Resident fish in the Columbia River Basin: Restoration, enhancement, and mitigation for losses associated with hydroelectric development and operations

摘要

Development and operation of Columbia River Basin hydroelectric facilities have contributed to the reduction in diversity and abundance of some native resident fish. To mitigate for effects of hydroelectric development and operations, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) annually funds fisheries research and management efforts. In 2003, the BPA provided $19.2 million for the implementation of 54 resident fish projects that were recommended for funding by the Columbia Basin Fish and Wildlife Authority and Northwest Power and Conservation Council through the council's Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program. Through the resident fish segment of this program, managers have begun to better understand and manage impacted resident fish habitats and populations; however, restoration of resident fish populations will require cooperation among resident and anadromous fish mangers, hydrosystem operators, and federal regulators. Managers must ensure that power, water management, and land-use decisions consider effects on all fish populations. Only by better understanding the effects of hydroelectric operations on all potentially affected fish populations can fisheries managers develop an integrated program to mitigate and enhance resident fish resources of the Columbia River Basin. Costs, time, necessary cooperation, and existing regulations are challenges that could compromise the effort.