Carbaryl, Carbofuran, and Methomyl - National Marine Fisheries ...

project is expected to begin in the Elwha River. The removal of two dams in the Elwha
River, a short but formerly very productive salmon river, is expected to open up more
than 70 miles of high quality salmon habitat (Wunderlich, Winter et al. 1994;
Ruckelshaus and McClure 2007). Estimates suggest that nearly 400,000 salmon could
begin using the basin within 30 years after the dams are removed (PSAT 2007).
In 1990, only one-third of the water withdrawn in the Pacific Northwest was returned to
the streams and lakes (NRC 1996). Water that returns to a stream from an agricultural
irrigation is often substantially degraded. Problems associated with return flows include
increased water temperature, which can alter patterns of adult and smolt migration;
increased toxicant concentrations associated with pesticides and fertilizers; increased
salinity; increased pathogen populations; decreased dissolved oxygen concentration; and
increased sedimentation (NRC 1996). Water-level fluctuations and flow alterations due
to water storage and withdrawal can affect substrate availability and quality, temperature,
and other habitat requirements of salmon. Indirect effects include reduction of food
sources; loss of spawning, rearing, and adult habitat; increased susceptibility of juveniles
to predation; delay in adult spawning migration; increased egg and alevin mortalities;
stranding of fry; and delays in downstream migration of smolts (NRC 1996).
Commercial and Recreational Fishing
Most of the commercial landings in the region are groundfish, Dungeness crab, shrimp,
and salmon. Many of the same species are sought by Tribal fisheries and by charter and
recreational anglers. Nets and trolling are used in commercial and Tribal fisheries.
Recreational anglers typically use hook and line, and may fish from boat, river bank, or
docks. Entanglement of marine mammals in fishing gear is not uncommon and can lead
to mortality or serious injury.
Pesticides are used in commercial oyster-producing areas in Willapa Bay and Grays
Harbor. Currently, under a statewide SLN or Section 24 (c) registration, carbaryl can be
applied to aerially applied to intertidal areas when exposed at low tide. Pesticide use is
intended to control ghost shrimp (Neotrypaea californiensis) and mud shrimp (Upogebia
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