HomeMy WebLinkAboutChakachamna Hydroelectric Project Interim Feasibility Assessment Report Vol.2 1983CHAKACHAMNA HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
INTERIM FEASIBILITY ASSESSMENT REPORT
VOLUME II
APPENDIX TO SECTION 6.0
BECHTEL CIVIL & MINERALS INC.
ENGINEERS -CONSTRUCTORS
PROPERTY OF:
Alaska Power Authority
334 W. 5th AVJe.
Anchorage, Alaska 99501
MARCH 1983
L-.._ALASiiA POWER AUTHORITY_------~
ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
CHAKACHAMNA HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
INTERIM FEASIBILITY ASSESSMENT REPORT, MARCH 1983
VOLUME II
TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPENDIX TO SECTION 6.0
6.0 ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
6.1 Environmental Study Area
6.2 Environmental Hydrology-1981
6. 2 .1
6.2.2
6. 2. 3
6. 2. 4
Background
6.2.1.1 Data Base
6.2.1.2 Study Area
Study Objectives and Methodology
6.2.2.1 Hydrology
6.2.2.2 Hydraulics
6.2.2.3 Channel Configuration and
Process
Results
6.2.3.1
6.2.3.2
6.2.3.3
and Discussion
Hydrology
Hydraulics
Channel Configuration
and Process
Conclusions
6.3 Aquatic Biology -1981
6. 3 .1 Backgrou.ntl
6.3.1.1 Study Area
6-1
6-2
6-4
6-4
6-5
6-5
6-6
6-6
6-11
6-13
6-14
6-15
6-17
6-19
6-22
6-26
G-26
6-27
6. 3. 2 Study Objectives and Methodologies 6-27
6. 3. 3
6.3.2.1 August 1981 Reconnaissance 6-29
6.3.2.2 September 1981 Reconnaissance 6-29
Results and Discussion
6.3.3.1 Species Occurrence
6.3.3.2 Habitats Utilized for
Various Life Functions
6.3.3.3 Habitat Use
i
6-34
6-34
6-35
6-53
Section
6. 3. 4 Summary and Conclusions of
1981 Studies
6.4 Terrestrial Vegetation and Wildlife
6.4.1
6.4.2
6. 4. 3
6.4.4
Background
6.4.1.1 Study Area
Study Objectives and Metbodology
Results
6.4.3.1
6.4.3.2
6.4.3.3
and Discussion
Vegetation
Mammals
Birds
Conclusions
6.5 Human Resources
6.5.1
6.5.2
6.5.3
6.5.4
6. 5. 5
Background
Arcbaeological and Historic
Resources
6.5.2.1
6.5.2.2
6.5.2.3
Introduction
Historical Background
Methodology and Results
Land ownership and Use
6.5.3.1 Land Ow~ership
6.5.3.2 Federal Land
6.5.3.3 State Land
G.5.3.4 Native Land
6.5.3.5 Land Use
Recreation
6.5.4.1 Trading Bay State Game
6.5.4.2
6.5.4.3
6.5.4.4
Refuge
Chakachatna/McArthur
Rivers
Chakachamna Lake
Lake Clark National
Park
Socioecouomics
6.5.5.1 Tyonek
6.5.5.2 Kenai Peninsula Borough
6.5.5.3 Anchorage
ii
6-56
6-57
6-57
6-58
6-59
6-61
6-61
6-65
6-67
6-69
6-70
6-70
6-72
6-72
6-72
6-77
6-81
6-81
6-82
6-83
6-85
6-95
6-100
6-101
6-102
6-102
6-103
6-103
6-103
6-109
6-110
Section
6.5.6
6.5.7
6.5.8
Infrastructure
Housin<.?
Educat1on
Police Services
Community
6.5.6.1
6.5.6.2
6.5.6.3
6.5.6.4
6.5.6.5
··Fire Protection
Health Care and
Emergency Medical
Services
6.5.6.6 Water amd Wastewater
Systems
Transportation
6.5.7.1 Roads
6.5.7.2 Air
6.5.7.3 Marine
Visual Resources
6.6 Environmental Studies -1982
6.7 Environmental Hydrology -1982
6.7.1 Introduction
6.7.2 Study Approach
6.7.3
6.7.4
6.7.5
6.7.6
6.7.2.1 Field Data Collection
6.7.2.2 Data Analysis
Stream Flow Characteristics
Water Temperature
Sediment Characterization
Summary of Results
6.8 Aquatic Biology -1982
6.8.1 Introduction and Objectives
6.8.1.1 Winter-Spring
Reconnaissance Program
6.8.1.2 Summer-Fall Sampling
Program
6.8.1.2.1 Adult Anadromous
Fish
6.8.1.2.2 Resident and
Juvenile
Anadromous Fish
6.8.1.2.3 Chakachamna Lake
Sampling
6.8.1.2.4 Habitat Data
Collection
iii
Page
6-110
6-110
6-111
6-113
6-113
6-114
6-114
6-116
6-116
6-118
6-119
6-120
6-122
6-123
6-123
6-124
6-124
6-127
6-129
6-132
6-133
6-134
6-136
6-136
6-136
6-137
6-137
6-138
6-138
6-138
Section
6.8.2
6.8.3.
Methodology
Page
6-139
6-142
6-145
6-146
6-147
6-147
6-147
6-147
6-147
6-148
6-149
6-150
6-151
6.8.2.1
6.8.2.2
6.8.2.3
6.8.2.4
6.8.2.5
6.8.2.6
6.8.2.7
6.8.2.8
6.8.2.9
6.8.2.10
6.8.2.11
Results
6.8.3.1
6.8.3.2
Salmon Spawning Escapement
Fyke Nets
Minnow Traps
··Seines
Hook and Line
Electrofishing
Gill Nets
Processing of Fish Collected
6.8.2~8.1 Lifestage
6.8.2.8.2 Sexual Maturity
6.8.2.8.3 Scale Methodology
Habitat Data Collection
6.8.2.9.1 Substrate and
Cover
Hydroacoustics
6.8.2.10.1 Winter
Reconnaissance
6.8.2.10.2 September 1982
Field Program
Data Management and Analyses
Winter-Spring Reconnaissance
6-152
6-154
6-155
6-155
6-155
6-156
Program 6-156
6.8.3.1.1 Winter Studies
1982 6-157
6.8.3.1.2 Spring Studies,
May 25-27 1982 6-164
6.8.3.1.3 System-Wide
Outmigrant
Sampling 6-168
6.8.3.1.4 Spring Studies,
June 8-11, 1982 6-168
6.8.3.1.5 Spring Studies,
June 24-25, 1982 6-175
Summer-Fall Sampling Program 6-176
6.8.3.2.1 Adult Anadromous
Fish 6-176
6.8.3.2.2 Resident and
Juvenile
Anadromous Fish 6-193
6.8.3.2.3 Chakachamna Lake
Sampling 6-211
6.8.3.2.4 Habitat Data
Collection 6-217
iv
Section
6.8.4
6.8.5
6.9 References
Tables
Figure3
Discussion
6.8.4.1 Sockeye Salmon
6.8.4.2 Chinook Salmon
6.8.4.3 Pink Salmon
6.8.4.4 'Chum Salmon
6.8.4.5 Coho Salmon
6.8.4.6 Dolly Varden
6.8.4.7 Pygmy Whitefish
6.8.4.8 Rainbow Trout
Summary and Conclusions
VOLUME III
Environmental Appendixes Al, A2, A3, A4 & AS
v
Page
6-221
6-222
6-225
6-227
6-228
6-230
6-233
6-235
6-235
6-237
6-239
Table No.
6-l
6-2
6-3
6-4
6-5
6-6
6-7
6-8
6-9
6-10
6-ll
VOLUME II
LIST OF TABLES
Title
Relations used in calculating natural mean
monthly flows at eight representative locations
Locations, date and results of field discharge
measurements during September 1981
Estimated natural mean monthly and mean annual
flows at eight representative locations
Natural flood flows at eight representative
locations based on a regional flood frequency
analysis developed by Lamke (1979)
Results of low flow investigations for three
locations along Chakachatna River for each of two
6 month periods
Surveys conducted by and for Alaska Department of
Fish and Game (By date, location, method and
species found)
Collection methodologies utilized by waterbody,
September 1981 reconnaissance study
Collection gear specifications September 1981
reconnaissance study
Species list and drainage of occurrence August -
September 1981
The species composition and relative abundance of
plants iaentified within the study area for each
of the vegetative types (l = Dominant,
2 = Abundant, 3 = Common, 4 = Occasional,
5 = Rare)
The species composition and relative abundance of
mammals identified within the study area for each
of the habitat types (1 = Dominant, 2 = Common,
5 = Occasional)
vi
Table No.
6-12
6-13
6-14
6-15
6-16
6-17
6-18
6-19
6-20
6-21
6-22
6-23
6-24
6-25
6-26
6-27
6-28
Title
The species composition and relative abundance of
birds identified within the study area for each
of the habitat types (l = Abundant, 3 = Common,
5 = Occasional)
Industrial sites
Native allotments in shoreline townships
Oil and gas fields in the project area
State oil and gas lease scales
Coal leaseholdings
Locations where subsistence occurs
Kenai -Cook Inlet division area nonagricultural
employment and payroll industry series -Alaska
3rd quarter 1980
Anchorage division area nonagricultural
employment and payroll industry series -Alaska
3rd quarter 1980
Historic trails
Airport facility characteristics
1982 data collection program for recording gages
at Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers
Summary of 1982 staff gage data base
Measured discharges at selected sites in the
study area during the 1982 studies, and
comparable discharges measured during the 1981
reconnaissance
Mean daily discharges (c
locations in the study area
in 1982 at three
Summary of 1982 streamflow characteristics in
comparison with USGS records
Summary of 1982 streamflow temperature records in
oc from the recording gage on the Chakachatna
River at the lake outlet
vii
Table No.
6-29
6-30
6-31
6-32
6-33
6-34
6-35
6-36
6-37
6-38
6-39
6-40
6-41
6-42
6-43
6-44
6-45
Title
Summary of 1982 streamflow temperature records in
oc from the recording gage
at the rapids
Summary of 1982 streamflow
oc from the recording gage
at the powerhouse location
on the McArthur River
temperature records in
on the McArthur River
(Station 15)
General substrate and sediment transport
characteristics of the Chakachatna and McArthur
Rivers systems in 1982
Stream life of salmon from various sources
Fyke net deployment schedule for 1982
Lake Chakachamna water temperatures and dissolved
oxygen levels (March 22, 1982) Site 1
Depth distribution of targets detected under the
ice, density corrected percentages, 45° and 15°
transducer deployments, Chakachamna Lake, March
1982
Habitat data measured at Station 17 sloughs,
March 1982
Water quality data -McArthur River, winter 1982
Water quality data -Chakachatna River drainage,
May 1982
Water quality -McArthur drainage, May 1982
Plankton net sampling for outmigrants -sample
location, volume and fish densities (May 25-27,
198 2)
Water quality data -Chakachatna River drainage,
June 8-11, 1982
Water quality data -McArthur River drainage,
June 8-11, 1982
Estimated escapement of chinook salmon, 1982
Estimated escapement of sockeye salmon, 1982
Estimated escapement of pink salmon, 1982
viii
Table No.
6-46
6-47
6-48
6-49
6-50
6-51
6-52
6-53
6-54
6-55
6-56
6-57
6-58
6-59
6-60
6-61
Title
Estimated escapement of chum salmon, 1982
Estimated escapement of coho salmon, 1982
Percent species composition of fish collected for
all fyke net combined -1982
Percentage species composition of fish collected
in fyke net 6, Chakachatna River -1982
Monthly catch per effort values for all
lifestages of major species collected by fyke
nets -1982
Percentage of total fyke net catch per effort
represented by sub-adults of all species -1982
Species composition by location fyke nets -1982
Percentage of species -specific catch per effort
(c/f) represented by each lifestage for major
species collected by fyke net 6 -1982
Mean {X) and standard error (SE) for catch per
effort -values for all lifestages of major
species collected by fyke net -1982
Results of mark and recapture of Dolly Varden
(DV) and rainbow trout (RT) on the McArthur-
Ckakachatna system. Fish tagged at fyke net
stations -1982
Catch per effort: minnow trap samples, August
1982
Catch per effort: minnow trap samples, September
1982
Catch per effort: minnow trap samples, October
1982
Dolly Varden parr catch per effort using minnow
traps -1982
Dolly Varden juveniles catch per effort using
minnow traps -1982
Dolly Varden juvenile and parr catch per effort
using minnow traps -1982
ix
Table No.
6-62
6-63
6-64
6-65
6-66
6-67
6-68
6-69
6-70
6-71
6-72
6-73
6-74
6-75
6-76
Title
percentage incidence of juveniles of important
salmonid species by month for all collection
gear, sampling stations downstream of Chakachanma
Lake -1982
Mean c/f for each reach by month for juvenile
Dolly Varden and coho salmon -1982
Percentage of total catch of minnow trap captures
based on catch/effort 1982
Coho salmon parr catch per effort using minnow
traps -1982
Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid
species, August 1982
Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid
species, September 1982
Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid
species, October 1982
Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid
species all collection gear -1982
Chinook salmon juvenile and parr catch per effort
using minnow traps -1982
Sockeye salmon parr catch per effort using minnow
traps -1982
Pygmy whitefish catch per effort using minnow
traps -1982
Water quality profiles of Chakachamna Lake -
August, 1982
Lake Chakachamna/Transect 1. Hydroacoustic fish
density estimates, 19 September, 1982 (1 is north
shore area)
Lake Chakachamna/Transect 2. Hydroacoustic fish
density estimates, 19 September, 1982 (1 is south
shore area)
Lake Chakachamna/Transect 3. Hydroacoustic fish
density estimates, 19 September, 1982 (1 is north
shore area)
X
Table No.
6-77
6_-78
6-79
6-80
6-81
6-82
6-83
6-84
Title
Water quality profiles of Chakachamna ,Lake,
September, 1982
General substrate and cover characteristics by
station (1982)
Water quality data by station, July 1982
Water quality data by station, August 1982
Water quality data by station, September 1982
Water quality data by station, October 1982
Sources of additional inflow identified at
sampling stations, 1982
Summary of estimated salmon escapement by water-
body and drainage for 1982
xi
Figure No.
6-1
6-2
6-3
6-4
6-5
6-6
6-7
6-8
6-9
6-10
6-11
6-12
6-13
6-14
6-15
6-16
6-17
Title
Approximate Boundary of Chakachamna Lake Study
Area
Locations of Hydrologic Study Areas,
Representative Locations and Channel
Configuration Reach Boundaries
Stream and Floodplain Transect on Chakachatna
River Showing Approximate Range of Natural Stages
Stream and Floodplain Transect on Upper McArthur
River Showing Approximate Range of Natural Stages
Stream and Floodplain Transect on McArthur River
Showing Approximate Range of Natural Stages
Hydraulic Geometry of Chakachatna River Showing
Approximate Range of Natural Flow
Hydraulic Geometry of Upper McArthur River
Showing Approximate Range of Natural Flow
Hydraulic Geometry of McArthur River Showing
Approximate Range of Natural Flow
Chakachamna Lake Bottom Profile Offshore from
Shamrock Glacier Rapids
Chilligan River and Chakachamna Lake Bottom
Profiles
Electroshocking and Seine Sampling Locations
Location of Fixed Net Sets
Habitat Utilization of Chakachatna River
Sockeye Salmon Spawning Area -Chilligan River
and Kenibuna Outflow
Potential Sockeye Spawning Areas -Chakachamna
Lake
Chum and Sockeye Spawning Areas -Chakachatna
River Canyon and Straight Creek
Chakachatna River Mainstem Sockeye, Chum and Pink
Salmon Spawning Areas
xii
Figure No.
6-18
6-19
6-20
6-21
6-22
6-23
6-24
6-24
6-24
6-24
6-24
6-24
6-25
6-26
6-27
6-28
6-29
6-30
6-31
Title
Lower Reaches of Chakachatna, Middle and McArthur
Rivers Showing Sand, Silt and Mud Substrates
Habitat Utilization of McArthur River
Upper McArthur River Identified Spawning Areas
McArthur River Sampling Sites
Designated Habitat Areas
Location of Sampling Quadrats in Chakachamna
Study Area
The Location of Habitat and Vegetative Types
Within the Study Area -Sheet 1 of 6
The Location of Habitat and Vegetative Types
Within the Study Area -Sheet 2 of 6
The Location of Habitat and Vegetative Types
Within the Study Area -Sheet 3 of 6
The Location of Habitat and Vegetative Types
Within the Study Area -Sheet 4 of 6
The Location of Habitat and Vegetative Types
Within the Study Area -Sheet 5 of 6
The Location of Habitat and Vegetative Types
Within the Study Area -Sheet 6 of 6
The Cumulative Number of Breeding Pairs Within
the Study Area
Nesting Locations: Bald Eagle Nests as of May,
1980. Trumpeter Swan Nests as of August, 1980
Current Land Ownership
Existing and Potential Land Use
Existing and Proposed Transportation Facilities
Location and Identification of 1982 Sampling
Stations
Map of Upper McArthur River Showing Locations of
the 1982 Recording Gages and Powerhouse Sites.
xiii
Figure No.
6-32
6-33
6-34
6-35
6-36
6-37
6-38
6-39
6-40
6-41
6-42
6-43
6-44
6-45
6-46
6-47
Title
1982 Cross-Section of McArthur River at Recording
Gage, Looking Downstream
Hydrographs of Mean Daily Flows at Three
Locations in the Study Area
1982 Regression Relationship Between Discharges
at Site 6 and Discharges at the Chakachatna
Recording Gage.
1982 Water Temperature Records at the McArthur
River Recording Gage Site Showing Diurnal
Variation.
Chakachatna and McArthur River Systems Showing
Detail Areas A through G, 1982
Chinook Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Clearwater Tributary to Straight Creek (19)
Hydroacoustic Survey System Schematic, Winter,
1982
Hydroacoustic Survey Transducer Deployment,
Winter, 1982
Winter, 1982 Hydroacoustic Survey Sites
Hydroacoustic Survey System Schematic;
Summer-Fall, 1982
Approximate Hydroacoustic Transects, September,
1982
Chinook Salmon Spawning Areas, 1982 Study
Chinook Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Oxbow Creek (l3X)
Chinook Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Upper Tributary (l3U)
Chinook Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.2
Sockeye Milling Areas Streams l3X, 12.1, 12.2,
12.3, 1982
xiv
Figure No.
6-48
6-49
6-50
6-51
6-52
6-53
6-54
6-55
6-56
6-57
6-58
6-59
6-60
6-61
6-6 2
6-63
6-64
6-65
6-66
Title
Sockeye Milling Area at Stream l3u, 1982
Sockeye Salmon Spawning Areas, 1982
Chakachamna Lake SQckeye Milling Areas, 1982
Sockeye Salmon Milling Areas Chilligan River, 1982
Sockeye Salmon Milling Areas Igitna River
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Canyon (stations 15 and 14)
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Upper Tributary (l3U)
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Oxbow Creek (l3X)
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.1
So~keye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.2
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.3
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.4
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.5
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Bridge Area, Chakachamna River (17)
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Clearwater Tributary to Straight Creek (19)
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Clearwater Tributary to Straight Creek (19)
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakachamna River Tributary (C 1 )
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakachamna River Canyon Sloughs
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Igitna River
XV
Figure No.
6-67
6-68
6-69
6-70
6-71
6-72
6-73
6-74
6-75
6-76
6-77
6-78
6-79
6-80
6-81
6-82
6-83
6-84
Title
Sockeye Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chilligan River
Pink Salmon Spawning Areas, 1982
Pink Salmon Milling Area Stream 19, 1982
Pink Salmon Milling Area Stream 13u, 1982
Pink Salmon Milling Area, Streams 12.1, 12.2,
12.3, 1982
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakachamna River Canyon Sloughs
Pink Salmon estimated Fish Escapement for
Clearwater Tributary to Straight Creek (19)
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for Bridge
Area, Chakachamna River (17)
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Canyon
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Upper Tributary (13u}
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Oxbow Creek (13X)
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.1
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.2
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.3
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.4
Pink Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.5
Chum Salmon Spawning Areas, 1982
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakacharnna River Canyon Sloughes
xvi
Figure No.
6-85
6-86
6-87
6-88
6-89
6-90
6-91
6-92
6-93
6-94
6-95
6-96
6-97
6-98
6-99
6-100
6-101
6-102
6-103
Title
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakachatna River Tributany (C 1 }
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escape~ent for
Straight Creek Mouth Sloughs
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for Bridge
Area, Chakachatna River (17}
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Upper Tributary (13
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.1
Churn Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.4
Coho Salmon Milling Area, Stearn 13 1982
Coho Milling Area~, Streams 13X, 12.1, 12.2,
12.3, 12.4, 1982
Coho Salmon Spawning Areas, 1982
Coho Milling Areas Chakachatna Canyon, 1982
Coho Milling Areas Station 17, 1982
Coho Milling Area McArthur Canyon, 1982
Coho Migratory Pathways, 1982
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakachatna River Canyon Sloughs
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Chakachatna River Tributary (C 1 )
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Straight Creek Mouth Sloughs
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Clearwater Tributary to Straight Creek (19)
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for Bridge
Area, Chakacharnna River (17)
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Canyon
xvii
Figure No.
6-104
6-105
6-106
6-107
6-108
6-109
6-110
6-111
6-112
6-113
6-114
6-115
6-116
6-117
6-118
6-119
6-120
6-121
Title
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Uppe Tributary (13
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
McArthur River Oxbow Creek (13X)
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.1
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.2
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.3
Coho Salmon Estimated Fish Escapement for
Tributary 12.5
Dolly Varden Migrations, 1982
Dolly Varden Spawning Areas, 1982
Eulachan Spawning Area, 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram,
August-October Fyke Nets, 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram, August,
Fyke Nets 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram,
September Fyke Nets, 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram, October
Fyke Nets, 1982
Rainbow Trout Length-Frequency Histogram,
August-October Fyke Nets, 1982
Coho (Silver) Salmon Length-Frequency Histogram,
August-October Fyke Nets, 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram,
Summer-Fall Minnow Traps, 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram, August
Minnow Traps, 1982
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram,
September Minnow Traps, 1982
xviii
Figure No.
6-122
6-123
6-124
6-125
6-126
6-127
6-128
6-129
6-130
6-131
6-132
6-133
6-134
6-135
6-136
6-137
6-138
6-139
Title
Dolly Varden Length-Frequency Histogram, October
Minnow Traps, 1982
Coho (Silver) Salmon Length-Frequency Histogram,_
August~October Minnow Traps, 1982
Coho (Silver) Salmon Length-Frequency Histogram,
August Minnow Traps, 1982
Coho (Silver) Salmon Length-Frequency Histogram,
September Minnow Traps, 1982
Coho (Silver) Salmon Length-Frequency Histogram,
October Minnow Traps, 1982
Rainbow Trout Length-Frequency Histogram,
August-October Minnow Traps, 1982
Pygmy Whitefish Length-Frequency Histogram,
August-October Minnow Traps, 1982
Pygmy Whitefish Length-Frequency Histogram,
August-October Fyke Nets, 1982
Water Temperature Record at Station 15
(Powerhouse Location) Peabody-Ryan J-90
Thermograph
Phenology of Major Life History Events for Salmon
Species, Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers, 1982
Estimated Escapements for Sockeye Salmon, 1982
Sockeye Salmon Sub-Adult Rearing Areas Based Upon
1981 and 1982 Data, 1982
Estimated Escapements for Chinook Salmon, 1982
Chinook Salmon Sub-Adult Rearing Areas, 1982
Estimated Escapements for Pink Salmon, 1982
Estimated Escapements for Churn Salmon, 1982
Estimated Escapements for Coho Salmon, 1982
Coho Salmon Sub-Adult Rearing Areas Based Upon
1981 and 1982 Data, 1982
xix
Figure No.
6-140
6-141
6-142
6-143
Title
Phenology of Important Non-Salmon species, Life
History Events, Chakachamna and McArthur Rivers
1982
Dolly Varden Sub-Adult Rearing Areas, 1942
Pygmy Whitefish Distribution Based Upon, 1981 and
1982 Data, 1982
Rainbow Trout Distribution Based Upon 1981 and
1982 Data, 1982
XX
CHAKACHAMNA HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
INTERIM FEASIBILITY ASSESSMENT REPORT
VOLUME II
APPENDIX TO SECTION 6.0
ENVIRONMENTAL APPENDIXES A1 -AS
BECHTEL CIVIL & MINERALS INC.
ENGINEERS -CONSTRUCTORS
MARCH 1983
...____ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY _ _____.
6.0 ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
As described previously, one component of the Chakachamma
Project Interim Feasiblity Assessment is an environmental
evaluation of the natural and human resources. To
accomplish the evaluation, the environmental studies were
divided into four disciplines: environmental hydrology,
acquatic biology, terrestrial biology, and human
resources. The objectives of this study are to:
o obtain sufficient information on the environment of
the study area to identify constraints that may be
placed on the project, potentially affecting its
feasibility; and
o obtain information to assist in the preparation of the
environmental exhibits for a FERC license application.
To meet these objectives a two phase program was
designed. Phase I consisted of reconnaissance-level
surveys conducted during the fall of 1981. Phase II
studies conducted during 1982 concentrated on the fishery
resource to provide a better understanding of it and data
that would allow a more appropriate design of 1983 Phase
III studies if such are to be performed.
During 1981, there were two reconnaissance efforts. The
first, conducted in August by the task leaders of the
biological and hydrological disciplines, was undertaken
to document the presence of sockeye salmon in the major
project waters and to survey the site in preparation for
the fall reconnaissance. The second investigation was
carried out in mid-September and involved two weeks of
field data collections. The objectives of this effort
6-1
6.1
were to obtain sufficient information and understanding
of the study area and its resources to allow for the
design of more detailed 1982 studies, and to assess, in a
preliminary manner, the conceptual designs of the project
alternatives. Concurrently with the 1981 field studies
were ongoing reviews of the literature and discussions
with key agency and Native Corporation personnel.
Specific objectives and preliminary results of the 1981
environmental investigations by each discipline are
presented in Sections 6.2 through 6.5. Sections 6.6
through 6.9 describe the 1982 field program, its
objectives and results.
Identification of some of the anticipated environmental
effects associated with each project alternative is
presented in Section 7, while descriptions of conceptual
work plans for 1983 programs will be set forth in a
separate study plan yet to be prepared.
Environmental Study Area
The study area is located on the west side of Cook Inlet
approximately 60 miles west of Anchorage (Figure 6.1).
This region supports a wide variety of biological and
visual resources, and is bordered by the Alaska Mountain
Range on the west and Upper Cook Inlet on the east.
Administration of the lands and waters of the area come
under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, the National Park Service, the Alaska Department
of Fish and Game, the Alaska Department of Natural
Resources, and two native corporations (Cook Inlet Region
and Tyonek Native). Although management of the area is
complex due to the multitude of organizations responsible
6-2
for the area, specific sites within the study area have
specific management objectives. While the Trading Bay
State Game Refuge is maintained to protect waterfowl and
provide sport hunting, the Lake Clark National Park's
principal objective is to maintain the ecosystem in as
nearly pristine a condition as possible. Research in
both areas involves documenting pristine conditions and
processes, and determining the stability of the
ecosystems. In contrast to refuge and park objectives,
the native corporations manage their lands for high yield
timber harvesting and maintenance of subsistence
resources.
Between the mountains and the tidal flats in Trading Bay,
the land is flat and drainage is poor. Throughout these
lower elevations of the project area, the absence of
relief has contributed to the formation of a continuous
array of marshes, bogs, and ponds. Two major rivers
transport the water from the mountains to the inlet,
collect runoff from adjacent marshes and bogs, and
provide both migration and spawning habitat for numerous
species of resident and anadromous fish. The first of
these major rivers, the McArthur, has its origin at
McArthur Glacier, yet receives the majority of its water
from Blockade Glacier. The second major waterway is the
Chakachatna River. Originating at the outlet of
Chakachamna Lake, the river flows east about 15 miles
through a canyon containing almost continuous rapids and
few pools. Once on the low flatlands, the Chakachatna
floodplain gets substantially larger until it reaches its
divergence from Noaukta Slough, after which it becomes
much narrower. The Noaukta Slough carries a large
proportion of the flow from the divergence as it fans out
into a two mile wide tangle of interlaced channels before
6-3
6.2
6.2.1
it joins the McArthur River. Downstream from this
confluence, the McArthur flows several miles to the
Chakachatna River confluence, after which it passes
through marshes and tidal flats before reaching Trading
Bay.
Chakachamna Lake and its tributaries, the Nagishlamina
River, the Chilligan River, and Kenibuna Lake are located
in the higher elevations of the study area above the
Chakachatna River. As with the rest of the project area,
these high elevation lands and waters support a variety
of fish and wildlife. Chakachamna Lake is approximately
350 feet deep with mountains rising 3000 to 4000 feet
above its steep, rocky shoreline. At the mouths of the
major tributaries are large deltas, composed mainly of
sand and glacial-fluvial deposits.
Environmental
Background
The overall objectives of the 1981 environmental
hydrology studies for the Chakachamna Hydroelectric
Project were to:
o assess the impacts of flow regulation on the physical
characteristics of the Chakachatna and McArthur River
systems and
o provide input to the biological and socioeconomic
impact analysis investigations.
Studies conducted during FY 82 addressed both of these
objectives at a reconnaissance level.
6-4
6.2.1.1
6.2.1.2
Data Base
There have been few, if any, environmental hydrology
studies conducted in the project area in relation to the
development of hydropower. Hydrologic studies have been
conducted in the past on the Chakachatna River to
evaluate its hydropower potential. The first studies were
reported in 1950 and more detailed studies were made in
the 1960's. Section 4.0 of this report summarizes the
current level of knowledge of the flows available for
hydropower generation.
Hr. Robert D. Lamke, Chief of the Hydrology Section of
the Water Resources Division of the U.S. Geological
Survey, provided flow data and standard hydrologic
analyses for use in this investigation. Hydrologic data
for engineering purposes are presented in Section 4.0 of
this report. Some of these analyzed data were used in
the environmental hydrology evaluations.
Study Area
The study area was described in the previous section.
The major areas studied during the environmental
hydrology reconnaissance investigation included:
o Three areas near the mouths of the major tributaries
to Chakachamna Lake; Shamrock Glacier Rapids (A, Fig.
6.2), Chilligan River (8, Fig. 6.2), and Nagishlamina
River (C, Fig. 6.2).
o Four areas along the Chakachatna River (D through G,
Fig. 6.2).
6-5
6.2.2
6.2.2.1
o Two areas along Middle River (F and H, Fig. 6.2).
o Eight areas along the McArthur River (I through P,
Fig. 6.2).
o Two areas of Noaukta Slough Channels at their
confluence with McArthur River (0 and P, Fig. 6.2).
Other areas along the streams that may be impacted by the
project were also investigated, but in less detail.
Study Objectives and Methodology
The specific objectives of the FY 82 environmental
hydrology reconnaissance study were to:
o collect sufficient quantitative and qualitative data
to make a preliminary assessment of the physical
impacts related to each of the project alternatives,
and
o provide input to preliminary assessments of biological
and socioeconomic impacts related to each of the
project alternatives
These objectives were realized through a combination of
field data collection and office evaluations, as
described in the following sections:
Hydrology
Field Data Collection. Hydrologic field data that were
collected during the two week field reconnaissance in
mid-September included:
6-6
Jh
o discharge measurements,
o lake water level survey, and
o wetland/river level surveys.
Discharge measurements were taken at study locations D,
F, G, H, I, K, 1, and M (Figure 6.2) using procedures
similar to those of the U.S. Geological Survey; however,
for expediency during this brief reconnaissance, only
about 10 measuring stations were used in each channel. ~
Marsh-McBirney flow meter was used to measure velocity at
a depth equal to 60 percent of the full depth.
A survey was conducted at Chakachamna Lake to establish
the lake surface elevation at the time of the survey.
Vertical angle measurements were taken from Bench Mark
MORE (on the south side about mid-way along the lake) to
the lake water level. A Topcon DMS-1 electronic distance
measurement system was used to measure distances.
Standard dif rential leveling techniques were used to
measure the difference between the water level in a
wetland and the water level in a channel of the Noaukta
Slough a short distance downstream from study area E
(Figure 6.2). An approximate method using a hand level
was used in study area H (Figure 6.2) to evaluate the
water level difference between a wetland and Middle River.
Office Evaluations. Office evaluations were conducted to
develop approximate hydrologic data at eight locations in
the study area numbered locations, (Figure 6.2).
Developed data include:
6-7
o natural mean monthly flows,
o mean annual flows for natural flow conditions,
o natural flood flows at selected locations
o natural low flow conditions at selected locations.
In addition, interim assessments of instream flow
requirements for maintaining fisheries habitat were
calculated on a monthly basis at the outlet of
Chakachamna Lake. All office evaluations were selected
to provide reasonable estimates of flow conditions for
the purpose of making preliminary impact assessments.
Natural mean monthly flows were estimated from the
relations shown in Table 6.1 with the following
assumptions:
o mean monthly flows per square mile based on calculated
Chakachamna Lake inflows (from Section 4.0) are
representative of those from mountainous areas,
o mean monthly flows per square mile based on the 4 year
average of mean monthly flows of the Chuitna River
(Station 15294450) are representative of those from
non-mountainous areas, and
o proportions of flow in downstream channels at each
divergence is the same as the proportion of flow in
those channels at the time of the reconnaissance
measurement.
6-8
Mean annual flO\JS were determined from the calculated
mean monthly flows using a weighted average method; the
weighting was based on the number of days in each month.
For example, mean January flow would be multiplied by
31/365 to obtain the January portion of the mean annual
flow.
The natural flood flows were calculated based on a
regional flood frequency analysis (Lamke 1979). The
drainage area, percentage of lakes and percentage of
forest cover, were obtained for each location from
1,250,000 scale topographic maps; Lamke's (1979) isocline
maps were used to obtain mean annual precipitation and
minimum January temperature. A weighted average for
these parameters was used for locations 4, 5, and 8 based
on the percentage of flow carried by each channel
downstream from divergences measured during the
reconnaissance.
The natural low flow conditions at those locations lying
along the Chakachatna River were estimated on the basis
of the unit discharge per square mile from the
Chakachatna River gaging station records under low flow
conditions. The low flow analyses of the gage records
were provided by the U.S. Geological Survey.
Mitigative water releases to support fisheries were
calculated using different methods for the McArthur and
Chakachatna River powerhouse alternatives. The results
of these analyses are presented in Section 7. For the
alternatives with the powerhouse on the McArthur River,
fisheries habitat down the entire length of the
Chakachatna River were considered.
6-9
The Montana Method (Tennant 1975) was used to estimate
the instream flow requirements for this preliminary
assessment. The use of this method required several
major assumptions which included the following:
o the method is valid for a complex stream system like
the Chakachatna River,
o the seasonal flow regimes postulated in the model are
appropriate for south-central Alaska, and
o the method is appropriate for the complex of
anadromous and resident salmonids found in the
Chakachatna River.
The instream flow requirements calculated by this method
are based on a percentage of the mean annual flow. The
percentage is based on observations that the wetted
perimeter of a stream (potential usable habitat)
typically increases rapidly with increasing discharge up
to a flow equal to 30 percent of the mean annual flow.
For higher discharges, the wetted perimeter increases
less rapidly. Tennant (1975) refers to minimum
instantaneous flows of 30 percent of the mean annual flow
as "good" flow. The method also calls for two different
seasonal flow regimes, a low flow period from October
through March and a higher flow period from April through
September. "Fair" to "good" flows can be obtained if 10
and 30 percent of the mean annual flow is maintained
during the low flow and higher flow periods,
respectively. In the FY 82 studies, these percentages
were used to estimate what instream flow needs to be
maintained for the fishery resource. The natural flow
during the low flow period was periodically less than the
6-10
6.2.2.2
recommended flow; flows equal to the natural flows were
assumed to be released in these situations.
The required flow for the fishery resource is different
for the alternatives with the powerhouse on the
Chakachatna River. For these alternatives, the dewatered
section of the Chakachatna River is in the canyon; this
section of river apparently provides primarily migratory
habitat and relatively small amounts of spawning and
rearing habitats. Thus, it was assumed that maintenance
of the migratory habitat is sufficient to mitigate the
major impacts of dewatering this section of stream.
It was assumed that a 30 cfs flow release would be
adequate to maintain a sufficient migratory pathway
between the powerhouse and the lake, possibly requiring
some channelization.
Hydraulics
Field Data Collection. Hydraulic data that were
collected during the field reconnaissance included:
o stream and floodplain transects,
o stream gradients, and
o lake bottom profiles.
The stream and floodplain transect data were collected
using one or a combination of the following methods:
6-11
o transit and electronic distance measuring equipment to
get horizontal and vertical angles and distances to
locations along the transect,
o discharge measurement data to represent the transect
below water level, and
o a Raytheon DE-7198 depth recorder mounted to a boat to
represent the transect below water level in streams
too deep or swift to wade.
Some transects consist only of the portion of the
transect below water level.
Stream gradients were surveyed using a transit and
electronic distance measuring equipment. Water surface
profiles typically were surveyed, as were bed profiles at
the lake tributary study areas.
Lake bottom profiles were surveyed using a Raytheon DE
7198 depth recorder. Horizontal control was provided in
an approximate manner by relating to terrain features and
by monitoring boat speed.
Office Evaluation. Hydraulic evaluations were conducted
in the office to estimate the following:
o hydraulic geometry (width, depth, and velocity as a
function of discharge) and
o flooding and backwater characteristics.
The hydraulic geometry as defined above was calculated by
means of the Manning equation. Input data to the
6-12
6.2.2.3
equation included channel geometry and energy gradients
that were obtained from the stream and floodplain
transects and water surface profiles that were measured
in the field. Manning roughness coefficients were
estimated by back-calculating values from discharges
measured or estimated in the field, and checked their
reasonableness with respect to previous experience.
Flooding was estimated at selected transect locations by
establishing the stage (water level) corresponding to the
calculated flood discharge from the hydraulic geometry
data. Areal extent of flooding between transects is
qualitative and based on aerial photographs and field
observations. Backwater characteristics in tributaries
were described qualitatively based on a review of flood
levels and surveyed stream gradients.
Channel Configuration and Process
Field Data Collection. Data collected during the field
reconnaissance pertaining to channel configuration and
process include:
o observations of channel configuration,
o observations of lateral migration activity,
o observations of sediment transport characteristics.
o stream substrate
o potential fish overwintering area location surveys, and
o fish spawning channel location surveys.
6-13
6.2.3
The latter two data types were collected during fall 1981
in preparation for fish overwintering studies planned for
early 1982.
The observations of channel configuration, lateral
migration activity and sediment transport characteristics
were qualitative and were based on the experience of the
environmental hydrologist. Stream substrate was described
qualitatively and documented in some cases with
photographs. The surveys conducted to establish the
location of selected potential fish overwintering areas
and identified fish spawning channels used a combination
of transit, electronic distance measuring devices, tape,
and magnetic compass.
Office Evaluations. Channel configuration, lateral
migration activity and sediment transport characteristics
were qualitatively evaluated for natural stream flows.
The data used to evaluate these characteristics included
the hydraulic characteristics discussed previously,
aerial photographs, and field observation. These
preliminary evaluations were qualitative and the results
descriptive.
Results and Discussion
The results of this reconnaissance level investigation
are preliminary. Certain assumptions have been made to
enable a comparison of alternatives; these assumptions
will be checked during the more detailed investigations
planned for 1982.
The results of the field reconnaissance and office
evaluations for the current natural conditions are
presented and discussed below.
6-14
6.2.3.1 Hydrology
The location·s, date, and results of discharge measure-
ments during the fall reconnaissance are summarized in
Table 6.2. Estimates of mean monthly and mean annual
flows at eight representative locations in the study area
are presented in Table 6.3. A comparison of measured
values with mean monthly values indicates that the flow
at the time of the survey generally was less than the
mean for September. The flow generally was decreasing
throughout the two week reconnaissance. The discharge
measurements indicate that approximately 90 percent of
the Chakachatna River flow goes through Noaukta Slough.
The remaining 10 percent flows to the Chakachatna and
Middle River divergence where approximately 84 percent of
this flow remains in the Chakachatna River and 16 percent
flows down Middle River. This flow distribution was
assumed to remain constant through the year for the
purposes of comparison in this preliminary investigation.
Calculated flood discharges at eight representative
locations are summarized in Table 6.4. Also shown are
results of a flood frequency analysis of the Chakachatna
River gage data. It is apparent that the regional flood
frequency analysis yields larger flood magnitudes than
the gage values, especially at greater recurrence
intervals. This may be in part due to the lack of
inclusion of the lake parameter in the equation for
parameter D, representing the standard deviation of the
floods. Calculated values at locations l through 5 and 8
are affected by this discrepancy. Locations 6 and 7 are
likely to be better represented by the calculated values
since there are no significant lakes in their basins:
these locations are most significant in the evaluation of
6-15
the alternatives. Thus the discrepancy at the other
sites was not resolved for this preliminary investigation.
The results of the low flow investigation are summarized
in Table 6.5. Low flows were not calculated downstream
from the Chakachatna River-Noautka Slough divergence due
to lack of confidence in predicting the flow distribution
at low flows. Low flows on the McArthur River should not
be reduced by the project and thus were not calculated.
When surveyed, the lake water surface elevation was 1142
feet above sea level.
