7166

• UCREFRP Catalog Number: 7166
• Author: Miller, W. H., et al.
• Title: Yampa River Fishes Study
• USFW Year: 1982.
• USFW - Doc Type: Final Report.
• Copyright Material: NO

OBJECTIVES
Objectives of the study were to: 1) determine distribution and
relative abundance of Colorado squawfish and humpback chub in the Yampa
River and Green River within DNM; 2) obtain information on possible
reproduction of Colorado squawfish and humpback chub in the Yampa River;
3) determine habitat requirements of Colorado squawfish and humpback
chub in the Yampa River and Green River within DNM; 4) determine extent
and significance of movement of Colorado squawfish and humpback chub in
the Yampa River and Green River study area, and 5) determine the effect
of various flows in the Little Snake and Yampa rivers on important
habitats of the Colorado squawf ish and humpback chub in the Yampa and
Green rivers.
Fishery habitat of the Yampa River was characterized for the
Colorado River fishes (including physicochemical and biological parameters)
so that the function and interactions between habitat and the endangered
fish could be investigated from an ecosystem approach. Also, certain
life history information about these endangered species was gathered.
The Yampa River study was organized as follows:
1. An investigation of fishery habitat. Physicochemical data
were collected at point of capture for all fishes in identified
habitats. Habitat preferences and species interactions for all
species were the desired product. A standardized sampling
program was designed to meet this general objective.
2. An investigation of the life history of rare and endangered
fishes. Specific information about young, juvenile and adult
stages was obtained relative to habitat requirements, migra-
tion, movement, interspecific competition, and associated
species. A special investigations program was developed to
meet this objective and included:
a. Abundance and distribution of young Colorado squawfish.
b. Radiotelemetry of adult Colorado squawfish.
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