Monitoring Protocols for Salmon Habitat Restoration Projects in the Lower Columbia River and Estuary

摘要: This document describes a set of protocols developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Marine Fisheries Service, and Columbia River Estuary Study Taskforce with support US Army Corps Engineers. The will be used to assess habitat restoration projects as part Cumulative Ecosystem Response Evaluation effort begun in 2004 conclude 2010 (Diefenderfer et al. 2005). goal these activities lower estuary (CRE) is repair connectivity function wetland habitats, thereby allow juvenile salmon regain benefit from important rearing refuge areas. To do this effectively, researchers managers require means 1) evaluate results individual activities, 2) compare among projects, 3) determine long-term cumulative effects on overall ecosystem. achieve this, we are developing standardized research monitoring protocols. We limited number metrics proposed “core” selected measurement methods that straightforward economical use. By “core,” mean smallest suite can adequately detail given financial logistical limitations comprehensively ecological change over extended temporal spatial scales. core based following criteria: correspond commonly held project goals; applicable all sites; represent controlling factors, ecosystem structure, function; 4) relevant both present future investigations; 5) practical terms available level effort. Monitoring provided for hydrology (water surface elevation); water quality (temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen); elevation (bathymetry, topography); landscape features; plant community (composition cover); vegetation plantings (success); fish (temporal presence, size/age species). Preface being conducted under auspices U.S. Engineers (COE)’s Anadromous Fish Program (AFEP), study code EST–P-04-04. funded Corps’ Portland District; Blaine Ebberts Biological Technical Lead project. benefited feedback discussions scientists at workshop convened Lower Partnership June 2004. jointly Laboratory (operated Battelle Department Energy), Oceanic Atmospheric Administration Service (NOAA Fisheries), Taskforce. invite comments working draft manual. Our intent widely adopted standard estuary. Please send or questions Gary Johnson (gary.johnson@pnl.gov; 503-417-7567).