Surveys to establish the water level in selected wetlands
in relation to the river water level indicated that the
wetland levels were greater than the river levels in both
cases. A wetland on the northwest side of Noaukta Slough
downstream from its divergence from Chakachatna River was
found on 22 September to be 1.7 ft. above the water level
in the closest channel of the Slough. This difference is
not surprising since (1) the wetland is on the upslope
side of the river and (2) the river was dropping rapidly
from its higher summer stage. The survey was not
sufficient to establish whether or not the Chakachatna
River supplies water to the wetland.
A similar, but more approximate, survey was conducted on
the Middle River near its mouth. Wetlands are present on
both sides of the river at a level about 6 ft. above the
Middle River water level on 26 September at about 1100
hours. Wetlands were also present on the sloping bank of
the river to nearly the river level at the time of the
survey. High water evidence was present at about 4 to 5
feet above the surveyed river level. This reach of
Middle River is within the range of tidal influence, but
6-16
4.2.3.2
the amount of influence was not evaluated during this
reconnaissance study. Although the data are not
conclusive, it would appea·r that the wetlands may be
flooded periodically by a combined river flow and high
tide.
The wetlands are likely to be slow-draining and may get
most of their water from snowmelt and rainfall. Data
from this reconnaissance study are insufficient to
establish with any certainty the water budget of these
wetlands.
Hydraulics
Plots of stream and floodplain transects in study areas
D, L, and P (Figure 6.2) are presented on Figures 6.3,
6.4, and 6.5, respectively. Stages corresponding to the
highest and lowest mean monthly flow values are plotted
on the figures to show the typical annual range in
stages. The hydraulic geometry for the same three
transects is shown on Figures 6.6, 6.7, and 6.8. Mean
monthly flows are denoted on these figures. The flows
increase due to snowmelt in May, followed by a large
increase in June and July as the mountain snowpack
continues to melt and the glaciers begin to melt. In
late summer, the flows taper off gradually toward the
winter low flows. As the discharges change, so does the
hydraulic geometry.
The seasonal flow patterns of the Chakachatna River vary
over a wide range. (Figure 6.3). Winter flows would
likely be only a foot or two deep in the main channel
with very little or no flow in the left channel. Summer
flows would inundate the bar separating the two channels
and a portion of the Straight Creek floodplain as well.
6-17
The flow in the Upper McArthur River probably varies over
a much narrower range. (Figure 6 4). Winter flows would
be about a half foot deep and summer flows may be 2 to 3
feet more than that. Downstream, the McArthur River will
increase in both depth and range of depth (Figure 6.5).
Winter depths may be a foot or more; summer flows in the
main channel may be as much as 8 feet in maximum depth
with water flowing in high water channels.
Flood stages were estimated for the 10 year recurrence
interval flood at the three transects discussed above and
were plotted on Figures 6.3, 6.4, and 6 5. The
Chakachatna would likely flood the lower floodplain of
Straight Creek but will probably not flood any vegetated
areas. The floods on the McArthur remained in the
unvegetated portion of the floodplain at these transects:
it is likely that much of the McArthur River would have
similar flooding characteristics.
It was apparent at some confluences that backwater
conditions have been experienced in one or both of the
joining channels. The backwater profile could be traced
by high water marks along the banks of McArthur River
upstream of its confluence with the Lower Blockade
Glacier Channel. Similar conditions likely occur at most
confluences where the two joining channels have
dissimilar flow regimes.
Typical examples of Chakachamna Lake bottom profiles are
shown in Figures 6.9 and 6.10. Also shown on Figure 6.10
is a river survey leading into the bottom profiles. The
profile show that the bottom gradually gets deeper in the
offshore direction until a depth of approximately 20 feet
is reached, at which time the depth increase very rapidly.
6-18
6.2.3.4 Channel Configuration and Process
The channel configurations of the Chakachatna, McArthur,
and Middle Rivers and Noaukta Slough were assessed during
the field and office investigations and are identified on
Figure 6.2. The indicated boundaries of the reaches are
approximate. Four stream configurations were selected to
represent the streams in the study area:
(1) Mountainous (Mt) -characterized by numerous,
almost continuous rapids; they are usually single
channeled and are often controlled in shape and
location by external forces such as glacial
moraines, rock outcrops, and tributary deltas.
(2) Braided (B) -characterized by numerous channels,
often having different water levels; short
rapids, often located at the divergence of two
channels; and wide, usually unvegetated
floodplains: channels tend to shift their
location and configuration frequently in response
to the deposition of sediment transported in from
upstream.
(3) Split (S) -characterized by one to three
relatively stable channels, often having
different water levels, all of which carry water
for much of the year.
(4) Meandering (M) -characterized by a single
channel whose thalweg (deepest part) shifts from
one side to the other along the length of the
stream; large sand or gravel bars are typically
exposed on alternating sides of the stream at low
flows.
6-19
Stream reaches in the study area with mountainous
configurations include the upper reaches of the
Chakachatna River in Chakachatna Canyon which has almost
continuous rapids and maintains mostly a single channel.
The ice cored moraine of Barrier Glacier controls the
upper reach; old morainal and colluvial deposits form the
control of the lower reach. The McArthur River also has
two mountainous configuration reaches. The upper reach
is well into the headwaters of the river; control is
provided by cobbles and boulders whose source is the
surrounding and upvalley mountains. The lower reach is
formed by the terminal moraine of Blockade Glacier. The
mountainous reaches on the McArthur River are primarily
single channel reaches.
Braided configuration reaches in the study area include
the Chakachatna River upstream of Straight Creek, Noaukta
Slough, and the Upper McArthur River. The Chakachatna
River reach is very typical of a braided configuration;
numerous channels flow at different water levels, the
number of channels being a function of the discharge
entering the reach. The Noaukta Slough configuration
appears to be due more to lack of channel capacity than
to excessive deposition of sediments. However, dune
bedforms extended across most of the channel width in
many locations indicate that heavy bedloads are
transported at and above some threshhold discharge. The
braided reach on the Upper McArthur River is a result of
sediment deposition. It contains numerous small channels
flowing at different water levels.
There are two split configuration reaches in the study
area. They are located upstream and downstream of the
Chakachatna River braided reach. The upper reach appears
6-20
to be steeper, contains more rapids, and is likely to be
less stable than the lower reach. Both reaches are
nearby a braided configuration, but they appear to be
much more stable than the typical braided reach.
Meandering configurations are typical of the lower
reaches of the Chakachatna River and most of the McArthur
and Middle Rivers. The lower Chakachatna and Middle
River reaches are very similar in appearance; both are
primarily single channel with few exposed bars, even at
relatively low flows. Dune bedforms were numerous and
closely spaced over the full length of these reaches.
The McArthur River has two channels downstream of
Blockade Glacier. The north channel receives inflow from
the glacier via two main channels. The north and south
channels both flow mainly in a single channel meandering
configuration before joining near their confluence with
Noaukta Slough. The channels appear to be the most
active of all channels in the study area in terms of
lateral migration, from which many logs have been
introduced into the floodplain. Very large sand and
gravel bars are evident at low flow conditions. Large
dunes in the channel provided evidence of a significant
bedload transport above some threshhold discharge.
Sedimentation characteristics in the study area include:
o sediment transport characteristics and
o bed and bank material types.
Sediment transport was discussed briefly above in terms
of bedforms providing evidence of bedload movement. The
Chakachatna River downstream of the canyon and upstream
6-21
6.2.4
of the Noaukta Slough divergence contained some gravel
dunes as the most evident bedform; these dunes are often
found at the head of a channel wh~re it splits from
another channel. All channels downstream from the
Noaukta Slough divergence and all of the McArthur River
downstream of Blockade Glacier had dunes formed mainly of
sand sized particles.
Suspended load contains concentrations of fine "glacial
flour". Sand sized particles will likely be carried in
suspension by discharges greater than those at the time
of the reconnaissance.
Bed and bank materials are typically gravels, cobbles,
and some boulders in the Chakachatna River from the lake
to the Noaukta Slough divergence and in the Upper
McArthur River down to Blockade Glacier. There are some
sandy sections in the braided reach of the Upper Mc~rthur
River as well. The size distribution of the bed and
banks then decreases rapidly in the downstream direction
to become very fine sands and silts near the mouths of
the rivers.
The ice characteristics in the study area were not
investigated during 1981.
Conclusions
The 1981 field reconnaissance and subsequent office
evaluations provided valuable information regarding the
characteristics of the two river systems that could be
impacted by the proposed Chakachamna Hydroelectric
Project.
6-22
The 1981 field reconnaissance provided the following
types of information:
o instantaneous discharges at various locations
throughout the study area giving information on flow
distribution, hydraulic roughness, and channel bottom
configuration,
o lake water level for comparison with historic water
levels,
o wetland water levels relative to adjacent streams for
evaluating wetland water sources,
o stream and floodplain transects for evaluating local
water levels for a variety of discharges,
o stream water surface gradients for estimating energy
gradients for hydraulic calculations,
o lake bottom profiles for evaluating the lake tributary
stream gradients following draw down of the lake level,
o observations of channel configuration and processes
for evaluation of the changes that could occur to the
various configurations under a regulated flow
condition, and
o observations of bed and bank materials for evaluating
the sedimentation characteristics of the stream
systems.
Although these reconnaissance level field data were not
always rigorously collected nor extensive in areal
6-23
coverage, they provide a valuable starting point for
making preliminary impact evaluations and for planning
more detailed field and office investigations.
The office evaluations of the field data provided the
following information:
o Hydrologic data developed for eight representative
locations through the study area typical of glacial
rivers with low flow in late winter, large glacier
melt flows in July and August, and annual peaks due to
fall rains; the data include:
-mean annual flows,
-mean monthly flows,
-flood flows with various recurrence intervals, and
- 7 and 30 day low flows with various recurrence
intervals.
o Hydraulic geometry calculated at three representative
transects illustrating that the range of width, depth,
and velocity for the natural flow regime is typical of
streams of this size; the annual range of stages
appears to increase in the downstream direction.
o Floods on the McArthur River are likely to remain in
the unvegetated floodplain for all but the most
infrequent events, although most floods will likely
result in substantial bank erosion; floods on the
Chakachatna also will likely remain mostly in the
unvegetated portion of the floodplain.
o Backwater conditions at stream confluences are a
likely condition.
6-24
o Chakachamna Lake bathymetry indicates that a distinct
break in bottom gradient occurs at a depth of
approximately 20 ft at the deltas of major tributary
streamsi at shallower depths, the gradient is gradual
and at deeper depths, the gradient is steep.
o Chakachatna River contains reaches with the following
configurations:
-mountainous in Chakachatna Canyon,
-braided downstream of canyon and in Noaukta Slough,
-split in the lower part of the canyon and between
the bridge and Noaukta Slough, and
-meandering in downstream reaches.
o McArthur River contains reaches with the following
configurations:
-mountainous in the headwaters and at the Blockade
Glacier moraine,
-braided on the Upper McArthur between the two
mountainous reaches,
-meandering through the entire lower McArthur River.
o Sedimentation characteristics of both rivers appear to
be typical of glacial systems with very fine suspended
sediment sizes and substantial bed load transport.
o Ice characteristics are assumed to include development
of a full ice cover and have minimal aufeis
development.
6-25
6.3
6.3.1
The above results were based on field data, office
evaluations, pro ssional experience, and several
important assumptions. The assumptions must be checked
during the 1982 investigations.
Aquatic Biology
Background
To perform a reconnaissance level evaluation of the
Chakachamna Hydroelectric Project study area resources,
it was necessary first to review the literature,
particularly reports of previous studies. A variety of
regulatory agencies were contacted including the u.s.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Alaska
Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). The ADF&G, Division
of Sport Fish, has conducted a number of surveys in
portions of the Chakachamna Lake -Chakachatna River and
McArthur River systems over the past 30 years. These
surveys have included aerial observations, gill netting,
electroshocking, and ground observations.
In general, these reconnaissance level surveys were
primarily aimed at detecting spawning runs of salmon.
However, these efforts were often hampered by turbid
glacial waters. As a result, some salmon species were
often unobserved.
Overall, these studies showed that all five of the North
American Pacific salmon species were present in the
general vicinity of the project area (Table 6.6).
However, the presence of these species was not documented
at more than a few locations nor had the habitat
utilization been documented.
6-26
6.3.1.1
6.3.2
Study Area
The study area has been generally described in previous
sections. Refer to Section 6.0 and 6.1 for more detail.
The Chakachamna -Chakachatna and Chilligan River System
and the McArthur River System are large complex water-
bodies. The riverine systems contain braided reaches,
islands, inactive floodplains, sloughs, riffles, white-
water areas, side channels, tributary streams, inputs of
groundwater flow, and boulder strewn areas of high
gradient. The main stems of these rivers contain
glacially turbid waters, although there are also clear
water sloughs and tributaries present in each system.
Habitat diversity is further enhanced through substrate
and water quality variability. Substrates typically
range from silt and fine mud to large boulders and
bedrock. Water temperatures during the fall season can
vary by more than l0°C, ranging from 0.25°C glacial
runoff to ll°C shallow pools. Water depths also vary,
with some areas of the Noaukta Slough being less than 0.5
ft. deep, while some areas in Chakachamna Lake are more
than 300 ft. deep.
Study Objectives and Methodologies
Two reconnaissance level surveys were conducted on
Chakachamna Lake, and the Chakachatna, Chilligan and
McArthur Rivers during the fall of 1981. The
investigations included many of the tributary streams as
well. The first reconnaissance, that was conducted on
17-18 August 1981, consisted of aerial observations of
6-27
the project area. The objectives of this reconnaissance
were to assess:
o the extent of the system,
o which areas should be sampled in view of their
potential to be impacted by the proposed project,
o what types of sampling gear might be used; and
o the potential logistical problems caused by the site
location and topography.
The second reconnaissance, conducted from 15-28 September
1981, involved the collection of data from the areas
identified during the initial reconnaissance. This
effort employed both field sampling and visual obser-
vations. The objectives of this reconnaissance were to:
o identify the major species present during the fall;
o identify critical habitats and life functions taking
place in the system at the time of the study;
o provide an insight to the species composition and
habitat use occurring at different times of the year;
o evaluate those species and habitats potentially
vulnerable to impacts that might occur during the
construction and operation of one of the proposed
alternative hydroelectric facilities; and
o evaluate the nature and extent of studies that would
be necessary to assess the minimum amount of water
6-28
6.3.2.1
6.3.2.2
necessary to maintain a viable salmon fishery. Due to
the reconnaissance level nature of the 1981 effort, it
was decided that only the fish populations (no
invertebrates) in these systems would be investigated.
August 1981 Reconnaissance
The first reconnaissance primarily relied upon visual
observations, including both aerial overflights and
ground-level reconnaissance. During aerial overflights,
the location of spawning salmonids were observed and
recorded. At selected sites, ground surveys were
conducted. At these locations, carcasses were observed
and identified and photographs were taken to document
observations of habitat parameters. The results of this
reconnaissance were used in planning the 1981 fall survey.
September 1981 Reconnaissance
Since the September reconnaissance included the sampling
of a variety of habitats at various depths and under
varying flow conditions, a number of different fish
collecting techniques were used. Table 6.7 lists the
fish collection methodologies used in each water body,
while specific gear types are identified in Table 6.8.
Visual observations of all major water bodies were
recorded from a helicopter at altitudes between 10 and
200 ft.
Electroshocking, using backpack electroshockers, was
utilized in areas where water depths of four feet or less
were encountered and conductivities were less than 2000
micromhos/cm. The electroshocker immobilizes fish
enabling them to be collected. Pulsed direct current
6-29
(DC) was utilized to reduce the physical damage to fish
while it allowed taking advantage of galvanotaxis (the
attraction of fish to the positive electrode), thus
making them easier to catch with a dipnet. The
relatively small range of the backpack shocker confined
its use to shore-line areas and shallow open water
areas. It was generally operated by one member of the
field team while one or both of the other members
deployed dipnets or seines. This technique was
particularly effective in collecting juvenile fish that
were sheltered among rocks and snags and could not be
sampled with other equipment. It was also useful in fast
flowing areas when used in conjunction with a seine or
stationary drift net since fish could be collected from
swift moving waters that would otherwise be
inaccessible. Areas sampled by electroshocking, seine
netting or both are shown in Figure 6.11.
A hand seine (Table 6.8) was utilized both individually
and in conjunction with the electroshocker. When used in
conjunction with the electroshocker, the hand seine was
deployed downstream, usually in swift currents. In slower
moving water the seine was moved upstream (with the ends
of the seine extended) toward one member of the field
team who kicked or shuffled the substrate. This gear was
effective on both small and large fish in confined
channel reaches and along shorelines.
The stationary drift net used in this study was an otter
trawl with a fine mesh liner. It was deployed in streams
with high velocity currents. The streamlined shape of
this net allowed it to be deployed in areas where the
water currents were too swift to deploy a seine.
6-30
The beach seine was similar to the hand seine described
above but of much greater length {Table 6.8). This net
was only used in Chakachamna Lake. One end of the net
was secured to the shore while the other end was carried
out from shore by boat. As the boat moved in an arc back
to shore, the bottom of the net was kept on the lake
bottom, thereby surrounding a volume of water. This
technique was effective, but only in those areas where
the current was relatively small or nonexistent and where
the shore area was shallow enough to deploy the net
properly.
Experimental, 75 foot long gill nets (Table 6.8),
consisting of 5 panels of 0.75, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 inch
bar mesh were utilized in Chakachamna Lake. These nets
were deployed perpendicular to the shore, and at the
surface and bottom (Figure 6.12). The small mesh panel
(0.75") was always kept on the shoreward side, where
juvenile fish concentrate their activity. The nets were
marked with floats and checked after 1 to 3 hours. All
fish collected were measured and weighed and live fish
were released. Those nets that did not catch large
numbers of fish were left in place overnight.
The gill nets facilitated the collection of fish in
deeper areas of the lake. By leaving the nets set
overnight a more time-integrated sampling of the fish
populations was possible.
Fyke nets (Table 6.8) are trap nets that are set with
long leads of heavy twined mesh. Fish that encounter the
leads are guided towards a series of mesh funnels that
guide the fish into a trap from which they can be
removed. The leads and net are held in place and
6-31
oriented by steel poles driven into the bottom. The nets
can be used where water is shallow enough (generally 4
feet) to allow the leads to extend from the stream bottom
to the water surface, and where water currents are at a
minimum.
Advantages of the fyke net include both the large areas
fished and the fact that they do relatively little damage
to trapped fish. These nets were set in the deep water
sections of the rivers that could not be adequately
sampled by other gear (Table 6.7). In the Noaukta
Slough, Middle River, and Chakachatna River the wings of
the nets essentially directed all fish moving upstream
into the funnels. In the McArthur River one main-channel
section was completely blocked by the nets.
Hoop nets were set without leads in Chakachamna Lake at
each of the gillnetting sites (Table 6.8). This was done
to diversify the fishing techniques utilized so that
species or individuals not vulnerable to the gill nets
might also be collected. This gear was relatively
ineffective.
Minnow traps, made of galvanized mesh were set near the
hoop nets. These traps had much smaller mesh than either
the gill nets or hoop nets and were utilized to again
diversify the gear and enable the collection of smaller
fish such as juvenile salmonids. These were generally
set among rocks or other such cover that usually provides
habitat for juvenile fish.
The variety of collecting gear used prevented biasing of
our collections through gear selectivity. In this
manner, fish of many different life stages and in
6-32
different habitats were successfully collected thus
providing a more complete picture of the fish populations
present at each site.
In the field, fish were measured to the nearest
millim~ter for total length and usually weighed to the
nearest ounce. Where possible, the sex of the fish was
noted and whether the fish, in the case of salmonids, was
a parr, smolt, juvenile or adult. Scales were taken from
selected specimens. All captured adult salmon and other
live fish were released at the point of collection.
Juveniles were identified in the field and released
whenever possible. Several specimens whose species
identification could not be confirmed in the field were
preserved in a 10 percent formalin solution for
laboratory identification.
Physical data collected in the field included water
temperatures measured with a YSI Model 57 temperature-
oxygen meter or a Taylor mercury thermometer, and water
velocities measured with a Marsh-McBirney Model 201
electromagnetic flow meter or a General Oceanics Model
2035B remotereading flow meter.
Fish specimens were identified in the laboratory using
keys prepared by Hart (1975), McConnel and Snyder (1972),
Morrow (1980) Scoott and Crossman (1973), Smoker (1955),
Troutman (1973) and Wydoski and Whitney (1979). Habitat
requirements of salmon and trout were characterized by
Bailey (1969), Balon (1980), Blackett (1968), Foester
{1968), Martin and Oliver {1980), Merrell {1970), Morrow
(1980}, Nikolskii (1961), and Scott and Crossman {1973).
6-33
6.3.3
6.3.3.1
Results and Discussion
Although a large amount of data were gathered during the
August and September 1981 reconnaissance efforts, these
data represent only the biological events occurring
within the short period of time encompassed by these
investigations. Data that were collected included:
o Species occurrence;
o Habitat utilization;
o Critical life functions taking place; and
o Relative success of the collection gear.
The following sections summarize the results of these
data.
Species Occurrence
Species occurrence is perhaps one of the most significant
results of this reconnaissance. All five species of
salmon occurring in Alaskan waters were found to spawn in
both drainages (Table 6.9). It is unclear at this time
which species usually is most abundant, but spawning
sockeye salmon were most abundant during the investi-
gation. Lake trout appeared to occur only in Chakachamna
Lake, while Dolly Varden were ubiquitous throughout both
drainages. Rainbow trout appeared only in the lower
portions of both drainages. Round and pygmy whitefish
were found in most areas of both drainages, although
pygmy whitefish were not found in Chakachamna Lake or
drainages above it. Slimy sculpin were found throughout
6-34
6.3.3.2
both systems and in tributary streams. Sticklebacks,
however, were only found in backwater areas and among
vegetation, usually in the lower reaches of the rivers.
Only a single grayling was observed in a side channel in
the upper Nagishlarnina River and none were collected or
observed at any other location. It is clear, with few
exceptions, that most of the species found, occurred
throughout both drainages.
The fish in this area may be classified into two primary
groups, forage fish and commercial and sport fish.
Forage fish in the project area include threespine
stickleback, ninespine stickleback, slimy sculpin, pygmy
whitefish, and round whitefish (Morrow 1980, Scott and
Crossrnen 1973, Balon 1980). Although the round whitefish
is probably not used as a subsistence species in these
drainages it is eaten by lake trout and other species of
fish. Sport and commercial fishes include pink, churn,
sockeye, coho and chinook salmon, Dolly Varden, lake
trout, rainbow trout, and grayling (Morrow 1980, Scott
and Crossman 1973).
Habitats Utilized For Various Life Functions
A wide variety of habitats were sampled during the course
of the reconnaissance studies using a diverse assemblage
of sampling gear. As stated, one objective of the 1981
program was to gather a wide variety of data from a large
area during a relatively short period of time, thus more
attention was given to collecting qualitative rather than
quantitative data, and to characterize general habitat
use. Habitat utilization will be reported and discussed
by waterbody or river stretch, as appropriate.
6-35
Chakachamna Lake Tributaries
The results of studies at each site sampled or observed
in the Chakachamna Lake/ Chakachatna River drainage is
summarized in Figure 6.13. This figure identifies
habitat utilization and potential habitat utilization for
salmon and trout species.
The rivers flowing into Kenibuna Lake were investigated
by means of low level overflights, since the waters in
the Neacola, Another and Igitna Rivers were sufficiently
clear to observe fish and generally characterize the
substrate. The Neacola River, at the date of the
overflight, was relatively shallow with an apparent sand/
silt substrate. Large amounts of emergent vegetation
were present, and although the substrate appeared to be
unsuitable for salmon spawning, several adult Dolly
Varden were seen from the air. It is possible that round
whitefish were also present and that sockeye salmon
juveniles may utilize this river.
The Another River was also overflown at relatively low
altitudes in September 1981, and was found to contain a
substrate composed of gravel, cobble, rubble, and
boulders including some areas suitable for salmonid
spawning. Although the water was clear with riffles, no
sockeye salmon were observed, however, one adult Dolly
Varden was observed. The stream could potentially
provide habitat for adults and juveniles of stream
dwelling species, such as Arctic grayling, round
whitefish and slimy sculpin.
When the Igitna River was overflown, the water was
somewhat clouded by glacial silt. However, it was
6-36
obvious that there was a great deal of gravel substrate
and large numbers of sockeye salmon were observed and
redds (spawning nests) were identified.
The areas of the stream that were utilized most
intensively were the side-channels and relatively shallow
areas of the main channel within a few miles of Kenibuna
Lake. Some of the side channels appeared clearer than
the main channel possibly due to the influence of flows
from clearwater tributaries or groundwater. Such streams
are preferred by sockeye {Foerster, 1968). Within the
stream sections utilized by sockeye salmon, there
appeared to be about 3-10 fish (including both live and
dead) for each 10 feet of stream length. Sockeye
carcasses were abundant and while not counted, there were
probably more than 1000 fish in this general area.
Although Kenibuna Lake was too turbid for proper
observation, a Dolly Varden was seen at the mouth of the
Igitna River. During overflights conducted by ADF&G in
1952 {undated) sockeye salmon were seen at the west end
of the lake (Table 6.6). In addition to serving as a
migratory pathway for spawning sockeye salmon, the lake
probably also serves as nursery habitat for juvenile
sockeye salmon. The lake may also provide habitat for
lake trout and kokanee since these species were collected
from Chakachamna Lake. The potential also exists for
salmon or lake trout to spawn along the northeast
shoreline of Kenibuna Lake since a gravel-cobble
substrate is present.
The Chilligan River, which discharges into the northwest
end of Chakachamna Lake was overflown during both August
and September 1981. Although the river waters were
6-37
cloudy, large numbers of sockeye salmon were observed
during both investigations. Gravel and cobble substrates
were common in many parts of the river. Sockeye salmon
were present in large numbers but appeared to be more
abundant in side channels of the river, particularly in
those with clearer water. (Figure 6.14.) More than one
thousand fish were observed during each survey. During
the August overflight, some unidentified grey fish were
seen in the lower part of the river. Positive
identification could not be made due to the depth and
turbidity of the water. Dolly Varden may also use the
Chilligan River for spawning and were obser~ed near the
banks, in shallow water. The combination of substrate,
water temperature, and current found in this river meet
the habitat criteria for Dolly Varden described by
Blackett (1968) and Leggett (in Balon 1980).
The Nagishlamina River, which discharges into the
northeast end of Chakachamna Lake was overflown in August
and September. Ground observations were conducted during
August and nets were used at the mouth of the river
during September. The ground reconnaissance in August
revealed both adult and juvenile Dolly Varden as well as
one Arctic grayling in the upper reaches of the river.
Dolly Varden were also observed in the areas closer to
the lake (Figure 6.13). A variety of sub-strates, with
large stretches of gravel and cobble that appeared
suitable for spawning by a number of salmonid species
were also found. The upper reaches of the river were
shallower and less cloudy than areas closer to
Chakachamna Lake.
A sand delta occurs at the mouth of the Nagishlamina
River. This area was fished with nets during the
6-38
September reconnaissance. Dolly Varden, lake trout
juveniles and adults, and juvenile and ripe adult sockeye
salmon were captured. In addition, one ripe kokanee male
was collected. During the last day of the September 1981
reconnaissance several large gray fish were observed in
the river. These may have been kokanee or possibly Dolly
Varden.
Chakachamna Lake.
Chakachamna Lake is large and deep. On the average, the
lake is over 300 ft. deep, with relatively steep slopes
and very narrow shallow areas (U.S. Geological Survey
bathymetric charts 1960). Slopes of 1:2.5 or even 1:1.1
are not uncommon in some portions of the lake and gentler
slopes of 1:5 are only found at the river deltas. The
water in the lake is cloudy due to glacial silts. The
shoreline varies from sand deltas to gravel beaches to
boulder slopes. Because the perimeter of the lake is
very large, a fairly extensive shallow water habitat
exists despite the narrowness of the shallow water zone
found along the shoreline.
During the September investigation, five species were
collected in the lake including, ripe sockeye salmon
migrating along the shore of the lake, lake trout, Dolly
Varden, round whitefish, and slimy sculpin (Figure 6.13).
Substrates suitable for sockeye salmon and lake trout
spawning were found in several areas of Chakachamna
Lake. It appeared that the sockeye were spawning along
one area of gravel beach on the north shore of the lake
(Figure 6.15). The substrate in this area was suitable
and a large number of sockeye were milling about in the
6-39
area. Although visibility prohibited observing redds, a
female was observed excavating a redd. It is unclear to
what extent this area is used for spawning, but the beach
area was apparently utilized as nursery habitat by
juvenile sockeye salmon, lake trout, and round whitefish
(Figure 6.13). Adult lake trout, round whitefish, Dolly
Varden and slimy sculpins were also found in this area.
The round whitefish in this area were feeding on insect
larvae, and the lake trout were feeding on juvenile
sockeye salmon and round whitefish.
Adult lake trout were found in all areas sampled,
although they were most abundant in rocky areas,
particularly those sites with large boulders. Many of
the adults examined during the September 1981 investi-
gation were sexually mature spawners. This may have
influenced their distribution, since the rocky 'shallow
water areas are used for spawning. The lake trout in
these areas were also found to be actively feeding. The
stomach contents of one large lake trout contained 22
sockeye salmon parr.
Dolly Varden did not appear to be as abundant as lake
trout, but were found at most collection sites.
Anadromous, sexually mature Dolly Varden were identified
near the lake outlet, while juvenile Dolly Varden were
present in many of the shallow water areas.
Several of the small streams entering the lake were
surveyed and were found to contain fish. One large
stream at the southern end of the lake that was fed by
glacial runoff (B in figure 6.15) contained suitable
substrate for salmonid spawning, however, the water
6-40
temperature was too cold. (0.25°C, compared to the 7.5° -
9°C found in the lake).
Although the deeper open water areas of the lake were not
sampled during this reconnaissance, information from the
literature (Scott and Crossman 1973) and past studies
(Russells 1979) indicated that these areas would normally
be utilized by lake trout and juvenile sockeye salmon.
Since the juvenile sockeye are planktivorous (Scott and
Crossman 1973}, they would be expected to make extensive
use of the open lake waters. Due to cooler temperatures
in Chakachamna Lake, lake trout would be expected to make
greater use of the upper strata all year long.
Upper Chakachatna River
Waters from Chakachamna Lake discharge from an outlet at
the eastern end of the lake (Figure 6.15) into the
Chakachatna River. This reach of river was characterized
by a steep gradient, boulders, standing waves, and white-
water. The water remains at a relatively high gradient
to the base of the canyon about 14 miles east of the lake
(Figure 6.13 and 6.16).
Due to the relatively swift currents and lack of cover in
the upper portions of the Chakachatna River canyon, this
area apparently is used primarily as a migratory pathway
by the salmon and Dolly Varden that spawn in and above
Chakachamna Lake. It is also apparent that this section
is used by outmigrants, including sockeye smolt and Dolly
Varden.
During August and September, sockeye salmon and chum
salmon were observed spawning in sloughs and side
6-41
channels in the lower canyon where the velocity of flow
was slower than in the main channels. Juvenile Dolly
Varden and salmon were also found to utilize the side
channels throughout the lower canyon. However, they were
·also found in the main channel in areas where boulders
provide cover and reduced velocities.
Along the main channel of the river (Figure 6.13) Dolly
Varden, pygmy whitefish and round whitefish were found in
most areas. Dolly Varden appeared to be most abundant.
Rainbow trout were commonly found in major channels below
Straight Creek.
Substantial numbers of sockeye, chum, and pink salmon
were found to spawn in side channels and sloughs along
the Chakachatna River considerably downstream of the
canyon. The largest numbers of spawning fish were found
near the confluence of Straight Creek and downstream from
the Chakachatna bridge. Those areas containing spawning
redds generally were side channels with suitable
substrate that contained ground water flows or clearwater
tributaries (Figure 6.17). Pink salmon were found in the
vicinity of the Chakachatna River bridge during the
August survey, however, at the beginning of the September
survey, only one desiccated pink salmon carcass remained.
The extent of pink salmon spawning and the presence of
other spawning locations within the river are presently
unknown. During the August reconnaissance, Chinook
salmon were not observed spawning in the main channel of
the river although some chinook were observed in the
vicinity of the confluence of side channels with the main
channel. Coho salmon were observed migrating up the
Chakachatna, but the location of their spawning areas are
presently unknown. Some coho probably spawn in Straight
6-42
Creek or its tributary, while others may spawn in the
Nagishlamina River. It was unclear whether any coho
spawn in side channels of the Chakachatna River. Overall,
the largest numbers of spawning salmon were found in the
Chakachatna near the bridge and in the Straight Creek
tributary.
During the September 19al reconnaissance, the river stage
had dropped from that observed in August. During both
reconnaissance trips, there were many side channels and
backwater areas present, particularly below Straight
Creek. Typical bank habitats varied from cobble-gravel
to sand-silt. Juvenile fish were found in most areas
containing a cobble-gravel substrate, while larger fish
were generally found further from the banks in areas of
swifter current. Migrating salmon were found to utilize
the backwaters for milling or "resting areas" during
their upstream migrations.
Straight Creek
Straight Creek, a major tributary of the Chakachatna
River, contains substrates that vary from sand-silt to
cobble-rubble, including many areas of gravel-cobble
substrates suitable for salmonid spawning. The waters
are cloudy with glacial silt and visibility is very
limited.
Water velocities in the creek vary. Velocities in the
center of the main channel have been measured at 6 ft/sec
during high flows. Side channels at the same time had
velocities of between 0.6 and 1.2 ft/sec.
6-43
Collections from the side channels and backwater areas of
the creek show that these areas are used extensively by
juvenile salrnonids, of which Dolly Varden, chinook salmon
parr and pygmy whitefish are the most common. Both
chinook and coho salmon have been observed migrating up
Straight Creek. A, D, F, and G recognizes Straight Creek
as a Chinook spawning stream. However, it is unknown
whether they spawn in the clearwater tributaries to the
creek or whether some spawn in the creek itself. Churn
and sockeye have also been observed migrating up Straight
Creek near its mouth. Both species are also believed to
spawn just outside the creek mouth, in side channels of
the Chakachatna River.
Spawning sockeye, churn, pink and chinook salmon were
observed in the clearwater tributary to Straight Creek
(labelled A in Figure 6.17) during the August
reconnaissance. Migrating coho salmon, as well as
spawning churns and sockeyes were observed during the
September study.
The tributary is relatively narrow compared to Straight
Creek, with a main channel width of about 30 ft. The
substrate is largely gravel with some sand and cobble.
The banks are heavily overgrown with trees and other
vegetation. There are also cutbanks throughout the area;
roots, snags, and sweepers also provide significant cover
in this stream. The stream contains side channels and
backwaters as well as a variety of pool and riffle
habitats.
Juvenile salrnonids were abundant in this stream,
particularly chinook, coho, and Dolly Varden parr. The
shallow areas around snags and tree roots appeared to be
6-44
favored areas due to the lower water velocity and cover.
Larger Dolly Varden and rainbow trout were found in deep,
swifter moving water, and were found to be consuming both
Dolly Varden and chinook salmon parr, as well as pygmy
whitefish. Although neither rainbow trout spawning areas
nor juveniles were found in this stream, substrate and
other habitat factors necessary for spawning were present
(Morrow 1980, Scott and Crossman 1973).
Lower Chakachatna River.
The lower Chakachatna River divides up into three
principal outflows. These are the Middle River, the
Chakachatna River and the Noaukta Slough.
This lower portion of the Chakachatna River was
characterized by relatively shallow depths and slower
moving water than stretches further upstream. The
substrate for this section of river was primarily
sand-silt mud. There were relatively few rocks present.
Much of the bank area was tree lined until close to the
confluence with the McArthur River.
Sampling in the upstream portion of this stretch showed
that Dolly Varden were abundant, comprising 80 percent of
the catch. About half of the catch of Dolly Varden were
fish 10 inches or less in length. Coho salmon juveniles
and rainbow trout adults were also common. The area
apparently serves as both nursery and adult habitat for
these species.
The Middle River flows directly into Cook Inlet.
Different stretches of the Middle River were
characterized by different habitat types. The upper
6-45
sections of the Middle River, downstream from the
division with the Chakachatna, were characterized by
relatively swifter currents, mixed substrates, tree-lined
banks, and a highly variable channel. The substrates
varied from sand-gravel, sand-silt, and gravel-cobble.
Cut banks were present as well as tree roots along the
banks.
While the upper reaches of the Middle River were
characterized by an abundance of juvenile and adult Dolly
Varden, the area also served as a nursery area for coho
salmon and apparently some sockeye salmon. Parr of all
three species were found in areas of low velocity and
cover. The river is also used by sockeye salmon during
out~migrations and by sockeye, coho and chum salmon for
spawning migrations. Sockeye and chum salmon were
observed in August, and coho were collected during
September. Rainbow trout adults were also common in the
upper river. However, both pygmy and round whitefish
were common throughout the area. Several small, unnamed
tributaries enter the Middle River. Some of the
tributaries are slow moving and represent flow from old
beaver dams. Both ninespine and threespine sticklebacks
were found in these areas.
In the lower stretches of the Middle River the channel
became wider and slower flowing, and riparian vegetation
became increasingly more marsh like as the river
approached Cook Inlet. The substrate is a fine sand-silt
mud (Figure 6-18) with relatively few outcroppings of
rock and little bank cover. Very few fish were observed
or collected in this area; the most common being
sticklebacks. Only one juvenile Dolly Varden and one
sockeye smolt were collected in this section. There was
6-46
no evidence that this stretch was used as a nursery area.
This section was also part of the migratory route of
sockeye, coho and chum salmon. However, no evidence was
collected during this survey that indicated that chinook
salmon, pink salmon, or anadromous Dolly Varden use the
Middle River as part of their migratory route.
Although intertidal spawning by both pink and chum salmon
has been reported in Alaska (Bailey 1964, Bailey 1969,
Merrell 1970), it was not observed in the Middle River,
and since the lower Middle River does not contain
suitable cobble or gravel substrates (Bailey 1969,
Merrell 1970, Nikolskii 1961, Morrow 1980), neither
species would be expected to spawn there.
The Noaukta Slough is an area of diverse and meandering
channels, islands, pools, and substrates. The slough, as
observed during the two 1981 reconnaissance trips, was
considerably more complex than depicted on existing maps.
The slough included a large number of islands and flooded
wooded areas.
Substrates within Noaukta Slough varied extensively with
large areas of the slough characterized by soft sub-
strates dominated by sand-silt muds, while other areas
were dominated by cobble-gravel substrates. Areas in the
upstream portions of the slough contained greater amounts
of hard substrate than areas further downstream. Riffles
were more common and velocities slightly higher in this
upstream reach.
Sampling in the upstream portion of Noaukta Slough
(Figure 6-17) showed that Dolly Varden were abundant,
comprising 80 percent of the catch. More than half of
6-47
the catch of Dolly Varden were fish 10 in. or less in
length. Coho salmon juveniles and rainbow trout adults
were also common. The area also apparently serves as
both nursery and adult habitat for these species.
Both pygmy and round whitefishes were also present in the
Slough. While the pygmy whitefish was more common than
the round whitefish and was often found in areas that
provided cover, round whitefish were often found in
deeper, faster moving water. Since adult, migrating coho
salmon were collected in the upper part of the slough
near the Chakachatna River, it was apparent that the
slough is part of their migratory pathway.
It was also apparent that the Noaukta Slough was a major
nursery area since juvenile fish were extremely abundant
in the middle and lower parts of the slough. Coho salmon
parr and Dolly varden parr were the most abundant. How-
ever, juvenile pygmy whitefish and sockeye salmon parr
were also common. Juvenile salmonids were found where
water velocities were low and cover was sufficient. The
habitats utilized included tree roots, rocky bank areas,
cut banks, shallow side channels with cover, snags, and
sunken trees and bushes. Both sockeye salmon parr and
smolt were present in these areas and occurred in a wide
range of sizes. Although sockeye fry usually migrate to
a lake and reside there for one to two years before going
to sea (Foerster 1968), some juveniles from the
Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers apparently migrate to
Noaukta Slough and utilize it as a nursery area since a
lake is not accessible.
Although no spawning was observed in the Slough and no
redds found, there was a substantial amount of suitable
6-48
substrate present. The presence of turbid water obscured
observations, and only one adult sockeye salmon carcass
was found in the slough. However, it could have washed
down from known spawning areas upstream.
McArthur River
Figure 6-19 shows habitat utilization along the McArthur
River as determined by observations and collections. The
upper McArthur River originates at the McArthur Glacier.
The area near the head waters of the McArthur River was
characterized by boulders, rubble, cobble with intermixed
gravel, and a fairly high gradient. There were many
riffles present and water velocities reached over 4
ft/sec in the main channel. Water temperatures were
measured at 0.25°C in this area. Although several
samples were taken within that portion of the upper river
stretching to approximately four miles below the glacier,
no fish were found.
In the braided section approximately four miles
downstream from the glacier, the habitat was
characterized by a gravel-cobble substrate and a water
temperature of 3°C. Small riffles and side channels of
varying depth were located throughout this area. In
addition, small clear water streams entered the river
along both sides of the canyon. Fish were abundant in
this section of the McArthur River. Dolly Varden adults,
juveniles and parr were present in this area, however
juveniles of other species were not found.
A number of species were found to use the lower part of
this area for spawning. Chinook, coho, pink, sockeye and
chum salmon were observed spawning in the side channels
6-49
of this area. Chinook salmon were observed only during
the August reconnaissance and coho only during September,
but both species appeared to utilize very similar areas.
Sockeye salmon were the most abundant spawning species
observed in this area during the two investigations, and
were found in a great variety of areas including Pond A
{Figure 6.20). Coho spawners began to appear in large
numbers at the end of the September reconnaissance. The
peak abundance of coho spawners in the McArthur may not
actually occur until later in the year (October-November).
