Don Fishery Management Plan - RAFTS

3) Genetic analysis.Particular groups of fish are genetically suited to particular locations within catchmentsand so natural genetic population structuring should therefore be conserved (Youngson,2007). The migrating adults intercepted at Newe weir may have been destined to spawnin one of a number of tributaries or the mainstem of the Don upstream. The resultingprogeny may therefore be more naturally suited to specific parts of the catchment and ifthey are instead stocked somewhere less appropriate survival may be reduced.Comparing the genetic make-up of juvenile populations within different tributaries in theupper catchment will help to establish if the populations are distinct and should beconserved as such.The extensive recording of individual brood fish information required by law during therunning of the hatchery is adhered to by the Board and overseen by the MarineDirectorate. The hatchery facility and procedures can also be reviewed as part of theevaluation to determine whether future investment is required.Outcomes of Hatchery Programme EvaluationData CollectedAvailable habitat and juvenile densitiesGenetic analysisData Uses• Establish where stocking would bebeneficial• Establish if stocking is the most costeffective approach• Determine if population mixing isoccurring• Confirm if brood stock source locationand stocking locations are appropriateLead BodiesThe hatchery operations are managed by the Don DSFB. Collaboration with the RDTwill allow the data derived from the habitat, electric fishing and genetic surveys to beeffectively integrated into the evaluation process.Future WorkA revision of the stocking procedure in light of best practice, (FRS, 2003; Youngson,2007) and the evaluation may be necessary. Any stocking which is carried out should bemonitored to ensure it is beneficial, e.g. results in increased numbers of juvenile salmon.31