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

3.1.3, 3.2.1, and 3.3.1 Estimate the size of the rainbow smelt population and
assess its use of habitat between Veazie and Milford by Yr15; estimate the size
of the population in Yr30 and Yr45.
The size of the rainbow smelt population and its use of the habitat above Veazie
should be determined approximately 15 years after the two lowermost dams are
removed. Additional populations estimates should be made at 15 year intervals.
New technology may be available in the future to make this assessment easier to
accomplish.
3.1.4, 4.1.3, 6.1.6, 7.1.6, and 8.1.3 Conduct biweekly juvenile fish survey.
This would complement the surveys that have been occurring in the lower Kennebec
and Androscoggin rivers since 1979 and the upper Kennebec since the removal of
Edwards Dam. The biweekly beach seine survey provides information on multiple
species, and is an ASMFC requirement for assessing juvenile alosines and striped
bass on rivers undergoing restoration.
4.1.1 Develop and institute a survey to assess trends in the Atlantic tomcod
population and habitat use.
The current distribution and abundance of the tomcod population is not known, and
the existing or proposed assessment studies (rotary screw traps, beach seine
survey, boat electrofishing) may not capture this species. Newer techniques (e.g.
hydroacoustics) or a combination of techniques might be more efficient, but the
methodology would have to be developed.
4.1.2 Test tomcod periodically for mercury.
Atlantic tomcod were used to determine the biological impact of mercury released
from the HoltraChem site in Orrington. Mercury levels in tomcod tissue decreased
downstream from site. Additional testing should occur after remediation is
completed.
4.1.3 Biweekly beach seine survey-see 3.1.4
5.1.1 Identify sea-run brook trout populations in the Penobscot basin.
At a minimum, populations of brook trout that have a sea-run component should be
identified.
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