Public Comment. Volume III - Montana Legislature

Impact Analysis Studies and Proposed Mitigation Approach Page 6
iv) Zooplankton availability and species composition
v) Survival to first stockable size (1 -2")
vi) Survival to each successive stockable size (1 -2" intemals )
At each phase, key factors will be identified that already affect production variation so
that, in the event of a loss, these factors can either be ruled out or attributed as part of the
loss evaluation process. These factors will be chosen based on existing hatchery
management literature, potential for affecting production, available accuracy of
measurement, and their ability to be measured over an extended time range since they
will need to be monitored consistently throughout the baseline study, during construction,
and during operation to be of value. If additional key factors, concerns, and issues are
identified during the study, they would be evaluated by the director of the studies,
brought to the mitigation committee (see section 4.1) with recommendations, and a
-. decision would be made as to what action should be taken.
The baseline study will focus on walleye, northern pike, and bass (large and smallmouth)
since they comprise more than 95% of annual production. However, the study will also
evaluate success rates for other regularly produced game fish such as channel catfish,
tiger muskie, and rainbow trout. Additional efforts will be necessary to quantify
acceptable production levels for infrequently required species (fathead minnow, sturgeon,
cisco, etc.). Some of the information on acceptable production levels for infrequently
produced species may be available through data exchanges with similar hatcheries
throughout the U.S.
As described previously, the end result of these studies will be a statistically-based model
that can aid MT DFWP in discerning which factors affect production success variation at
the hatchery. It is the intent that the model will not only determine if construction and
operation of the TRR have caused impacts but to also assist in identifying the factors and
level of impact that the TRR has caused resulting in an adverse affect or reduced
production. The model is expected to predict a range of expected production success
given the set of factors for a production cycle. It will be an important tool to determine if
variation in production is being caused by hatchery operations or construction and
operation of the TRR.
The baseline study related to hatchery operations will be performed on-site at MCFH and
will be incorporated into the regular operations of the hatchery. Efforts will be made to
minimize adjustments in established hatchery protocols or routines so that the study can
be continued once construction and operation of the railway has begun. Current hatchery
staff should not be expected to perform work related to data gathering and analysis.
However, if additional work tasks or responsibilities are required by MT DFWP
employees for studies or mitigation related issues, compensation for additional hours,
materials, or equipment should be the responsibility of TRRC.
3.1.2 Impact Studies
EQC Eminent Domain Study -227-