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00525 (e Ie ,e 54 Factors contributing to this decline are unknown but likely include: interaction (predation and/or competition) with non-native fishes, infection by non-native parasites, sub-optimal mainstcm water temperatures, hydrological conditions in the mainstem Colorado and. Little Colorado Rivers, and decline of near-shore rearing habitat in the mainstem Colorado River. Though it is unknown which factor(s) are most responsible for humpback chub mortality, it is likely that interactions with non-nativc forms are a contributing elemcnt. Summary Project Description: Following a reconunendation from the adaptive management work group (AMWG), the first two years ofa long-term experimental design was conducted during 2003-2004. This project subsequently received AMWG approval for continuation during 2005. We anticipate that AMWG will direct GCMRC to continue this project for four years as originally proposed and therefore include it in the 2006 work plan. However, we reiterate the need for this work to accompany implementation of other experimental factors (i.e. Dam Operations lmd Temperature Modification) in a long-term experimental block design in order to understand the affects of several factors likely to influence humpback chub recruitment. This project addresses one element of that experiment and is designed to provide a better understanding of the interactions between humpback chub and non-native fishes. Additionally, this project addresses the feasibility of non-native fish control in a large segment of the mainstem Colorado River utilizing electro fishing as a method for mechanical removal. During FY -05, the field work component of this project is being conducted through a cooperative agreement with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD). Contingent on AMWG approval, the cooperative agreement with AGFD will be continued to complete fieldwork in FY-06. A complete study plan is available upon request. MO's and RlN's ADDRESSED: Goals 2 and 4, MO's 2.1, 2.4, and 4.2. Status/Scbedule: First and second-year field efforts completed. Draft report covering threc year efforts in preparation. Planning for subsequent final year is underway. Implications of Experimental vs. Non-Experimental Budget: Outside Science/labor: Allocation is increased to meet true costs ofproject. Logistics: increased to meet true costs of project. Training/travel related costs: unchanged. Supplies/operations: absorbed by downstream fish projyct. GC.YRC salaries: Student aide position to assist with trip prep/repair, GCMRC FY2006 Annu.1 Work Plan (Draft, June 10, 2005)