At the conclusion of the September reconnaissance, large
numbers of anadromous Dolly Varden were found in the side
channels of this area. Spawning behavior exhibited by
Dolly Varden in this part of the McArthur had not been
observed in the earlier reconnaissance. Dolly Varden
spawning likely occurs from late August to the end of
November, with peak activity occurring in September and
October {Morrow 1980).
Downstream from the braided section of river, juvenile
salmonids representing a variety of species became more
abundant. Juvenile fish found in this section of the
river included Dolly Varden, coho salmon, sockeye salmon,
and pygmy whitefish. Adult pygmy whitefish were also
present in this area. The beaver ponds labeled A and B
(Figure 6.20) were utilized by both sockeye salmon and
Dolly Varden. Ninespine sticklebacks were also abundant
in these ponds, but were especially abundant in pond C.
The substrates comprising the lower braided reach to the
mouth of the canyon were increasingly dominated by sand,
and other fine materials. Juvenile fish were only found
along the far banks of the river in areas with a hard
substrate or cover provided by vegetation. The large
6-50
open sand flat areas of the main channels appeared to be
devoid of fish, with the exception of occasional
migrants. These migrants included adult chinook, coho,
chum, pink and sockeye salmon, as well as Dolly Varden.
The northern channel of the McArthur River was relatively
shallow with a sand-silt substrate. Fish were generally
found along the banks and in areas that provided cover.
Fyke net catches in this area were smaller than at any of
the other stations. The species composition was also
different, with the adult fishes being dominated by pygmy
whitefish and a few Dolly Varden. Juveniles in this area
were also less numerous, with only juvenile coho salmon,
pygmy whitefish and Dolly Varden present.
Downstream from this area, several side channels and
islands were present (shown in detail in Figure 6.21,
Area A). In and around these side channels and islands
there was a variety of cover provided by flooded trees,
snags, and cobble-rubble substrate. Fish found in these
areas included coho and sockeye salmon juveniles, pygmy
whitefish juveniles, and Dolly Varden parr. Adult
rainbow trout, pygmy, and round whitefish were also found
in these areas. Very few fish except adult round
whitefish were found away from cover or the channel banks.
The southern channel of the McArthur River that origin-
ated from the Blockade Glacier was characterized by a
boulder-rubble-cobble substrate. Although some of the
areas in this stretch contained cobble-gravel substrate
that might be suitable for salmonid spawning (Area C in
Figure 6.21), water temperatures in the area were
probably too low.
6-51
Further downstream, the substrate was more diverse,
containing substantial quantities of sand with occasional
boulders and patches of hard substrate. Water tempera-
tures in this area (B, Figure 6.21) were approximately
3.5°C. Sampling in area B revealed that large numbers of
juvenile fish were present in shallow areas that provided
cover, low water velocity and eddies. Juveniles included
sockeye salmon smelt and parr, chinook salmon parr, Dolly
Varden, and pygmy whitefish. No coho salmon juveniles
were collected in this area.
No adult salmon were found or observed in this part of
the river during either reconnaissance. It is not known
at present whether any spawning occurs in the southern
channel.
In the vicinity of Cook Inlet, the McArthur River sub-
strate was generally sand-silt/mud. This part of the
river is not expected to provide significant juvenile
nursery habitat nor spawning areas. It is, however, a
migratory pathway for the anadromous salmonids.
The McArthur River also has a number of tributary streams
that serve as both spawning and nursery areas. The
streams identified by the letters D through H were found
to contain spawning salmonids during one or both of the
reconnaissance efforts (Figure 6.21). All of the streams
had clear water, a variety of riffle and pool habitats,
and substrate suitable for salmonid spawning. There was
also a great deal of cover along the banks provided by
rubble, cut banks, and overhanging trees. Stream D was
found to contain spawning sockeye, chum, pink and chinook
salmon during August 1981. Streams G and F were also
6-52
6.3.3.3
found to contain chum and chinook salmon. Clearly stream
G also served as a migratory pathway for streams E and F.
Although stream E was found to serve as nursery habitat
for Dolly Varden, chinook salmon and coho salmon, this
was the only upper McArthur tributary stream in which a
juvenile fish was collected.
Stream H was overflown during September 1981 and was
found to contain at least 1000 coho salmon. The stream
contained large stretches of spawning substrate, and
large numbers of fish were found at each bend in the
stream. Local people in the Tyonek area also reported
that chinook, pink, and chum salmon can be found in this
stream as well as rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. The
extent to which this stream may be utilized for spawning
by species other than coho salmon is unknown.
Overall these tributary streams represent a major part of
the spawning habitat in the McArthur River drainage and
may be utilized more than the side channels of the main
river.
Habitat Use
For the purpose of a preliminary assessment of habitat
use, the study area was divided into the following 13
areas that represented areas of relatively similar
habitat and/or geographic location (Figure 6 22).
A The lake tributary rivers apparently do not contain
salmon spawning populations and do not appear to be
widely utilized.
6-53
B The Chilligan and Igitna Rivers were the major sockeye
salmon spawning areas found.
C Chakachamna Lake and Kenibuna Lake represent the major
juvenile sockeye rearing lakes and nursery areas.
D The area from the outlet of Chakacharnna Lake to the
base of the canyon along the Chakachatna River is
primarily a migratory route with some use by sockeye
and chum salmon spawners (canyon slough spawning
area), and by Dolly Varden as a nursery area.
E The Chakachatna River from the Canyon to the split
with the Noaukta Slough. This area includes some
moderately important sockeye and churn spawning areas.
There may be some minor spawning by chinook in
channels of this area. This is a major migratory
route for sockeye, chinook, churn, pink and coho
salmon. There may be minor use of this area as
nursery habitat by sockeye and coho salmon, as well as
Dolly Varden.
F Straight Creek and its clearwater tributary. This is
a major chinook spawning area as well as a spawning
area for sockeye, churn, coho, and pink salmon. Dolly
Varden and rainbow trout adults utilize this area as
well. These streams serve as a nursery area for
chinook, coho, and Dolly Varden. These streams are
also part of the migratory routes of all five salmon
species.
G The lower Chakachatna River and Middle Rivers. These
areas are part of the migratory pathways for the five
salmon species. Some spawning occurs in the side
6-54
channels of the Chakachatna in the upper parts of this
section near the confluence with Straight Creek. Churn
salmon appeared to be most plentiful there, with small
numbers of sockeye also present. This area appeared to
be moderately important as a nursery area for coho,
chinook, and sockeye salmon. Dolly Varden juveniles
and adults were abundant here as well.
H The Noaukta Slough. The slough is probably a major
nursery area for the McArthur and Chakachatna drain-
ages. Coho, chinook and sockeye juveniles were
abundant there, as were Dolly Varden and pygmy
whitefish.
I Lower McArthur River. This area is part of the
migratory pathway of the five salmonid species that
spawn in the McArthur drainage or that ascend the
lower Chakachatna River or Noaukta Slough to spawn in
the Chakachatna River drainage. This area provided
nursery habitat for juvenile sockeye, coho and Dolly
Varden.
J The area adjacent to the McArthur River Canyon. This
part of the river provided a migratory pathway to the
upper sections of the river (L) and also served as
nursery habitat for coho salmon and Dolly Varden.
K The southern channel of McArthur River originates at
the Blockade Glacier and has its confluence with the
northern channel near the Noaukta Slough. This area
served as nursery habitat for chinook and sockeye
salmon as well as for Dolly Varden. It is unknown
whether migratory adult salmon use this area but it
appears to be unlikely.
6-55
6.3.4
L Upper McArthur River. This area includes spawning
habitats for chinook, coho, sockeye, chum, and pink
salmon. Anadromous Dolly Varden, in addition to
spawning in this habitat, utilize the middle reaches
as a nursery zone. The lower reaches containing
sufficient cover were used by sockeye, coho, and Dolly
Varden as a nursery area. Migratory adults of all five
salmon species pass through this area.
M Tributary streams of the McArthur River. All five
salmon species were found to spawn in these streams.
Chinook and coho salmon were more abundant than in the
upper McArthur (area L}. Pink salmon were more
abundant in the streams flowing from the mountains.
The streams were also used as nursery areas by
juvenile Dolly Varden and chinook salmon.
Summary and Conclusions of 1981 Studies
Although of limited duration, the 1981 studies of the
Chakachatna and McArthur River systems, provided a
substantial amount of data which indicated that:
o Large numbers of sockeye salmon utilize Lake
Chakachamna as a nursery area and the Igitna and
Chilligan Rivers as spawning sites.
o Side channels and sloughs in the Chakachatna River
are used as spawning sites by chum, pink and sockeye
salmon.
o Side channels and sloughs in the upper McArthur
River are used as spawning sites by chinook, chum,
6-56
6.4
6.4.1
coho, pink, and sockeye salmon, and also by
anadromous Dolly Varden.
o Clearwater and other tributary streams are used for
spawning by chinook, chum, coho, pink, and sockeye
salmon.
o The intertidal areas of both river systems do not
contain suitable substrate for salmonid spawning.
o Areas with cover and low water velocities are used
as nursery areas.
o Noaukta slough is used extensively as a nursery
area, particularly by coho and sockeye salmon.
o Migratory pathways for spawning adults and
outmigrant juveniles include most reaches of both
river systems.
Terrestrial Vegetation and Wildlife
Background
The objective of the terrestrial component for the
environmental study of the Chakachamna Hydroelectric
Project was to analytically characterize the vegetative
and wildlife communities. Because this project could
affect the lands and waters of both the Chakachamna and
McArthur drainage systems, qualitative data were
collected throughout the study area and vegetation and
wildlife habitat maps were prepared so that areas of a
sensitive or critical nature could be identified.
6-57
6.4.1.1
Previous investigations conducted in the area by the
Alaskan Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) and the u.s.
Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have concentrated on
documenting waterfowl utilization of the coastal marshes
of Cook Inlet. In addition to annual aerial surveys of
the Trading Bay State Game Refuge performed by the
personnel of ADF&G, personnel of USFWS have conducted
aerial swan surveys encompassing the lands in and
adjacent to the refuge. Although the main purpose of
these surveys has been to census waterfowl, information
has also been gathered on bald eagle nest sites, moose
calving grounds, and the occurrence of Beluga whales near
the McArthur River.
Study Area
As previously discussed, the study area encompasses all
of the lands and waters from the tributaries of
Chakachamna Lake to Trading Bay in Cook Inlet in addition
to the lands and waters of the McArthur drainage system.
Located approximately 60 miles west of Anchorage on the
west side of Cook Inlet, this area supports a wide
variety of wildlife and vegetation.
From the tidal flats in Trading Bay the land rises
slowly, forming a continuous array of marshes, bogs, and
ponds. At the mountains, the land supports a totally
different vegetative community. Overall, eight habitat
types were identified. These areas which are described
in subsequent sections included coastal marshes, the
riparian zones around the streams and rivers, bogs, and
the rocky slopes around the lake.
6-58
6.4.2 Study Objectives and Methodology
The major objectives during the vegetative studies were
to describe the vegetative communities within the study
area and to provide vegetation maps at a scale appropri-
ate to delineate wildlife habitats. To accomplish this,
a combination of aerial surveys, ground surveys, and an
analysis of true color aerial photographs were utilized.
Throughout the study period (14-25 September), 22 low
elevation aerial surveys (50-200 feet AGL) were flown in
a random route such that the entire study area was
covered. Two observers on opposite sides of the aircraft
recorded the location and relative abundance of
vegetative stands. In addition, 23 quadrats, each
averaging 2 square miles were selected for ground
surveys (Figure 6.23). The quadrat sites were not
selected in a random fashion, but instead were chosen to
be a representative sampling of vegetative types in the
area. During these observations, all species of woody
vegetation, the major species of herbaceous vegetation,
and their relative abundances were noted. Finally, the
information gathered on each of the quadrats was used in
conjunction with the aerial photographs to interpret the
vegetative composition of the remainder of the study area.
The primary objective of the wildlife study was to
identify important wildlife resources in the study area,
their use of the area, and the importance of identified
vegetative and aquatic communities to these resources.
To accomplish these objectives, the same 22 low elevation
aerial surveys that were used to identify vegetative
types were used to classify bird and large mammal
distribution and abundance. These observations totaled
12.8 hours and were conducted at various times of the
6-59
day, ranging from 0730 to 1900 hours. In addition to the
aerial surveys, the 23 quadrats used for vegetative
analysis were searched for evidence of birds and mammals.
Forage areas were studied to determine the species and
number of individuals utilizing the area as well as the
species that were being consumed. The identification of
tracks yielded additional information on both nocturnal
and uncommon species and the analysis of scats further
defined the species composition, distribution, and food
habits.
Due to the difficulty in observing small rodents, a
qualitative trapping program was conducted along
transects in five representative zones of the study
area. These five areas were located at the mouths of the
Chilligan and Nagishlamina Rivers, along the edge of the
floodplain on the Chakachatna River near the confluence
with Straight Creek, in the heavily wooded area west of
the Chakachatna River, and on McArthur Flats near Seal
Slough. At each location, 40 snap traps were set for a
period of 48 hours.
Vegetation and habitat type maps were prepared based on
the classification methodology outlined by Phister et al.
(1977). After the field data collections, a subjective
grouping of possible types was developed, based on
structural differences in the vegetation. Second, a
Bray-Curtis ordination was applied which provided a
graphical arrangement of the types based on similar
species composition. The vegetation type terminology for
this classification differs from most type approaches in
that the understory species named could either be an
understory dominant or simply be an indicator species
(important just by its presence or absence). Overall,
6-60
6.4.3
6.4.3.1
this classification scheme is more directly related to
habitat types than a dominant species approach because it
is sensitive to both vegetative structure and relative
species composition.
Results and Discussion
Vegetation
Within the study area, 40 species of woody vegetation and
nine taxa of herbaceous vegetation were identified. Paper
birch had the highest frequency among the woody species,
having been found in 65 percent of the quadrats. Black
cottonwood had the second highest frequency (61 percent)
while diamondleaf and feltleaf willow both occurred in 13
of the 23 quadrats (57 percent) . Grasses had the highest
frequency among all the plants, having been found in all
23 quadrats sampled. Although not all of the grasses
present were identified, two of the most common were Poa
sp. and Fetuca sp. The remaining eight taxa of
herbaceous plants were fairly site specific with only
horsetails being found in more than 50 percent of the
quadrats.
Based on the vegetation classification scheme outlined
earlier, the terrestrial vegetation within the study area
was divided into eight types (Table 6.10 and Figure 6.24):
Upland Alder Thicket (UAT);
High Altitude Riparian (HAR);
Black Cottonwood Riparian (BCR);
Coastal Marsh Riparian (CMR);
Black Spruce Transitional (BST);
Resin Birch Bog (RBB);
6-61
Willow Thicket Riparian (WTR):
and Black Spruce Riparian (BSR)
Upland Alder Thicket
This type occurred mainly on the steep slopes above
Chakachamna Lake and on the canyon walls above the
Neacola, Igitna, Chilligan, Nagishlamina, and McArthur
Rivers. It was also interspersed with the other types on
Kustatan Ridge near Cook Inlet. These sites were
characterized by an abundance of black cottonwood, Sitka
alder, and paper birch. Diamondleaf and feltleaf willow
were abundant in some locations while herbaceous plants
were uncommon, except for grasses.
High Altitude Riparian
This type was more restricted in its distribution, being
found only on the floodplains of the rivers flowing into
Chakachamna Lake and in the Chakachatna River canyon.
This form of riparian habitat was characterized by an
abundance of Sitka alder, paper birch, and white spruce.
Diamondleaf and feltleaf willow were also widespread.
Herbaceous plants included ferns, fireweed, and moderate
amounts of grasses.
Black Cottonwood Riparian
At elevations lower than the McArthur and Chakachatna
River canyons, this type replaced the high altitude
riparian and was found along the shores of most of the
streams and rivers. Characterized by an abundance of
black cottonwood, thinleaf alder, and paper birch,
numerous species of willow were also present, including
6-62
diamondleaf, feltleaf, Barratt, undergreen, and grayleaf.
Herbaceous plants include Artemesia tilesii, ferns,
sedge, and fireweed.
Coastal Marsh Riparian
This type encompassed most of the area within one mile of
Cook Inlet in addition to a few areas along the McArthur
River. These sites were characterized by almost a total
absence of woody vegetation, and an abundance of grasses,
sedge, and horsetails. These sites were better drained
than the bogs and were laced with an array of ponds and
streams that were often inundated by fluctuating tides.
Black Spruce Transitional
This type was very limited in its distribution, mainly
composing the later successional stages in and around the
open bogs. Characteristic of an ecotone, these sites
hosted a mixture of riparian species (black cottonwood,
thinleaf alder, and paper birch) and bog species (black
spruce, bog rosemary, and bog blueberry). Herbaceous
taxa were well represented in both number and distri-
bution. Physically, these sites were also intermediate
between bog and riparian sites with part of the area dry
and well drained while other areas were wet and spongy.
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Willow Thicket Riparian
The distribution of this type was limited, only being
found along the floodplain of the McArthur River canyon.
This riparian area was characterized by an abundance of
willows (seven species), black cottonwood, and thinleaf
alder. Herbaceous plants were sparse but included
fireweed, grasses, and lupine.
Resin Birch Bog
Although this type was found throughout the lower
elevations of the study area, it dominated the area north
of Noaukta Slough. Characterized by a predominance of
bog shrubs such as resin birch, bog blueberry, and
narrow-leaf Labrador-tea, these areas also hosted an
abundance of herbaceous plants including sedge and
grasses. Physically, these sites were poorly drained and
supported large mats of floating vegetation.
Black Spruce Riparian
This type was common at intermediate elevations, between
the higher elevations of the Resin Birch Bog and the
lower elevations of the coastal Marsh Riparian and was
the dominant type found on the Trading Bay Refuge. These
areas were characterized by an abundance of diamondleaf
willow, black spruce, and an absence of black cotton-
wood. Both species of alder were present along with an
abundance of sedge and grasses. Physically, these sites
were poorly drained, but unlike the bog, there was no mat
of floating vegetation to cover the large amounts of
water.
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6.4.3.2 Mammals
Of the 16 species of mammals that were identified, the
grizzly bear, black bear, and moose had ranges occurring
throughout the study area. Also common were the coyote
and gray wolf, both of which were found in more than 50
percent of the quadrats sampled. Less common mammals
included the river otter, barren ground caribou, and
wolverine.
The same eight habitat types used to classify the
terrestrial vegetation were also used to classify the
distribution and relative abundance of the mammals that
occurred in the study area {Table 6.11). Grizzly bears,
black bears, and moose were found to utilize all eight
habitat types. During the two weeks in September that
this study encompassed, the grizzly bear appeared to be
most abundant in the High Altitude Riparian and Black
Cottonwood Riparian habitats. The black bear appeared
most abundant in the Upland Alder Thicket and High
Altitude Riparian habitats, while the moose was most
abundant in High Altitude Riparian and Black Cottonwood
Riparian habitats. Unlike the distribution of most of
the other mammals, moose were common in all habitats
except in the upland Alder Thickets.
The only other ungulate that occurred in the project area
besides moose was the barren ground caribou, and its
distribution was restricted to the High Altitude Riparian
habitat. Both species of Canids that were present,
occurred over a fairly large range. Although not as
abundant as the coyote, the gray wolf was found in all
habitats except th~ Resin Birch Bog and the Black Spruce
Riparian while the coyote was found in all eight types.
6-65
The order that was best represented in the study area was
Rodintia. The two largest members of the order, beaver
and porcupine each occupied three habitats while the
muskrat inhabited four types.
The habitat type that had the highest diversity (as
measured by the number of species) was the Black
Cottonwood Riparian. This habitat contained 15 of the 16
mammals found in the study area. The lowest diversity
(five species) was found in the Resin Birch Bog habitat.
The analysis of scats, tracks, and feeding areas supplied
additional information on the seasonal distribution and
food habits of some species. Both species of bears
appeared to be consuming berries, salmon, and grasses.
Although the direction of travel for most of the bears
was towards the High Altitude Riparian habitat it is not
known if this is indicative of the location of winter
denning sites. During the two weeks of this study, moose
were feeding mostly on willows that were taller than five
feet and were seldom seen very far from tall dense
vegetation. Calving grounds, as indicated by the
skeletal remains of juvenile moose, appeared to be
located in and near the Black Cottonwood Riparian habitat
around the Middle River, Noaukta Slough, and the McArthur
River. Wintering areas, as indicated by shed antlers,
were found throughout the High Altitude Riparian habitat
above Chakachamna Lake. Beaver, otter, and muskrat had
more limited distributions. While beaver and muskrat
were found throughout the Black Cottonwood Riparian,
Willow Thicket Riparian, and Black Spruce Riparian
habitats, porcupine were found in the High Altitude
Riparian, Black Cottonwood Riparian and Coastal Marsh
Riparian habitats. Areas that are utilized by these
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6.4.3.3
mammals were identified by the presence of beaver lodges,
woody plants, chewed by beaver, muskrat houses, otter
slides and tracks.
In addition to the terrestrial mammals, two species of
marine mammals were present. A harbor seal was sighted
at the mouth of the McArthur River and although Beluga
whales were not observed during this study, personnel of
ADF&G have sighted whales in Trading Bay.
Birds
Within the study area, 56 species of birds were
identified. Of these, the three that occurred in all 23
quadrats sampled, were the bald eagle, common raven, and
black-billed magpie. Also common in the area were marsh
hawks, black-capped chickadees, and various species of
waterfowl. Species that were only sighted occasionally
included fox sparrows, Swainson's hawks, brown creepers,
and snow buntings.
The same habitat types that were used to describe the
distribution of mammals and vegetation were used to
describe the distribution and relative abundance of the
56 species of birds (Table 6.12). The habitat that
hosted the largest diversity of avifauna was the Coastal
Marsh Riparian. Included is the 38 species sighted in
that type were trumpeter swans, bald eagles, black
bellied plovers, short-billed dowitchers, and lapland
longspurs. The Upland Alder Thicket type only hosted 10
species, most of which were common throughout the study
area. Nearly as low in species richness were the Resin
Birch Bog and Willow Thicket Rip~rian habitats,
containing 11 and 12 species of birds, respectively.
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Two of the larger species that nest in the study area are
the bald eagle and the trumpeter swan (Figure 6.25). As
of May 1980, ADF&G personnel had documented the location
of five eagle nests on the Trading Bay Refuge. During
this two week study, eagles were observed from the
Chilligan River to Cook Inlet, however, they were
concentrated near the confluence of Straight Creek and
the Chakachatna River. In August, 1980, personnel of
USFWS recorded the location of trumpeter swan nests in
and near the refuge. At the time of the survey, there
were 25 pairs of breeding swans and a total of 143 swans
in the project area. Similar to the distribution of
eagle nests, swan nests were concentrated near Cook
Inlet. The area within seven miles of the tidal mud
flats provided habitat to 55 percent of the total
population, 48 percent of the nesting pairs, and 63
percent of the fledgling cygnets (Figure 6.26). Although
the largest proportion of the population was near Cook
Inlet, the area with the highest density was from Noaukta
Slough to the Blockade Glacier, along the McArthur River.
This area, encompassing 70 square miles, contained 56
trumpeters (0.8 swans/mile2).
A species that is commonly found feeding in the study
area, (Timm and Sellers, 1981) yet was not observed
during this study, is the tule white-fronted goose (Anser
albitfrons gambelli). Currently, the only known nesting
areas for the tule goose in Cook Inlet are at Redoubt Bay
and Susitna Flats. Although personnel of USFWS and ADF&G
have searched the study area for nesting pairs, no
evidence exists that would support the contention that
this species nests on the Trading Bay Refuge. However,
since this species often nests in dense vegetation,
undetected nesting sites may exist.
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6.4.4
Of all of the species of plants, mammals, and birds that
were identified in the study area, none of the species
that are present are listed as threatened or endangered
by the Federal Government. However, as of May 1981, it
was proposed that the tule goose be considered for
threatened or endangered status (M. Amaral, USFWS,
personal communication 2 November 1981) .
Conclusions
The relatively high diversity in both flora and fauna
found within the study area is the product of climate
topography and fluctuations in the stream and river
discharge. Due to periodic tidal inundation of the
coastal marshes, both salt water and brackish marsh
vegetation is found. Surface flows resulting from
precipitation are apparently retained for long periods of
time in bogs. Combined with these factors are dynamic
river channels and varying successional stages. As a
result, the study area is composed of a variety of
vegetation types that, individually and collectively
provide important habitat to species of wildlife
throughout the year. Although all species of plants and
animals in the area are important, there are several
vegetative types that are more critical to the overall
stability of the community than others. Two of these are
the High Altitude Riparian and the Black Cottonwood
Riparian habitats. These areas not only provide food and
cover to a wide variety of animal life throughout the
year, they also provide wintering and calving grounds for
moose, nesting sites for bald eagles and trumpeter swans,
and feeding areas for grizzly and black bears. The other
two critical areas are the Coastal Marsh Riparian and the
Black Spruce Riparian habitats. Due to the large
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6.5
6.5.1
expanses of standing water and dense vegetation, these
areas provide nesting and staging areas for waterfowl and
shore birds.
Human Resources
Background
The Human Resources element of the report was prepared
with several objectives in mind:
(1) identification of concerns of government agencies
and general public
(2) evaluation of project alternatives,
(3) conformance with FERC guidelines, and
(4} preparation of the 1982 scope of study.
Accordingly six areas of study were selected:
archaeological and historical resources, land ownership
and use, recreation, socioeconomics, transportation, and
visual resources.
The general project area has a long and varied history of
human habitation, and therefore has a high potential for
archaelogical and historical resource sites. However,
little field work has been done in the project area and
the distributrion of potential resource sites is unknown
Federal and State agencies and Native corporations
involved in the proposed project have varying
requirements for the protection of archaeological and
historic resources.
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As elsewhere in the state, land is owned by a mix of
federal, state, Native, and private entities. The status
of land selections, conveyence and patents is complicated
and often involves several parties in the management of
one parcel of land. Land use revolves around resource
extraction, processing, and transportation.
Recreational use of the project area is currently
limited, but increasing in popularity. Recreation
activities in neighboring Lake Clark National Park and
Trading Bay Game Refuge could have a bearing on the
project. In addition, the State Division of Parks will
be inventorying recreation resources in western Cook
Inlet in the near future and is interested in the
Chakachamna River area.
Project construction and operation will both create jobs
and impact the socioeconomic characteristics (population,
employment, income, infrastructure and subsistence) of
the region. Impacts will affect the village of Tyonek,
the Kenai Peninsula Borough, and the greater Anchorage
area.
The remoteness of the project site emphasizes the
importance of existing transportation networks. Project
use of roads, docks, and air strips may conflict with
existing uses, and new facilities required for the
project may provide new public access that is not desired
by local residents.
Both the Bureau of Land Management and FERC have specific
requirements regarding visual resources. The scenic
nature of the project area led to its consideration for
inclusion as national interest lands under Section
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6.5.2
6.5.2.1
6.5.2.2
17(d)-2 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
Project proximity to Lake Clark National Park and Trading
Bay State Game Refuge may place more importance on v!sual
resource impacts.
This Human Resource element was prepared using three
methods. Field reconnaissance was employed to evaluate
the potential for archaeological resource sites. Several
recent reports associated with coal and petroleum
resource development proposals were also utilized.
Finally, federal, state, and Native entities were
contacted to obtain resource data and concerns about the
project.
Archaeological and Historic Resources
Introduction
This section evaluates the historic and archaeological
resources of the area through a literature revie~,
personal contacts, and consultations with the State
Historic Preservation Officer and the State
Archaeologist. A one day helicopter reconnaissance
allowed a field evaluation of the power generation
facility sites.
Historical Background
The project area lies within the traditional territory of
Tanaina Athapaskan Indians. The earliest record of
European contact with the Tanaina resulted from Captain
James Cook's voyage to the upper inlet in 1778 (Cook
1784). In July of 1786, two English ships captained by
Dixon and Portlock made a trading trip to Cook Inlet.
6-72
The bay in which they anchored was named Trading Bay by
Capt. Portlock. Trading lasted for about a week (Dixon
1789; Portlock 1789). During this same period Russian
presence was increasingly more evident in the Cook Inlet
region (Bancroft 1886; Townsend 1965).
After the Russians settled in the area there began a
period of struggle between the various Russian trading
companies. The Tanaina were caught up in this struggle
and open hostilities broke out between the Tanaina and
the Russians. The Russian American Company was founded
in 1799" (Van Stone and Townsend 1970:14). An outpost
had been established by the Russians at Tyonek around
1790. In 1797 the Tyonek Outpost was destroyed.
"Dissension among the Russians and persecutions of the
Natives reached such an extreme that the infuriated
Kenais (Tanaina) destroyed the two outposts at Iliamna
and Tuiunuk (Tyonek), killed 20 Russians, and almost 100
subject natives" (Tikhmenev 1978:46).
After 1800, hostilities between the Tanaina and the
Russians seem to have subsided. This relatively peaceful
period saw renewed trade and the introduction of
Christianity (Townsend 1965:55). Unfortunately, a
smallpox epidemic swept through the region in the late
1830s.
With the sale of Alaska to the united States in 1867 the
Russian-American Company assets were purchased and
reorganized to form the Alaska Commercial Company. The
Alaska Commercial gained a virtual monopoly in 1883 after
the Western Fur and Trading Company sold out.
6-73
During the late 1890s and early 1900s, Tyonek became a
major disembarking point for both goods and people as
prospectors and miners moved into the Cook Inlet region.
Aboriginal use of the project area appears to have been
extensive and ancient. Extensive use of several mountain
passes and trails is well documented for the late
prehistoric/early historic period. The Tanaina from the
Tyonek area utilized the interior region for hunting and
trading purposes as did the inland Tanaina groups from
Lake Clark, Mulchatna, Stony River, and the Susitna
basin. Key subsistence items for the Tyonek Tanaina,
however, centered on marine resources. Procurement of
food items such as salmon, eulachon, seal, and beluga
made it possible for the Tanaina to maintain semi-
permanent villages along the coast. In late April the
Tyonek Tanaina would move to traditional fish camps along
the inlet. Waterfowl were caught at tidal flats and at
the mouths of rivers along Trading Bay. Beluga and
Susitna flats were also used. During the spring, fish
traps were set for trout at interior lakes. Beaver were
also hunted inland at streams and lakes (Chickalusion and
Chickalusion 1979). The favored land hunting area for
the Tyonek Tanaina was the region around Chakachamna
Lake. Inland hunting was concentrated during late August
through October. Moose seemed to be scarce throughout
the region during early historic times. In addition to
hunting in the Chakachamna Lake region the Tyonek people
would sometimes cross the Hayes River Pass (Tubughna
Kalidiltuni) to Rainey Pass (Htal) to hunt caribou and
sheep. Here they would meet and trade with Susitna
Tanaina (Fall 1981:193).
6-74
•
The Tyonek people had a tradition of trading with other
groups from the interior. They would meet upper
Kuskokwim Natives at Merrill Pass in the summer or fall
to conduct trading. Apparently the Tanaina enjoyed the
role of middleman traders between the Russians at Cook
Inlet and the deep interior upper Kuskokwim Indians
(Zagoskin 1967:16B-169).
A review of the archaeological literature indicates that
the project area and immediate vicinity have not been
studied. Most of what is known of the prehistory in the
Cook Inlet region pertains to the western side of Knik
Arm (de Laguna 1975; Dumond and Mace 1968), the northern
shore of Turnagain Arm (Reger 1977b, 1981) , Kenai
Peninsula (Kent et al. 1964; Borras 1975, 1976; Reger
1977a), Kachemak Bay (de Laguna 1975; K. Workman 1977; W.
Workman 1977), and the Matanuska River (West 1975, 1980;
Bacon 1978) . The only archaeological investigation very
close to the project area is that of de Laguna at
Kustatan in 1930. She briefly investigated a prehistoric
midden on the first bench behind the cannery. On the
second bench she observed several house pit depressions
and excavated one of them (de Laguna 1975:138). De
Laguna commented that although the collection was meager
(faunal remains and a few artifacts) it appeared similar
to Kachcmak Bay collections (de Laguna 1975:148).
The following outline of Cook Inlet prehistoric cultural
events is based upon Reger's recent summary (Reger 1981).
A. The earliest cultural remains recognized in the Cook
Inlet region are from component I at the Beluga
Point-North site on Turnagain Arm. It consists of a
core and microblade technology which can be compared
6-75
to other sites dating between 8000 and 10,000 years
ago. These sites fall within the broad American
Paleoarctic tradition described by Anderson
(1968:29). This tradition includes collections from
interior Alaskan locations such as Dry Creek (Nenana
Valley) , Healy Lake (Tanana Valley) , and Onion Portage
(Kobuk Valley). These sites have consistently been
associated with an environment thought to support
herds of bison, horse, mammoth, and caribou. Thus,
these early cultures are believed to have been
primarily exploiters of large land mammals. Heusser's
reconstruction of the early post-glacial vegetation
for southcentral Alaska postulates generally treeless
tundra and somewhat moister conditions than the deep
interior (Heusser 1960). A greater expanse of tundra
than at present would have been able to support a
large number of caribou.
B. The next occupation in the sequence is found in Beluga
Point-North component II and Beluga Point-South
component I. Artifact comparisons with surrounding
geographic areas, i.e., the Alaska Peninsula, Afognak
Island, and Lake Iliamna indicate an age of 3000 to
4000 years old.
C. Norton related culture (cf Dumond 1977:106) is
represented by Beluga Point-South component II. "The
time period of approximately 1500 to 3000 years ago
was a period in which influences (Norton culture) from
Bristol Bay diffused into Cook Inlet as indicated by
the BPS-II collection" (Reger 1981:202). Although
there was a fairly strong Norton influence during
early Norton times, the archaeological record
6-76
6.5.2.3
indicates that cultural influences between Bristol Bay
and Cook Inlet had ceased during late Norton times.
D. Reger suggests that Kachemak culture (de Laguna 1975),
which flourished in the Kachemak Bay area, may have
provided a mechanism for limiting Norton influences in
the Cook Inlet area. He feels that between 1500 to
2000 years ago a separate cultural pattern developed
in the upper inlet which was based on seasonal use of
riverine and interior resources "Such a pattern
appears to be evident at the Moose River site and the
Merrill site, and by inter-pretation will probably be
found in the Upper Inlet area" (Reger 1981:205).
E. Between 600 and 800 years ago another cultural
occupation was present at Beluga Point, Beluga
Point-North component III. This component is distinct
with only a few traits showing close comparison with
nearby collections, i.e., from Prince William Sound,
Kodiak Island, and Kachemak Bay. The presence of
native copper implements indicates trade contacts with
interior Indian groups, possibly Atna Athapaskans of
the Copper River country.
F. The late prehistoric period in the upper Cook Inlet
region is poorly documented. It is generally believed
that interior Athapaskan influences were introduced by
the arrival of Tanaina Indians, perhaps during the
second half of the 18th century A.D.
Methodology and Results
The Alaska Heritage Resource Survey File (AHRS),
maintained by the State Historic Preservation Office, was
6-77
searched for any reference to historic or archaeological
sites at or near the Chakachamna Hydroelectric Project.
No sites are listed for the project area. A review of
the archaeological, ethnological, and historical
literature indicates that the project area has not been
well studied.
The potential for prehistoric human use and habitation
within the project area is moderately high. The
literature indicates that prehistoric peoples were
ranging throughout the Cook Inlet and Susitna basin
region over many thousands of years, perhaps as early as
8000 B.C •• Several diverse cultural traditions have
exploited the region. Thus far, nearly all of the
archaeological investigations in the Cook Inlet region
have been at coastal sites. The interior exploitive
pattern has only recently been investigated.
De Laguna made note of four old village sites between
Trading Bay and Beluga River, although she did not visit
any of them.
Ladd. The modern village is on an ancient site,
Tsluiltna from which the name of the river, Chuit, is
probably derived.
Tyonic or Moquawkie. There is an old village site,
Qalqesle, near the modern village. In the woods at
the top of the hill behind the village are the houses
where the natives used to live for fear of raids made
by the Kodiak Eskimo.
6-78
Old Tyonic. This village is called Tatlnaq, and may
be old. This seems to be the "Toyonek" of Petroff's
map.
Granite Point. The site of Tsilalxna is at a small
stream south of Granite Point (de Laguna 1975:139).
The one-day helicopter reconnaissance provided an
overflight of the potential power generation facility
sites, on the southeast shore of Chakachamna Lake and
near the upper limits of McArthur River. The lake shore
in sections 18 and 19 of Township 13N/Range 17W and
section 24 of Township 13N/Range lBW, Seward Meridian was
examined from the air. There was no landing area for the
helicopter because the steep, rocky slope decends
abruptly into the lake and the helicopter was not
equipped with pontoons. The possibility of any impact to
cultural resources resulting from the facility at
Chakachamna Lake is so unlikely that an on-the-ground
archaeological survey is not considered necessary.
The porbable location of the powerhouse lies somewhere
within section 30 of Township 12N/Range 17W, Seward
Meridian. This area, a small narrow valley with steep
walls, was examined from the air only. Although it
appears unlikely that any cultural resources will be
impacted by the facility, an on-the-ground archaeological
clearance should be done after the exact location is
selected and the limits of the construction zone
determined, but prior to the actual construction.
Because transmission line corridors and access road
alignments have yet to be finalized, only a
reconnaissance flight over the broad zone of probable
6-79
impact was possible. It is here that potential impacts
to cultural resources are most likely to occur,
especially with the building of roads and development of
borrow pits. Therefore, archaeological on-the-ground
survey will be necessary prior to any construction
activities involving transmission lines and roads.
The likelihood of archaeological site occurrence can be
depicted on maps as areas classified high, medium, and
low potential. Such areas can be identified using basic
criteria of vegetation communities, physiography, slope,
aspect, soils, and proximity to resources such as food,
fuel, raw materials, and water. Mapping of archaeo-
logical potential can be aided by air photo inter-
pretation, but primarily depends on the judgement of the
archaeologist. This judgement is based upon experience
in site survey, familiarity with specific geographical
areas, and the data base of identified archaeological
sites found in similar environmental settings throughout
Alaska.
Areas of low potential are generally flat wetlands or
have high topographic relief. Either condition is
restrictive to human habitation. Low potential areas
also include active floodplains where periodic flooding
and erosion would have destroyed evidence of past human
activity. High potential areas are generally those with
moderate topographic relief which ordinarily are
well-drained. Areas of medium potential might include
some portions of high and low potential but are not
classified predominately high or low.
6-80
6.5.3 Land Ownership and Use
Land Ownership
Figure 6-27 shows the existing land ownership in the
proposed project area. Historically the federal
government owned all the land in the area as "public
domain". Large areas of federal land have been trans-
ferred to Alaskan Natives and the State of Alaska. A
small amount of state land was subsequently transfered to
the Kenai Peninsula Borough. Land ownership patterns
have not been finalized in the area. The largest
unresolved matter involves the settlement of land claims
associated with the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act
(ANCSA) of 1971. Extensive federal and state lands have
been selected by the Natives but not all the legal
transfers have been completed. Native landowners include
Cook Inlet Region, Inc., Tyonek Native Corporation and
the Native Village of Tyonek.
A number of small parcels have been patented to
individuals, primarily along the coast, by both the
federal and state governments. Numerous easements and
rights-of-way exist in the area, again primarily along
the coast.
Rights to various resources, including timber, petroleum
and coal, have been sold in the area by both the state
and the Natives. Resource development activities will
continue to have a major impact on the area.
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6.5.3.2 Federal Land
Federal lands in the area have been involved in
complicated proceedings due to often times overlapping
selections by the state and Alaska Natives and the
establishment of the boundaries of Lake Clark National
Park. Native selections on federal lands in the area
have been unofficially relinquished (CIRI, personal
communication, November 10, 1981). State selections are
still in force and are being processed. Thus, the state
may eventually gain patent to some of these lands. All
federal lands outside of the park are administered by the
Bureau of Land Management. Federal land in the park is
administered by the National Park Service.
Bureau of Land Management
Federal lands administered by BLM include the Lake
Chakachamna power site and a number of townships
surrounding the power site. In 1947 lands in the
immediate vicinity of Lake Chakachamna system were
withdrawn as a power site under Power Site Classification
395 (USS 3970). The power site includes all public lands
lying within one-quarter mile of Chakachamna Lake,
Kenibuna Lake, and the Chakachatna River from the outlet
at the lake to the mouth of Straight Creek.
The remaining BLM land, some of which is unsurveyed, is
being passively managed. Most of these townships have
been selected by the state. Native selections have also
been made on some townships but these selections are to
be officially relinquished in the near future (personal
communication, CIRI, November 10, 1981). Until official
relinquishment is made BLM cannot act on the state
6-82
6.5.3.3
selections. Townships or portions of townships selected
by the state in the area but not selected by the Natives,
are on the state's priority list and may be conveyed in
the near future.
Lake Clark National Park
The park is administered by the National Park Service.
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve were established on
December 2, 1980 by the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act. This act provided for a national park
of approximately 2,439,000 acres and a national preserve
containing approximately 1,214,000 acres. The federally
owned or controlled lands of the park and preserve, by
virtue of their becoming part of the National Park
System, are subject to title 16 of the United States Code
and title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Management of all areas of the National Park System
follow the administrative policies setting forth broad
guidelines for park managers.
The portion of the park bordering the study area
including the Chilligan River, Lake Kenibuna and its
tributaries is designated as wilderness.
Use of the park is discussed in the recreation section of
this report.
State Land
Land in the proposed project area has been conveyed to
the State of Alaska by the 1953 Submerged Lands Act, the
1956 Mental Health Enabling Act and the 1958 Alaska
6-83
Statehood Act. State lands have been classified
according to the system described below.
