An Evaluation of Fish Movement in the Big Sandy Lake Watershed and Escapement of Fish through Big Sandy Lake Dam, Minnesota

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Background: The overall objective of this project is to enter into a cooperative agreement for monitoring and tracking fish throughout the Big Sandy Lake Watershed, as well as walleye escapement through the Big Sandy Lake Dam using acoustical telemetry methods and to relate the movement to dam operation and watershed hydrological and limnological parameters. The Big Sandy Lake is a valuable resource with more than $1 million annually spent on fishing recreation between fishing opener and the end of September. This level of economic benefit is important in an economically disadvantaged area such as Aitkin County, MN. The primary fishing attraction of Big Sandy is the Walleye fishery, which is naturally reproducing and self-sustaining. Additionally, understanding walleye movement past the dam is important for future management of a fish passage structure should the structure come to fruition, or to help develop methods to minimize escapement. Lastly, it is important not to unduly regulate fisheries. Therefore it is important to regulate the angling fishery in such a manner as to maximize the benefit to society, in a biologically sound manner. Brief Description of Anticipated Work: 1) provide and analyze hydrologic and hydraulic data pertinent to the study as it relates to Sandy Lake Dam. 2) conduct calculations to determine water velocities through the gates of Sandy Lake Dam. 3) develop strategies for water resource management for Big Sandy Lake. 4) conduct quality assurance on annual quality reports. 5) obtain receivers and other necessary equipment. 6) deploy, operate, and maintain acoustic receivers. 7) collect and tag fish. 8) conduct creel surveys. 9) collect bi-monthly water quality data (temperature and dissolved oxygen). 10) analyze data on fish population dynamics.

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