Kalispell (i.e. Kalispel) Resident Fish Project : Annual Report, 1996.

Abstract

Project Number 95-O 1 Contract Number 95BI37227 Executive SummaryIn 1996 the Kalispel Natural Resource Department (KNRD) in conjunction with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) continued the implementation of a habitat and population enhancement project for bull trout (Sulvslinus ronfluentus), westslope cutthroat (Oncorhynchus clarki iewisi) and largemouth bass (Micropterus safmoides). A habitat and population assessment was conducted on Browns Creek a tributary of Cee Cee Ah Creek. one of the priority tributaries outlined in the 1995 annual report. The assessment was used to determine the type and quality of habitat that was limiting to native bull trout and cutthroat trout populations. Analysis of the habitat data indicated high amounts of sediment in the stream. low bank cover, and a lack of winter habitat. Data collected from this assessment was used to prescribe habitat enhancement measures for Browns Creek. Habitat enhancement measures, as outlined in the recommendations from the 1995 annual report, were conducted during field season 1~96. Fencing and planting of riparian areas and instream structures were implemented. '4s a precursor to these enhancement eforts, pre-assessments were conducted to determine the affects of the enhancement. Habitat quality, stream morphology and fish populations were pre-assessed. The construction of the largemouth bass hatchery was started in October of 1995. The KNRD, Contractors Northwest Inc. and associated subcontrators are in the process of constructing the hatchery. The projected date of hatchery completion is summer 1997.