University of Montana Wild Trout and Salmon Genetics

University of Montana Wild Trout and Salmon Genetics Laboratory USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station

• Initiated research in 1995 • Subbasins Powder, Malheur, Snake Lower Middle (Pine Cr. ) • Research Areas Interactions with brook trout, genetics population monitoring

Results and Management Implications Bull Trout/Brook Trout Interactions Species distribution patterns Relationships of distribution and instream habitat characteristics

Results and Management Implications Bull Trout/Brook Trout Interactions Dietary overlap between species Dominant behavior of brook trout MS thesis Gunckel et al. , in review Gunckel et al. , in prep.

Results and Management Implications Genetics Broadscale population structure Spruell and Allendorf 1997 Spruell et al. , in press, Conservation Genetics Identification and management of DPSs and recovery units

Malheur Boise C 1 Pi Pone C wd r. er Y 1 X 1 C 2

Results and Management Implications Population Monitoring Evaluation of spawning surveys Sampling error Index areas Redd visibility Habitat and life history influences Limitations and design of surveys

Subbasin Need Determine extent and magnitude of brook trout interactions, including hybridization, with bull trout

Proposal Objectives 1. Determine distribution and habitat characteristics of bull trout and brook trout populations 2. Describe patterns of hybridization in brook/bull trout 3. Describe pathways of brook trout invasion Study Subbasins Powder, Malheur, Snake Lower Middle (Pine Cr. ), Payette, Weiser, and Boise

Management Application Brook trout are widespread in province Alternatives • Erradication $$$ Expensive Impacts on non-target species Effectiveness • Habitat improvement Effectiveness in controlling brook trout

Understanding threats, risks, and opportunities Habitat relationships Hybridization and brook trout invasion patterns Effective management approaches Priorities for limited funding

Subbasin Need Population and habitat status and trends Monitor bull trout and other salmonid populations and habitat using EMAP/Oregon Plan protocol in OR portion of province