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A special Colorado squawfish young-of-the-year (YOY) survey was <br />conducted each fall to identify nursery areas, river regions occupied by <br />YOY Colorado squawfish of fingerling size (25-60 mm). Colorado squawfish <br />of fingerling size (25-60 mm) were sampled with seines (3x5 mm mesh) <br />from mid-September through October. These YOY surveys were quantitative; <br />the areal extent of each seining effort was recorded, as were the water <br />depth, water velocity, and substrate characteristics of the areas sampled <br />(Archer et al. 1980). Sampling sites were river backwaters selected at <br />about 5 mile intervals. At least two seine hauls were made in each <br />backwater, and one similar haul was made along the adjacent river shoreline. <br />Peaking Power Impact Study <br />The Green River section between Jensen and Ouray, Utah was selected <br />to evaluate effects of peaking flows from Flaming Gorge Dam on survival <br />and rearing of YOY Colorado squawfish. Past investigations have shown <br />young Colorado squawfish are common in certain habitats in this river <br />section. Aerial photographs of this area are recommended at both high <br />and low flows to quantify changes in young Colorado squawfish habitat <br />with flow volume. Hopefully, this photography can be done in cooperation <br />with BR in 1983. Also associated with the flow vs habitat work is an <br />evaluation of flow-time from Flaming Gorge Dam. Key areas at Ouray and <br />Jensen will be monitored with staff-gages and photos to determine the <br />timing, duration and magnitude of flooding and dewatering of shallow <br />habitats resulting from daily changes in flow at Flaming Gorge Dam. <br />Using controlled releases of high and low flow from Flaming Gorge, <br />YOY Colorado squawfish will be monitored to evaluate fish behavior <br />changes. Young Colorado squawfish will be marked and followed over the <br />period of flow change by seining, trapping and electrofishing. Changes <br />in numbers and behavior will be noted. The response of fish to temperature <br />changes associated with different flows will also be noted. Continuous <br />water temperature will be monitored at key sites for this evaluation. <br /> <br />- 4 -