The State Land Classification System which is currently
being revised is similar to zoning, in that there are
different classification categories which reflect the
capabilities and different potential uses of the land.
Unlike zoning, however, the ~lassification system applies
to State-owned land only. Also unlike zoning, the
present state classification system contains no
provisions to guarantee that once title to State-owned
land is passed, it will continue to be used for the
classified purpose. The classification system is
presently undergoing revision within the Division of
Lands. (State Division of Lands, CZM Report, December
31, 1977.
In the proposed project area the following land
classifications exist: Resource Management Lands and
Industrial Lands.
Resource Management Lands
Resource management lands contain an association of
surface and/or subsurface resources which are especially
suited to multiple use management.
In the proposed project area, resource management lands
are being used in several ways: oil and gas leasing, coal
prospecting and leasing, a timber sale and mining
permits, with some uses overlapping.
6-84
6.5.3.4
Industrial Lands
Industrial lands are those which, because of location,
physical features or adjacent developments, may best be
utilized for industrial purposes. According to the State
Administrative Code, these lands may be disposed of by
lease or sale (11 AAC 52 070).
There are currently several sites of varying sizes which
are classified as industrial sites. These include the
Kodiak Lumber docking facility at North Forelands and
other sites operated by Texaco and Atlantic Richfield.
See Table 6.13 for list of industrial sites.
Lands leased from the State for commercial or industrial
purposes can only be used for the purposes designated and
are subject to local building and zoning codes, which
involves the Kenai Peninsula Borough.
Native Land
There are four main classes of Native land ownership in
the proposed project area as a result of special
legislation:
o Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI)
o Tyonek Native Corporation (TNC)
o Native village of Tyonek
o Native Allotments
6-85
Other Native holdings or land ownership in the area
include patented parcels and set net sites.
Cook Inlet Region, Inc.
Unlike most areas of the state, selection of land
entitlements by CIRI was complicated by prior selection
of traditional village lands by the State Of Alaska under
its Statehood Act entitlement. The lack of appropriate
land for Native selection led to litigation and
establishment of the Cook Inlet Land Exchange.
Under the land exchange, CIRI is to obtain patent to the
surface and subsurface estate of approximately 1.23
million acres of land. In addition, it receives
subsurface estate to another 1.15 million acres of land,
the surface of which is either patented to the village
corporations or is within the Kenai National Moose Range.
Village Corporations Associated with CIRI
Within the geographic boundaries of the Cook Inlet
Region, Inc., which extend from Seldovia in the south,
almost to Mt. McKinley in the north, there are six
village corporations: Chickaloon, Eklutna, Knik (Called
Knikatnu by the villagers), Ninilchik, Seldovia and
Tyonek. The acreage received by the Village Corporations
is based on the number of stockholders who traced their
heritage back to a village and enrolled to a village
corporation. Approximately 6,000 Eskimos, Indians, and
Aleuts have enrolled to Cook Inlet Region, making it the
fifth largest Native regional corporation.
6-86
Under the conditions of the land exchange, six land
selection pools were established. By far the largest,·
the Beluga Pool at 311,040 acres was made available to
CIRI by the State of Alaska. Cook Inlet Region, Inc.
has selected all of the lands in the Beluga Pool and
expects convenyance of all except T.l4N, R.lSW. The
northern half of that township covering the central part
of Capps Glacier was not state land and should not have
been set aside initially in the State's Beluga Pool.
Because the Beluga Gas Field subsurface and the Nikolai
Gas Field subsurface were both excluded in the exchange
agreement, Cook Inlet Region expects to receive only the
surface estate to the affected land located in T.l2 and
13N, R.lOW. (Beluga Gas Field) and T.llN, R.l2W.
(Nikolai Gas Field) • Land selected by the Kenai
Peninsula Borough in T.l2N, R.lOW are available to CIRI
for the subsurface only. The surface estate will go to
the borough. Inasmuch as there is more subsurface estate
available to CIRI from the Boroughs' lands than there is
surface available, due to the gas fields' exclusion,
there is an imbalance in CIRI's selections.
In an effort to select their full entitlement of 311,040
acres, CIRI has selected somewhat more surface than
subsurface in T.l6N, R.l4W. The above lands are
considered the first priority for selection. These
selections exclude Beluga Lake and Lower Beluga Lake, and
the section of the Beluga River running between the
lakes. They also exclude U.S. Survey 3970, which
protects Power Site Classification 395 (April 22, 1948)
for potential hydroelectric development at Chakachamna
Lake and Chakachatna River.
6-87
Conveyance of the Beluga Pool Land to CIRI was subject to
any lawful reservations of rights or conditions contained
in the State conveyance as provided by the Terms and
Conditions document. Within two years after initial
conveyance, the Secretary of Interior is authorized to
identify and reserve any easement he could have lawfully
reserved before conveyance. All valid existing rights to
coal prospecting permits, coal leases, oil and gas
leases, mineral leases, etc. are protected under terms of
the exchange.
The attitude of Cook Inlet Region, Inc. toward
rights-of-way across their lands, is quite different than
that of Tyonek Native Corporation. While the Tyonek
Native Corporation has been opposed to all rights-of-way
and easements, CIRI is willing to consider them. They
recognize that in order to remove the natural resources,
such as coal, easements must be made available.
Tyonek Native Corporation
One of the six CIRI village corporations, the Tyonek
Native Corporation was organized as a result of the
passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act by
Congress and represents the 303 Native people enrolled to
the village of Tyonek. The Tyonek Village entitlement
according to Section 14(a) of ANCSA is 115,200 acres -
substantially larger than the 69,120 acres most villages
receive. The size of Tyonek's entitlement is based on
the fairly large Native population which the village had
on the 1970 census enumeration date. Villages with a
population between 200 and 399 were entitled to 115,200
acres.
6-88
•
The lands patented to Tyonek Native Corporation will be
limited to just the surface estate of the lands -in
accordance with Section 14(a) and (b) of ANCSA. Patent
to the subsurface estate will be made to Cook Inlet
Region, Inc. according to Section 14(f) of ANCSA.
A stipulation of the regional corporation patent to the
subsurface estate is that the right to explore, develop
or remove minerals from the subsurface estate in the
lands within the boundary of Tyonek Village, are subject
to the consent of the Village. Essentially this
provision gives Tyonek a "veto power" over unwanted
development by Cook Inlet Region.
Because there are not sufficient lands available for
selection to meet the village entitlement from among
lands surrounding the village, the Secretary of Interior
set aside "deficiency lands" from nearby unreserved,
vacant and unappropriated public lands. Thus, much of the
Tyonek Village's land selected under ANCSA is not
adjacent to the village site. Adjacent selectable lands
consisted of the Moquawkie Indian Reservation (the Tyonek
Village Indian Reserve) and State tentatively approved
lands. Several miles across Cook Inlet from the village,
lands within the Kenai National Moose Range were also
selected.
Deficiency selections were made south of the village
along the West Coast of Cook Inlet and from lands in the
upper Susitna River area, where the Susitna Hydroelectric
Project is planned.
Tyonek Native Corporation has leased land to Kodiak
Lumber Mills, Inc. for the lumber camp, chip mill, and
6-89
access roads and to various petroleum companies for
access roads.
Native Village of Tyonek, Inc.
Tyonek, which is located on the former Moquawkie Indian
Reserve is not incorporated as a city under the laws of
the State of Alaska. However, it is a Federally chart-
ered Native village, governed by an IRA (Indian Reorgan-
ization Act) Tribal Council. The Tribal Council --also
called the Village Council is the political arm of
Tyonek and which, prior to December 18, 1971 (the date
ANCSA was enacted) controlled the lands within the former
Moquawkie Indian Reserve under a trust relationship with
the u.s. Department of Interior, Bureau of Indian
Affairs. On December 18, 1971, this Reserve was
abolished by Section 19 of ANCSA, and the lands came
under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of
Interior, Bureau" of Land Management. The Tyonek Native
Corporation succeeded to the rights of the surface estate
of the Reserve under terms of ANCSA that had been enjoyed
by the Village Council. Because the Village of Tyonek
was located on the Moquawkie Indian Reservation, Section
19(b) of ANCSA came into play. This section of the
Settlement Act provides for an election of its members to
decide whether to retain the Indian Reserve and receive
the surface and subsurface estate to the reserve or to
opt for benefits of ANCSA. Tyonek Native corporation
voted for the provisions of ANCSA. Had they taken the
former reserve, the village would have received fee
simple title (both surface and subsurface estates) to
26,918.56 acres of land compared to the 115,200 acres of
surface lands they are to receive under their ANCSA
entitlement.
6-90
The Village Council may own lands under reconveyance
provisions of Section 14(c) of ANCSA. The Village
Council has been considering incorporation as a city
under the laws of the State of Alaska. One reason stems
from an interest in retaining control of village lands
and lands destined for village expansion. Under ANCSA,
it is necessary for the village corporation, the Tyonek
Native Corporation, to convey "the remaining improved
land on which the Native Village is located and as much
additional land as is necessary for community expansion,
an appropriate rights-of-way for public use, and land for
other foreseeable community needs" to the appropriate
municipal corporation where one exists or otherwise to
the State in trust for any municipal corporation
established in the Native Village in the future. The
amount of land to be transferred to the municipal
corporation or in trust shall be no less than 1,280
acres, an area equivalent to two (2) square miles. Tyonek
Native Corporation will be receiving title to the lands
for the future city. If Tyonek were an incorporated city
under State law, Tyonek Native Corporation would reconvey
title to the City (their own tribal members) rather than
to the State to be held in trust for them.
The Tyonek Airfield is one of several private airfields
in the area. The field is maintained by the Village
Council and has been found to be a costly public
improvement. At one time, the Village Council attempted
to transfer the airfield to the State in an effort to
ease their financial burden. At that time, the offer to
give the airfield to the State was not accepted. The
Village Council has retained the right to refuse landing
privileges to unwelcome aircraft. The village residents
prefer to have control over who visits their community
6-91
and because of their outright ownership of the airfield
they have had some control. However, the villagers do
not like the costs associated with ownership.
The surface estate of the existing Tyonek airport, airway
beacons, and other navigational aids, together with such
additional acreage and/or easements as are necessary to
provide related services and to insure safe approaches to
the airport runways must be reconveyed to the Federal,
State or Municipal government according to the require-
ments in Section 14 (c) (4@ of ANCSA.
Native Allotments
The Native Allotment Act of May 17, 1906, as amended
August 2. 1956, authorized the Secretary of Interior to
allot land to any Indian, Aleut, or Eskimo of full or
mixed blood who resides in and is a Native of Alaska and
who is the head of a family or is 21 years of age. A
land area not to exceed 160 acres of vacant,
unappropriated and unreserved non-mineral land in Alaska,
or subject to the provisions of the Act of March 8, 1922,
certain vacant, unappropriated and unreserved public land
in Alaska that may be valuable for coal, oil or gas
deposits or under certain conditions of National Forest
Lands in Alaska was made available if various conditions
were met.
The title to a Native Allotment is under a restricted
title; the land cannot be mortgaged, leased, sold, or
deeded away without the approval of the Secretary of
Interior or someone designated by him. The allotee or
his heirs may deed the allotted land to another with the
approval of the Secretary of Interior and the purchaser
6-92
will then receive an unrestricted or fee simple title
unless the purchaser is a Native whom the Secretary of
Interior determines should continue to have a restricted
title.
There are six Native Allotments in the proposed project
area. Two have been patented, and four are still in the
application stage and have not been fully adjudicated by
the Bureau of Land Management; see Table 6.14.
Private Land
Five private patented land holdings (U.S. Surveys) are
located in the project area and shown in Figure 6.27.
Privately held leases are discussed in the following land
use sections. Many of the parcels of lands that have
been transferred to the state and Natives in the area
have ROW reservations. Approximately 29 ROW permits and
applications are on file with Alaska DNR.
Easements Across Native Lands
One of the thorniest issues of land rights in the
proposed project area has been that of easements across
Native lands. The Tyonek Native Corporation has
adamantly refused to accept any easements across their
former Moquawkie Indian Reserve and has also taken a very
strong position relative to easements across lands they
have selected north of the reservation (Division of
Energy and Power Development) • However the Interim
Conveyance, I.e. 087, to their former Moquawkie Indian
Reserve, contains several easements, at least temporarily
set aside by the federal government.
6-93
Easement On and To the Marine Coastline
Interim conveyance documents cite a continuous 25-foot
wide linear easement along the coastline for purposes of
public access and recreation. The Department of Interior
has suggested reducing the continuous easement to site
easements along the coast at appropriate points to
facilitate travel purposes only, such as beaching of
water craft. A limited number of linear access easements
perpendicular to the coast would be reserved to allow
access to interior public lands.
Easements On and To Waterways (Rivers, Lakes and Streams)
The present federal policy of reserving easements along
recreational rivers and streams is restricted to periodic
points along "major" waterways. Major waterways are to
be defined by the criteria of significant commercial or
transportation use, or significant resource value
(including recreation) . The use of these site easements
will be limited to activities related to travel along the
waterway (e.g beaching of boats and float planes). Some ~
linear access easements to "major" waterways and to
public lands beyond conveyed Native lands may be reserved.
Transportation and Utility Corridors and Statutory
Easements
Interim Conveyances retain rights-of-way for ditches,
canals, telephone and telegraph lines and railroads
constructed by the authority of the federal government.
Easement corridors for energy, fuel, and natural
resources transportation were also reserved and included
6-94
6.5.3.5
the right of eminent domain. These easements must be
justifiable, and site specific at the time of conveyance.
Section Line Easements
Section line easements of 33 feet on each side of the
section line for a total of 66 feet provide legal access
to federal lands. State lands have a 50-foot section
line easement, 50 feet on each side of the section line.
Although section line easements do not provide access
that relates to the topography, they do provide legal
access across the land.
An important question regarding the existing right-of-way
between section lines is the possible and potential usage
of the land for purposes other than highways, or in
conjunction with highways. Alaska Statutes 19.25.010
provides the legal authority and required approvals for
the use of utilities along the constructed highways
rights-of-way. There is presently considerable
overlapping of authority of the rights-of-way. The
Department of Transportation and Public Facilities and
the Division of Lands, are currently establishing
regulations which will disentangle the overlapping
authority, clarify accepted uses and revise procedural
materials.
Land Use
The major land uses are shown in Figure 6.28.
Timber Harvesting
On August 22, 1973, the state sold the timber rights on
223,000 acres to Kodiak Lumber Mills, Inc. (KLM). Much
6-95
of the timber had been damaged by spruce beetle infest-
ation and is only useful fo~ salvage. The quantity of
timber involved in the sale is estimated to be 6 million
board feet. KLM's 30 million dollar chip mill, camp, and
pier are located 5 miles south of Tyonek on land leased
from the Tyonek Native Corporation. A network of logging
roads has been constructed to gain access to the timber.
The majority of workers are transients who are housed in
the camp. From time to time, 5-15 villagers work for the
company. The current slump in the chip market has led to
a reduction in shipping activities during 1981.
The current timber leases expire in 1983. The state is
considering leasing more land for additional salvage
purposes. If Kodiak Lumber Mills is the successful bidder,
another 5-6 years of work could be anticipated.
Petroleum
Interest has been shown in the area's oil and gas resources
since the late 1950's. There have been several state,
federal, and private lease sales, both on and offshore, since
the mid-1960's. Extensive seismic testing and test drilling
has been and continues to be conducted on many of the leases.
Several gas fields have been discovered onshore and both oil
and gas fields have been discovered offshore. Information on
each of these fields is presented in Table 6.15.
Other than pipelines there are two petroleum-related
facilities on the west side of Cook Inlet in the vicinity of
the proposed project. Marathon Oil Company has an oil and gas
treatment plant 20 miles southwest of Tyonek on Trading Bay.
The other facility is the Drift River Petroleum Terminal,
which is described in the trans-portation section of this
report.
6-96
The most recent State lease sale in the area, Number 33, held
on May 13, 1981, received strong interest (Anchorage Daily
News, May 15, 1981 p. A-3). Two State lease sales are now
scheduled or proposed that will probably include tracts on or
near the proposed project's area. They are listed in Table
6.16.
Oil and Gas Leases
The Department of Natural Resources, through the Division of
Minerals and Energy Management, is authorized to lease
subsurface oil and gas resources on a competitive and
noncompetitive basis. All lands in the public domain are open
for oil and/or gas exploration and development. The
provisions of the Miscellaneous Land Use Permit apply to
surface oil and gas related activity on state lands where no
lease has been issued. In addition, the state, under
provisions of the Alaska Land Act, reserves rights to all
subsurface gas and oil resources on lands disposed for any
other purpose.
Federal leasing in the area has all taken place on offshore
tracts, further south, in lower Cook Inlet.
Coal
Both coal prospecting permits and coal leases are available on
State lands.
Coal Prospecting Permits
A coal prospecting permit allows the permittee to determine
the existence or workability of coal deposits in an unclaimed
and undeveloped area. The permit is valid for two years and
6-97
each permit may include up to 5,120 acres. If within the
period of two years, the permittee shows that the land
contains coal in commercial quantities and submits a
satisfactory mining plan for coal rerovery, the permittee can
obtain a lease. A coal prospecting permit may be extended for
a period of two years if the permittee can provide adequate
reasons (regulated by the Department of Natural Resources).
Coal Leases
Coal leases run for an undetermined period of time,
conditional upon the continued development and/or operation of
a mine. Coal lease contracts can be assignable, upon the
approval of the Director of the Division of Lands, by the
lessee subject to the laws and regulations applicable to the
lease.
There are three major coal lease areas in the vicinity of the
proposed project: the Capps lease area, the Chuitna Lease area
and the Three Mile lease area. Table 6.17 indicates the
number of workers expected in each project and an expected
start-up date.
A coal-to-methanol plant has been proposed in the area but
with recent federal budget cuts the probability of the plant
being financed solely by private money at this time is
uncertain.
Most of the coal in the area is planned to be open-pit mined
but the methods for transporting the coal to tidewater have
not yet been determined.
6-98
Mining Claims
There has been some interest shown in the mineral resources,
other than coal, on state lands in the proposed project area.
Many of these claims were filed quite recently. A large block
of mining claims is located along the Upper McArthur River.
Subsistence
Subsistence activities of the villagers are described in the
Socioeconomics section of this report. The discussion in this
section focuses on the location of these activities.
Subsistence activities of the villagers occur both on Tyonek
Native Corporation land and on adjacent coastal areas.
Subsistence use areas are identified in Table 6.18. The
general area of greatest use extends from the village south to
the Polly Creek area and north along the coast to the mouth of
the Susitna River. The use an area receives is dependent both
upon access and the availability of resources. For example,
coastal areas, river banks, and areas along the road system
where boats and vehicles can be used to transport hunters and
game are used more extensively than areas only accessible by
foot. The use of areas within the general subsistence harvest
area may also vary from year to year depending upon the
availability of subsistence resources.
Subsistence users of resources, other than Tyonek residents,
may also be in the area of interest. Of the 1600 subsistence
permits for salmon issued for upper Cook Inlet in 1979, 62
permits were used in the area from the Susitna River to West
Forelands (A. p. 67).
6-99 .
6 5.4
Shore Fishery Lease --Set Net Sites
Possibly as little as ten percent of the fishermen using set
nets along the coast have obtained shore fisheries leases.
Normally leases are obtained only when encroach-ment is
threatened by other fishermen. Although shore fishery leases
protect the fishing site from the encroachment of other
fishermen, leases do not protect the shore fishery lease
holder from other uses, such as a dock. Although apparently
not required by state law, it is suggested that set net
fishermen with shore fishery leases and fishermen without
leases be reimbursed for the loss of livelihood, once that
loss has been established, or another site of equal
productivity satisfactory to the fishermen be sought as a
replacement. The State of Alaska, Department of Fish and Game
can identify any affected set net fishermen in the area, all
of whom must also have Limited Entry Permits to fish in the
Inlet.
Recreation
While the project area under consideration is remote and
sparsely populated, considerable recreational use is made of
it. Recreational use is concentrated toward the coast but is
increasing on Chakachamna Lake and tributaries feeding into
the lake.
Water related recreation occurs most frequently along the
coast where the Chakachamna and McArthur Rivers empty into
Trading Bay. Recreational use of the Trading Bay State Game
Refuge is somewhat quantified and is discussed in the
following subsection.
6-100
6.5.4.1
Recreation activities have been increasing in the vicinity of
Chakachamna Lake, primarily fly-in hunting, fishing, hiking,
and kayaking. Future promotion and use of Lake Clark National
Park could increase use of Chakachamna Lake.
Trading Bay State Game Refuge
The 168,930 acre Trading Bay State Game Refuge (TBSGR) was
created in 1976 for the protection of waterfowl and big game
habitat. The refuge includes uplands, tidal and submerged
lands. Public access is by small aircraft, both wheel and
float equipped, and less commonly by boat.
A series of shallow brackish marshes, encompassing
approximately 2500 acres, runs the length of Trading Bay.
These marshes support vast numbers of migrating ducks, geese,
swans, and shorebirds in both spring and fall, as well as
providing nesting for a substantial number of dabbling ducks.
Nesting geese are unknown in this area, although nesting
occurs to the north at Susitna Flats and to the south at
Redoubt Bay.
The Trading Bay Refuge is the ninth most important waterfowl
hunting area in the state. In 1978 there were 735 hunting
days of effort expended in the refuge, 1.1 percent of the
state waterfowl hunting total. (Seller, 1979)
Coastal areas of western Cook Inlet, which includes the
Trading Bay Refuge, are considered critical calving and
overwintering moose habitat. The latest harvest figures
indicate that a number of moose were taken in this area in
1980.
6-101
6.5.4.2
6.5.4.3
Nikolai Creek receives limited fishing pressure. The creek
contains rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, and pink and silver
salmon.
A number of cabins (2 on private land, 13 on state land) have
been built within the refuge by waterfowl hunters. In June,
1978, ADF&G announced a moratorium on new cabin construction
on state game refuges. Although ADNR was given authority to
issue permits for cabins on state land within Trading Bay
Refuge, no permits have been issued to date. The Shirleyville
lodge caters to recreationists in the area and several air
charter businesses provide access to the refuge.
Chakachatna/McArthur Rivers
~
Recreational use of the upper stretches of the Chakachatna and
McArthur Rivers is less well known. The rapids in the upper
reaches of the Chakachatna are quite difficult but they are
thought to be navigable (DNR Division of Parks, personal
communication). Thus kayak trips from a starting point in
Lake Chakachamna are a possibility but this potential use is
undetermined.
Chakchamna Lake
Lake Clark National Park rangers report the use of the western.
end of Lake Chakachamna as a staging area for recreational use
(personal communication) • Gravel bars on the east end of the
lake and other gravel bars at the river deltas are used to
unload visitors from float and wheeled planes both air taxi
and privately owned (personal communication, Hartell). People
kayak on the lake and hike by the lake and up the many
drainages such as the Chilligan River. One of these routes
6-102
6.5.4.4
6.5.5
6.5.5.1
goes west toward Lake Kenibuna and leads into Lake Clark
National Park.
Lake Clark National Park
The eastern boundary of Lake Clark National Park crosses
Kenibuna Lake. This portion of the park is classified as
wilderness, and is considered by the park supervisor to be the
heart of the park (personal communication Hartell) • No formal
recreation facilities have been planned for this area, nor are
any use statistics available.
Socioeconomics
The proposed project is located in an isolated and sparsely
populated area within the Kenai Peninsula Borough. Tyonek, a
Native village, is the only community in the vicinity of the
project area. The proposed Chakachamna Hydroelectric project
has the potential to create population, employment, income,
infrastructure and subsistence impacts in the Tyonek area.
Because it has the responsibility for providing government
services the Kenai Peninsula Borough (KPB) will be the
principal impacted local government entity. Due to the small
population of Tyonek, employment impacts will primarily occur
on the Kenai Peninsula and in the greater Anchorage area. For
each impact area (Tyonek, KPB and Anchorage), baseline
socioeconomic information is presented.
Tyonek
The Native village, Tyonek, is located on the western shore of
Cook Inlet, 42 miles east of Lake Chakachamna and 22 miles
northeast of where the Chakachatna River enters Cook Inlet.
6-103
Population
The census figures for Tyonek are reported below:
Year 1880 1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1870 1980
Population 117 115 107 N/A 58 78 136 132 187 232 239
Source: U.S. Census
The recent Tyonek population has seen periods of relative
stability broken by significant increases in population.
The 1980 census has not been officially completed, but
the population appears to have stabilized since 1970.
The 1970 census indicated that 95% of the population was
Native with 127 males and 105 females. Median ages were
16.6 and 18.6 years for males and females, respectively.
Non-Native residents are, for the most part, teachers who
remain in the village for one to several years.
Employment
In many respects Tyonek is a traditional Alaskan Native
village. Commercial fishing is the primary source of
earned cash income. In addition to the limited number of
service jobs available within the village, work is also
obtained with the nearby timber operation and
occasionally with petroleum exploration activities in the
area. Like many Native villages, a heavy reliance is
placed on subsistence resources. The following indicates
the employment status of a sample of Tyonek's population.
6-104
EMPLOYMENT BREAKDOWN BY PERCENT OF HOUSEHOLD RESPONSE
No. of Members Full time
Unemployed
Part-Time/ Retired
in Household Percent Seasonal
0 55 38 91
1 38 54 9 26
2 7 8 16
3 26
4 16
5 10
6 3
7 3
Source: Report on the Survey Conducted in Tyonek, 1980 ADF&G,
Alice Stickney, Subsistence Section, Anchorage.
Commercial fishing (limited entry) permits are held by 27
residents. A permit holder may employ up to six people
as crew. The fishing season is usually open only 2 days
a week from July 1 to August 15. Salmon are the target
species with most of the permits for set gill nets and a
few for drift gill nets. Commercial catches tend to be
low and profitability is further hampered by the lack of
a processor or cannery in the vicinity. Fish are either
flown out, pot scows utilized or a tender cooperatively
hired. Most fishermen use little if any of their catch
for subsistence needs, opting rather for cash sales to
pay expenses.
6-105
The majority of workers employed by the Kodiak Lumber
Mills•operation near Tyonek are transients who are housed
in the camp. Employment of villagers varies from 5-15
workers throughout the year (Kodiak Lumber Mills, Inc.
personal communication). Due to a variety of
lifestyle/personal conflicts, full advantage of
employment opportunities in the timber operation have not
been taken by residents of the Tyonek Village (Braund and
Behnke 1980).
Occassionally work with petroleum exploration firms is
available on a temporary basis.
Permanent employment opportunities in the village are
limited to the following positions: teachers and school
support staff -20, village administration -6, firemen -
3, store retailers -2, day care center employees -2,
and one each of the following: constable, community
health aide, community health representative, post-
mistress, air taxi operator, and emergency responder with
the fire department. CETA funded 3 full time positions
(supervisor of youth employment, laborer and recreation
worker) as well as 16 summer positions for youth in 1981.
(Darbyshire and Assoc. 1981). With the recent federal
budget cuts the future of the CETA positions is
uncertain.
Personal Income
The cash flow through the village economy is low. A
profile of incomes obtained through a 40 household survey
is shown below.
6-106
INCOME BREAKDOWN BY PERCENT OF HOUSEHOLD RESPONSE
Total Income Percent of Percent of Commercial
Fishery Households
Percent of Other
House.holds Dollars Households
0-3000 13 0 20
3-6000 30 16 45
6-10,000 30 47 15
10-15,000 12 21 5
15-20,000 5 5 5
20-30,000 10 11 10
Source: Report on the Survey Conducted in Tyonek, 1980, Alice
Stickney, Subsistence Section, ADF&G, Anchorage.
Over 70 percent of all the responding households earned
less than $10,000 in gross annual income. Thirty percent
of these were commercial fishermen who made up 63 percent
of the total responding commercial fishermen. The type
of aid corning into the village was also limited. Fifty-
five percent of the responding households had only
Native/Public Health benefits, while the other 45 percent
had additional aid in the form of Social Security,
disability, unemployment checks, ADFC and food stamps.
Subsistence
Subsistence, the traditional hunting/fishing/gathering of
local resources, is important to Tyonek residents for
several reasons. The traditional pursuit of subsistence
is interwoven into village social structure and sharing
6-107
among residents. Because of this, and village preference
for local food, subsistence resources cannot be equated
in terms of market goods. Additionally, the limited job
and income opportunities in Tyonek place great importance
on subsistence as a means of providing food.
Subsistence patterns vary with the season and abundance
of particular species. Although fish and game
regulations have modified traditional patterns, local
residents continue to follow a cycle resembling that of
their ancestors. Residents of Tyonek fish, hunt, trap,
dig clams, and pick berries. Four wheel drive vehicles,
snow machines and outboard motors are used in subsistence
pursuits.
King salmon comprise one of the important subsistence
species. During the 1980 season 67 subsistence fishing
permit holders harvested 1936 king salmon and 262
incidental red salmon. Each permit had a limit of 50
king salmon and the maximum season harvest for the
community was set at 3000 kings. Sixty-five percent of
the allowed harvest was reached.
Moose, ducks, geese, and spruce hens are hunted in season
while porcupine are hunted year-round. A few village
residents set traps for marten, mink, red fox, and
beaver. Euchalon, rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and
whitefish also provide a source of food for many
residents. Residents of the community also hunt beluga
whales and seals. Blueberries, raspberries, high and low
bush cranberries, and salmonberries ripen in the late
summer and early autumn and are primarily gathered by
women in the village.
6-108
6.5.5.2 Kenai Peninsula Borough
The proposed project is located within the Kenai
Peninsula Borough. Most of· the population of the Borough
is located on the western half of the Kenai Peninsula,
across Cook Inlet from the proposed project. The Kenai
Peninsula will be a source of labor and materials for the
proposed project.
Population
The population of the Borough is 25,072, up 51.2 percent
from 1970 (U.S. Census 1980). The Kenai census division
which encompasses the western half of the Kenai Peninsula
has a population of 22,271.
Employment
The labor force as of August, 1981, contained 12,300
workers, 9.8 of whom were unemployed. (Alaska Department
of Labor 1981) . Both the labor force and the unemploy-
ment rates exhibit marked seasonal variations. The
following table (Table 6-19) indicates employment and
wages by industry for the Kenai-Cook Inlet Division.
The Kenai Peninsula is likely to be a significant source
of labor for the proposed project. Employment impacts
are not quantifiable at this point in the feasibility
study.
Personal income impacts while not quantifiable at this
time are likely to be minimal. The unemployment rate may
drop somewhat and thus reduce the amount of unemployment
insurance payments.
6-109
6.5.5.3
6.5.6
6.5.6.1
Anchorage
Alaska's largest city, Anchorage is located approximately
60 miles east of the proposed project area. Anchorage is
likely to serve as a major supply center for both labor
and materials.
The Anchorage area is likely to be the major source of
in-state labor for the proposed project but the
employment impacts are not quantifiable at this time.
Many of the area's construction workers are available for
out of town work. The extent of their availability will
depend on the status of other construction projects in
the state such as the North Slope, Susitna darn, etc.
Population
The Municipality of Anchorage has a population of 173,992
as of 1980, up 37.7 percent from 1970 (U.S. Census 1980).
Employment
As of August, 1981, the Municipality had a labor force of
91,671 persons with 6.9 percent unemployment (Alaska
Economic Trends, October 1981, Department of Labor, State
of Alaska). Table 6-20 indicates employment and wages by
industry.
Community Infrastructure
Housing
There are 89 homes in Tyonek, almost all of which are
owned by the Tyonek Village IRA Council. Approximately
6-110
6.5.6.2
60 prefabricated homes were barged to and erected in
Tyonek in the mid-1960's. These homes, as well as 6
trailers, (2 of which are owned by the KPB school
district for teacher housing), form the housing stock of
the older part of the village. Outbuildings such as
smokehouses and steambaths are situated in this portion
of town.
An additional 27 wood-frame homes were built in 1978-79
through the joint efforts of the Department of Housing
and Urban Development and Cook Inlet Native Association.
These homes are located west of the airstrip in Indian
Creek subdivision or the "new subdivision" as it is
referred to by the townspeople.
All the transient employees of Kodiak Lumber Mills, Inc.
are housed in the company camp south of Tyonek. The camp
can accommodate up to 200 people. The camp has six
20-person bunkhouses, five 3-bedroom modular homes, about
12 trailers and six duplexes. The Shirleyville Lodge is
located adjacent to the Nickolai Creek airstrip. The
lodge includes trailers and cabins that can accommodate
24 people. Meals are also available.
Education
Bob Bartlett School serves grades K through 12 and is
financed and managed by the Kenai Peninsula Borough
School District. Located in the Village of Tyonek, it is
the only school serving the area. The school has four
regular classrooms, a home-economics suite, and a
portable classroom, for a total capacity of 240 students.
6-111
Enrollment history and school district projections are
presented below. The total 1976-1977 enrollment was 108,
with 75 in grades K-8, and 33 in grades 9-12. As of May
1978, 98 students were enrolled and 7 teachers {5 regular
and 2 cultural resource teachers) were employed. The
Borough's 1977 school-construction report indicates that
no facilities other than a new home-economics suite need
to be provided during the 5-year period ending in 1982.
When the Kodiak Lumber Mills' mill was in full operation,
approximately 20 children were bussed from the camp to
the village to attend the school.
PUPIL ENROLLMENT AND PROJECTIONS, BOB BARTLETT SCHOOL, TYONEK
School Year
1972-73
1873-74
1974-75
1975-76
1976-77
1977-78
1978-79
1979-80
1980-81
1981-82
K-8
76
65
73
87
75
82
90
95
103
110
9-12
21
22
18
28
33
34
34
37
38
41
Total
97
87
91
115
108
116
124
132
141
151
Source: Kenai Peninsula Borough School District, Enrollment
Projections and School Construction Report, April 1977.
6-112
6.5.6.3
6.5.6.4
Police Services
Police services in the Tyonek area are provided by the
Alaska State Troopers through a resident constable. The.
constable serves the area from the Beluga power station
south to Trading Bay, including the oil and gas
facilities at Trading Bay and Granite Point and the
lumber mill camp near Tyonek. A four-wheel drive vehicle
is used by the constable to patrol the area and an
airplane is available to fly the area if the need arises.
The constable at Tyonek has the time and ability to
handle an additional number of complaints and other
police activity, but the point at which population
increases will require the state troopers to add another
policemen is difficult to estimate.
In a work-camp situation, the troopers encourage private
companies to hire their own staff for internal security.
The troopers are then available to provide emergency
assistance. The temporary assignment of additional
troopers to the area is another option, especially if
camp activity is short-term or seasonal. In the proposed
project area, this would involve assigning staff from the
Soldotna regional office of the state troopers.
Fire Protection
Publicly provided fire protection services are currently
available in Tyonek through the U s. Department of
Interior, Bureau of Land Management.
6-113
6.5.6.5
6.5.6.6
Health Care and Emergency Medical Services
The state troopers are responsible for supervising rescue
operations for emergency situations in the proposed
project area. Medical evacuations are usually
accomplished by private charter plane. The u.s. Air
Force also handles some emergency evacuations.
Health care services are available to the residents of
Tyonek through a medical center located in the village.
The facility handles both medical and dental work and is
staffed by a resident, licensed practical nurse. The
clinic also has a community health aide (and alternate)
provided through the u S Public Health Service. The
health aide may provide services to non-Natives on an
emergency basis only. Non-Natives are billed for the
service. Emergency medical care is received at the ANS
hospital in Anchorage.
The Kenai Borough's Central Hospital service area
encompasses over 1000 square miles of land on both the
east and west side of Cook Inlet. On the west side of
Cook Inlet, the service area extends from Beluga River to
Drift River, including the study area. A 32-bed hospital
is located at Soldotna.
Water and Wastewater Systems
The existing water source for the village of Tyonek is a
nearby lake. The former ground water supply was
abandoned because of its high iron content (with
manganese) • The water system, which includes an
infiltration gallery and pump house, was installed by the
Village in 1976. The lake water is chlorinated, stored
6-114
in a tank, and filtered with activated carbon before
being delivered to the underground distribution system,
which was completed in 1972 under an EDA contract. A
previous groundwater well was developed in 1964 by the U
S. Public Health Service, but is used only for public
water supply. Each house and the school is served by the
distribution system. The 27 new housing units planned
for the village by Cook Inlet Housing Authority will be
connected to the distribution system.
The primary method of wastewater disposal at the village
of Tyonek is by septic tanks with subsurface leach
fields; some cesspools are also used. The septic tanks
were installed in 1965, have a capacity of 200 to 400
gallons, and are constructed of low-grade steel. Some of
the tanks are rusting. The soils have a gravel base,
making them good for subsurface disposal. The problems
that have developed with the onsite systems are probably
a result of the small size of the tanks and inadequate
maintenance. An unfenced sanitary landfill is located
4.2 miles from the village. The Kenai Peninsula Borough
is in the process of establishing a new landfill for the
village, but it may be some time before all approvals are
obtained
Water for the Kodiak Lumber Mills Camp is supplied from
three wells, which have been adequate to support 200
people to date; no water shortages have occurred. The
water contains an excessive amount of iron and barely
meets water quality standards. However, no bacteria
problems exist. Water is distributed through an
underground system that requires standard maintenance.
No winter freezing problems have been encountered.
6-115
6.5.7
Septic tanks with perforated-pipe drainfields are used
for waste disposal. The systems have required normal
maintenance; no special problems have developed. The
soils {consisting of a gravel base, covered with a few
feet of sandy loam and some clay) are good for subsurface
disposal.
Water for Trading Bay is supplied from wells at Marathon
Oil Company's Trading Bay facility and no shortages have
occurred. Septic tanks with drain fields have also been
used with very few problems.
Transportation
Transportation facilities on the west side of Cook Inlet
are few and small in size. These facilities consist of
logging and petroleum exploration roads, several
airfields, a wood chip loading pier and a petroleum
loading dock. The numerous resource development
potentials in the area may eventually lead to an
expansion of facilities.
Roads
All roads in the area of the project are shown in Figure
6.29. Most of the road system in the proposed project
area has been developed by Kodiak Lumber Mills in the
form of logging roads. The road system connects Granite
Point, Tyonek, Nicolai Creek, Kaloa, North Foreland, and
Beluga. There are about 100 miles of primary and
secondary roads. These roads are in good condition,
especially the main roads. Some of the bridges on the
secondary roads have washed out and have not been
replaced. The main logging road extends approximately 16
6-116
miles northwest of Congahbuna Lake to within 8 miles of
Capps Coal Field. Most roads are sand, overlain with
gravel, and require no special maintenance. The roads are
resurfaced following breakup.
Road rights-of-way (100 feet wide) are established along
the section lines of all state land (or land acquired
from the state). All other land has a 66-foot right-of-
way along section lines. Some legal questions have been
raised about how this right-of-way provision applies to
land "reserved for public use." No rights-of-way are
associated with the network of logging roads. Access was
permitted as part of the state's timber sale contract
with Kodiak Lumber Mills.
The Beluga area, north of Tyonek, and Anchorage are not
connected by a year-round road; however, a winter road
has been used in the past when the Susitna River was
frozen. The road was originally constructed to carry
large, heavy equipment to the area, but it has not been
used since the mid-1970's.
The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities has studied the Beluga area and developed
plans for river crossings and roadways. A proposed
highway would run from Tyonek to Goose Bay (about 65
miles), crossing the Susitna and Beluga Rivers. Existing
roads already connect Goose Bay to Knik (10 miles), Knik
to Wasilla (19 miles), and Wasilla to Anchorage (47
miles) .
The proposed highway is not likely to be constructed in
the near future, primarily because the economic benefits
to be derived from it do not justify the co@struction
6-117
costs. The proposed highway may become more attractive as
additional projects for resource and industrial
development in the Beluga area (aluminum smelter, coal
generating plants, etc.) are proposed or become feasible.
Two historic trails, identified in Table 6.21, in the
area were identified in a 1973 inventory done by the
State Department of Highways (now the State Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities). The Highway
Department claims legal access through prescriptive
rights along these traditionally travelled ways.
6.5.7.2 Air
The larger air facilities within the vicinity of the
project are identified in Table 6-22. The airport in
Tyonek is operated by the Native Village of Tyonek.
Planes as large as DC-6's and Hercules can be
accommodated. Pilots must obtain permission from the
Village before landing. The FAA estimates that there are
approximately 2000 annual air taxi landings at Tyonek.
Air taxi operators serving Tyonek include Trading Bay Air
Taxi, Spernak Airways, Wilbur's Flight Operations, Hudson
Air Taxi, Gil's Aircraft Service, and Alyeska Air
Service, Kenai Air, Kenai Aviation, and Arctic Aviation.
Other airstrips in the area include a poorly maintained
3500-foot City Services Oil Co. field, 8 to 10 miles west
of Beluga; a 1700-foot airstrip in good condition at
North Foreland that will handle a Sky Van; and several
light aircraft strips, including two 900-foot strips at
Capps Field.
6-118
6.5.7.3
All airfields in the Tyonek-Beluga area are privately
owned and maintained. Use of the airstrips requires
permission of the owners.
Marine
A private wood chip loading pier owned by Kodiak Lumber
Mills is located 3 miles south of Tyonek. The pier is
260 feet long with 685 feet of berthing space and a depth
alongside of 35 feet at mean low water. The dock would
need to extend about 3700 feet from shore to reach a 60
foot depth. The dock is used from April to November
depending on shipping schedules. The largest ship to
dock here was 607 feet long and 45,000 metric tons.
During 1980 only six freighters were loaded from the pier
and with the decline in the chip market even fewer will
dock in all of 1981. Recently, a test shipment of coal
was loaded from the pier onto a freighter headed for
Japan.
