Operational Plan for the Restoration of Diadromous Fishes to the ...

Work Plan Narratives
1.1.1-1.1.3 and 2.1.1-2.1.2 Estimate the size of the shortnose sturgeon and
Atlantic sturgeon populations, identify their essential habitat, and complete a
genetic analysis.
This work was initiated by the University of Maine in 2007, and is expected to be
completed in 2010. The ongoing study uses acoustic telemetry, mark-recapture
techniques, DIDSON sonar, and microsatellite DNA analysis to accomplish its
objectives. The study is funded by a 4-year NOAA Section 6 grant to DMR.
1.1.5 and 2.1.5 Estimate the size of the shortnose sturgeon and Atlantic
sturgeon populations 20 and 40 years after Yr0.
Population estimates should be made at least twice for both species after Veazie
and Great Works dams are removed. Assuming that both species will be studied at
the same time, the longer generation time of Atlantic sturgeon should drive the
timing of the work. The shortnose sturgeon population, which overwinters in the
Penobscot, could be assessed on a shorter cycle (14, 28, 42 years) if current studies
using sonar (DIDSON) prove to be effective.
1.1.6 and 2.1.6 Reassess essential habitat 1-2 year, 20 and 40 years after Yr0.
Conduct a follow-up telemetry study 1-2 years after the removal of Veazie and Great
Works dams are removed to determine whether sturgeon are utilizing the newly
accessible habitat. Studies of habitat use should be made at least twice for both
species after Veazie and Great Works dams are removed. Assuming that both
species will be studied at the same time, the longer generation time of Atlantic
sturgeon should drive the timing of the work.
3.1.1 Document the age structure of the existing rainbow smelt population by
2012 (or prior to Yr0).
The current age structure should be documented. Declines in rainbow smelt
populations in Massachusetts appear to co-occur with decreases in age at first
spawning.
3.1.2 Estimate the size of the rainbow smelt population in 2012(or prior to Yr0)
if feasible.
The most recent population estimate was developed from a mark-recapture study
conducted nearly 40 years ago in conjunction with the commercial fishery. That
fishery no longer exists, so a similar study would require a large amount of fishing
effort. The existing or proposed assessment studies (rotary screw traps, beach
seine survey, boat electrofishing) may not be useful for rainbow smelt. Newer
techniques (e.g. hydroacoustics) or a combination of techniques might be more
efficient, but the methodology would have to be developed.
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