Record Details
An evaluation of the effectiveness of instream structures for steelhead trout rearing habitat in the Steamboat Creek basin.
ScholarsArchive at Oregon State University
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Title | An evaluation of the effectiveness of instream structures for steelhead trout rearing habitat in the Steamboat Creek basin. |
| Names |
Fontaine, Barbara L.
(creator) Hall, James D. (advisor) |
| Date Issued | 1987-07-30 (iso8601) |
| Note | Graduation date: 1988 |
| Abstract | Several types of instream structures were evaluated for their potential to provide rearing habitat and to increase reach carrying capacity for steelhead trout (Salmo gairdneri). Evaluation was conducted in each season over the course of 1 year. Blast pools created in bedrock glides increased the carrying capacity of stream reaches during late summer. Three types of boulder and log structures in gravel-cobble glides did not significantly increase the late summer standing crop of juvenile steelhead. During summer, juvenile steelhead selected the habitat provided by the four types of structures over the untreated glide habitats. The instream structures were used by steelhead for feeding stations, resting areas, and hiding cover. Structures located near the thalweg held substantially more summering steelhead than structures in off-thalweg positions, regardless of structure design. In winter, seven structure designs were evaluated. The structures that were placed in zones of slow water (deep pools, margin backwater pools, and dam pools) provided the most effective winter habitat for juvenile steelhead. The structures with the largest concentrations of boulders and rubble generally held the highest winter densities. During the spring and fall months, habitat utilization was less predictable. Spring and fall were times of transition in which the utilization of habitat structures was probably influenced by changing water temperatures and hydraulic conditions. Prior to initiating habitat modification programs, habitat managers should conduct an on-site examination of the rearing strategy and seasonal habitat needs of the target species. A pre-work evaluation should be designed to gain an understanding of the most likely environmental factors that limit production. Without such preliminary information, and without a follow-up evaluation, managers cannot recognize their mistakes, innovate appropriate new techniques or determine if funds have been wisely spent. |
| Genre | Thesis/Dissertation |
| Topic | Steelhead (Fish) -- Oregon -- Steamboat Creek Watershed -- Effect of habitat modification on |
| Identifier | http://hdl.handle.net/1957/19469 |