A special purpose petroleum dock owned by Cook Inlet
Pipeline Co. and operated by Mobil Oil is located at
Drift River, 47 miles southwest of Tyonek. The terminal
at Drift River was built in 1966 and is used solely to
load tankers with crude oil which is transferred to Drift
River via pipelines from offshore wells in Cook Inlet.
The dock is 100 feet long with a 100 foot face and depth
alongside is 70 foot. There is 780 feet of berthing
space with breasting and mooring dolphins. The dock can
accommodate 150,000 dead weight ton tankers (medium size).
There is also a barge off-loading ramp, owned by Standard
Oil, located 4 miles southwest of the Beluga River.
6-119
6 5.8
Tyonek and the Tyonek Lumber Mills' camp both receive
supplies by barge which are off-loaded on the beach.
Visual Resources
The project area falls into three categories of landform
characteristics: steep mountainous terrain, vegetated
uplands and coastal wetlands. Chakachamna Lake,
Chakachatna River Canyon, and the headwaters of the
McArthur River are located in narrow glaciated valleys
surrounded by steep, rugged mountains. Scenic quality is
high, particularly on Chakachamna Lake and the
Chakachatna River. The lake allows a long view where
hanging glaciers drop to lake level, and tributaries to
the lake form symmetrical deltas. The Chakachatna River
exits the lake into a canyon surrounded by steep
mountains. At this point the river alternates between
single channel and braided systems, and has relatively
continuous whitewater. Because of its scenic quality,
Chakachamna Lake was originally considered for inclusion
as national interest lands under Section 17(d)-2 of the
Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971. The
braided floodplain of the upper McArthur River is 3/4 of
a mile wide, and is roughly 50 percent vegetated with
contrasting exposed sandbars. Because of the twisti~g
nature of the canyon, the length of viewshed is
relatively short. Vegetation on the steep lower slopes
of the lake and both drainages consists of a thick
mixture of conifers and deciduous birch and alders, above
which lies a band of shrub thicket, and alpine
vegetation. This vegetation provides a contrast to both
the lake and river floodplains.
6-120
Upon leaving the mountains both the Chakachatna and
McArthur Rivers enter well-vegetated uplands. Here the
broader river valleys fluctuate between braided and
single channels. The dense vegetation of cottonwood,
white spruce and willow limits views from the rivers and
screens out the backdrop of mountains. Two relatively
unusual visual areas are located within the upland
landform. An expanse of dry sand flats is found along
the middle reach of the McArthur River. This dune-like
area provides visual relief (texture and color) from the
dense vegetation, and allows longer vistas of the
surrounding mountains. A border of lichencovered flats
further contributes to the aesthetics of this area.
Similar, but smaller, areas of lichen flats are located
along the Chakachatna River at the logging road bridge.
The vegetated uplands gradually give way to open wetlands
along both rivers. These coastal wetlands extend inland
roughly five miles from the coast. The low vegetation of
grasses and sedges and open water allows long vistas of
the surrounding mountains, Cook Inlet, and the Kenai
Peninsula across the Inlet. The primary river form in
these wetlands are meandering single channels with steep
mud banks. Tidal influence extends four or more miles
upchannel in some instances. These coastal wetlands
provide excellent waterfowl habitat, and have relatively
high visitor use compared to other portions of the
project area.
6-121
6.6 ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES -1982
As described in Secti'on 6.1, field studies were
planned for 19 8 2 which would aid in meeting the
primary objectives of this feasibility study, namely
to:
o Obtain sufficient information on the
0
environment of the study area to identify
constraints that may be placed on the project,
potentially affecting its feasibility; and
Obtain sufficient information to
required environmental exhibits
license application.
prepare
for the
the
FERC
The studies conducted during 1982 were reduced from
their planned levels by budgetary constraints and only
fisheries and hydrology investigations were conducted.
The principal emphasis of the program was on the
fisheries studies. These studies provide an
incremental increase in our knowledge of the aquatic
resources of the study area and also allow better
planning for future studies to meet the project
objectives.
During 1982, there were four fishery investigations
conducted bet\-Jeen March and June under the FY8 2
budget. Fishery and hydrology studies conducted from
July through October were conducted under the FY83
budget.
The following sections present the objectives and
results of the 1982 studies by discipline.
6-122
6.7
.6 • 7. 1
ENVIRONHENTAL HYDROLOGY -1982
Introduction
The purpose of this chapter is to describe the
hydrologic studies conducted in the late summer and
fall of 1982 (FY83) in support of the environmental
program leading toward the feasibility assessment of
the Chakachamna Lake Hydroelectric Project. The
overall objective of the FY83 environmental hydrology
studies is to collect baseline data to assist in
future evaluation of the physical processes of the
Chakachatna and McArthur River systems, correlation of
these processes with fish and wildlife habitats, and
to aid in the design of future studies. Studies
conducted during FY82 and before were summarized in a
report to which this chapter is an addendum ( 1981
Interim Report) .
The study area was described previously, in sections
6.1 and 6.2 of this report. The FY83 hydrologic
studies were conducted at 14 sites on the Chakachatna
River system below the Chakachamna Lake outlet and 5
sites on McArthur River below the powerhouse location
(Figure 6.30).
The following sections of this chapter include
presentations of:
o the study approach, including field and office
methodologies,
o stream flow characteristics,
o water temperature characteristics,
6-123
o sediment characteristics, and
o a summary of results.
The physical characteristics of the system are
discussed further in the following chapter in the
context of how they relate to the fisheries habitat in
the Chakachatna and McArthur River systems.
6.7.2 Study Approach
6.7.2.1 Field Data Collection
Hydrologic field data were collected during a two-
month period from mid-August to mid-October, 1982.
Two site visits were conducted by the hydrology crew
(11-17 August and 8-17 October). Equipment installed
in August included:
o two recording gages using Datapod Model DP211SG
dual channel recorders to record stage and tempera-
ture of:
Chakachatna River near the lake outlet
McArthur River downstream of the powerhouse
location, and
o staff gages at 15 study sites.
Data collected in August included:
o gage reference elevations, and
o water surface profiles.
Data collected in October included:
o discharge measurements at 12 gage locations,
6-124
o water surface profiles, and
o sediment characterization.
The Chakachatna River Datapod Model DP211SG recording
gage was installed on 11 August 1982 in the stilling
well of the former USGS gage No. 15294500 near the
outlet of Chakachamna Lake. This location was selec-
ted in order to extend the period of record at that
site and to allow comparison of discharges during
sampling periods to averages and extremes for the
period of record. The recorder was programmed to
sense hourly water levels and temperatures, and record
the average of the interrogations on a 6-hr interval.
The data through noon on 13 October were retrieved,
and the unit was set to continue operation through the
1982-83 winter period (Table 6.23).
The McArthur River Datapod Model DP211SG recording
gage was installed on the river bed immediately
upstream of the beginning of a long series of rapids
between the McArthur Canyon and the confluence with
the first tributary from Blockade Glacier (Site 13.5,
Figure 6.31). This location was selected to provide
baseline information on the hydrologic and temperature
regimes of that portion of the Upper McArthur River
where the greatest post-project change is anticipated.
The unit was installed on 11 August 1982 and
programmed to sense hourly water levels and
temperatures and record averages at 6-hr intervals.
The data collected were reviewed on 17 August and
found to have a significant diurnal variation of both
water levels and temperature. To document this
variation, the unit was reprogrammed to record at
hourly intervals. Approximately one week of data was
lost when a September storm caused floods that
6-125
dislodged the gage. By late fall, the diurnal
fluctuation was significantly less than that observed
in August. On 16 October, the data were retrieved and
the unit was reprogrammed to a 6-hr recording interval
to allow it to operate unattended for the duration of
the winter (Table 6.23).
A Peabody-Ryan Model J-90 thermograph was installed by
the fisheries crew at the McArthur River gage location
for the period 20 August through 23 September.
Another Peabody-Ryan thermograph was installed at the
powerhouse study site (Site 15, Figure 6.31) for the
period 20 August through 18 September.
Staff gages typically consisted of a fiberglass facing
replacement for a surveying rod, nailed to a length of
1 in. x 2 in. board which was then affixed to a fence
post driven into the streambed. A few staff gages
were aluminum meter sticks affixed to 6-ft long rebar
driven into the streambed. Staff gage readings were
referenced to temporary bench marks using standard
differential leveling techniques. Staff gage readings
were conducted at various
biology field crew for
(Table 6 . 2 4 ) .
intervals by the aquatic
a two-month period
The stream and floodplain transect data were collected
using one or a combination of the following methods:
o using a self-leveling level to obtain ground
elevations, and tape or stadia to obtain distance
along a transect,
o using transit and electronic distance measuring
equipment to measure horizontal and vertical angles
and distances to locations along the transect, and
6-126
o using data collected for discharge measurements for
transect data below water level.
Some transects consisted only of the portion of the
transect below water level. Stream gradients were
surveyed using a transit and electronic distance
measuring equipment, or a self-leveling level. Stream
bed material size was described qualitatively and
documented in some cases with photographs.
Discharge measurements were taken at study locations
1 , 3 , 4 , 6 , 13 . 5 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 17 d , 18 , 2 2 , and C
(Figure 6.30) using procedures similar to those of the
u.s. Geological Survey. A Marsh-McBirney flow meter
was used to measure velocity. A wading rod was used
at all sites except the Chakachatna River gage site
(c), where a suspension system was used. A metal
cable tag line was used to keep the boat stationary
and on line for all boat measurements.
6.7.2.2 Data Analyses
The data collected during the mid-August through
mid-October period were analyzed on an IBM Personal
Computer. The analyses included:
o reducing raw data to obtain
discharge values,
transect coordinates,
water surface gradients,
stage data summaries, and
temperature data summaries;
o hydraulic analyses to establish preliminary rating
curves at discharge measurements transects, curves
6-127
o application of selected rating curves to stage data
to develop flow hydrographs,
o comparison of flow hydrographs to characterize the
flow distribution in the system, and
o description of sediment characteristics in the
system.
The Hanning equation was used in the hydraulic
analyses to establish preliminary rating curves.
Channel geometry and energy gradient were obtained
from the stream and floodplain transects and water
surface profiles measured in the field. Hanning's
roughness coefficients (n) were back-calculated from
field data. The values were compared with standard
values and where large discrepancies existed, the
standard values were used. When computing Manning's n
values from field surveyed water surface slopes,
discrepancies are typically due to difficulties in
defining the reach location and length that dictate
flow conditions at the selected transect. Transect
data, discharge data, and hydraulic data are presented
in Appendix Al.
The Hanning equation was applied to applicable stage
data to obtain discharge values corresponding to each
of the gage readings. Site 6 had sufficient stage
data to develop regression equations for discharge
there as a function of the discharge at the
Chakachatna River recording site (Site C). The
regression equation was used to extend the data base
at Site 6 to correspond with the length of record at
the Chakachatna River recording gage.
6-128
6.7.3 Stream Flow Characteristics
Collection of streamflow data was initiated in 1982
with the installation of two recording gages and
numerous staff gages distributed through the
Chakachatna and McArthur River systems. Single
discharge measurements were taken in October at a
number of the sites to form the basis of preliminary
rating curves. These discharges, along with
comparable discharges measured in September 1981, are
presented in Table 6.25.
Heavy rainfall in mid-September resulted in elevated
stages throughout the study area. Stage at the
McArthur Recording gage rose approximately 3 ft in 12
hrs on 15 September; stage had just begun to drop when
the sensor to the gage became dislodged from the bed
and was swept downstream by the current. A discharge
of 4500 cfs was calculated for the maximum recorded
stage. High water marks surveyed in October verified
this peak stage. Such a discharge, when compared to
estimated flood flows in Table 6.4 (Location 6), is
found to correspond to a recurrence interval of about
25 yrs. This discharge also is approximately 50
percent greater than the proposed mean release for the
McArthur powerhouse alternative. Associated with this
flood were significant amounts of erosion and sediment
transport as evidenced by:
o erosion of the front of the delta at the gage site,
which consisted mainly of gravel/cobble material,
o scour of the bed at the gage, causing it to
dislodge from the bed,
6-129
o transport and deposition of sands, with subsequent
transport at low stage in the form of dunes, and
o sediment deposition causing channel abandonment and
diversion of flow in the vicinity of the proposed
powerhouse location.
The recording gage was reinstalled in approximately
the same location nine days after the peak flow
dislodged it. As much as 2 ft of sediment in the form
of dunes moved into the gage site cross section during
the 3 weeks following the flood (Figure 6.32). The
effects of the September rainstorm on the lower
McArthur River were much less significant due to the
large channel cross-sections developed to convey the
large summer meltwater flows from Blockade Glacier.
The September rainfall also affected the Chakachatna
River, but because of the influence of the lake, the
hydrograph was much broader and the peak flow was
delayed by several days (Figure 6.33). The mean daily
flows of the Chakachatna River at the lake outlet
increased from 3490 cfs to 4670 cfs in 4 days,
(September 15-19) increasing gradually to 4700 cfs
after two more days (Table 6.26).
The lower Chakachatna River above its split with
Middle River was studied to evaluate its hydrologic
characteristics for future use in characterizing the
fisheries habitat. Discharges computed from measured
stages were correlated with corresponding discharges
at the Chakachatna recording gage (Figure 6.34). The
resulting relation had a statistically significant
(p<0.01) coefficient of determination of 0.86; it was
used to compute mean daily discharges at the lower
Chakachatna River site from the records at the
6-130
recording gage site (Figure 6.33). The computed mean
daily discharges compared well with the values
computed for actual stage records. These values will
require further verification during future studies.
Discharge data at various locations in the Chakachatna
and McArthur River systems, based on correlations with
the Chakachatna recording gage data, are important for
establishing flow duration curves at fishery study
sites.
A summary of the 1982 streamflow data and
corresponding data from U.S.G.S. records is provided
in Table 6.27. It can be seen that the average flow
during the period of observation from mid-August
through mid-October in 1982 was 55 percent of the
average during the same period for the 13 years of
record of the USGS gage, or more than two standard
deviations below average. The previous lowest average
flow was 4278 cfs in 1969, 60 percent of the average
for the period of record. The trend of very low flows
in summer and near normal flows in fall can be seen by
comparing average weekly flows:
o the average weekly flow in mid-August of 1982 was
36 percent of the average for 14 years of record,
or much less than the previous low value of 70
percent in 1969;
o the average weekly flow in mid-September of 1982
during the rain storm runoff was about 77 percent
of the average for 14 years of record, and 6 of the
14 years of record had values less than the 1982
value:
o the average weekly flow in mid-October of 1982 was
about 95 percent of the average for 13 years of
6-131
6.7.4
record, and 8 of the 13 years of record had values
less than the 1982 value.
The average flow for the period of observation at the
McArthur River recording gage averaged 12 to 15
percent of the average flow for the 13 years of record
on the Chakachatna River. The average flow for the
period of observation in the downstream Chakachatna
River (Site 6) fluctuated around 9 and 17 percent of
the average flow at the lake outlet for the 13 years
of record and for 1982, respectively.
The groundwater characteristics of the study area have -
not yet been investigated in detail. Observations of
a spawning channel located on the left edge (looking
upstream) of the Chakachatna River floodplain just
downstream from the bridge (Station 17, designated
LB+O) illustrate the potential importance of the
groundwater resource. At the upstream end of the
channel a spring emanates from the steep bank of the
floodplain. The flow from this spring appeared to
remain fairly constant during the period of
observation, from March to late October 1982. Flow,
generally increases in a downstream direction along
this channel, yet it receives no surface water inflow.
The flow of the channel at its confluence with the
Chakachatna River was 7.6 cfs (3400 gpm) on 15 October
1982. The groundwater in the study area will need to
be investigated during detailed feasibility
investigations to better define its characteristics.
Water Temperature
Water temperatures were measured on a continuous basis
at several locations in the Chakachatna and McArthur
River systems and on a periodic basis elsewhere in the
6-132
..
6.7.5
systems as part of the fisheries habitat data
collection program. Average daily temperatures on the
Chakachatna River at the lake outlet ranged from 8° C
in August to 6° C in October (Table 6.28).
Water temperatures in the McArthur River at the rapids
exhibited large diurnal variations (Figure 6.35 and
Table 6.29). On 27 August 1982, temperatures varied
from 3° to 9.5° C in a six-hour period. This extreme
variation is likely related to the broad, braided
configuration of the river for several miles above the
gage. In that reach, the cold glacial flow spreads
out and receives energy from the warm air and solar
radiation during the day, and loses energy to cold air
and long wave (black body) radiation at night.
Streamflow temperatures in a side channel of the
McArthur River at the powerhouse site are summarized
in Table 6. 30. Temperatures from mid-August to
mid-September averaged 1.6° C less at the powerhouse
than at the recording gage (station 13.5).
Sediment Characterization
The Chakachatna and McArthur River systems are glacial
and thus carry fine glacial silts through much of the
open water season. The systems also transport larger
materials in suspension and as bed load. The main
channel substrate of these river systems under the
present flow regime appears to be quite unstable.
Table 6.31 summarizes the general characteristics of
various stream reaches of the Chakachatna and McArthur
River systems.
6-133
6.7.6 Summary of Results
The collection and analysis of hydrologic data for the
period from late summer through fall of 1982 provided
the following results:
o A September rainstorm caused a short duration flood
with a peak flow of 4500 cfs at the recording gage
on the Upper McArthur River; this flood discharge
has a recurrence interval of about 25 years.
o Associated with the September flood on the Upper
McArthur River were significant amounts of erosion
and sediment transport.
o The Chakachatna River and the lower McArthur River
were affected by the September rainstorm, but to a
significantly lesser extent than the Upper McArthur
River.
o Discharges in the lower Chakachatna River above the
split with Middle River correlated reasonably well
with the discharges at the recording gage,
averaging approximately 17 percent of the flow at
the lake outlet.
o The average discharge during the mid-August to
mid-October period in 1982 was significantly less
than the average for the 13 years of record of the
U.S.G.S. gage; August flows were well below average
and October flows were near average.
o Groundwater may be an important characteristic
contributing to fisheries habitat in the
Chakachatna River floodplain.
6-134
o Water temperatures on the Upper HcArthur River
exhibit diurnal temperature variation as large as
6.5°C on warm summer days.
o The Chakachatna and McArthur River systems actively
transport sediments.
6-135
6.8
6.8.1
6.8.1.1
AQUATIC BIOLOGY -1982 STUDIES
Introduction and Objectives
During 1982, studies of aquatic biology concentrated
on the fishery resources of the study area. Two
s of programs were carried out. One, during
the winter and spring of 1982, the other during the
summer and fall.
Winter -Spring Reconnaissance Program
During the period of March through June 1982, four
reconnaissance-level field studies were performed.
These studies encompassed a variety of areas within
the study site including Chakachamna Lake,
Chakachatna Rive~, McArthur River, and tributaries
of the preceding water bodies.
These studies were performed to supplement previous
reconnaissance studies completed during August and
September 1981 which have been included in Section
6.3 of this report. The objectives of these studies
were to:
o Extend the data base on habitat use and
seasonal distribution of fish;
o Aid in identifying the time spring spawning
migration begins; and
o Examine for the presence of out-migrants.
A more extensive investigation was carried out
during the summer and fall of 1982.
6-136
6.8.1.2. Summer -Fall Sampling Program
This task consisted of two programs. One program
was directed at studying adult anadromous fish in
the Chakachatna and McArthur River systems study
area and was conducted from mid-July through October
1982. The other program was directed at studying
the resident and juvenile anadromous fish in the
study area during August through October, 1982.
6.8.1.2.1 Adult Anadromous Fish
This program was directed at studying the presence
and spawning of anadromous fish in the study area.
Emphasis was placed on the five species of Pacific
salmon. The objectives of this program were to
determine:
o Estimated abundance of spawning adults for each
spawning area;
o Spawning locations including;
main stem areas
tributary streams
side channels
lakes
sloughs
o Timing of migrations and spawning;
o Migratory pathways and milling areas; and
o Characteristics of spawning habitat.
6-137
6.8.1.2.2 Resident and Juvenile Anadromous Fish
This program was directed at studying the seasonal
distribution, habitat use, and relative abundance of
important resident species such as Dolly Varden and
rainbow trout, as well as the study of the same
parameters for juvenile anadromous fish.
The objectives of this program were to:
o Identify species composition;
o Identify important seasonal habitat;
o Measure relative abundance at selected stations;
and
o Identify timing of important life history events.
6.8.1.2.3 Chakachamna Lake Sampling
This program was directed at studying the following:
o Identify milling areas;
o Identify shoreline spawning (if it occurs);
o Collect water quality data; and
o Examine fish distribution in the lake.
6.8.1.2.4 Habitat Data Collection
This program was directed at measuring the physical
characteristics of habitats at each of the sampling
stations. This included the following:
6.8.2
o Water velocity and depth
o Water quality
o Sustrate
o Cover
o Presence of upwelling
Methodology
A variety of methodologies were utilized to sample
and count fish in the study area during the 1982
program. The various methodologies were necessi-
tated by the diversity and complexity of the site
and the distances between stations. Access was
often a problem due to flooding of sampling areas
during normal flow periods and low water levels
during other periods. For example, flow was 36
percent of normal during August, and limited site
access by boat. In addition during September, a one
in 25 years recurrence interval flood flow occurred
which limited site access.
The use of gear was also limited by availability,
and logistic constraints. t1any of the same sampling
gears and techniques used during the 1981 studies
were also used during 1982 (see 6.3.2).
A plan of study was prepared which consisted of two
components, one emphasizing resident and juvenile
anadromous fish, and the other adult anadromous fish.
These are presented below. The actual methodologies
used are detailed in Sections 6.8.2.1 -6.8.2.12.
6-139
RESIDENT AND JUVENILE ANADROMOUS FISH PROGRAM
Habitat Program
A. Identify location of various life functions.
This involved systematic sampling of 24 general
sampling stations and some additional locations based
upon 1981-1982 reconnaissance data. Sampling was
primarily by netting, electroshocking and minnow traps.
Each sampling station was sampled monthly and the more
accessible stations, more frequently.
B. Heasurements of relative abundance.
This involved use of equal efforts at each station.
C. Measurement of habitat characteristics.
At each biological sampling station a series of indivi-
dual specific habitats, representative of habitats
available at the station were sampled. At each of
these sites, in addition to the collection of fish, a
series of habitat measurements were made to determine
species habitat preference. These sites were selected
and sampled in such a way that results were not biased
by the effect of biological sampling at nearby stations.
The habitat characteristics that were measured
included:
1. Average Water Column Velocity ( 0. 6 depth)
2. Water Column Temperature
3. Water Column pH
4. Water Column D.O
5 • Water Column Turbidity
6. Cover
7. Substrate
8. Water Depth
9. River Segment Stage (where appropriate).
ADULT ANADROMOUS FISH PROGRAM
Escapement Estimation and Monitoring
A. Identify migratory pathways used by fish by means of
tags and observation or collection up-river of fish
tagged at lower system fyke nets.
B. Identify spawning locations by overflights, netting,
and electroshocking (low visibility waters) . Gear
preference was visual and netting, supplemented by
pulsed D.C. electrofishing only when necessary.
Sites surveyed included:
o Chakachatna River (mainstem and side channels)
o McArthur River (mainstem and side channels)
o McArthur River tributaries
o Igitna River
o Chilligan River
o Neacola River
o Another River
o Nagishlamina River
o Other unnamed tributaries
o Noaukta Slough
o Middle River (including side channels)
o Chakachamna Lake
C. Tag recovery operations and photo documentation were
only conducted on sites where spawning was found.
D. Estimate number of fish spawning in each area by:
1. direct count -ground level (where feasible)
2. aerial count -visual and with photo documentation
performed on approximate weekly basis
3. each spawning area estimated with overflight counts
was ground-truthed by ground level counts, biweekly.
6-141
4. carcasses were counted and checked for tags.
Escapement data was analyzed by integrating by stream,
the number of live fish counted over time and dividing
by stream life duration (see below).
E. Estimated stream life of a salmon wave was calculated
by measuring the time between peak-live and dead
counts, where feasible, and by tag analysis.
F. Timing of .movements was determined by analysis of tag
returns and observations.
G. Age and stock data will be obtained from scales sup-
plied to Commercial Fisheries Division for analysis.
H. Spawning habitat was characterized by measuring the
following parameters:
6.8.2.1
1. Average Water Column Velocity (0.6 depth)
2. Water Column Temperature
3 • Water Column pH
4. Water Column Dissolved Oxygen
5. \"Vater Column Turbidity
6. Cover
7. Substrate
8. Depth
9. River Segment Stage (where appropriate).
Salmon Spawning Escapement
Escapement to spawning streams and sloughs was moni-
tored on as close to a weekly schedule as field condi-
tions permitted. Counts of spawning salmon and
carcasses were generally made from the air, using a
Bell 206B Jet Ranger helicopter equipped with bubble
windows that permitted an extended field of view.
Counts were generally made by two biologists and were
tabulated on multiple tally meters. The biologists
used polarized glasses to improve vision through water
surface glare.
6-142
Spawning counts made in sloughs and streams were made
on the entirety of stream length. On the longer
rivers , such
Neacola, and
monitored at
as the .Igi tna, Chilligan, Another,
Nagishlimina, the water course was
least several miles above reaches of
observed spawning activity, and well above reaches
containing suitable substrate. Although no salmon
spawning was observed in the Another, Neacola or
Nagishlimina Rivers, routine monitoring of these
streams was still carried out. A regular part of the
escapement monitoring procedures included ground-level
counts to verify the aerial counts. Where necessary,
nets or electroshocking were also employed.
Emphasis was placed on counting live fish. Although
counts of carcasses were also made, this was a
secondary objective. Activity of wildlife, such as
bears, often resulted in limited information being
gathered on carcass abundance. Ground level
investigations revealed that carcasses were often
removed from the immediate stream area and crushed into
the ground or surrounding vegetation.
Photo documentation of spawning areas was also per-
formed. A Canon A-1 Camera with motor drive and
data-back was used to take photographs. A polarized
filter was used to reduce the effect of surface glare.
Each photograph was labelled as to location and date
(Cousens et al. 1982).
In May and June, three aerial reconnaissances were
conducted as part of an investigation into the timing
of migratory movements of anadromous fish. Aerial
escapement counts were performed from July 17 through
October 19, on an approximately weekly basis. All
waterbodies identified during 1981 studies as con-
6-143
taining spawning salmon (see Figures 6.13, 6.19) were
monitored. In addition, waterways hypothesized as
being migratory pathways or milling areas were also
surveyed. Where such areas were identified they were
described in the text and plotted on a topographic map
of the system. Figure 6.36 shows the Chakachatna and
McArthur systems and delineates areas which were
examined in detail and are discussed in Section
6.8.3.2.1. The calculation of these estimated escape-
ments followed methodologies described by Barrett
(1972), Neilson and Geen (1981), Atkinson (1943),
Washington Department of Fisheries (1979) , and Bell and
Atkinson (1982).
The method of calculation was to plot the number of
live fish (y-axis) versus consecutive days (x-axis) ,
and then to calculate the area under the curve. An
example of a plot of the number of live fish versus
days is shown in Figure 6.37. In order to estimate the
number of fish, the total area under the curve is then
divided by the estimated stream life (in days) of the
species. This results in an estimate of the total
escapement of that species to the stream. Information
on stream life (Table 6.32) was obtained from three
sources: 1) available literature, 2) calculations
based on the difference in days between the peak live
salmon count and the peak count of carcasses (Bell and
Atkinson, 1982), and 3) calculations based on
observations of tagged fish in the spawning stream.
Carcass counts on a number of streams within the study
area could not be used as reliable information because
of flushing from the area of interest by stream flow
and their removal by wildlife. Also, in general,
carcasses are not as readily identifiable to species as
are live fish.
6-144
6.8.2.2
Tag data, which are used in estimating the stream life
of adult salmon are dependent upon observing or recap-
turing tagged fish in streams being investigated. For
many streams, observations could only be made on a once
a week basis, thus limiting the accuracy of stream life
estimates attainable.
Stream life of individual species is discussed under
separate accounts of the spawning and migration of each
salmon species.
Fyke Nets
Fyke nets were employed to collect data on the relative
abundance of fish and to capture fish for tagging. The
nets were deployed in the lower portions of the
Chakachatna and ~1cArthur River systems in areas
suitable for their uses. Fyke nets consisted of a
stainless steel 1.8 x 1.2 m {6 x 4 ft) trap mouth,
flanked by wings ranging from 15.2 to 91 m in length
{50 to 300 ft); the wings were covered with 2.5 em {1.0
in) bar mesh. The trap portion was constructed of 1.3
em ( 0. 5 in) bar mesh knotless nylon \vi th two funnels.
Leads of 15.2 to 91 m (50 to 300 ft) were employed at a
variety of sets, depending upon depth and water
current. All nets were set in less than 1.2 m (4 ft)
of water in velocities of approximately 1 m/s (3.3
ft/s) or less.
Fish were removed from the codend of the fyke nets and
held in floating 1.2 x 1.2 x 1.2 m (4 x 4 x 4 ft)
holding pens made of 0.3 em (1 /8 in) knotless nylon
mesh. As fish were needed for processing they were
dipped out of the holding pen and placed in a tub with
a solution of MS-222 anesthetic. Anesthetized fish
were then processed {See Section 6. 8. 2. 8) . At the
6-145
6.8.2.3
start of the summer-fall 1982 studies, two fyke nets
were available to the project. These were set at
stations 6 and 11. Table 6.33 lists the deployment
schedule for fyke nets.
In September additional nets were set at additional
stations. The stations were selected on the basis of
the feasibility of setting a fyke net at a given site
and on the basis of providing coverage of potential
migratory pathways to Chakachatna River spawning areas.
Stations at which fyke nets were set included stations
1 (10) and 11 on the McArthur River, stations 3, 4, 6
on the Chakachatna River and station 9 on the Noaukta
Slough (Figure 6.30).
Fyke net catch per effort (c/f) was defined as catch
per net per day (24 hours).
Hinnow Traps
The primary sampling method for sampling age 0+ and
small juvenile fish was the baited minnow trap. This
has been an effective sampling device for collecting
juvenile fish used in many other studies in Alaska
(Wilson et.al, 1981, ADF&G, 1982b, 1982c,). Standard
minnow traps (43.2 x 22.9 em 17 x 9 in., 3.2 mm, 0.125
in mesh) were deployed in sets of four at each of the
sampling stations, one through 24, where feasible.
Each station was sampled during August, September and
October where site access was permitted. Traps were
baited with salmon eggs and set overnight in represen-
tative habitats. Physicochemical habitat data were
measured at each trap. A unit effort of sampling was
considered to be one trap set for one day (24 hours).
6-146
...
6.8.2.4
6.8.2.5
6.8.2.6
6.8.2.7
6.8.2.8
Seines
The same seines were used as in 1981 (see Table
6.8). These were used both individually and in
combination with electrofishing.
Hook and Line
Supplemental collections were made using hook and line.
This technique was used in deeper or dangerous waters
and to verify species identifications in remote loca-
tions where other sample gear was not suitable.
Electro fishing
Electrofishing collections were conducted using
Smith-Root Model XI and Model XV electroshockers. These
were operated at 600 volts at 60 hertz. Electronar-
cotized fish were collected by dipnets and seines.
Each collection was processed and summarized separately.
Gill Nets
The same gill nets as used in 1981 (Table 6.8) were
used in the 1982 studies. These were set for 0.5 to 12
hr sets in Chakachamna Lake. The use of gill nets was
kept to a minimum to reduce injuries to adult sockeye.
Large numbers of milling adult sockeye were caught in
gill nets, even in set periods of as short as 0.5 hour.
Processing of Fish Collected
Fish collected by means of the sampling methodologies
were generally processed in the same manner. Fish were
measured for total length, to the nearest mm. Adult
salmon were also measured for fork length, to the
6~7
nearest rnm. Weight was measured to the nearest 0.03 kg
(1 oz) for large fish, and to the nearest gram (0.04
oz) for small juveniles (where feasible) . Species,
life stage (see below), and reproductive condi~ion (see
below) were also recorded. All resident fish and
larger juvenile anadrornous fish larger than 18-20 ern
(7.0-7.9 in) total length (large enough to be tagged
without undue damage) were tagged with numbered Floy
spaghetti tags. Adult salmon were tagged with Petersen
disk tags. These tags were color coded. Each tagging
location, including fyke net stations, was assigned an
individual color for identification.
6.8.2.8.1 Lifestage
Captured fish were classified according to lifestage.
The classification emphasized salrnonid lifestages but
were also used for other species. Fish were classified
into the following categories.
Category
Fry
Parr
Juvenile/smelt
Definition
Yolk-sac or post-larvae which
do not have their full comple-
ment of fins, finrays, etc.
Juveniles with distinct parr
marks which have full comple-
ment of fins; yolk-sac
completely absorbed (salrnonids
only) .
Juvenile of non-anadrornous
species and srnolt of salrnonid
species; parr marks lost.
6.....148
Adults
6.8.2.8.2 Sexual Maturity
Fish capable of reproduction,
whether sexually ripe or not.
The sexual maturity of fish was identified whenever
feasible. Fish were examined externally and classified
according to Nikolsky (1963) into the following
categories.
Stage
I.
II.
III.
IV.
Classification of Stages of Fish Matu~ity
(Immature)
(Resting Stage)
(Maturation)
(Maturity)
Definition
young individuals which have
not yet engaged in reproduction~
gonads of very small size.
sexual products have not yet
begun to develop; gonads of
very small size; eggs not
distinguishable to the naked
eye.
Eggs distinguishable to the
naked eye; a very rapid
increase in weight of gonad is
in progress; testes change
from transparent to a pale
rose color.
Sexual products ripe; gonads
have achieved their maximum
weight, but the sexual pro-
ducts are still not extruded
when light pressure is applied.
6-149
v. (Reproduction) Sexual products are extruded
in response to very light
pressure on the belly; weight
of the gonads decreases
rapidly from the start of
spawning to its completion.
VI. (Spent Condition) The sexual products have been
VII. (Resting Stage)
6.8.2.8.3 Scale Methodology
discharged; genital aperture
inflamed; gonads have the
appearance of deflated sacs,
the ovaries usually containing
a few left-over eggs, and the
testes some residual sperm.
Sexual products have been
discharged; inflammation
around the genital aperture
has subsided; gonads of very
small size, eggs are distin-
guishable to the naked eye.
Scales were collected from all adult salmon regardless
of condition encountered during routine sampling.
This was done to assure that the maximum number
of useable scales would be obtained. The Alaska
Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) statewide stock
assessment scale sampling methodology was used. Adult
scales will be read by ADF&G. Other fish (e.g.,
juveniles) scales collected were read using a
microprojector.
6-150
6.8.2.9 Habitat Data Collection
A variety of habitat data were collected to charac-
terize the various sampling areas and to provide
information on fish habitat preference. The data
collected to characterize fish habitat preference will
be necessary for future impact analyses.
Environmental data were collected at each electro-
fishing and minnow trapping site. The habitat data
collected included measurements of: water depth, water
velocity, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, tur-
bidity, conductivity, substrate, cover, and stage (from
staff gage). Water depth was measured using a top-
setting wading rod, and water velocity was measured
with a Marsh-McBirney Model 201 electromagnetic
current meter.
Water quality parameters were measured with a Horiba
Model U-7 Water Quality Heter. This instrument
measures temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, specific
conductance (conductivity) and turbidity. The
instrument was calibrated daily prior to use. The
instrument comes equipped with an 10 meter ( 3 3 ft)
cable for in situ measurements. At depths greater than
10 meters, a 4.2 liter (4.45 quart) Van Dorn bottle
equipped with a 91.4 m (300 ft) cable was used to
collect water samples. These samples were then
measured at the surface using the U-7 Water Quality
Meter.
Water temperatures were also recorded by Data-pod
recording water level gages and by two Peabody-Ryan
temperature recorders set in the McArthur River (see
Section 6.7.4). River stages were measured using staff
6-151
gages installed at many sampling stations (see
Hydrology Section 6.7.3). Staff gages were installed
at all stations indicated by circles on Figure 6.30.
Recording water level gages were installed on the
Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers (see Section 6.7.3).
6.8.2.9.1 Substrate and Cover
Substrate and cover are important descriptors of the
physical habitat used by fish and can a£ feet the
utilization of available habitat (Bovee, 1982). There
have been a variety of descriptors used to describe
both substrate and cover, many of which are complex and
difficult to implement under field conditions.
Substrate. Based upon the advice of the USFWS -
Cooperative Instream Flow Group ( IFG) (Bovee, pers.
comm) substrate characterization was based on a simple
system that had the potential to be further summarized
if needed.
The coding system was in many respects quite similar to
the Brusven Substrate Index (Brusven, 1977) which has
been used in previous instream flow assessments. The
scale consisted of two sets of two digits separated by
a decimal point (i.e. ------• ------).
Digit one was used to designate the dominant substrate
material other than fines, if more than one non-fine
material was present. Digit two denoted the second
most common substrate material (usually other than
fines), if such a material was present. The third and
fourth digits were used to designate the percentage of
fine materials such as sand or silt and less coarse
materials.
6-152
The scale used was:
Category
1 -Fines
2 -Small gravel
3 -Large gravel
4 -Cobble
5 -Rubble
6 -Small boulder
7 -Large boulder
8 -Bedrock
9 -Other
Description
sand and silt
4 -25 mm
25 -75 mm
75 -225 mm
225 -300 mm
300 -600 mm
600 mm
actual bedrock
vegetation, man-made
materials
Therefore a substrate code such as 23.50 describes a
substrate which was 50 percent fines and had a non-fines
portion in which small gravel made up more of the sub-
strate than large gravel. Where possible, substrate was
described based upon direct observation of the bottom.
Where such observations were infeasible, grab samples
(Petersen dredge) were collected and characterized.
Cover Code. Cover has been described by a number of
coding systems in the past. Many of these systems have
been quite complex (Bovee, 1982). Current recom-
mendations made by the IFG have emphasized the use of
relatively simple cover codes as descriptors (Bovee,
1982; Bovee, Pers. Comm). These simple codes are often
more compatible with such forms of analysis and impact
prediction as the IFG incremental flow methodology.
Cover is usually described in terms of two types of
cover: overhead and object. Overhead cover includes
those features of the environment both biotic and
abiotic which "cover a fish from above." This could
6-153
include floating logs, tree branches, cut banks and
similar features or anything a fish can get under
(Bovee, 1982). Object cover includes those features of
the environment that can provide shelter for the fish
within the stream, particularly shelter from flows.
The code chosen for this study allowed a variety of
information to be recorded which could then be directly
used or further summarized. The code included the
following categories:
Code Cover
1 -no object cover
2 -object cover < 0.3 m (1 ft)
3 -object cover > 0.3 m ( 1 ft)
4 -no overhead cover
5 -overhead cover above water surface
6 -overhead cover in water
7 -overhead cover in and above water surface
A specific cover code was defined by two digits. The
first digit signified object cover, the second, over-
head cover. In this manner, combinations of both types
of cover can be encoded.
The relative percentage of the designated cover and the
distance of the sampling area from shore was also
recorded.
6.8.2.10 Hydroacoustics
Hydroacoustic or echosounding was used to detect fish
during the winter 1982 reconnaissance study and during
the September 1982 study. Both studies were conducted
on Chakacharnna Lake.
6-154
6.8.2.10.1
6.8.2.10.2
Winter Reconnaissance
Hydroacoustic sampling was used to examine the relative
distribution of fish at the two sampling sites. This
technique provided a means of sampling a large volume
of water and determining the distribution of fish
within it. In addition, it lowed a relatively
unbiased evaluation of fish distribution since it was
not dependent upon fish behavior or activity as nets
would be. A Biosonics model 101 echo sounder (Figure
6.38) was used, with a horizontally deployed transducer
(Figure 6.39) to detech fish under the lake ice. The
transducer was pivotable so that the volume of water
beneath the transducer could be scanned at all depths
and directions and so it could also be angled to detect
fish immediately below the ice without undue inter-
ference from ice ridges (Figure 6.39). Two sites were
sampled at the eastern end of the lake (Figure 6.40).
September 1982 Field Program
The hydroacoustic sampling during this study was con-
ducted utilizing a Biosonics model 101 echosounder, a
Ross Chart recorder, Sony tapedeck, and a V-Fin mounted
10° transducer. The schematic of this gear is shown
in Figure 6. 41. A total of three transects were
completed in the lake as shown in Figure 6.42. This
represents approximately 9.4 kilometers (5.8 miles) of
sampling.
6.8.2.11 Data Management and Analyses
Data were entered from key punch compatible field forms
to magnetic tape and were managed and principal
analyses run on a PDP-11/23. All data were subject to
verification and quality control routines and checks.
6-155
6.8.3
6.8.3.1
Mathematical and graphic analyses were principally
computer generated. Computer graphics were generated
using ·the Statistical Analysis System (SAS), Mellonics
propriatory software (IBM 370), and Hewlett Packard
(HP) system 9845 graphics software.
Analytical routines included SAS, HP statistical
programs, and Woodward-Clyde Consultants statistical
programs.
to Sokal
Variance
Statistical analysis was conducted according
and Rohlf (1980). Results of Analysis of
(ANOVA) and other tests performed were subject
to tests for homogeneity of variance, normality and
additivity, as appropriate. Where necessary, data were
transformed to meet necessary test assumptions, or
non-parametric statistics used. Data analyses in the
text were conducted by ANOVA and multiple contrasts,
unless otherwise stated.
