Methow Fish Tracking Study

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Populations of spring Chinook Salmon (hereafter Chinook Salmon) within the Upper Columbia River (UCR) Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) are listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Substantial time and resources have been spent towards the monitoring and restoration of depleted Chinook salmon populations. However, a significant knowledge gap still exists regarding winter movement, distribution, and survival of juvenile Chinook salmon. The proposed Methow Fish Tracking Study will characterize the winter movement, distribution, habitat utilization, and survival of juvenile Chinook Salmon emigrating from production areas within the Methow River. Results from the study will ultimately be used to identify population limiting factors and to evaluate how various habitat restoration actions might differentially improve the capacity of habitat and/or the survival of overwintering juveniles.

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