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beak <br />• <br />6.0 FISH RESOURCES <br />The specific objectives of fish sampling efforts at the permit area on <br />the North Fork were to determine species composition and relative abundance <br />of fishes and to assess relative condition or health of fish populations. <br />6,1 Methods <br />Fish populations were assessed during the November survey at each of <br />• <br />the five North Fork stations (Figure 2.0-1 ). Information was obtained on <br />species inhabiting these locations, relative abundance, length, weight, <br />general physical condition, and sexual maturity, if evident. In addition, <br />small intermittent streams draining into the North Fork Gunnison River from <br />in and around the permit area were surveyed by foot to assess their status. <br />Finally, agency contacts and incidental observations were used to derive <br />information on the recreational utilization of fishery resources in the area. <br />Surveys of fish populations were made on 100 meter transects measured <br />along the length of each sampled reach. Where possible, representative pool, <br />run, and riffle areas were included. These reaches were the same as those <br />surveyed in the stream habitat and channel surveys (Section 3, O). Sampling <br />method was by backpack electroshocking unit. Electrofishing proceeded in an <br />upstream direction through all accessible areas within each section including <br />log jams, boulders, and undercut banks. Sampling by 30-foot small-mesh <br />straight seine, which was originally anticipated, proved infeasible and was <br />discontinued. <br />Specimens captured during fish surveys were held in large buckets for <br />C I <br />processing. Following anesthesia with MS-222, each capture was identified <br />6-I <br />