Results
Winter -Spring Reconnaissance Program
A program of reconnaissance-level studies was conducted
during the winter and spring of 1982, primarily to
provide information on the seasonal distribution,
timing of seasonal movements and habitat use of fish
within the study area. Due to the relatively low-level
of effort, the amount and detail of these data are not
directly comparable with those collected during the
summer and fall of 1982 (when a much greater level of
effort was expended) •
The emphasis of the winter-spring studies was to
provide some data on the use of the river systems
during the winter and spring when important events in
the life histories of Pacific salmon occur. Since no
6-156
site specific data were available on the winter and
spring behavior of fish in the study area, the timing
for the studies was based on data from the literature
and other investigations being conducted in upper Cook
Inlet.
6.8.3.1.1 Winter Studies 1982
Winter reconnaissance studies of seasonal distribution
and habitat use
March 18-23, 1982.
were conducted during
These studies were directed at,
o Locating potential overwintering areas;
o Evaluating specific habitat sites identified during
the 1981 program; and
o Studying fish distribution in Chakachamna Lake.
Stations referred to in this discussion are the same as
those shown in Figure 6.30. A variety of study sites
were evaluated during this study ranging from
Chakachamna Lake to the Middle River for the
Chakachatna River system and the McArthur River from
the McArthur Canyon area downstream to its confluence
with Noaukta Slough. Fish collection data for these
studies are contained in Appendix A3. These areas are
discussed by site.
Chakachamna Lake. No winter data were available from
previous studies on fish distribution within Chakachamna
Lake nor on physicochemical conditions. Most project
alternatives involve a deep withdrawal of lake water
through a tunnel to a turbine and penstock. An objec-
tive of this study was to evaluate the distribution of
fish in the vicinity of the proposed intake location
and to gain insight into winter behavior of these fish.
6-157
The limited visibility of the lake water and the diffi-
culty of maintaining access to the lake during winter
limited the extent of studies on the lake.
Measurements were taken of physical conditions on and
in Chakachamna Lake. Ice cover on the lake was contin-
uous and generally solid. Some pressure ridging was in
evidence, but no leads were observed. Ice cover was
measured at 0.99 meters (3.25 ft) with approximately
0.3-1.0 meters (1.0-3.3 ft) of drifted and/or compacted
snow above. Some under-ice ridging was detectable by
means of hydroacoustics (see below).
Two study sites were examined on Chakachamna Lake
(Figure 6.40). Site one corresponded to the proposed
lake intake location, and site two represented a
mid-lake area (approximately 1.6 km (1 mi) offshore
with depths greater than 76.2 meters, 250 ft) also in
the eastern part of the lake. Water temperature and
dissolved oxygen were measured in situ (see Metho-
dology). One profile was taken at site one; at site
two, the instrument subsequently froze and iled.
These data are presented in Table 6. 34 and show an
inverted temperature profile. Dissolved oxygen (DO)
levels were high throughout the water column; there
was, however, a slight decrease in DO at 13.7 m
(45.0 ft).
Hydroacoustic sampling was used to examine the relative
distribution of fish at the two sampling sites. This
technique provided a means of sampling a large volume
of water and determining the distribution of fish
within it. In addition, it allowed a relatively
unbiased evaluation of fish distribution since it was
not dependent upon fish behavior or activity as nets
would be. A Biosonics model 101 echo sounder (Figure
6-158
6.38) was used with a horizontally deployed transducer
(Figure 6.39) to detect fish under the lake ice. The
transducer was pivotable so that the volume of water ·
beneath the transducer could be scanned at all depths
and directions and so it could also be angled to detect
fish immediately below ..:he ice without undue inter-
ference from ice ridges (Figure 6.39). The data from
the scans were analyzed to determine the depth distr
bution of fish. The results of this analysis are given
in Table 6.35 for the 45° and 15° transducer deploy-
ments. These were selected for evaluation of depth
distribution because they sampled more water volume at
depths greater than 3.0 meters (10 ft) than the scans
used to sample directly beneath the ice cover.
Overall, fish were most abundant within 6.1 meters
(20 ft) of the surface, and over 83.4 percent of the
fish detected were found there. Between 65 and
100 percent of the fish detected were located at depths
of 0-3 meters (0-10 ft).
A deployment angle of 15° or less generally provided
better resolution in the shallower depths and the 45°
deployment angle provided better resolution at greater
depths.
Relative densities of targets (presumed to be fish)
just under the ice, where densities were greatest, were
compared between sites one and two. Target density at
site two was 29.1 percent greater.
The reason for the overwhelming abundance of fish in
the upper 6 m (20 ft) of the water column is unclear.
One possible hypothesis is that planktonic organisms
6-i59
used as food by some fish (i.e., sub-adult sockeye,
lake trout, Dolly Varden, etc.) may be more abundant at
these shallow depths under the ice.
In cases in which fish crossed the beam of the trans-
ducer, the swimming speed (time of passage) of the fish
observed could be estimated. Many of the fish observed
remained essentially stationary. Swimming speeds of
five fish were estimated. These were in the range of
0.2 to 0.4 cm/s (0.1-0.2 in/s). This method has been
used for estimating fish swimming speeds in Prudhoe Bay
and in other places (Tarbox and Thorne, 1979).
Chakachatna River. Habitat stations in the Chakachatna
Canyon were overflown and observed. There were large
reaches of open water in this area and some of the
tributary streams located within the canyon were open
and flowing. Ice covered areas were generally confined
to the banks and to overflow channels. Generally, open
water areas were prevalent throughout the upper
Chakachatna River extending from below the lake outlet
to the division with the Noaukta Slough. Most areas
downstream of that division were ice covered with few
open leads present.
Sloughs along the Chakachatna River located at station
17 (Figure. 6.30) were open or had partial ice cover,
this was true of sloughs along both the left and right
banks (looking upstream). The left bank slough was
completely open. This slough was observed to be spring
fed, with discernible flow coming from the elevated
south bank.
Sockeye and chum salmon had been observed spawning in
this area in 1981 and again in fall 1982. Habitat
measurements were made in both the left and right bank
6-160
sloughs. These data are summarized in Table 6.36. The
water temperatures in the left bank slough were
measured with a YSI model 57 temperature-dissolved
oxygen meter. The meter failed prior to the collection
of data in the right bank slough. Two days later water
temperature was measured with a mercury thermometer in
a side channel of the Chakachatna River along the left
bank. The water temperature was 1°C, similar to water
temperatures measured in the upper water column in
Chakachamna Lake (Table 6.34). It was also less than
the water temperature in the left bank slough.
Fish were sampled in the left bank slough by means of
baited minnow traps, observation and electrofishing. A
Dolly Varden parr and a slimy sculpin adult were
collected (Appendix A3 -Table 1). Both had eaten the
salmon egg bait. Electro£ ishing in the same area
collected many fry and parr. Because of the large
number of redds observed in the area, a relatively
small area was sampled in order to reduce potential
damage to the fry present (Appendix A3 -Table 2). The
fry collected varied in development from yolk-sac fry
with prominent yolk-sacs, to those in which the yolk-
sac was completely absorbed and the parr marks were
present and distinct. The identification of fry of
chinook, sockeye, coho and chum salmon as well as of
Dolly Varden and an unidentified whitefish (Prosopium
sp.) confirms that this slough was successfully used as
a spawning and incubation area by these species during
1981. It should be noted that this sampling confirmed
use of this station by species not previously identi-
fied as having spawned there. Pink salmon had been
observed spawning in the general station vicinity but
no fry had been collected.
6-161
Approximately 50-100 fry were observed swimming above
the gravel in the left bank slough. Two adult Dolly
Varden were observed in the adjacent side channel.
These fish were estimated to be approximately 0.3 m
(1 ft) or larger in size. Sampling in the right bank
slough resulted in the collection of sub-adult Dolly
Varden and coho salmon. The coho was age I+ and the
Dolly Varden were age 0+.
The lower Chakachatna and Middle Rivers were overflown
to observe ice cover conditions. Ice cover was
generally complete with only a few leads present. Snow
drifts of up to 1.5 m (5.0 ft) were found in these
areas.
Straight Creek. The Straight Creek area, near station
18 was also examined for the presence of overwintering
habitat. There was a solid ice cover over the entire
creek, holes augered through the ice revealed a mean
depth of ice of 1.1 meter (3.6 ft) under a snow cover
of 0.8 to 1.0 meter (2.5-3.5 ft). The ice cover was
solid and extended to the substrate. Flowing water was
found under the ice cover only along the right bank of
the creek, originating from the upstream clearwater
tributary (Stream 19). A depth of 0.1 meter (0.25 ft)
of water flowing at 0.23 m/s (0.75 ft/s) was measured
under the ice at this point.
Noaukta Slough. Potential overwintering habitat had
been identified in the Noaukta Slough near station 10
during 1981. The site was characterized by relatively
deep water and wide channels, and consisted of a main
and a side channel area. Both sites were completely
ice covered and no leads were visible. The main
channel site had 1.5 meters (4.9 ft) of ice cover with
0.4 meter (1.3 ft) of water underneath. The side
6-i62
channel site had 1. 0 m (3. 3 ft) of ice cover with
1.8 meter (5.9 ft) of water underneath. The water
temperature at both sites was 1°C. Biological sampling
was not conducted there.
McArthur River. The McArthur River was overflown from
the area below its confluence with the Noaukta Slough
through the McArthur Canyon. Below the confluence with
the slough, the ice cover was continuous with a few
leads. Above this area, there were large open areas in
the vicinity of station 13 and the ice cover was
discontinuous in the canyon area.
Sampling was conducted in the vicinity of station 15,
where many leads were present and several channels were
open. Water depths (Table 6.37) ranging from 0.1 to
0.6 m (0.4-2.0 ft) were found and water column velo-
cities (at 0.6 depth) were measured at 0.11 m/s (0.35
ft/ s) . viater temperatures in this vicinity ranged
from 1.0 to 1.5°C. These relatively high temperatures
are an indication of possible groundwater flow. Ice
cover was nearly continuous at station 14 in the
downstream portion of the canyon.
Downstream at station 13, the river, although somewhat
narrow (12.8 m, 42.0 ft), was completely open and
flowing. Velocities of up to 0.63 m/s (2.00 ft/s) were
measured in a riffle area (Table 6.37). Ice along the
shoreline was rotten and was partially melted.
Minnow traps were set in this area and Dolly Varden
collected (Appendix A3 -Table 4). Two coho sub-adults
were also observed near the banks.
6-163
McArthur Tributaries. Portions of Streams 13X, 12.1,
and 12.2 were overflown and ice conditions observed.
Lower portions of all three streams had large leads in
various stretches. The open areas varied in width from
approximately 1 m (3.3 ft) to 10 m (33 ft). It was
clear from even this brief study that considerable
amounts of overwintering habitat were available and
that water sources other than glacial melt were
contributing to flow.
6.8.3.1.2 Spring Studies, May 25-27, 1982
The second study was conducted during May 25-27, 1982.
The objectives of the reconnaissance included:
o The investigation of spring habitat conditions;
o Habitat use by resident and juvenile anadromous
fish;
o Observations for the presence of early upstream
migrants (anadromous fish); and
o Examination for the presence of outmigrants.
Due to the short duration of the effort, study
intensity was limited.
Aerial observations showed that ice and snow had melted
at the elevations of most of the large water bodies.
There were some patches of ice and snow present on the
shoreline areas and islands, particularly above
Chakachamna Lake.
Sites Above Chakachamna Lake.
Access above the Kenibuna Lake outlet was limited due
to hazardous wind shear conditions. It was possible to
conduct physicochemical and biological sampling at the
6-164
Kenibuna Lake outlet (station 29) (Figure 6.30). Snow
cover was present, although approximately 2-5 meters
(6.6-16.4 ft) back from the waters edge. The mean
water temperature was 5.25°C (Table 6.38), which
indicated that seasonal warming of the water was well
advanced. Electrofishing efforts (Appendix A3
Tables 5 and 6) resulted in the collection of several
sculpins. It appeared that there was relatively little
use of this area by fish at that time.
Sampling was also conducted in the Chilligan River
(station 30). Water temperatures in the side channel
sampled were relatively high, 8.4°C (Table 6.38). No
fish were collected by electrofishing in that area.
The Nagishlamina River (station 26) was also sampled,
water temperatures were somewhat lower than the other
stations, (4.2°C, Table 6.38). Electrofishing was also
conducted, but no fish were collected.
Chakachatna River. Sampling of the Chakachatna River
stations also included both biological and physico-
chemical sampling. Some small amounts of snow were
present on islands and river banks, but usually it was
well back from the waters edge.
Sampling at station 22, in the relatively large pool
and side channel area indicated considerable warming,
water temperature was 6. 7°C (Table 6.38). Electro-
fishing efforts (Appendix A3 -Table 7) produced two
Dolly Varden sub-adults and a juvenile whitefish
(Prosopium sp.). The numbers collected were well below
those collected in this area at other times.
6-165
Fish were generally more abundant and diverse down-
stream (Appendix A3 -Table 8). At station 17 many age
0+ coho, chinook, sockeye and chum salmon, and Dolly
Varden were collected from cover in the side channel.
The area sampled was downstream of the left bank slough
where salmon spawning was observed. The side channel
received both slough and river flow, and was designated
LB+2 to differentiate it from the left-most slough
(LB+O) and other water bodies at this station. Adult
rainbow trout and round whitefish were also collected
at this station. The rainbow trout had been feeding on
salmonid juveniles.
The left bank slough at station 17, (LB+O) was also
sampled in the same pool investigated during March.
Sub-adult Dolly Varden, slimy sculpin, and sub-adult
chinook, sockeye, and chum salmon were collected
(Appendix A3 -Table 9). Another area sampled in the
same slough, further downstream (Appendix A3 -Table 10)
also resulted in collection of the same species. The
Dolly Varden collected in this area also included older
juveniles (up to 14.1 em, or 5.5 in. total length).
The chums collected showed some evidence of initial
smol tification, but parr marks were generally still
distinct. There was a definite temperature difference
between the slough(LB+O) and the side channel (LB+2 ),
2.3°C versus 4.2°C, respectively (Table 6.38). There
were also differences in conductivity and turbidity,
83 umho/ em versus 70 umho/ em and 23.5 mg /1 versus
65.5 mg/1, respectively.
Physicochemical sampling was also conducted at station -
17D. The water temperature was slightly warmer than in
the station 17 side channel, however, conductivity and
turbidity were very similar (Table 6.38).
6-166
Middle River. The Middle River was sampled at
station 5; few fish and no salmonids were collected.
Noaukta Slough. Station 10 had been identified during
1981 as a rearing habitat (Section 6.6). Juvenile
Dolly Varden and coho salmon were relatively abundant
there (Appendix A3 -Table 12). The lengths of fish
collected indicated the probable presence of at least
two year classes for each species. Water quality data
indicated some similarity to data collected upstream at
station 17D.
Straight Creek. Straight Creek (Station 18) was
completely ice-free with some snow cover still present
on islands. Water temperatures and conductivity were
considerably different from the Chakachatna River
(Table 6.38). Turbidity was much lower than measured
during other periods. A significant portion of the
flow appeared to be derived from the Clearwater
tributary (Stream 19).
Electrofishing resulted in the collection of coho and
chinook salmon, Dolly Varden, and a slimy sculpin. The
salmon were age I+ fish.
McArthur River. Sampling in the HcArthur River was
conducted from below the McArthur glacier, downstream
to the confluence of Stream 13U. The station closest
to the McArthur glacier (station 15.5) was sampled
during 1981; no fish were collected then or during 1982
investigations. Water temperature at this station was
1. 1 o c (Table 6 . 3 9 ) .
6-167
More than 70 age 0+ and age I+ Dolly Varden, chinook,
and sockeye and coho salmon (Appendix A3 -Table 14)
were collected downstream, at station 15. The
collection of age 0+ chinook, sockeye and coho salmon
was evidence of successful spawning and incubation of
these species.
Downstream of the canyon at station 13, water tempera-
tures were higher than station 15; 4.9°C (Table 6.39).
Sampling at this station resulted in the collection of
similar species (Appendix A3 -Table 15) to those
collected during March, including Dolly Varden age 0+
through age II+, age I+ coho and chinook salmon, and
one sculpin.
6.8.3.1.3 System-wide Outrnigrant Sampling
Outrnigrant sampling was conducted to investigate the
timing of downstream movements; stationary 0.5 rn (1.6
ft) plankton nets were used. Due to constraints on
site access, most sampling had to be performed during
daylight. Nocturnal sampling was performed at
station 17. Table 6.40 lists the results these
sampling efforts. Few fish were collected and none of
these had undergone srnoltification. Combined with the
results of electrofishing, the results of this sampling
indicated that fish such as churn salmon were in early
stages of srnoltification.
6.8.3.1.4 Spring Studies June 8-11, 1982
The June 8-11 reconnaissance trip was conducted as a
continuation of studies started during the May 1982
field trip.
6-168
An aerial survey was conducted of known spawning areas
and of migratory pathways in the lower portions of both
river systems. No adult salmon were observed, but
eulachon (Thaleichthys pacificus) were identified in
the system for the first time. The eulachon were
observed spawning only in the lower McArthur River.
Spawning habitat and the extent of spawning is reported
in Section 6.8.3.2.1. Sockeye and chum salmon smolts
were collected in the lower portions of both river
systems. This indicated that outmigration had begun.
The results of the habitat and outmigrant sampling are
described below.
Sites Above Chakachamna Lake. Improved weather
permitted access to areas above Kenibuna Lake.
Neacola River -The Neacola River was sampled at
station 31, approximately 7.2 km (4.5 miles) above its
confluence with Kenibuna Lake. This area was selected
because it contained substrate suitable for salmonid
spawning, although the substrate was largely sand
with only a small amount of gravel. Dolly Varden
(age I+ -II+) round whitefish, and slimy sculpin were
collected in order of decreasing abundance (Appendix A3
-Table 16). Sampling in an adjacent pond area
(Appendix A3 -Table 17) resulted in the collection
of six fish. Although juvenile Dolly Varden were
collected at station 31, the absence of age 0+ fish
suggested that Dolly Varden may not spawn in that area.
Age 0+ fish were present at all other sites where
spawning was identified.
Physicochemical measurements were taken in both the
river and pond sites. Water temperatures at both sites
were greater than at any other stations sampled during
that reconnaissance (Table 6.41).
6-169
Another River -Electroshock sampling in the Another
River (station 33) collected two species, Dolly Varden
and slimy sculpin. The Dolly Varden ranged from age 0+
to II+. The presence of age 0+ fish indicated that
Dolly Varden probably spawned in this area. Spawning
was observed during fall 1982 studies. Water tempera-
tures in the Another River were relatively warm (7.2°
C) and similar to those of the Igitna River (7.0°)
(Table 6.41), and its conductivity was the lowest in
the Chakachatna River drainage.
Ignitna River -Eleven Dolly Varden were collected in
the Igitna River (Appendix A3 -Table 19). No sockeye
salmon were collected, although spawning had been
observed there.
Chilligan River -Dolly Varden (4), sockeye salmon (14)
and sculpin (1) were collected at station 30, in the
Chilligan River (Appendix A3 -Table 19) . Age 0+
+ sockeye and age 0+ to age I Dolly Varden were
collected.
Chakachamna Lake. Water quality sampling was conducted
at station 27 on the north shore of the lake (Table
6.41). The lake surface was too rough to set gill nets
or electrofish.
Station 25 on the south shore of the lake, was more
amenable to sampling, being in the lea of the wind.
Water temperatures were found to be lower than further
upstream at station 27 and in the tributary water-
bodies. No fish were found at this station.
Chakacha tna River. Dolly Varden were collected at
station 24 in the upper Chakachatna Canyon (3 fish,
Appendix A3, Table 21). Water temperature and
6-170
..
conductivity were similar to that at station 25, near
the lake outlet.
At station 22, located in the downstream end of the
Chakachatna River Canyon, fish were more abundant (30
versus 3 fish, respectively) than at station 24, based
upon greater catch-per-effort (Appendix A3 -Table 22).
Dolly Varden were most abundant and ranged from age 0+
to age III+. One sockeye and lake trout sub-adult were
also collected. The lake trout was evidently trans-
ported downstream from the lake. Both temperature and
conductivity were higher at station 22 than further
upstream.
Collections at station 20 contained a greater number of
species than collections further upstream (five species
as compared to three or less) Appendix A3 -Table 22.
Dolly Varden, sockeye and chinook salmon were common.
Dolly Varden included age I+ through age III+ , sock-
eyes included age I+ -age II+ fish, and chinooks
included age 0+ to age I+. This station consisted of
backwater areas off the main river channel. The
salmon collected may have originated from upstream
tributaries.
Water temperature at station 20 was higher than at
upstream stations on the river. Conductivity was also
greater (Table 6.41).
At station 17, both the main river channel and the left
bank side channel (which received slough flow) were
sampled. Coho salmon, Dolly Varden and slimy sculpin
were common in the main channel (Appendix A3 -Tables
24 and 25). Dolly Varden collected ranged from age 0+
to III+, coho ranged from age 0+ to I+. Catches in the
left bank side channel, were dominated by Dolly Varden,
6-171
and chum, coho and sockeye salmon. One chinook salmon
and one sculpin were also collected. Dolly Varden
ranged from age 0+ to II -III+. Sockeye appeared to
be primarily age 0+. One coho age 0+ and one age I+
were present. Chum (age 0+) showed definite signs of
smoltification.
Sampling in the Chakachatna River just above its
confluence with the McArthur River (station 1) resulted
in the collection of two smolts, one sockeye (age I+)
and one chum salmon (age 0+) . Sculpins and threespine
sticklebacks were also collected. Water temperatures
at station 1 were higher than at the upstream stations.
Middle River. At station 5, coho and sockeye salmon
were collected, as well as three-spine sticklebacks
(Appendix A3 -Table 27). The coho salmon were age I+
to age II+ and were showing distinct signs of
smoltification. The sockeye were age I+ and showed no
sign of smoltification. Water temperatures (7.7° C,
Table 6.41) were warmer than station 17 (upstream).
Conductivity at station 5 was very similar to that in
the Chakachatna main channel at station 17.
Noaukta Slough. Sampling in the Noaukta Slough was
conducted at two stations; station 10, where overwin-
tering sampling was conducted, and at station 16A in
the upstream area of the slough (Figure 6.30). This
area was used extensively as rearing habitat during the
1981 studies.
At station 16A, sampling was conducted at two sites,
one in a main channel area and the other in a backwater
area filled with snags and debris. Sampling resulted
in the collection of over 120 fish. Fish ranged from
age 0+ to age II+ fish. It is hypothesized that the
6-172
numerous juvenile salmonids originated, for the most
part, from spawning wh~ch had occurred upstream. The
chum salmon collected showed varying degrees of smolti-
fication. None of the sockeye, chinook, or coho salmon
collected showed evidence of smoltification (Appendix A3
-Tables 28 and 29).
Seven species of fish were collected at station 10
(Appendix A3 -Table 30). Fish were less abundant than
at station 16A. Most sub-adult salmon present were age
0+. One age I+ coho and Dolly Varden ranging from age
I+ to II+ were also present.
Water temperatures at station 16A were lower than at
station 17 upstream, or at station 10, downstream
(Table 6.41). Conductivity was also lower than at
either of the other stations. This may indicate that
the western portion of the slough is receiving inflow
from upwelling or drainage from the adjacent wetland.
Observations of clear water flow in this area during
late October 1982 support this hypothesis.
Straight Creek. Coho and chinook salmon, Dolly Varden
and slimy sculpin were collected at station 18. None
of the salmonids had smolted.
McArthur River Drainage. The McArthur River was also
sampled to examine for the presence of outmigrants and
to determine habitat usage.
Collections made at station 15 (Appendix A3 -Table 33)
included Dolly Varden, chinook salmon, and sculpin.
Dolly Varden were primarily age 0+ and included yolk-sac
fry. Chinook were also primarily age 0+ and age I+.
6-173
Samples collected at station 13 (Appendix A3
Table 34) included pygmy whitefish, Dolly Varden, and
coho, sockeye, and chinook salmon. The Dolly Varden
included age 0+ to II+, coho salmon were age I+ and
age II+, sockeye and chinook salmon were all age 0+.
Station 12 was sampled, but only two fish were
collected (Appendix A3 -Table 6-35).
Station 11.5 (Figure 6.30) was sampled to aid in deter-
mining how far upstream eulachon had migrated. Coho
and Dolly Varden were also collected. Examination of
water quality data (Table 6.42) clearly indicated the
change in temperature, conductivity and turbidity
between stations 12 and 11.5. This was due to the
influence of the inflow of water from the Noaukta
Slough.
Eight species of fish were collected at station 11
including adult eulachon, which spawned in this area.
Numerous chum salmon smolts were also found at this
station. Sockeye age 0+ and age I+ smolts were part
of this collection.
Eulachon were very abundant at station 1D (Figure 6.30)
in the lower McArthur River (28 adults collected,
Appendix A3, Table 38). Two chum smolts salmon and one
sockeye smolt were also collected at this station
(Appendix A3 -Table 3 8) . Water temperatures and
conductivities were lower than measurements made at
station 11. These were probably caused by the inflow
of water from the Chakachatna River, upstream.
6-174
"'
6.8.3.1.5 Spring Studies June 24-25, 1982
Fish collections were made at stations representing
1981 spawning areas or probable migratory pathways for
outmigrants (Appendix A3 -Tables 39 -45).
Chakachatna River. Sampling at station 17 resulted in
the collection of many age 0+ to older fish. No chum
salmon were not collected, although they were present
during the previous sampling trip. This indicated that
the chums had probably migrated downstream prior to
this sampling.
Middle River. Fish collected at station 4 consisted of
Dolly Varden, and a sculpin (Appendix A3 -Table 40).
Six sockeye salmon were collected at station 5 further
downstream in the Middle River. Two of the sockeye had
smelted. The other four fish were age 0+ and still had
distinct parr marks.
Straight Creek Clearwater Tributary. Two age 0+
chinook salmon were collected at station 19.
McArthur River. The stations sampled during June 8-11
were again sampled during June 24-25. Station 15, as
in the previous survey was found to contain primarily
Dolly Varden and chinook salmon. During this trip, a
Dolly Varden of age II+ was also collected. Age 0+
fish did not appear to be as abundant as during the
previous survey. This may have been due to downstream
migration, natural mortality or both.
At station 13, fish other than Dolly Varden were
collected at greater abundance than during the previous
trips, lending credence to the hypothesis that age 0+
6-175
fish were moving downstream. Four of the 18 sockeye
collected at this station had smolted indicating that
the sockeye outmigration was continuing.
At station 1D (McArthur River) , chum and sockeye salmon
age 0+ smolts were collected.
Overall, the outmigration appeared to be continuing,
particularly in the McArthur drainage. Outmigrants,
including chum, sockeye and coho salmon, left many of
the upstream spawning areas by June 25.
6.8.3.2 Summer -Fall Sampling Program
6.8.3.2.1 Adult Anadromous Fish
Reconnaissance studies were conducted during the
spring, and salmon were observed moving into the system
on June 25. The first aerial escapement survey was
conducted on July 17. Spawning survey results are
given in Appendix A2, Table A2-1 through A2-15. These
are corrected actual counts of escapement by stream for
each species of Pacific salmon counted between July 17
and October 19, 1982. These counts were used to
calculate estimated escapement to each stream and
slough. The following discussion presents the results
of these counts for each species of salmon.
Chinook salmon. Chinook salmon were observed entering
the McArthur and Middle River systems during the June
24 -25 1982 reconnaissance. Results of the previous
reconnaissance studies (May 25 -27 and June 8 -10)
had not indicated that any chinook were ascending the
waterbodies.
6-176
By July 17, chinook were observed in Stream 13U in the
McArthur drainage (Figure 6.30) but were not observed
on the clearwater tributary to Straight Creek (vicinity
of station 19), and Stream 13X was not surveyed. On
July 22, chinook were found in Streams 13U, 13X, 19,
and 12.2 and were observed milling near the mouth of
Stream 19 at its confluence with Straight Creek. The
chinook spawning areas are shown in Figure 6.43. Adult
chinook were not observed in any other streams.
There were some differences noted between chinook
spawning locations during 1981 and 1982. Chinook were
not observed spawning in the vicinity of the clearwater
sloughs at station 17, nor in the side channels and
sloughs of the McArthur Canyon in 1982 as they had been
during 1981. The 1981 spawning was confirmed by
collection of chinook fry at both of these stations
during early-late spring 1982 (Section 6.8.3.1}.
A small, unnamed tributary that joined stream 13X
(Stream E, Figure 6.21) was blocked by a beaver dam
during 1982. This stream had been used for salmon
spawning during 19 81, but had become inaccessible
during 1982.
Chinook were observed earliest in McArthur tributaries
and these fish died off earlier than fish in Stream 19
(Chakachatna system). Live adult chinook were observed
in Stream 19 as late as August 25. One late migrant, a
jack chinook, was collected at station 3 on October 15.
Plots of live chinook spawners versus consecutive days
are shown in Figures 6.37, 6.44, 6.45, and 6.46, for
the Straight Creek clearwater tributary (Stream 19},
and Streams 13X, 13U, and 12.2, respectively.
6-177
Stream life of chinook was estimated to be 12 days,
based upon observations of marked fish remaining on the
stream between 10 and 14 days. Estimated stream life
was similar to that found by Neilson and Geen (1981).
Using th value, the chinook escapement for each
stream was estimated. The beginning of the chinook run
on Stream 13X occurred prior to the July 22 observation
of that stream (Figure 6.44). Examination of the shape
of plots of live chinook over time for other streams
(Figures 6.37, 6.45, 6.46), shows that the shape of
each plot was generally symmetrical. Therefore, in
order to estimate the probable actual escapement for
Stream 13X, the calculated escapement was doubled.
The estimated escapements are shown in Table 6.43. In
addition to the estimated escapements, the table
includes the peak counts of live and dead chinook for
comparison with these estimates. The peak counts were
expected to be lower than the estimated escapement
because of the removal of carcasses by flows and
scavengers and the potential movement onto the stream
of fish arriving after the peak. Peak counts are often
used as an index of escapement.
Estimated numbers of spawning chinook were considerably
greater than those observed by ADF&G in earlier surveys
(ADF&G, unpublished data) which were based on single
yearly counts. The highest estimated escapement of
chinook (1,633 fish) occurred in Stream 13U.
Chinook were found to spawn further upstream in a given
stream than other species. On both Streams 13U and
13X, areas above small rapids or chutes were found to
contain a few spawning chinook and no other species.
Subsequent observations showed that those areas were
6-178
not utilized by other species. Several chinook spawn-
ing areas on Streams 19, 13U and 13X were observed in
detail. Chinook were observed to spawn on substrates
ranging from small gravel to cobble. The substrates
usually contained less than 25 percent fines. Areas
that contained up to 75 percent fines were occassion-
ally used.
Chinook were observed spawning in areas with higher
velocities than most other salmon species. Other
characteristics of spawning areas included:
o Water column velocities (at 0.6 total depth)
measured between 0.55 and 1.07 m/sec (1.8 and
3.5 ft/sec);
o Water depths between 0.4 and 0.55 m (1.3 and
1. 8 ft) i
o Turbidity between 2 and 34 mg/1; and
o Dissolved oxygen values greater than 10.0 mg/1.
Sockeye Salmon. An aerial reconnaissance conducted on
July 22 did not reveal the presence of sockeye in any
of the spawning streams, however, milling fish were
observed at the mouths of Streams 19, 13U and 13X at
that time. These were assumed to be sockeye (Figures
6.47 and 6.48, areas E and F on Figure 6.36, respec-
tively) . Approximately one week later (by July 31 and
August 1) sockeye had ascended Streams 13X, 13U, 12.1,
12.2, 12.3 1 the McArthur Canyon sloughs and side
channels (areas near stations 14 and 15 1 including
beaver ponds shown in Figure 6.20), the Straight Creek
clearwater tributary (19), and sloughs at station 17.
In many of these streams, peak abundance of sockeye did
6-179
not occur until one to two weeks later. At station 17,
for example, peak numbers of spawning fish were observed
in September (Appendix A2, Table A2-2). Other streams
in which spawning sockeye were observed included Streams
12.4, and 12.5, the Straight Creek mouth area sloughs,
Chakachatna Tributary C1, Chakachatna Canyon sloughs,
and the Chilligan and Igi tna Rivers. Each of the
sockeye spawning areas that was identified during 1982
is shown in Figure 6.49.
Milling fish were also found to utilize backwater areas
of the Chakachatna River Canyon (station 23 and above,
see Figure 6.30), and Chakachamna Lake (Figure 6.50).
Just prior to the sockeye ascending the Chilligan
River, many were found milling in the mouth of the
river and backwater areas near the mouth (Figure
6.51). Sockeye also entered the Igitna River later
than the streams lower in the system. Sockeye were
observed milling in the alluvial fan of the Igi tna
River on August 18, one week prior to the observation
of spawners in the river itself. The milling area is
shown in Figure 6.52.
The largest numbers of sockeye were observed in the
Chilligan River located upstream of Chakachamna Lake
(Area C, Figure 6.36). Spawning adults were not found
in channels of the Chilligan River until August 18 and
peak counts of live fish were made on September 9
(Appendix A2, Table A2-15).
Escapement estimates were made utilizing the same
techniques as used for chinook, and plots are shown in
Figures 6.53 through 6.67. In cases where the decline
in the abundance of spawners over time was not followed
6-180
....
..
completeHy to zero, the zero date was estimated by
linear regression, or by continued plotting of the
downward line to the x-intercept.
Estimated stream life of sockeye (Table 6.32) varied in
different water bodies. The sockeye within streams in
the Chakachatna drainage, such as the Chilligan River
and the sloughs at station 17, had stream lives of
approximately 12 days. Barrett (1972) found similar
results for sockeye in the Kasilof River system. In
some streams in the McArthur drainage (i.e., Streams
12.1 through 12.5 and Stream 13X) sockeye appeared to
have considerably shorter stream lives, averaging about
six days. This may have been due in part to greater
levels of predation on fish. The streams are shallow,
narrow and have limited cover.
Estimated escapements of sockeye are shown for each
stream in Table 6. 4 4. Estimates of escapement for
McArthur streams were made using both 6 and 12 day
stream life to indicate the potential range of escape-
ment. As stated above, the greatest escapement was
found in the Chilligan River (38,576 fish). In the
Chakachatna drainage the second greatest escapement of
sockeye was in the Igitna River (2,781 fish). Both
waterbodies are located upstream from Chakachamna Lake.
Downstream from the lake, the greatest sockeye escape-
ment occurred in the sloughs at station 17.
In the McArthur drainage, the greatest escapement
occurred in Stream 12.1, followed by 12.2, and 13X.
Over 90 percent of observed sockeye spawning in the
McArthur drainage, occurred in tributaries located
downstream of the McArthur Canyon.
6-181
Observed sockeye spawning areas spanned a variety of
habitats including tributaries, sloughs, and side
channels. Fish· were also found spawning in a few
mainstem areas of the Chilligan River. The mainstem
areas were generally low velocity areas receiving some
slough or upwelling flow. Many side-channel habitats
in which sockeye spawning was observed in the Chaka-
chatna River and McArthur Canyon areas also contained
upwelling flow. This was confirmed by observations in
the fall after river levels dropped.
Spawning generally occurred over substrates ranging
from small gravel to cobble, but usually over some
substrate containing large gravel. Fines in spawning
areas ranged from 10 to 80 percent. Where fines were
over 50 percent of the substrate they were surficial.
Other characteristics of spawning areas included:
o Water velocities ranging from 0 to 0.6 m/sec (0 to
2.1ft/sec).
o Depths ranging from 0.2 to 0.7 m (0.5 to
2.2 ft) in stream and slough habitats, as deep as
1.2 m (4.0 ft) in the Chilligan River.
o Dissolved oxygen between 9.4 mg/1 and 13.3 mg/1.
o Turbidities between 1 and 28 mg/1.
Pink Salmon.
Appendix A2
Pink salmon aerial counts are listed in
(Table A2.1-14). Pink salmon were first
observed in spawning areas in the Chakachatna and
McArthur Rivers on July 31. Observations of pink
salmon were made in McArthur tributaries 13X, 12.1,
12.2, and 12.5, and in the sloughs at Chakachatna River
station 17, with peak numbers observed in mid-to late
6-182
August. On Stream 19, the Chakachatna Canyon sloughs,
Streams 13U, 12.3, and 12.4, and the McArthur Canyon
area, pink salmon were first observed in August with
peak numbers of live fish observed in mid -to late
August. Spawning adults had disappeared from many
streams by the beginning of September and from all
streams after September 10. Pink salmon spawning areas
identified during 1982 are shown in Figure 6.68.
Observations in the various streams indicated that
pinks spawned primarily in the lower portions of
streams. Pinks were not observed to ascend as far
upstream as chinook, sockeye, or coho.
Pink salmon were observed milling near the mouths of
several streams prior to their appearance in the
stream, or prior to the observation of peak numbers.
Milling areas were identified for the Chakachatna
Canyon, and Streams 19, 13X, and 13U. The milling
areas on Streams 19, 13X, and 13U (Figures 6.69 through
6.71) largely corresponded to the sockeye milling areas
at the mouths of these streams. Based on observations
of milling fish and the fact that relatively few were
ascending the streams, it appeared that many pink
salmon had entered fresh water prior to the first week
of August.
Fish tagged at fyke net station 6 were later observed
spawning in Stream 19, Chakachatna Canyon sloughs, and
sloughs at station 17 (Figure 6.30). A fish tagged at
station 11 was found on Stream 12.1. These data
indicated the migratory routes used by pink salmon.
Plots of observed live fish counted versus consecutive
days for pink salmon are shown in Figure 6.72 through
6-183
6.82. Stream life of pinks was estimated to be approxi-
mately seven days (Table 6.32), based upon data col-
lected in the Chakachatna and McArthur River Systems.
Table 6.45 lists the estimated escapements by stream.
The Straight Creek clearwater tributary (Stream 19)
had the greatest estimated escapement of pinks in the
Chakachatna drainage (7 ,925 fish). Few pinks were
found in other streams of that drainage. The greatest
estimated escapement of pinks in the McArthur drainage
(8499 fish) was on Stream 12.1. Streams 13U, 13X,
and 12.2 also contained high numbers of spawning pink
salmon with 5402, 4225, and 1566 fish, respectively.
Long term commercial catch data for Cook Inlet have
been interpreted to indicate that even-numbered year
pink salmon runs are greater than those of odd-numbered
years. Commercial catch data for the last 28 years
(ADF&G, 1982h) indicate that the 1982 catch was the
third lowest even-numbered year catch for the period of
record, amounting to less than 50 percent of the 1980
or 1978 catches, and 46.4 percent of the mean even-
numbered year catch. Although factors other than run
size can affect the catch, it does suggest that the
19 8 2 run of pink salmon was smaller than average.
During a year with a larger spawning run (Krueger,
1981a) more streams and stream areas are utilized for
spawning than during other years. Therefore, other
unidentified areas within the Chakachatna and McArthur
system may be utilized for spawning during such runs.
As stated above, pink salmon generally spawned in the
lower sections of streams. Since pinks were spawning
concurrently with sockeye on many streams, there may
have been some interaction between the species which
influenced pink salmon distribution.
6-184
-
Pinks were observed spawning on substrates ranging from
small gravel to a cobble-gravel combination. The
majority of observations were made on substrates
containing small gravel. Fines (sand and silt) in
spawning areas varied between 10 and 80 percent and
were often mixed in the gravel to a depth of 0.3 meters
(1 ft) or more. Pink salmon were observed spawning in
areas where:
0 Mean water column velocities ranged from 0.06 to
1. 07 m/sec (0. 2 and 3.5 ft/sec). The observation at
1.07 m/sec was the only datum found in excess of
0.46 m/sec (1. 5 ft/ sec) . Most (86.7 percent) of
observed pink salmon spawning occurred at velocities
under 0.3 m/sec (1 ft/sec).
o Depths of water used varied between 0.21 to 0.67 m
(0.7 to 2.2 ft). In larger streams such as in
13U, 13X and the McArthur Canyon area, pinks were
found mainly near the stream edges and near cover.
These are generally habitats with low velocities and
may explain the apparent preference of pinks for
these areas.
o Dissolved oxygen levels were between 10.6 and
13.3 mg/ l.
o Turbidity levels were measured between 1 and 9 mg/1.
o Temperatures at which most pinks were observed
spawning varied between 9.0° and 14.2°C.
Recorded temperatures at station 15 in the McArthur
Canyon measured by a thermograph from August 20 to
September 18 (See Section 6.8.3.2.4) showed consider-
able diel variation. Temperatures reached as low as
6-185
1. 8 °C during the period pinks were spawning in the
r-tcArthur drainage. The mean temperatures during the
August 20 to September 18 period did not exceed 3.5°C
(Table 6. 3 0) . This temperature is well below the
spawning, migration, and lower threshold hatching
temperatures for pinks (Bell, 1980).
Chum Salmon. Chum salmon were first observed in the
Chakachatna River system on August 25 at station 17; in
the r1cArthur River system on September 1 in Stream 13U.
On the latter date, chum were found in the Chakachatna
Canyon sloughs, station 17, and Stream 13U. Peak
numbers of live fish were found in most streams 1n
mid-September, but in some, the numbers peaked on
September 1 (Stream 13U) and in others as late as
October 9 (Straight Creek mouth area sloughs) .
Chum, as
generally
compared to other salmon species, were
found in relatively few streams and in
limited numbers. Spawning chum were found in the
Chakachatna Canyon sloughs, Tributary C1, Straight
Creek mouth sloughs, station 17, McArthur Canyon, and
Streams 13U, 12.1 and 12.4. (Figure 6.83).
