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

the ability to target specific areas to introduce fish. Establishing an egg planting
project that integrates with work already underway would allow a comparison
between sea-run source eggs and eggs from captive reared adults (Penobscot F2).
13.2.5 Develop a fry stocking adaptive management plan
The goal of the plan is to maximize the number of smolts reaching Penobscot Bay
from fry stocking (Appendix E). Adaptive management forces managers to clearly
identify goals and assumptions, state management strategy, design monitoring, and
recognize the links between expected outcome(s) and management changes. Fry
have been stocked in the watershed since 1990 and resulted in high parr and smolt
densities in some areas; however, adult returns and natural spawning from naturally
reared salmon remain low. In addition to allocation decisions (i.e. location, density,
method), the quality of the fry and the characteristics and conditions of the habitat
also affects survival. Past decisions for the annual allocations of fry among and
within sub-basins need to be documented (Task 13.2.2) and combined with data on
river conditions (e.g., flow, temperature) and fry quality (e.g., development index
(DI), relative size number/lb) to develop feedback to the hatchery on product survival
(Task 13.2.7). Current practices will be reviewed and stocking strategies developed
based on analysis of past experiences and use of models to aid in the selection of
suitable habitats to stock with appropriate life stages. Allocations are currently
based on biotic, abiotic, logistics, and observed results. Population viability and
habitat productions models (Appendix B and C) may assist in identifying habitats
that have suitable characteristics for salmon.
13.2.6 Review and assess causes and remedies for poor natural recruitment
In the Penobscot drainage, natural recruitment is limited, in part, because the
numbers of wild spawners are adult returns is limited in part by inadequate to foster
robust juvenile populations. It is therefore important to understand possible causes
and work to remedy them. Increased adult escapement alone will not remedy poor
juvenile recruitment if the habitat is compromised and limiting.
13.2.7 Report: Juvenile production from fry stocking
Fry stocking has been an integral management tool for conserving Atlantic salmon
since 1990. To date there has been no review of the practice and its contributions to
adult returns. An assessment of past practices (recent allocations and distribution
procedures) and the relative contributions of this enhancement strategy to juvenile
populations, smolt production, and it contributions to adult returns in is needed.
13.2.8 Stock fry and assess according to existing management practices
MDMR is currently reviewing stocking and population assessment practices to gain
better information for adaptive management. Prior to the development of the
integrated stock enhancement program, biologists will continue stock fry according
to existing practices.
13.2.9 Stock fry according to fry stocking adaptive management plan
PRFP Page 41