are expected or will be released). The sponsors state that monitoring has been ongoing, but few results are presented nor is there a description of their management implications. The project is 14 years old and an overview evaluation is overdue. ISRP recommends "funding in part" for progressing through the Sekokini Springs 3 Step Review process and revision of the project’s Master Plan. Subsequent funding for the construction and implementation phase of the project should be contingent on adequate Master Plan revision and favorable scientific review (for programmatic rigor and consistency with the Fish and Wildlife Program principles). The sponsor did not truly provide a prioritization, although a prioritization in the future was promised, which will help guide key activities.