Few chum salmon were collected migrating upstream
during August and September. Those collected had
migrated through the Noaukta slough, into the Chaka-
chatna River, and up to sloughs at station 17 and the
Straight Creek mouth area (Figure 6.83).
The lack of chum migrants captured in the Middle River
during periods when fish were being caught on the lower
McArthur indicates that many of the fish found in the
Chakachatna and McArthur systems had entered via the
McArthur River. This finding must be considered
preliminary due to the overall low numbers of chum
collected.
6-186
Heavy rains during mid-September made counting fish in
certain streams difficult, particularly Streams 13X and
19, causing some underestimation of the number of chum
salmon. The high turbidities caused by the associated
run-off may also have deterred chum from using these
and other streams. Hale (1981) indicated that chum
salmon may not enter streams when suspended sediment
loads are high, as was the case in mid-September, 1982.
Plots of numbers of live fish versus consecutive days
for spawning adults are depicted in Figures 6. 84
through 6.90. Those streams that contained few chum
were not plotted. Escapement estimates of chum salmon
were made (Table 6.46) using an estimated stream life
of 10 days (Table 6.32). The greatest estimated escape-
ment of spawning adults (1482 fish) was observed in the
sloughs at station 17. This accounted for 77 percent
of the observed chum spawning in the Chakachatna River
system. Observed chum spawning in the McArthur River
system was low and represented less than two percent of
that estimated for the Chakachatna River.
All observed chum spawning occurred in clearwater
tributaries, sloughs, or in side channel areas directly
receiving slough or upwelling flow. In side channels
where spawning chum were observed, more chum spawned in
areas receiving direct discharge from sloughs.
Chum salmon utilized spawning substrates ranging from
small gravel to gravel-cobble combinations. In all
cases, the amount of surficial fines in these spawning
areas was estimated to be less than 45 percent of the
substrate. Chum spawning areas were characterized by:
6-187
o Mean water column velocities less than 0.15 m/sec
(0.5 ft/sec). At over 90 percent of slough spawning
areas examined, velocities were less than 0.03 m/sec
(.1 ft/s).
o Water depths ranging from 0.15 m to 0.5 m (0.5 and
1.6ft).
o Dissolved oxygen levels ranging from 10.1 to
11.7 mg/1.
o Turbidities ranging from 9 to 15 mg/1.
Coho Salmon. Adult coho salmon were first observed in
the McArthur River system on August 19, when fish in
varying states of reproductive maturation were observed
milling at the mouth of Stream 13U and in the mouth area
common to Streams 13X and 12.1 through 12.3 (Figures
6.91, 6.92). Many coho were found in spawning streams
on September 1, when they were counted on Streams 19
and 13X in greater numbers. During September, coho
moved into and spawned in Streams 19, 13X, 13U, 12.1,
12 . 2, 12 . 3 , 12 . 4 , 12 . 5 , HcArthur Canyon, Chakacha tna
Canyon sloughs, Tributary C1, the Straight Creek mouth
area sloughs, and sloughs at station 17. These spawning
areas are shown in Figure 6. 93. During escapement
surveys in September, additional coho milling areas
were identified in both the Chakachatna and McArthur
systems.
Milling areas were identified in the Chakachatna Canyon
(Figure 6.94), station 17 slough area (Figure 6.95) and
the McArthur Canyon (Figure 6.96).
6-188
Migration routes from the lower McArthur and the Middle
River were identified from tagging studies (Figure
6.97). Fish entering the lower McArthur River migrated
up the McArthur system and Chakachatna Rivers to spawn-
ing areas. This included movement through the lower
Chakachatna River and Noaukta Slough. Fish entering
the Middle River were observed to migrate to spawning
areas on the Chakachatna system only.
Escapement estimates were calculated using an estimated
stream life of 10 days (Table 6.32). Numbers of live
fish observed versus consecutive days are presented in
Figures 6.98 through 6.109. Estimated escapements for
coho are shown in Table 6.47. Limited visibility
because of a mid-September storm may have resulted in
under-estimation of coho in Streams 19 and 13X.
The greatest number of coho estimated in the
Chakachatna River system were in sloughs at station 17.
These 1560 coho constituted 60 percent of the estimated
escapement in the Chakachatna system. Coho escapement
in sloughs in the Chakachatna Canyon, 608 fish, repre-
sented 23 percent of the estimated escapement in the
Chakachatna system.
The greatest estimated escapement of coho in either
system occurred in Stream 12.1. These 2,000 coho were
42 percent of the estimated coho escapement on the
McArthur system. Streams 13X and McArthur Canyon also
contained large numbers of spawning adults, comprising
35 percent and 25 percent, respectively, of estimated
coho escapement on the McArthur system.
Coho were observed spawning in tributary streams, side
channels, and sloughs. Spawning adults were widely
distributed on spawning streams.
6-189
Coho spawning areas were characterized by substrates
consisting of small to large gravel, in combination
with larger gravel or cobble. Most spawning sites were
observed to contain small gravel. Fines were estimated
to be less than 45 percent of the surficial substrate.
Other spawning characteristics included:
o Water column velocities in sloughs and side channels
near station 17 were 0.03 m/sec (0.1 ft/sec) or
less.
o Water depths ranging from 0.15 and 0.49 m (0.5 and
1.6 ft).
o Dissolved oxygen levels of 10.2 to 11.7 mg/1.
o Turbidities were between 9 and 15 mg/1.
Dolly Varden. Dolly Varden in the Chakachatna and
McArthur River systems probably include both resident
and anadromous fish. Adult Dolly Varden were observed
in many streams during aerial surveys in July. They
were observed milling in Stream 13X on July 17 and in
the Chilligan River on July 31. Dolly Varden were
observed on every stream surveyed, including several
which did not contain salmon, including the Neacola
River, the Nagishlamina River, and the Another River.
Regarding these rivers, spawning of Dolly Varden was
observed only in the Another River. Dolly Varden
continued to enter the system well into mid-October,
when tagged fish were traced moving upstream. At that
same time other Dolly Varden were recaptured having
moved downstream.
The movements of Dolly Varden were complex, fish were
recaptured having moved between both river systems
6-190
going in both directions. Fish which had apparently
entered fresh water in the Middle River (station 4) and
were tagged there, moved into the McArthur River and
spawned in Stream 12.1 At least one of the fish which
spawned on that Stream (12 .1) had moved up the
Chakachatna River (station 6) after entering fresh
water. Figure 6.110 summarizes some of the movements
of Dolly Varden observed during 1982.
Dolly Varden spawning areas identified during 1982 are
shown in Figure 6.111. Dolly Varden spawning areas
were more widespread than most other species studied.
Spawning Dolly Varden were found in the Igitna and
Chilligan Rivers, the Chakachatna Canyon sloughs,
Tributary C1, Stream 19, the McArthur Canyon, Streams
13X, 13U, 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, and 12.5. In
addition, spawning Dolly Varden were found on the
Another River and at station 20. The mouth area at
Straight Creek and station 17 were the only areas
utilized for spawning by another species (sockeye) in
which spawning Dolly Varden were not observed. Data
collected during Spring 1982 indicated that Dolly
Varden had also spawned in the sloughs at station 17
during 1981.
Dolly Varden were observed to spawn in a variety of
areas over a wide variety of substrates. Spawning
areas included streams, sloughs and side channels.
Substrates in Dolly Varden spawning areas varied
considerably. Dolly Varden were observed to spawn over
substrates ranging from small gravel to large cobble.
Bering Cisco. Sexually mature Bering cisco (Coregonus
laurettae) were collected during fall 1982. This was
the first reported collection of this species in the
McArthur River system. Both adult and juvenile Bering
6-191
cisco were collected in the lower McArthur River
(station 1D) during September and October 1982. No
cisco were found to enter the Middle River nor to
migrate up the lower Chakachatna River. Bering cisco
were collected as far upstream on the McArthur River as
station 11, and none were collected in Noaukta Slough.
Spawning areas of Bering cisco were not identified, but
spawning probably occurs in tributaries of the McArthur
River. Two cisco collected were observed to have
injuries in the dorsal area similar to those normally
associated with a lost anchor tag. Since cisco had not
been tagged in this study prior to these captures, it
was hypothesized that these fish may have been tagged
in the Susitna River.
Longfin Smelt. Sexually mature longfin smelt
(Spirinchus thaleichthys) were first collected in the
McArthur River during October of the survey. They were
collected only at station 1D in the lower McArthur
River, and the catch increased during the latter half
of October. Spawning areas were not identified,
although this species probably spawns in the McArthur
drainage. Morrow (1980) state that little is known
about this species, but that spawning occurs between
October and December.
Rainbow Smelt. One rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax) was
collected during October 1982 at station 1D. This was
the only rainbow smelt collected in either the McArthur
or Chakachatna Rivers. Since this is a spring spawning
species (Morrow, 19 8 0) its entry into freshwater may
have been inadvertent.
Eulachon. Eulachon were first reported in the McArthur
River system during the June 8 -11, 1982 reconnaissance
study (Section 6.8.3.1.4). Eulachon were abundant in
6-1,92
the lower HcArthur River at that time. Eulachon were
observed to spawn in the McArthur mainstem from the
mouth of the river to approximately 2 miles downstream
of the Noaukta Slough (Figure 6.112). The substrate in
that area was sand. The duration of spawning is
.unknown, but it began prior to May 27 and was finished
prior to June 24. The lower Chakachatna and Middle
Rivers were investigated during June 8-11, but no
eulachon were found.
During the 1982 fall surveys, ripe eulachon were again
observed entering the McArthur River (station 10).
These fish were first collected during late September
and continued to be collected in October. No eulachon
were collected during fall surveys in the Middle or
Chakachatna Rivers, although one fish was collected at
station 9 in the Noaukta slough. Reports of fall
spawning eulachon, which normally spawn in the spring,
were not found in the literature.
6.8.3.2.2 Resident and Juvenile Anadromous Fish
Seasonal distribution and habitat studies conducted
during the period of August through October, 1982,
emphasized the collection of data on resident and
juvenile anadromous fish. In the following sections
results are reported for:
o Fyke nets -emphasizing adult and older juvenile
fish, and
o Minnow traps and other supp~emental sampling
methodologies -emphasizing smaller juvenile fish.
6-193
Fyke Net Sampling. Fyke nets were set in four sampling
areas (Figure 6.30):
o the McArthur River (stations 1D and 11)
o Noaukta Slough (station 9)
o the Chakachatna River (stations 3 and 6)
o the Middle River (station 4)
These nets collected a total of 15 fish species during
August through October 1982 (Table 6.48). Species
composition was dominated by Dolly Varden in all
months, and Dolly Varden, coho salmon, and rainbmv
trout together comprised 91 percent of all fish col-
lected by the fyke nets (and at net 6, Table 6.49).
The overall species composition remained relatively
unchanged for all three months (Wilcoxon's test, p
greater than 0.3).
Although the percentage composition did not change
significantly, the c/f and total numbers did (Table
6.50, and Appendix A4, Tables 4-6, respectively). The
majority of fish caught at most nets were juveniles
(Table 6 . 51) •
More species were collected in the McArthur River and
Chakachatna River (13 and 11 species, respectively)
than in Noaukta Slough (9 species) or the Middle River
(9 species), but this may be an artifact of greater
sampling effort in these rivers (Table 6.52). Bering
cisco, longfin smelt, and rainbow smelt were collected
only in the McArthur River, and eulachon were most
abundant in the McArthur River.
Dollv Varden -From August through October the c/f of
Dolly Varden increased significantly (p less than or
equal to 0.05) for all nets combined (Table 6.50).
6-194
Examination of data for net 6, which was the only net
in place throughout all three months, indicated that
juvenile Dolly Varden comprised an increasing percen-
. tage of the total catch with each succeeding month
(Table 6.53). Catch per effort among the various
reaches (Table 6.54) did not differ significantly (p
greater than .15) during the three-month period.
Length-frequency data indicated that several age groups
of Dolly Varden were present during August through
October (Figure 6.113); the modal length distribution
was similar for each month (Figures 6.114-6.116). The
bulk of the fyke net collection was comprised of fish
greater than 15.5 ern ( 6 .1 in) total length, which
corresponds approximately to the length for age II+ to
age V+ fish.
Mark -recapture data indicated that Dolly Varden moved
both upstream and downstream during the survey period,
however, the majority of adult Dolly Varden moved
upstream. For example, Table 6.55 shows the results
for 224 of the Dolly Varden and rainbow trout recap-
tures. Ten out of 14 recaptured Dolly Varden tagged at
station 1 were recaptured upstream at stations 3, 6, 9
or 11 (Figure 6.30). Twelve Dolly Varden marked at
stations 3, 4, and 6, had moved downstream to station 1.
Analysis of the tag-recapture data indicated that
almost every possible route between fyke net stations
was utilized and no preferred routes were detected. It
appears that Dolly Varden move throughout the system in
a highly dispersive manner. Based on the Dolly Varden
tagged at stations 6 and 4 (in the Chakachatna and
Middle Rivers, respectively) , and recovered in a
spawning tributary of the McArthur, it appears that
Dolly Varden do not need to enter the system in an area
which receives flow from the stream in which they spawn.
6-195
During October, tag recaptures of large juveniles
denoted a definite upstream movement. Transit times
were one day between tagging at station 4 and recapture
at station 6, and three days between tagging at station
6 and recapture at station 11. The movement data
indicated it is unlikely that Dolly Varden have
separate populations in each river system. An
inference that can be drawn from the mark-recapture
data and the trend of change in c/f is that sexually
mature Dolly Varden migrated into the system to spawn.
Tagged fish were both observed and recaptured on
spawning grounds, such as Stream 12.1.
In October, there was an influx of large juvenile Dolly
Varden, many of these appeared to be moving upstream,
and recapture data supported this. The inference drawn
from this is that they were probably moving from
rearing areas to overwintering areas.
Rainbow Trout -From August through October the c/f of
rainbow trout increased significantly (p less than
0.01) each month (Table 6.50). A similar increase in
c/f was also observed at net 6.
Examination of data from net 6 indicated a significant
increase (p less than or equal to 0.05) in juvenile
rainbow trout during October. Age-length data for
rainbow trout from the Susitna River (ADF&G 198lc),
when compared with data from the Chakatchatna River,
indicated that the rainbow trout in the size range
collected by fyke nets probably included age I+ to age
VII+ (Figure 6.117). This assumed growth rates in the
two study areas were similar.
Mark-recapture data indicated that rainbow trout moved
both upstream and downstream during August (Table
6-196
6.55). Rainbow trout were also observed to have moved
between the McArthur and Chakachatna Rivers. The
movement data suggest that rainbow trout do not have
separate popuLations in the two rivers.
The pattern of the c/f and tag-recapture data indicate
an upstream movement for fish collected during
September and October. This probably represents a
movement from summer rearing habitat to overwintering
areas.
Coho Salmon -From August through October the catch per
effort of coho salmon increased significantly (as deter-
mined by ANOVA, p less than or equal to 0.05) for all
nets combined (Table 6.50). A significant increase
in c/f (p less than or equal to 0.05) was also observed
at station 6 in October. The data indicated that a
significant increase (p less than 0.05) in juvenile
(including parr) coho salmon occurred during these
months (Table 6.53). These made up over 97 percent of
the coho caught at net 6 in October. The greatest c/f
of coho for all nets for all three months combined was
in the Chakachatna River (Table 6.54), however this was
not significantly different from other locations.
Length frequency data for coho salmon indicated that
age I -II+ coho parr predominated in the fyke net
collection (Figure 6.118).
The large increase in juvenile coho salmon c/f in the
lower river system suggested a movement to overwinter-
ing habitat and/ or outmigration. The presence of
smolts and smelting parr among the fish collected
indicate that at least some of the fish were migrating
to sea. Data on downstream migrants from the Susitna
River contain evidence of possible outmigrations of
coho during the same period (ADF&G, 1982e).
6-197
Minnow Traps and Supplementary Collection Methods.
The objectives of this program were to:
o Examine the relative distribution of juvenile fish;
and
o Collect data on juvenile fish habitat preferences.
Dolly Varden -During August, Dolly Varden were widely
dispersed and were found throughout most areas of the
Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers and their tributaries
(Tables 6.56 through 6.58). Rearing of juveniles
occurred generally throughout these widely distributed
sites and diverse habitats. As water levels and water
temperatures dropped in the fall and ice formation
started in early October, there appeared to be wide-
spread and significant changes in the relative abun-
dance of juvenile Dolly Varden at sample stations,
primarily associated with a migration to overwintering
habitat. Potential overwintering hab~tats that were
identified included the upper McArthur River and the
Noaukta Slough. A detailed presentation of the results
follows.
During August, Dolly Varden juveniles (parr and juven-
iles) were widespread among the various minnow trap
stations (Tables 6.59 -6.61); including supplemental
sampling conducted by electrofishing, juveniles were
collected at 95 percent of the river locations sampled
(Table 6.62). The minnow trap c/f data summarized by
river reach (Table 6. 63) indicated relatively high
c/f's in the various reaches. The c/f was signifi-
cantly greater (p less than 0.05) in the Chakachatna
River tributaries than in other reaches. These data
were indicative of well-dispersed rearing areas
throughout both rivers during the summer. High c/f in
6-198
the tributaries (5.60 fish/trap/day, f/d) was probably
due to juvenile Dolly Varden rearing in their natal
streams (see Section 6.8.3.2 for Dolly Varden spawning
locations) .
During September, minnow trap c/f's in most-reaches had
decreased (Table 6.63), but c/f in the upper McArthur
River reach had significantly increased (p less than
0.05) from 1.5 to 3.25 f/d. A decrease in c/f of near
significant level (p=0.08) had occurred in the lower
Chakachatna River for these juveniles, 3.05 to 0.63
f/d. Catch per effort for larger juveniles, in this
reach, as indicated by fyke net collections (see above)
had increased during September. This may have been
indicative of differences in habitat utilization or
movements toward different overwintering habitat by the
different sized fish.
The general trend of decreased c/ f in most reaches
continued during October (Table 6. 63) . Catch per
effort was significantly lower (p=0.06) in the
Chakachatna tributaries, 0.13 f/d in October as
compared with 2. 63 f/ d in September, indicating that
juvenile Dolly Varden had probably migrated from their
natal streams to overwintering habitat. Winter 1982
studies (Section 6.8.3.1) indicated little or no over-
wintering habitat present in Straight Creek. Increased
c/f was found again in the upper McArthur River (Table
6.63). The elf's (6.00 and 6.25 f/d~ Table 6.61) at
the McArthur River Canyon stations were significantly
greater (p less than or equal to 0.05) than at any
other stations.
Observations of slough and channel habitats in the
upper McArthur River (primarily at stations 14 and 15)
confirmed that large numbers of juveniles had moved
6-199
into these areas. Adult Dolly Varden were observed
spawning in many of these areas and juveniles were
often observed "holding" at the edges of redds. Some
of these channels were the same ones that were observed
to have been open during March 1982. It was hypothe-
sized that some of these fish may have moved to their
overwintering habitat.
Increased c/f was also observed in the Noaukta Slough
(Table 6.63) during October, from 1.08 in September to
2.00 f/d. The c/f of Dolly Varden at station 8 (4.25
f/d) in the slough was significantly (p less than 0.06)
greater than stations other than those in the McArthur
Canyon. Visual observations at this station confirmed
the continued presence of clearwater flow, and juvenile
Dolly Varden were observed near cover in this area.
During March studies, water depths of over 0.4rn (1.3
ft.) or more were found under the ice in the slough.
These data also indicated a probable migration to
overwintering habitat.
Evidence of possible upstream movements could be
inferred from an analysis of juvenile Dolly Varden
length data. During August through October, the mean
length of juvenile Dolly Varden collected by minnow
traps in the upper McArthur reach varied but showed no
significant changes. However, during the same period
the mean length of fish collected in the lower McArthur
and Chakachatna Rivers declined sharply, from 11.93 to
9.37 ern (4.7 to 3.7 in) and 11.76 to 9.20 ern (4.6 to
3.6 in), respectively. This indicates a trend of some
of the older parr leaving the lower sections of the_two
rivers and either outrnigrating or moving into upstream
areas. Increases in mean length of juvenile Dolly
Varden observed
Chakachatna reach
in collections from the Upper
(11.95 ern or 4.7 in. in August to
6-2DO
13.1 em or 5.2 in. in October) and the mid-Chakachatna
reach (9.35 em or 3.7 in. in September to 11.64 em or
4.6 in. in October) suggests that some of the older
parr moved upstream. These observations do not appear
to result from gear selectivity since seine collections
in the lower river systems indicated an absence of the
indicated size ranges of Dolly Varden. When compared
to catches made by fyke nets of larger juveniles, fish
of the size range 11 -13 em (4.3 -5.1 in.) were
largely absent. At the same time, older fish, probably
age III+, IV+ and older were collected in the lower
system and moved upstream, based on the results of fyke
net collections and mark-recapture.
Figure 6.119 is the length-frequency histogram for all
minnow trap collections of Dolly Varden during
summer-fall 1982. The figure does not show the.typical
modal peaks associated with specific length intervals
which are normally used to differentiate between age
classes. Instead, there is a great deal of overlap
with one distinct peak near 10 em (3.9 in.). This mode
corresponds to fish of approximately age I+. Analysis
of scales of Dolly Varden collected during September
1981 indicated age 0+ fish were between approximately 5
and 9 em (2.0 and 3.5 in.) in length with a mode of
approximately 6 - 7 em (2.4 -2.8 in.). A Dolly Varden
growth rate reported in the literature is approximately
1. 0 -3. 0 em ( 0. 4 -1. 2 in.) per season (Krueger 1
1981b). This indicates that age I+ fish could be
expected to be in the length range of 6 to 12 em (2.4
to 4.7 in.). Analysis of scales of several fish in
this length range resulted in estimated ages of age 0+
to age II+ 1 indicating length overlap between age
classes. Age III+ was the oldest fish collected from
minnow traps; the fish was 15.4 em in length.
6-201
Length-frequency data were also examined by month.
This provided greater resolution and reduced some
apparent length overlap caused by growth over the three
month period. Figure 6.120 is the length-frequency
histogram for Dolly Varden caught in August. It
contains what could be interpreted as four modal
groups, but these do not appear to correspond well with
fish age. These groups are not well separated and do
not appear distinct in the
(Figures 6.121 and 6 .122).
length between age groups,
estimated from length.
succeeding two months,
Due to the overlap in
growth rate could not be
Coho Salmon -Juvenile coho salmon was the second
commonest salmonid collected in the Chakachatna and
McArthur River Systems. Coho were widely dispersed and
found in all river reaches below the Chakachatna River
Canyon. During August, juvenile coho were most abun-
dant in coho salmon spawning areas (Section 6.8.3.2.1).
Rearing appeared to take place in these areas and
portions of the Noaukta Slough, lower Chakachatna and
Hiddle Rivers in the summer. During September and
October, as the onset of winter occurred, juvenile coho
were found in widely distributed areas, but changes in
abundance indicated some movement from summer rearing
areas to overwintering sites in the upper HcArthur
River and Noaukta Slough. Both areas were identified
as containing sui table overwintering habitat, and
juvenile coho were found in the upper HcArthur River
during the winter of 1982 (Section 6.8.3.1).
Larger juvenile coho during September and October
appeared to move into the lower McArthur River; this
may have been part of a migration to sea. Concurrent
fyke net collections indicated that some coho salmon
6-202
smol t were migrating to sea at the same time. A
detailed presentation of results follows.
As noted above, juvenile coho salmon was the second
most abundant juvenile salmonid group collected in the
study streams (Table 6.64). During August, minnow trap
data indicated that coho were only found in the upper
?-1cArthur River (station 13) and the Straight Creek
clearwater tributary (station 19) (Table 6. 65). Coho
were significantly (p less than 0.01) more abundant in
the clearwater tributary to Straight Creek (station 19)
than other locations. This was probably the natal
stream for these coho.
Examination of electrofishing and seine collections for
the presence of juvenile coho at other locations showed
that coho were found at many more locations than indi-
cated by minnow traps alone (Table 6.66 through 6.68).
During August, juvenile coho salmon were found at 60
percent of all locations sampled (Table 6.62) and in
all river reaches below the upper Chakachatna River
(Table 6. 69) . Coho salmon spawn at sloughs near
station 22 (Figure 6.30) at the downstream end of the
Chakachatna River Canyon (see Section 6.8.3.2.1); how-
ever, the sloughs discharge downstream of all collection
stations in the upper reach.
Catch per effort data derived from electrofishing and
seining indicated that juvenile coho were relatively
more abundant as well as more widely dispersed than
would be expected from minnow trapping data alone
(Appendix AS).
During September, minnow trapping data indicated that
coho juveniles were found in all reaches below the
upper Chakachatna River reach. The data indicated that
6-203
c/f had increased in the Noaukta Slough (0.00 to 0.28
f/d), lower Chakachatna River (0.00 to 0.52 f/d), and
lower McArthur River (0.00 to 1.42 f/d), but not
significantly (p greater than 0.35). Catch per effort
had decreased in the tributar s (2.70 to 1.75 f/d) and
the upper McArthur River (0.25 to 0.08 f/d) but not
significantly, p greater than 0.4). The c/f's in the
tributaries and in the lower McArthur River were
significantly greater (p less than 0.01) than at all
other stations.
The percentage incidence at all sampling locations
including electrofishing and seining collections also
declined during September (from 60.0 to 46.2 percent,
Tab 1 e 6 . 6 2 ) •
During October, c/f in the tributaries continued to
decline (1. 75 to 0.38 f/d), and c/f in the lower
McArthur continued to increase (1.42 to 2.25 f/d) at
the Chakachatna confluence vli th the HcArthur River,
station 1. During the same period, c/ f had also
increased in the upper McArthur River (0.08 to 1.00
f/d) and in the Noaukta Slough (0.24 to 1.30 f/d).
Due to high variability (mean squares error), the power
of the multiple contrasts test was unable to detect any
statistically significant differences between indivi-
dual stations on reaches. The data indicated a pos-
sible trend of coho migration to overwintering habitat
in the upper McArthur River and Noaukta Slough.
The coho juveni s collected by minnow trapping in the
lower portions of the rivers in October were larger
than those collected in September (approximately 9.3
versus 6.8 em). Coho juveniles caught by lower river
fyke nets were only slightly larger in October than
6-204
September but were collected at higher c/f's during
October. As discussed above, coho were smolting, and
some outmigration was taking place.
The outmigration of larger juvenile coho from the lower
rivers may explain the increased c/f in those areas
also derived from minnow trap data.
Analyses of scales taken from fish collected during
1981 indicated that three age classes were present:
ages 0+, I+, and II+. There was considerable overlap
in lengths of these fish. Data from the Susitna River
{ADF&G, 1982b) also indicated that the lengths of
juvenile coho of different age classes may overlap.
Figure 6.123 contains the length-frequency of coho
juveniles collected by minnow traps in the Chakachatna
and McArthur Rivers during 1982. The distribution is
fairly continuous with a mode of approximately 7 em.
{2.8 in.). This mode corresponds to age 0+ fish and was
similar to results obtained from the Susitna studies
(ADF&G, 1982b). Coho lengths from the Chakachatna and
McArthur Rivers were plotted by month to aid in inter-
pretation (Figures 6.124, 6.125, and 6.126). In each
plot, the majority of fish appeared to be age 0+, and
there appeared to be one or more additional (larger)
age classes present. Examination of the fyke net
length-frequency plot {Figure 6.118) showed that many
of these larger coho were present which the minnow
traps were not adequately sampling. Similarly, the
fyke net collections did not adequately sample age 0+
fish.
Chinook Salmon -Few juvenile chinook salmon were
collected during the summer and fall of 1982. Most
juvenile chinook were collected in Straight Creek and
6-205
its clearwater tributary, which had been identified as
a major chinook salmon spawning area. Much of the
rearing activity identified in 1982 was therefore
associated with natal streams. A detailed presenta-
tion of the results follows.
Chinook salmon juveniles were collected by minnow traps
only in the Chakachatna River tributaries, stations 18
and 19 (Table 6.70). Chinook salmon had been observed
spawning in the clearwater tributary to Straight Creek
(station 19) during 1981 and 1982 (Sections 6. 3,
6.8.3.2.1) which flows into Straight Creek (station
18). Juvenile chinook salmon have been collected in
that stream in both years.
During August, juvenile chinook salmon were collected
at three of the sampling stations (Table 6.66), or 15.0
percent of all locations (Table 6.62), but only in the
lower McArthur River and the tributary stream reaches
(Table 6.69).
In September, juvenile chinook salmon were again
collected at three stations. However, at that time,
juvenile chinook salmon were found in the Noaukta
Slough and the tributary stream reach. In the
Chakachatna River tributary stream reach, chinook were
only collected in Straight Creek. This may have been
due to the juvenile chinook salmon having been washed
out of Stream 19 by the high flows which occurred in
September, or by a downstream migration.
During October, juvenile chinook were again collected
at three stations (Table 6.68). These were located in
the lower Chakachatna River, the lower McArthur River,
and in the Chakachatna River tributary streams.
6-206
Insufficient numbers of juvenile chinook were collected
during the summer and fall of 1982 to draw any detailed
conclusions about habitat use and distribution, other
than a major amount of juvenile rearing activity
appears to be associated with the natal streams.
Sockeye Salmon -The distribution ~nd relative abun-
dance of juvenile sockeye salmon during the August
through October study period suggested that the juven-
ile sockeye collected were downstream migrants and were
not rearing in areas of the middle and lower river
reaches sampled. The presence of sockeye smolts and
parr undergoing smoltification among the juvenile
sockeye collected in the lower Chakachatna and McArthur
Rivers also suggested that outmigration of juvenile
sockeye was taking place into October.
Juvenile sockeye were infrequently collected by minnow
trapping (Table 6.71). During August, no juvenile
sockeye salmon were collected by minnow trapping, but
collections were made at 30 percent of the sampling
locations (Table 6.62) utilizing other sampling gear.
Juvenile sockeye were collected in the upper Chaka-
chatna River, the mid-Chakachatna River reach, the
lower Chakachatna River, and the lower McArthur River.
Sockeye collected during August in the above areas
included parr undergoing smoltification. An indication
of the movement of sockeye was observed over several
days at station 17, where the numbers of juvenile
sockeye increased for several days until a large school
was present, and then all of the juvenile sockeye left
the station within one day.
In September, juvenile sockeye were collected by minnow
traps at three stations representing the mid-Chakachatna
6-207
River reaches, the Noaukta Slough, and the lower
McArthur River (Table 6.71). Other sampling methods
resulted in the collection of juvenile sockeye at four
additional stations (Table 6. 68) , a total of 26.9
percent of the stations sampled. Sockeye were col-
lected in the lower Chakachatna River in addition to
the other reaches (Table 6. 69) • Juvenile sockeye
collected during September included fish undergoing
smoltification.
During October, juvenile sockeye salmon were collected
at six stations by minnow trapping (Table 6.71) and
were collected in 34.6 percent of all sampling loca-
tions including the upper Chakachatna River (Table
6.62).
Data from minnow trap collections and seining indicated
that juvenile sockeye abundance had increased during
October in the lower Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers.
As in September, juvenile sockeye collected during
October included both smol t and parr undergoing
smoltification.
Overall, the juvenile sockeye collected downstream of
Chakachamna Lake during the summer and fall of 1982
appeared to have been downstream migrants: few juveni
sockeye were found consistantly in areas other than
lower parts of the river systems during September and
October.
Rainbow Trout -Juvenile rainbow trout were collected
primarily in the lower portions of the Chakachatna and
McArthur Rivers and in the Noaukta Slough. Older
juveniles dominated the collections, and age 0+ rainbow
trout were infrequently collected. Those age 0+ fish
collected during the August through October study
6-208
period ,..,ere primarily captured in the clearwater
tributary to Straight Creek (station 19).
The data suggested that older juvenile rainbow trout
utilized widely dispersed rearing areas in the lower
river systems and Noaukta Slough, while younger juven-
iles may have utilized streams or other rearing areas
not as intensively sampled.
Few juvenile rainbow trout were collected by minnow
traps (Tables 6.56 -6.58). During August, one rainbow
trout parr was collected at station 19 (clearwater
tributary to Straight Creek); other juvenile rainbow
trout were collected in that same location and in the
upper McArthur River (Table 6.66). All other juvenile
rainbow trout collected during August were collected by
fyke nets in the lower Chakachatna River (Section
6. 8. 5. 2) . Juvenile rainbow trout were collected at
15.0 percent of sampling locations (Table 6.62).
During September (Table 6.67), juvenile rainbow trout
were collected at 23.1 percent of the locations
sampled. This included four river reaches including
the mid-and lower-Chakachatna River reaches, the
Noaukta Slough, and the lower McArthur River. These
collections consisted of an individual rainbow trout
parr collected at station 3 and older juveniles
collected at the other stations.
During October, no juvenile rainbow trout were col-
lected by minnow trapping. Juvenile rainbow trout in
October were again found at 23.1 percent of the sampling
locations (Table 6. 62) . This included the Noaukta
Slough, the lower Chakachatna, and lower McArthur
6-209
Rivers. All juvenile rainbow trout collected during
during October were older juveniles over 10 ern (4 in.)
in length.
A length-frequency histogram was prepared for juvenile
rainbow trout collected by minnow trapping (Figure
6.127). Those that were collected were all age 0+,
with a mean length of 7.6 ern (3.0 in.).
Pygmy Whitefish -Pygmy whitefish were widely dis-
tributed in the Chakachatna and McArthur River systems
during August through October 1982. The data suggested
that rearing occurred in areas throughout the system
below the Chakachatna River Canyon.
Pygmy whitefish dispersed to more sampling locations
during the period of study and apparently migrated out
of the upper McArthur River during October, suggesting
that pygmy whitefish overwinter in different areas than
other species studied.
The small size, difficulty in differentiating larger
juveniles from adults, and the apparent use of similar
habitats by juveniles and adult pygmy whitefish (based
upon 1981 observations), makes it logical to discuss
data collected on all life stages of pygmy whitefish
together. Pygmy whitefish were collected in 30.0
percent of the locations sampled during August (Table
6.62). These locations included all reaches below the
upper Chakachatna River (Table 6.69). Minnow trapping
was completely ineffective in collecting pygmy white-
fish during August (Table 6.72).
During September, pygmy whitefish were collected at
three stations by minnow trapping, and overall they
were collected at more sampling locations ( 38.5
6-210
percent) than in. August (30.0 percent, Table 6.62).
Although overall, the pygmy whitefish were collected in
more locations, the locations were located in fewer
reaches of the river systems than during August. Pygmy
whitefish were collected in the Noaukta Slough, lower
Chakachatna River, and upper and lower McArthur River
(Table 6.69).
In October, pygmy whitefish appeared to be more dis-
persed than in previous months and were collected at
46.2 percent of the sampling locations. Pygmy white-
fish were collected at six sampling stations by minnow
trapping; these were primarily located in the lower
Chakachatna River. Pygmy whitefish were collected (by
all collecting methods) in river reaches below the
upper McArthur and upper Chakachatna Rivers.
A length-frequency histogram was prepared for pygmy
whitefish collected by minnow traps (Figure 6.128).
Three length groups wer.e represented, including smaller
juveniles with a length of approximately 6. 5 em
(2.6 in.), older juveniles with a length of approxi-
mately 10.5 em (4.1 in.), and one adult (gravid female)
with a length of 12.8 em (5.0 in.). The lengths of
these fish covered the same range as the majority of
pygmy whitefish collected by fyke nets (Figure 6.129).
6.8.3.2.3 Chakachamna Lake Sampling
Chakachamna Lake was sampled during August and
September 1982. A sampling trip scheduled for October
was cancelled due to high winds which made the lake
inaccessible.
6-2.11
August 1982 Field Program. August studies consisted of
collecting fish and an investigation of possible shore-
line spawning by sockeye salmon. Fish were sampled by
means of minnow traps, gill nets, seines, and electro-
shocking. Sampling was conducted at stations 27 and 28
(Figure 6.30). Station 27 was identified during the
1981 studies as a potential sockeye spawning area and
was one of the few areas with suitable spawning sub-
strate in the lake (Section 6.3). Experimental gill
nets were set at stations 27 and 28 (Appendix A4) (see
Section 6.8.2 Methodology). The set on August 19 was
of less than 30 minutes duration at station 27. Large
numbers of adult sockeye were caught. Netting efforts
were greatly reduced due to the likelihood of killing
large numbers of salmon.
The adult sockeye collected were in varying stages of
maturation ranging from maturing to fully mature (see
Section 6.8.2). This was also true at station 28,
which was located at a steep drop-off on the south side
of the lake and contained no suitable spawning
substrate.
Of the 11 adult sockeye collected on August 18 at
station 27, only one was recaptured on August 19 (all
were tagged). The fish that was recaptured was not
sexually mature at the time of collection. Electro-
shocking throughout the area resulted in stunned adult
sockeye salmon floating to the surface. None of the
sockeye had been tagged. The combination of sockeye
being present in varying stages of sexual maturity and
the failure to recapture mature fish led to the con-
clusion that spawning was probably not occurring in the
area at the time of sampling and that the fish observed
were milling fish.
6-212
On August 25 and September 9 the station was revisited
and observed. No signs of spawning activity were
evident on either occasion. In addition, six of the
fish tagged at station 27 were positively identified as
spawning in the Chilligan River and one in the Igitna
River. This strongly suggested that those lake shore
areas were used for milling by sockeye but not for
spa\vning.
Observations of other areas in the lake including along
steep drop-off's showed sockeye breaking the surface in
these areas. It confirmed that extensive milling activ-
ing was taking place throughout the lakeshore area.
Minnow traps set at stations 27 and 28 (Appendix A4)
did not capture any fish. Electrofishing and beach
seine sampling resulted in the collection of sockeye,
round whitefish, lake trout and slimy sculpins among
the sub-adults. Adult round whitefish and lake trout
were also collected. Gill net collections included
both juvenile and adult round whitefish, Dolly Varden,
and juvenile and adult lake trout. All of these
species and lifestages were collected during 1981.
A water quality profile was taken in Chakachamna lake
at the time of this study. The results of that
sampling are given in Table 6.73. At that time, there
appeared to be a nominal thermocline, as defined by
Birge, near the surface at that time (a plane of
maximum temperature change,
where:
change in temperature > 1 oc;m; (Hutchinson, 1957).
change in depth
6-213
It is likely that the observed temperature change was
the result of the effect of insolation, on a calm lake
surface during a warm sunny day.
At depths greater than 9.1 meters (30.0 ft) there were
large changes in turbidity. These were attributed to
the settling within the water column of small silt
particles of glacial origin.
September 1982 Field Program. The September lake
sampling study was scheduled to begin on September 12
and was to include fish collections, hydroacoustics and
water quality sampling. Equipment was mobilized to the
lake but personnel had to be evacuated due to extremely
inclement weather. High winds and waves prevented
sampling until September 19. It was deemed unsafe to
deploy trawls under the prevailing lake surface
conditions and the near shore area was too turbulent to
utilize other sampling gear. The heavy wave activity
near shore eventually resulted in damage to the
inflatable vessel carrying the hydroacoustic gear,
causing an early cessation of sampling.
The hydroacoustic sampling was conducted utilizing a
Biosonics model 101 echosounder, a Ross Chart recorder,
Sony tapedeck, and a V-Fin mounted 10° transducer. The
schematic of this gear is shown in Figure 6.41. A
total of three transects were completed in the lake as
shown in Figure 6.42. This represents approximately
9.4 kilometers (5.8 miles) of sampling.
The results of the hydroacoustic survey are given in
Tables 6.74 through 6.76 for each transect, one through
three respectively. The numbers are densities of fish
detected.
6-214
There were considerable differences in the density and
distribution of fish detected between and within the
three transects. The greatest densities of fish
detected were along transect two. Fish were most
abundant near the north shore area at a steep drop-off,
and densities were greatest at depths shallower than 24
meters (78.7 ft). Fish were detected to a depth of
42.7 (140.1 ft) meters. At the north end of transect
two there were many small targets. This was inter-
preted as being due to relatively high densities of
juvenile fish.
Transect three had the second greatest density of fish
detected. Fish densities were greatest at mid-lake and
toward the southern half of the lake. Densities at the
northern part of the transect were low. This occurred
in an area of generally shallower water with a less
steep drop-off. Targets were more evenly distributed
with respect to depth than at either transect one or
two. At this transect, fish were detected to a depth
of 49 meters (161 ft).
The overall lowest density of fish was detected at
transect one. Along that transect, greatest densities
were detected at the south shore of the lake, at depths
between 21 and 33 meters (68.9 and 108.3 ft). Fish
densities were low at mid-lake as they were along tran-
sect two and occurred at similar depths. Fish were
detected to a depth of 49 meters (161 ft).
Overall, the amount of data is probably insufficient to
estimate the density of fish in the lake. However, the
data on distribution shows that the densities of fish
were greater near shore and particularly in areas of
steep drop-offs. Fish were found at variable depths
6-215
with greatest densities at depths to 30.5 m (100.0 ft).
No fish was detected below a depth of 49 meters
(161 ft).
Water quality data were collected at mid-lake between
transects one and two. A profile of water quality data
was taken to a depth of 91 meters (300 ft), these data
are listed in Table 6.77. High winds, heavy rain, and
high waves were present for seven days prior to
sampling and the lake level had risen more than a foot.
This may have had considerable influence on water
quality data collected in the upper 1.5 - 3 meters (5 -
10 ft) of water. Dissolved oxygen data was collected
to 9. 1 meters ( 30 ft) . Samples from 15. 2 meters
(50.0 ft) and deeper effervesced and showed signs of
being gas supersaturated at having been brought to the
surface. No reliable dissolved oxygen readings could
be taken for these depths during this sampling.
