Dynamics of chinook salmon populations within Idaho's Frank Church Wilderness: implications for persistence

Abstract

Research was begun in 1995 to describe factors influencing the spatial dynamics and persistence of federally listed chinook salmon within the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Results addressed two objectives: 1) description of chinook salmon redd distributions, and 2) comparison of index and total redd counts. Annual redd counts ranged from 20 to 661, and 99% of redds were constructed in tributaries. Redds were observed at elevations between 1,140 and 2,070 m, with a majority (56%) >1,900 m. The distribution of redds deviated from a random pattern and fluctuated with adult salmon numbers. At lower adult escapements, redds were clustered in specific areas of a few watersheds. At higher escapements, fish constructed additional redds near previous clusters and also outside of clusters and in watersheds that were previously not utilized. Index area counts averaged 63% of total counts.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 3: Wilderness as a place for scientific inquiry; 1999 May 23-27; Missoula, MT

Citation

Thurow, Russell F. 2000. Dynamics of chinook salmon populations within Idaho''s Frank Church Wilderness: implications for persistence. In: McCool, Stephen F.; Cole, David N.; Borrie, William T.; O’Loughlin, Jennifer, comps. 2000. Wilderness science in a time of change conference—Volume 3: Wilderness as a place for scientific inquiry; 1999 May 23–27; Missoula, MT. Proceedings RMRS-P-15-VOL-3. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 143-151.