A correlation analysis was performed to relate the
water quality data to the fish distributions detected
by hydroacoustics. It was determined that the vertical
distribution of fish densities along transects three
and two were correlated with the measured vertical
distribution of turbidity at a statistically signifi-
cant level (p less than or equal to 0.05, and p less
than or equal to 0.01, respectively). This suggests
that the relationship is causal, or that vertical
distribution of fish and turbidity may be related to
another factor which is causal. The vertical distri-
bution of fish along transect two was also signifi-
cantly (p less than or equal to .01) correlated with
conductivity. Transect one was only weakly correlated
with turbidity (not significant).
6-216
6.8.3.2.4 Habitat Data Collection
Habitat data were collected in conjunction with fish
sampling at most sites. Detailed habitat observations
and measurements were routinely made with electro-
fishing and minnow trap collections to aid in estab-
lishing a data base for characterizing fish habitat
relationships.
Characterizing these relationships is an important
part of the process of evaluating the suitability of
a habitat for use by a species at a given lifestage.
This evaluation process can be conducted at different
flows and can therefore be useful in assessing the
effect of changes in flow on habitat and the potential
impacts of such changes on fish populations.
Habitat data collected included water temperature,
dissolved oxygen, conductivity, turbidity, water depth,
water velocity, river stage (staff gage reading) ,
substrate, cover and the presence/absence of upwelling
or slough flow. Measurements were taken at the same
specific locations at which fish sampling was
conducted. The methodology employed in collecting
habitat data is discussed in Section 6.8.2.
This section summarizes water quality and other data
which characterize fish habitats at collecting stations
during the time of sampling. The relationships between
habitat and fish will be evaluated when the data base
is larger.
Substrate and Cover. Substrate and cover are to some
extent a function of river stage. Where substrate
varies between the river banks and the channel, the
depth of water will control the submergence of cover
6-217
objects and the availability of shoreline habitat.
During each sampling, individual site specific
substrate and cover characterizations were made.
However, for this report, the stations were described
according to their general substrate and cover type
(Table 6.78). These are the same stations shown in
Figure 6.30 and are presented in somewhat more detail
than substrate characterizations made during the
hydrology studies. The pattern of substrate distri-
bution is essentially the same as that described in
Section 6.7, Table 6.31. The data in Table 6.78 more
closely reflect near bank habitats that were inten-
sively sampled, than general mid-channel substrates.
Cover is described on Table 6.78. The importance of
cover objects is highly dependent on the size, shape
and type of cover in relation to the size of the fish
and the flow (depth and velocity) at a specific site.
For example, only large cover objects can provide
habitat for larger fish, but either large or small
cover objects can provide habitat for small fish. In
general greater diversity of substrate and cover can
provide habitat for a greater variety of fish.
Water Quality. Water quality data were collected as
described in Section 6.8.2. Data were collected at
each specific site at a station at the time fish were
sampled. This may not have been representative of that
area for the month as a whole. This was evident in
September, when the high flow event caused extensive
changes in flow and water quality during the latter
half of the month. Measurements made before and after
this event were quite different.
The water quality data are presented in Tables 6.79
through 6.82 for July through October, respectively.
6-218
These tables list the station, the water quality
parameters by mean and standard deviation and the
number of readings the listing is based upon. It
should be remembered that July data were taken during
the course of escapement counts and that no actual
ground-level field sampling was taking place at that
time.
Variation in water quality parameters often occurred
more frequently than over the course of a month.
Diurnal variations were present as well. As discussed
in Section 6.7, large diurnal variations in temperature
were recorded at the McArthur River gage site, station
13.5. A Peabody-Ryan temperature recorder was
installed at station 15, upstream of the gage (see
Section 6.7.2). This area was a channel which had been
identified as a salmon spawning area during both 1981
and 1982, and a juvenile rearing area (see Sections
6.3.3.2, 6.8.3). Large variations in temperature were
recorded at station 15 (Figure 6.130). Temperature
fluctuations as great as 5°C were found. The recorder
was removed in mid-September when the channel filled
in and the recorder was buried.
Upwelling Flow. Tributaries and upwelling flows were
present in many areas. These flows were often
associated with salmonid spawning and in several cases
with open water during the winter. Clear water
tributaries and sloughs with upwelling flow were among
the more important spawning areas.
Other sources of inflow included beaver pond overflow
or seepage, land drainage (particularly tundra areas),
and overflow channels. Since beaver pond seepage and
land drainage represent exogenous sources of water that
6-219
could affect the use of habitat areas, these were iden-
tified for each sampling station. Table 6. 83 lists
each sampling area and the presence of sources of
additional inflow, where found.
Several sloughs located in the Chakachatna River were
studied to examine slough flow in relation to flow in
the river. Sloughs located in the Chakachatna Canyon
and at station 17, (along the left and right bank,)
were moni tared during October. Staff gages were
installed and levels were measured regularly. De
a decline in river level throughout that period, the
water level in the sloughs remained constant. At sta-
tion 17LB+2 , a side channel which received slough flow,
water levels dropped until the channel no longer
received flow from the Chakachatna River. Flow from
the upstream slough continued and the water level
remained constant afterwards. Hater levels in Slough
17LB+O and the Chakachatna Canyon sloughs also remained
constant during this period. These observations sug-
gested that the slough flows at these stations were
independent of those of the river (see Section 6.7).
However, additional data will be needed to confirm
these observations.
Channel and Habitat Stability. Channel configurations
and physical habitat in the Chakachatna and McArthur
Rivers are neither fixed nor stable. Past changes in
configurations have been observed (Section 6.2) and
considerable changes were observed during the 1982
field season. Changes were observed in channel slope
or shape at the following stations -15, 19, 17, 16,
11, 12, 13.5, 14, and 13. The changes at stations 15,
14, and 17 included direct changes in the amount and
location of spawning substrate. This aspect of habitat
investigation will need to be continued as part of both
the aquatic biology and hydrology programs.
6-220
6.8.4 Discussion
Most of the available information on the Chakachatna
and McArthur River systems has been collected as part
of the 1981-1982 studies. Therefore, inferences drawn
about these systems are based primarily upon these
data.
Species of commercial, subsistence and sport interest
that are present in these river systems, include
chinook, sockeye, pink, chum and coho salmon, Dolly
Varden and rainbow trout (Section 6.3). Other fish
species collected were identified within the preceding
sections and include pygmy whitefish, round whitefish,
lake trout, slimy sculpin, three spine stickleback,
ninespine stickleback, and arctic grayling (apparently
of extremely limited distribution).
The contribution of salmon from the Chakachatna and
McArthur River systems to the Cook Inlet fishery is
unclear and relatively little was known about the
species, size, or distributions of these runs until
recent times (Section 6.3, ADF&G 1982d). Commercial
and subsistence fishing have been conducted in the
immediate vicinity of these rivers. Sport fishing for
coho salmon was routinely observed on the McArthur
River, while sport fishing for Dolly Varden, rainbow
trout, and sockeye salmon was observed less frequently
in middle reaches of the Chakachatna River. The
significance of the contribution of the two river
systems to the fishery, however, cannot be determined
at this time.
Inferences and conclusions concerning the fishery
resources of the river systems were drawn from current
knowledge of the systems, information gathered
6-221
6.8.4.1
during studies of the Susitna Project (ADF&G, 1982a,
1982b, 1982c, 1982d, 1982e 1982f, 1982g) and the
scientific literature.
preliminary in nature
All inferences are necessarily
and will be refined as more
information is gathered. This discussion is organized
to address the species of commercial, subsistence and
sports interest as well as one forage species (pygmy
whitefish) emphasizing site-specific data.
Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye salmon adults probably enter the Chakachatna
and the McArthur Rivers in early July. Sockeye first
appeared on the spawning streams on July 22 in 1982.
Spawning continued through the first week of October
in various parts of the system and few spawning
sockeye were present past early October.
Sockeye adults are known to enter fresh water earlier
than July in other Cook Inlet drainages. Data from the
Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982g) showed that an early run
of sockeye had entered fresh water and moved past
river mile (RM) 80 (Sunshine Station). Early run
sockeye were found on at least one spawning strean
(Fish Creek, RM 97.1) by June 24. Sockeye were not
found during surveys conducted for early spawners at
known spawning areas in the Chakachatna and McArthur
Rivers on June 8-10 and June 24-25 1982.
The timing and duration of sockeye runs varied with
location. Runs on McArthur River tributaries peaked
earlier than most of those on the Chakachatna River.
Spawning adults were present in the Chilligan River
and sloughs at station 17 longer than at other sites.
6-222
Figure 6.131 presents the phenology of major life
history events for the salmon species present and is
based upon data gathered in both the McArthur and
Chakachatna Rivers during 1981 and 1982, as well as
other data (as cited).
Sockeye escapements were estimated for all identified
spawning areas. Figure 6.132 and Table 6.84 present
data indicating the escapement for the various water
bodies. The largest estimated escapement was for the
Chilligan River, 38,576 sockeye. A total of 41,357
sockeye were estimated to spawn above Lake Chaka-
chamna. Of the other sockeye estimated to spawn in
the Chakachatna drainage, 1788 spawned in sloughs or
side channel spawning areas receiving slough flow.
In the McArthur drainage, of the 34,933 fish, 98.1
percent of the estimated sockeye escapement occurred in
tributary streams. Overall, 44.7 percent of the total
estimated escapement of sockeye occurred in the
McArthur drainage.
After spawning occurs, the fertilized eggs incubate in
the spawning gravel and hatch prior to mid-March,
incubation time being dependent upon water temperature
(Morrow, 1980). Emergence occurs between April and
June (Morrow, 1980). Observations on-site indicate
some fry were still in the gravel on the Chilligan
River in early June, although fry had left the gravel
in other ·areas.
After emergence, the young move to their rearing areas.
Areas identified as sockeye rearing habitat are
identified in Figure 6.133. Sockeye spawned in the
Chilligan and Igitna Rivers, rear in Chakachamna and
Kenibuna Lakes. Rearing areas for fish spawned in
6-223
Table 6.84. Summary of estimated salmon escapement by waterbody and drainage for 1982.
H ~HATNA RIVER DRAINAGE
Chakacha tna
Straight Bridge Chakachatna Chakachatna Straight Creek
Creek Side Channels Canyon Tributary Igitna Chill igan Straight Clearwater Drainage
Species Mouth and Sloughs Sloughs (C1) River River Creek Tributary Total
Sockeye
Salmon 203 1,193 392 238 2,781 38,576 0 254 43,637
Chinook
Salmon 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,422 1,422
Pink
Salmon 0 59 279 0 0 0 0 7,925 8,263
Chum
Salmon 152 1,482 121 165 0 0 0 0 1,920
Coho
Salmon 76 1,560 608 183 0 0 0 172 2,599
(j\
I
N MCARTHUR RIVER DRAINAGE
N
-"' Species McArthur Canyon
Streams Drainage
Stream 13X Stream 13U I2. I !2.2 12.j 12.~ 12.5 Total
--
Sockeye
Salmon 666 5,416 1,213 16,711 6,085 2,512 2,328 0 34,933
Chinook
Salmon 0 452 1,633 0 22 0 0 0 2,107
Pink
Salmon 60 4,225 5,402 8,499 1,566 4 18 3 19,777
Chum
Salmon 0 23 4 0 0 1 0 29
Coho
Salmon 1,182 1,378 32 2,000 46 89 0 0 4,729
6.8.4.2
the tributaries and sloughs below the lake are more
difficult to identify and sometimes difficult to
differentiate from areas along the pathways of out
migrants. Areas shaded in Figure 6.133 including the
Chakachatna River across from the Straight Creek
(station 20, Figure 6.30), the Noaukta Slough and
portions of the lower McArthur River, appear to be
used as sockeye rearing areas. Pre-smol t sockeye
appear to rear in the system from as short a time as
their first summer to as long as their third year (age
II+) prior to migrating to sea. Sockeye outmigrants
appear to leave the system from early June to October.
Similar observations were obtained from studies in the
Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982f). Outmigrants observed
included age 0+, I+, and II+ fish.
Since sockeye spawn and rear in such diverse areas of
the system, most reaches of the Chakachatna and
McArthur River can be considered migratory pathways.
Chinook Salmon
Based upon 1982 observations, chinook salmon adults
were entering the river systems prior to late June
(Figure 6.131). Data collected at Sunshine Station on
the Susitna River indicated that chinook were well up
the Susitna River as early as June 7, but that peak
numbers were not monitored until later in the month
(ADF&G, l982e). Chinook spawning was first observed in
the study area on July 17 at Stream 13U in the McArthur
system, but spawning could have started as early as the
end of June. Live spawning adults were observed as
late as August 25.
6-225
Figure 6.134 delineates estimated chinook escapement by
water body for the study area. The largest estimated
escapement occurred in Stream 13U in the McArthur
drainage ( 1633 fish) and the second largest in the
clearwater tributary to Straight Creek ( 1422 fish).
All chinook spawning observed during 1982 occurred in
tributary streams. The majority of spawning occurred
within the McArthur drainage. Two locations that were
identified during 1981 as chinook spawning areas, the
left bank slough at station 17 and a side channel of
the McArthur that received slough flow, did not contain
spawning chinook during 1982.
After spawning, incubation of the eggs takes place for
seven to 12 weeks or longer. After hatching the
alevins remain in the gravel an additional seven to
twelve weeks until adsorption of the yolk-sac is
complete when the fry move out of the gravel. Observa-
tions of redds in late March 1982 showed that yolk-sac
fry were still within the gravel at two spawning sites.
Emergence in the study area appears to occur between
April and late May when fry were found free-swimming
in the water column.
Chinook sub-adults rear in fresh water from as short as
three months (Morrow, 1980) to well into their third
year of life (ADF&G, 1982b). Sub-adult chinook salmon
collected in the study area have ranged from age 0+ to
age II+. Similar observations have been made for the
Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982b).
Chinook rearing areas were identified on the basis of
1981 and 1982 data shown in Figure 6.135. In identify-
ing rearing habitats, areas that are probably used only
6-226
6.8.4.3
as migratory routes have been excluded. Chinook
sub-adult rearing areas appeared to primarily consist
of spawning streams (Streams 13U and 19), low velocity
side channel and slough areas (stations 17, 15, and 13)
and many areas within the Noaukta Slough.
Chinook outmigration may start as early as June and
appears to continue into the fall. Data from the
Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982f) indicate that chinook
outmigrations primarily occur between mid-June and
mid-August.
Migratory pathways for chinook salmon probably include
the Chakachatna River system, including the Noaukta
Slough from Straight Creek to Trading Bay and the upper
McArthur River (station 15) to Trading Bay. These are
the parts of the river systems connecting the spawning
and rearing areas to Cook Inlet.
Pink Salmon
Pink salmon were first observed milling in fresh water
in late July (July 22) and first observed on the
spawning streams on July 31. Comparable data from the
Susitna River indicated that pinks were first collec-
ted at the fish wheels in mid-July (ADF&G, 1982e).
Pinks continued to be observed in the McArthur and
Chakachatna River tributaries until mid-September
(Figure 6.131), with peak counts made in August.
In Cook Inlet, pink salmon runs in even numbered years
are usually larger than runs occurring during odd
numbered years (ADF&G, 1982d ) • Since 1982 was an even
year, larger than average escapements were expected.
However, preliminary commercial catch data (ADF&G,
6-227
6.8.4.4
1982h) indicate that 1982 had a lower than average run
for an even-numbered year. Estimated escapements for
the various water bodies in the system are shown in
Figure 6.136.
The vast majority of pink spawning occurred in
tributary streams. In the Chakachatna drainage, 4.1
percent of the 8,263 estimated pink escapement for that
drainage occurred in sloughs and side channels, and in
the McArthur drainage less than 0. 3 percent of the
estimated pink escapement occurred in sloughs or side
channels. The majority of the total estimated pink
escapement, 70.7 percent or 19,777 fish, occurred in
the McArthur drainage. No pinks spawned above the
sloughs at the base of the Chakachatna River Canyon.
Incubation and alevin retention in the redds usually
lasts six to eight months with the fry emerging between
March and June (Krueger, 1981a). Emergent pink fry
probably move directly down river to the sea (Krueger,
1981a). Rearing in fresh water may be for a period as
short as one day (Krueger, 1981a), and thus no rearing
areas were identified during the 1981 and 1982 studies.
Data from the Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982£) indicate
that the downstream migration of fry probably takes
place prior to mid-June.
Chum Salmon
Chum salmon were in the spawning streams on August 25
and were found at most spawning areas by September 1
(Figure 6.131). Data from the Susitna River indicated
that chum salmon entered that system in substantial
numbers in the latter half of July with the majority of
fish collected during August (ADF&G, 1982e). Analysis
of aerial escapement surveys conducted on Susitna River
6-228
sloughs indicated that peak escapement counts occurred
from late August (ADF&G, 198 2g) and extended into
September. These periods may be one to two weeks
earlier than those on the Chakachatna and McArthur
River systems.
Chum salmon escapements by water body are presented in
Figure 6.137. The total estimated escapement for both
the Chakachatna and McArthur River drainages was 1949
fish, \vhich was less than any of the other four salmon
species. The majority of these fish (77.2 percent)
spawned in the sloughs at station 17 on the Chakachatna
River. Over 90 percent of the estimated escapement
occurred in sloughs or areas receiving upwelling flow.
Hale (1981) reported that fall chum on the Yukon River
selected springs or areas of ground water seepage for
spawning. Chum did not spawn upstream of the
Chakachatna Canyon sloughs.
Chum salmon eggs generally incubate in the gravel for
50 to 130 days with the alevins remaining in the gravel
an additional 30 to 50 days until their yolksacs are
absorbed (Hale, 1981). Chum collected in the
Chakachatna River Sloughs at the end of March, 1982
still had yolk-sacs present.
By the end of ~1ay, chum fry were free swimming. Many
of those collected were showing signs of undergoing
smoltification. In early June, chum salmon fry had
moved into lower portions of the river systems and
smolts were found at collecting stations near the
mouth of the McArthur River. By the end of June, only
a few smolts were collected near the mouth of the
McArthur River, suggesting that the peak downstream
migration had occurred. Because of the relatively
short rearing period of chum salmon in freshwater, no
6-229
6.8.4.5
specific
1981-1982
rearing areas
studies.The
were
peak
identified during the
collection of chum
outmigrants on the Susitna River occurred during mid-
to late June with a few still migrating during early
August (ADF&G, 1982f). The areas downstream of the
various chum spawning areas must be considered to be
migration routes since chum must pass through them
during both their spawning run and their outmigration.
Smolts collected near the mouth and lower portions of
the McArthur River were generally much larger than
pre-smolt fish collected at the spawning sloughs in
the Chakachatna River. This indicates that chum were
probably actively feeding between the time of emergence
and outmigration in mid-to late June. Morrow (1980)
states that, in general, chum salmon outmigrants that
have longer migrations to the sea feed in fresh water,
but others generally do not.
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon were first observed in fresh water in
mid-August (Figure 6.131). At that time fairly large
numbers of coho were observed milling at the mouths of
streams on the McArthur River. Coho were observed on
spawning streams on September 1 and peak numbers were
observed in mid to late September in most water bodies.
Spawning was still in progress when the study was
concluded in late October and may have continued under
the ice in the Chakachatna Canyon sloughs. Borrow
(1980) reported that spawning runs may occur from
mid-summer to winter but late (December and January)
runs generally occur in the southern parts of the
range.
6-230
Coho salmon in the Susitna River have been collected in
fresh water (Yentna Station) as early as mid-July, with
peak numbers in late July to early August. Further
upstream (.Sunshine Station) , peak numbers were counted
in mid-August and coho continued to be collected into
late August and September (ADF&G, 1982e).
Estimated coho escapements for the study area are shown
by water body in Figure 6.138. The majority (64.5
percent) of the estimated total coho escapement for the
study area occurred in the HcArthur River. In the
McArthur system, 75 percent of the estimated escapement
of 4729 coho occurred in tributaries. The other 25.0
percent took place in side channel and slough areas.
Spawning occurred in both tributaries and sloughs. The
majority (86.3 percent) of the estimated escapement of
2599 coho in the Chakachatna drainage were observed in
sloughs and side channels receiving upwelling or slough
flow. The use of sloughs as spawning habitat by coho
was not observed in the Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982g).
No coho were observed spawning above the Chakachatna
Canyon sloughs.
Incubation time for coho varies with temperature,
usually taking six or seven weeks, but taking longer in
colder waters. Incubation times of up to 115 days
have been reported in Asia (Morrow, 1980). The young
are reported to remain in the gravel until the yolk-sac
is absorbed, two or three weeks or more after hatching
(Morrow, 1980). Yolk-sac fry and emergent fry were
found in spawning areas in the study area in late
March. By late May coho fry were swimming around the
substrate.
Morrow (1980) reported that coho fry are positively
phototropic and move up into the water column and start
6-231
feeding soon after emergence. They can remain in fresh
water for up to four years. Coho of up to age II+ were
common in the Chakachatna and McArthur River systems.
Sub-adult coho salmon collected in the Susitna River
were also of age groups age 0+ to II+ (ADF&G, 1982b).
Sub-adult coho salmon were among the more widely
distributed fish present in the study area below the
lake. Figure 6.139 shows areas that were identified
as coho rearing habitat based upon 1981 and 1982 data.
Areas primarily identified as migration routes were
excluded from the figure. Coho sub-adults were
generally abundant in tributaries, the Noaukta Slough,
and areas in the lower portions of both rivers.
Movements of coho sub-adult, as inferred from changes
in captures, indicated substantive changes in distribu-
tion during the fall. Observed increases in the
abundance of coho in the Noaukta Slough, lower river
systems and upper McArthur River probably represented a
combination of movement to overwintering habitat and
outmigration. The outmigration of some coho confirmed
by the collection of smo1ts in the lower portions of
the rivers. Coho smolts were collected in the
Chakachatna and McArthur River systems from early June
into October.
In the Susitna River, coho sub-adults moving downstream
were collected from the date the migrant trap was
installed (June 18, 1982) through October 12, when samp-
ling ended (ADF&G, 1982f). Other observations made in
the Susitna River (ADF&G, 1982b) indicated that the
majority of parr-smolt transformation of coho took place
by June 15 in the river reach above Cook Inlet. The
majority of smolts in the Susitna River were identified
6-232
6.8.4.6
as age II+. The age distribution of smelts in the
Chakachatna and McArthur River areas has yet to be
established.
Dolly Varden
Dolly Varden was the most widely distributed species
collected in the study area and was found at almost
every site at which fish were collected. They
numerically dominated collections made below
Chakachamna Lake. Dolly Varden may be resident or
anadromous; both types are probably present within the
study area. Both adult and juvenile Dolly Varden were
observed and collected during the field studies.
Dolly Varden were observed spawning from July 31
through October in the Chilligan River {Figure 6.140).
During late October, sexually mature upstream migrants
were still being collected in the lower portions of the
river systems, and Dolly Varden spawning was still
occurring. Dolly Varden spawning was also common in
the McArthur River and its tributaries during 'october.
Some upstream migrants which spawned in the HcArthur
River were observed entering the river systems from
the Middle River and then moving through the
Chakachatna River. Krueger (1981b) indicated that 1n
southeastern Alaska, peak spawning activity, depending
upon stream, occurred between September and early
November. Unlike the salmon, adult Dolly Varden
survive after spawning and may spawn again in
subsequent years; males have a lower survival rate
than females (Armstrong and Kissner, 1969).
A population estimate was not made of spawning Dolly
Varden during this study. The spawning areas were
identified and are shown in Figure 6.106. Dolly
6-233
Varden appeared to spawn in the widest range of
locations and habitats of any of the species observed,
including sloughs, tributaries, and side channels with
the proper substrate.
According to Blackett (1968) incubation of Dolly Varden
eggs requires 129 to 136 days with the alevins
remaining in the gravel another 60 to 70 days until
their yolk-sacs have been absorbed. Yolk-sac fry were
collected in spawning areas in the study area in late
March but by late May all fry had emerged from these
areas and were free-swimming.
Dolly Varden sub-adults were widely distributed in the
river systems. They were collected from every river
sampled, including the Neacola and Another Rivers.
Sub-adults (age I+ to II+) appear to be common
throughout the river system with larger, older
sub-adult fish, including age III+, more abundant in
the Noaukta Slough and lower portions of the river.
Dolly Varden appear to move freely throughout the
system. Movement of adults and older juveniles were
determined between the Chakachatna and McArthur River
by means of tagging. Fish were found to move between
most of the fyke net stations (10, 3, 4, 6, 9, and 11).
Rearing areas of Dolly Varden included most portions of
the river systems (Figure 6.141). Rearing occurs
throughout the year. Overwintering areas used by Dolly
Varden included the upper McArthur River and Chakachatna
River sloughs (station 17). Areas within the Noaukta
Slough and some lower portions of the McArthur and
Chakachatna Rivers were used also. Outmigration by
juvenile Dolly Varden is difficult to discern because
of the large intrasystem movements by resident juveniles.
6-234
..,
6.8.4.7
6.8.4.8
Pygmy Whitefish
Pygmy whitefish were abundant in mid-to lower portions
of the study areas (Figure 6.142). Pygmy whitefish
were found from below the Chakachatna Canyon to the
Middle River, and from station 13 (Figure 6.30) on the
HcArthur River to its mouth. Pygmy whitefish are
apparently utilized as a forage fish by Dolly Varden
and rainbow trout: age 0+ whitefish are used by
sub-adult coho salmon. Morrow (1980) reported that
spawning takes place at night in late fall and early
winter at water temperatures of about 4 °C. Gravid
females were collected during September 1981 and
September and October 1982. Spawning was apparently
in progress because spent and gravid adults were
collected at the same time.
Little is known about the incubation of pygmy whitefish
eggs and the behavior of alevins. However, unidenti-
fiable whitefish fry (Prosopium sp.) were collected in
Chakachatna River sloughs (station 17, Figure 6.30) in
March and in the upper McArthur River (station 15) in
late May.
Sub-adult pygmy whitefish were widespread within the
river systems with juveniles and adults often collected
in the same location. The pygmy whitefish is a
resident species and is therefore found in fresh water
throughout the year.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout were regularly collected in portions of
the lower river systems and tributaries. Rainbow trout
were collected most frequently in October when large
numbers had moved into the lower river system.
6-235
Little is known about the spawning of rainbow trout in
the Chakachatna and McArthur River systems and few
rainbow trout under 10 ern (4.0 in.) were collected.
Spawning usually takes place in riffle areas of
streams and may occur at temperatures as low as S°C;
spawning usually occurs between mid-April and late
June (Morrow, 1980). In many areas of the Chakachatna
and HcArthur drainages sui table for rainbow trout
spawning, water temperatures may have been lower than
S°C until June.
Morrow (1980) stated that under normal conditions
development to hatching of eggs takes four to seven
weeks. Yolk-sac absorption may occur over three to 14
days with fry usually emerging between mid-June and
mid-August. Rainbow trout fry were collected in late
May and late June, which suggested that either spawning
occurred earlier than expected, or that these were very
small age I+ fish.
The distribution of rainbow trout
River appears to be limited to
in the Chakachatna
areas below the
Chakachatna River Canyon. During the summer and fall
of 1982, sub-adult rainbow trout were collected in the
Straight Creek clearwater tributary (19), in the
McArthur River (stations 13 and 11) and in the lower
Chakachatna River (stations 3, 4, and 6). These and
other areas identified during 1981 as probable rearing
areas are shown in Figure 6.143. Rainbow trout are a
resident species and therefore rear in freshwater
throughout the year. Based upon tag return data,
rainbow trout appear to move freely within and between
the middle and lower portions of both river systems.
6-236
6.8.5 Summary and Conclusions
The 1982 studies provided a substantial increase in the
data base for the Chakachatna and McArthur River
systems. These studies provided a better understanding
of the aquatic biota of the system and information
necessary for planning future studies. The findings of
these studies include:
o Spawning areas utilized by the five species of
Pacific salmon were identified and estimates made of
escapement to each area (Section 6.8.3.2.1).
o The Chilligan River was estimated to contain the
greatest escapement of spawning adult sockeye
(38,576) in either river system. The Igitna River
was also utilized for spawning (2,781 fish).
o Tributary streams and sloughs were the most
important salmon spawning habitat downstream of
Chakacharnna Lake.
o Spawning areas utilized by Dolly Varden were
identified in most suitable habitats (Section
6.8.3.2.1).
o The timing of life history events and migrations of
many salmonid species were identified.
o Migratory pathways were identified (Section 6.8.3.1,
6.8.3.2.1).
o Rearing and overwintering habitats were identified
in mainstream, slough, and tributary areas of the
system.
6-237
o Habitat areas were characterized (Section 6.8.3.2.4).
o Species previously unidenti including Bering
cisco, eulachon, rainbow smelt, and longfin smelt
were collected in the study area.
o Distribution of fish in Chakachamna Lake varied
seasonally during winter and fall.
6-238
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A social, economic analysis of a State oil and gas
lease sale in upper Cook Inlet.
Sellers, R. 1979. Waterbird use of and management
considerations for Cook Inlet State Game Refuges.
Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Unpublished
report.
Stickney, a. 1980. Report on the survey conducted in
Tyonek. Subsistence Section, Alaska Department of
Fish and Game, Anchorage, Alaska.
6-245
TABLES
Table 6.1. Relations used in calculating natural mean monthly flows
at eight representative locations.
Location
Number a
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
River Relationb
Chakachatna Qml = U.S.G.S. data for Chakachatna River
near Tyonek (Gauging Station No.l5294500)
Chakachatna Qm 2 = Qml + A1 _2 x (B+C)/2
Chakachatna Qm 3 = Qm 2 + 0.913A 2 _3 x (B+C)/2 +
0.087 A2 _3 X C
Chakachatna Qm 4 = 0.084 Qm 3 + (0 B4 A3 _0 + A0 _4 )
X C
Middle
Upper
McArthur
McArthur
McArthur
Qm 5 = 0.016 Qm 3 + (0.16 A3 _0 + A0 _5 )
X C
Qm6 = A6 X B
Qm7 = Qm6 + A6-7 x·B
Oms = Qm7 + A7-8 x c + 0 ·90 Qm3
aSee Figure 6.2 for locations
bQml = mean monthly flow for any month at location 1.
Ai-j = contributing drainage area between locations i
and j; aD subscript r@presents the location of the
divergence of Chakachatna and Middle Rivers
B = mean monthly flow per square mile based on calculated
Chakachamna Lake inflows
C = mean monthly flow per square mile based on the 4 year
average of mean monthly flow of the Chuitna River
(Station 15294450)
Table 6.2. Locations, date, and results of field discharge measurements during September
1981 '
a Study
Area
D
D
E
E
F
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
L
M
M
N
Loc.b
2
4
5
6
Description
Chakachatna R. U/S of Straight Ck.
Straight Ck. U/S of Chakachatna R.
Chakachatna R. D/S of Noaukta Sl. Div.
Noaukta Sl. D/S of Chakachatna R. Div
Chakachatna R. D/S of Middle R. Div.
Middle R. D/S of Chakachatna R. Div
Chakachatna R. U/S of McArthur R.
Middle R. U/S of Mouth
Upper McArthur R. U/S of Powerhouse
Upper McArthur R. nr. Powerhouse
Upper McArthur R. D/S of Powerhouse
Upper McArthur R.
Upper Blockade Glacier Channel
McArthur R. U/S of Lower Bl. Gl. Chan.
Lower Blockade Glacier Channel
Upper Clearwater Tributary
astudy areas are illustrated on Figure 6.2
Date
21 Sept.
21 Sept.
22 Sept.
22 Sept.
26 Se?t.
26 Sept.
26 Sept.
26 Sept.
26 Sept.·
24 Sept.
26 Sept.
24 Sept.
24 Sept.
25 Sept.
25 Sept.
.. 25 Sept.
Discharge
5,813
471
681
1,285c
428
80
475
132
155
93c
297
417
312
696
514
87
bLoc. is the corresponding representative location at which flow regimes have been calcu-
lated
cPartial measurement
f ~ i
Table 6.3. Estimated natural mean monthly and mean annual flows at eight representative locations. a
MONTH ·b cc Qmld Qm2 Qm4 Qm5 Qm6 Qm7 Qm8 B 2 Qm3
(cfs/mi ) (cfs/mi 2 ) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs)
JAN 0. 4 5 0. 7..,.8 613 .670 720 69 34 24 170 830
FEB 0.39 0.63 505 550 590 57 28 21 150 690
MAR 0.37 0.53 445 490 520 50 24 20 140 620
APR 0.53 l.l 441 520 580 61 43 29 200 740
MAY 2.0 8.2 1,042 1,530 1,930 250 270 110 750 2,580
JUNE 7.0 8.8 5,875 6,630 7,220 .700 370 380 2,620 9,250
JULY 11.0 2.6 11,950 12,600 13,070 1,130 290 590 4,100 15,970
AUG 9.6 1.7 12,000 12,540 12,930 1,100 260 520 3,600 15,330 .
SEP 4.5 4.3 6,042 6,460 6,790 620 230 240 1,690 7,870
OCT 1.5 2.8 2,468 2,670 2,830 270 130 83 570 3,160
NOV 0.77 1.6 1,206 1,320 1,410 140 69 42 290 1,580
DEC 0.52 1.2 813 890 960 93 49 28 190 1,070
MEAN ----3,645 3,935 4,160 382 150 175 1,215 5,011
ANNUAL
--
aSee Figure 6.2 for locations
bB ~ mean monthly flow per square mile based on calculated Chakachamna Lake inflows
cc =mean monthly flow per square mile based on a 4 year(l976-1979) average of mean monthly flows
of the Chuitna River (Station 15294450) ; mean annual flow not used
dQmi ~ Estimated natural mean monthly flow at location i
a r
Table 6.4. Matural flood flows at eight representative locations based on a regional flood frequency analysts developed by Lamke (1979).
locat lon8 Ab
.(mt 2 )
pc
(ln)
Std
('4•1)
fe
( 1.tl )
Tf
(fo) Hg o8
h
Qt.2S
(cfs)
Q2
(cfs)
Q5
(ch)
Q1o
(cfs)
Q25
(ch)
Q~o
(ch)
''!f
t'
I
2
l
4
~
6
7
8
1120
1120
1216
1289
119
so
S4
:n~
USI
15
n
n
72
5~
80
77
15
4
3.7
3.5
2.8
1.4
I
2.9
11
I 7
18,4
21.~
16.5
8.4
11.8
16.6.
0
•I
•I
•2
+2
+2
•l
+2
20,540.2
22,~42.4
21,799.9
2,4SJ.2
1,042
t. 7S8.8
10,219.4
29,862
1.46
1.44
1.44
1.7
1.81
1.8
1.56
I. 41
8 See figure 6.2 for location
b A=dralnage areal values for locations 4,5, and 8 are weighted average
ll, S2 7
14,S70
16, t S6
17,042
I, 580
645
1,084
6,926
21,650
cP=mean annual prectpltatlonJ values for locations 4,S, and 8 are weighted averages
15,848
19,28?
21,150
22,102
2,18 7
1,029
I. 716
9,696
27,882
d St=percentage of basin containing lakea1 values for locations 4,5, and 8 are weighted averaae•
ef=percentaae of basin covered by forest; values for locations 4,S, and 8 ara weighted averaaea
fT=mean minimum January temperature! values for locations 4,5, and 8 are weighted averages
19,051
25.725
27,889
29,426
1,56]
1,609
2,686
~1,615
36,269
...
21,202
30,556
l2. 924
14,759
(,,475
2,067
1,461
16,609
42. 5ll
21,962
15,191
17.914
40,08)
5,'170
2,518
4,260
19,651
48,791
26,055
40,845
41,509
45,996
6,606
1,180
5,364
21,112
S5,5S4
gH and Dare parameters calculated from the basin parameters; they are used In the flood frequency equations developed by Lamke (1979)
h Ql=flood discharge with recurrence Interval I
I These data are from a flood frequency analysis of gage data (Statlan 15294500)
':t J
QIOO
(cfs)
28 ,18l
47,198
50,012
52,871
8,091
1,988
6, 715
27,628
63,401
Table 6.5 Results of low'flow investigations for three locations along Chakachatna River for
each of two 6 month periods.
November-April May-October
Low Gage a t. b Loca 1on Gage a Locationb
Flow Data 1 2 3 Data 1 2 3
Parameter (cfs/mi 2 ) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs/mi 2 ) (cfs) (cfs) (cfs)
70 0.43 480 520 550 0.62 689 750 790
701.25 0.36 403 440 460 0.43 486 530 560
702 0.29 329 360 380 0.33 365 400 420 5 0.26 292 320 340 0.29 321 350 370 7010
7020 0.23 263 290 300 0.26 293 320 340
7050 0.21 231 250 270 0.24 267 290 310
70 100 0.19 212 230 240 0.23 252 270 290 .
300 o. 4 3 482 520 550 1. 08 1,207 1,310 1,390
3001.25 0.37 411 450 470 0.77 863 940 990
3002 0.30 340 370 390 0.55 613 670 710 5 0.27 303 330 350 0.46 512 560 590 30010
30020 0.24 273 300 310 0.39 440 480 510
3005o 0.22 242 263 280 0.33 371 400 430
300100 0.20 221 240 250 0.29 330 360 380
aLow flow frequency analyses of data from Chakachatna River gage (station 15294500) ...
bLocations are identified in Figure 6.2; location 1 corresponds to Chakachatna River gage site
Table 6.6 Surveys conducted by and for Alaska Department of Fish and Game. (By date, location,
method and species found)
location and Date Mathoda
Chakachamna Lake
9/52 Vis
9/53 Vis *
9/54 ES, Vis
9/56 ES
1979 GN, ES
Chilligan River
9/52 ES, Vis
9/53 Vis *
8/54 ES, Vis
8/55 ES, Vis
Igitna River
8/52 Vis
9/52 Vis
9/53 Vis *
Another River
8/52 Vis *
Kenibuna Lake
8/52 Vis
9/53 Vis *
Chakachatna River
7/52 Vis *,
6/58
1961 Vis, GN
Sallron Species
Sockeye Chinook Coho Chum Pink
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
**
+ +
Other Species oolly -P.ai..iili::iii--Lcike --· lbuna -· Slimy
Varden Trout Trout Whitefish Sculpin
+ + + +
...
'
Table 6.6. Concluded.
Salrron Species
Location and Da.te Meth:xla Sockeye Oti.ncok eooo Chum Pink
Straight Creek
1958 Vis
1973 *** Vis
1976 *** Vis
1977 *** Vis
1978 *** Vis
1981 *** Vis
McArthur River (in-
cluding Swank Slough
and Flat Lake)'
1959 Vis
7/61
8/61
9/61
West Creek
7/61
9/61
18 Creek
7/61
North Fork
7/61
GN, Vis
GN, Vis
GN, Vis
Vis, GN
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
aGN-Gill net; Vis-Visual; ES-Electroshocking
* Too muddy to observe fish
** Two beluga whales at mouth
*** Chinook salmon survey only
+
+
Other Species
Iblly Ra.fiili::M -Lake Round Slimy
Varden Trout Trout Whitefish Sculpin
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Table 6.7\ Collection methodologies utilized by waterbody, September 1981 reconnaissance study .
Visual Electro-Hand Beach Gill Fyke Stationary
Hoop Minnow
Water Body Observations shocking Seine Seine Drift Nets Nets Nets Nets Traps
(Trawl)
Igitna River X
Kenibuna Lake X
Another River X
Chilligan River X
Neacola River X
Chakachamna Lake X X X X X X X
Shamrock Lake X
Nagishlamina River X X X >(! X X .
Chakachatna River X X X X
Straight Creek X X X X
Straight Creek Tributary X X X
Middle River X X X X
Noaukta Sough X X X X
McArthur River X X X X
McArthur River Tributary X X X ...
Chuitkilnachna Creek X
aAt mouth of river in Lake Chakachamna
Table 6.8. Collection gear specifications September 1981 re-
connaissance study.
Electro shockers
Coeffelt Model BP-2 -used at 600 v
Smith-Root Model VII -700 v at 6 milliseconP pulse
duration at 60 pulses/second
Hand Seine
10 ft x 6 ft -~· ace mesh
Beach Seine
100 ft x 6 ft -~· ace mesh
Gill Nets
75 ft long, each panel 15' long x 6 ft deep
Panels of nylon monofilament 3/4", 1", 1.5", 2", 2.5"
bar mesh
-Fyke Nets
6' x 4' double funnel ~~~ square mesh
Long wings and leads 300 ft -1" square mesh
Short wings 50 ft -1" square mesh
Hoop Nets
No leads -Small 34" diameter 1" stretch mesh
Large 48" diameter 1-~· stretch mesh
Table 6.9. Species list and drainage of occurrence August-September 1981.
. pygmy whitefish
round whitefish
Dolly Varden
lake trout
rainbow trout
pink ~aln.on
chum salmon
coho salmon
sockeye salmon
chinook salmon
arctic grayling
... Species
slimy sculpin
threespine stickleback
ninespine stickleback
Prosopium coulteri
Prosopium cylindraceum
Salvelinus malma
Salvelinus namaycush
Salmo gairdneri
Oncorhynchus gorbuscha
Oncorhynchus keta
Oncorhynchus kisutch
Oncorhynchus nerka
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Thymallus arcticus
Cottus cognatus
Gasterosteus aculeatus
Pungitius pungitius
1 Includes Lake Chakachamna and Middle River
'~
Drainage of Occurrence
Chakachatna McArthur
Riverl River
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Table 6.10. Concluded
Species
saskatoon serviceberry
Pacific serviceberry
Labrador-tea •
narrow-leaf Labrador-tea
prickly rose
sweetgale
rusty menziesia
bog rosemary
bush cinqfoil
leather leaf
devilsclub
fireweed
sedge
grass
Fern
Horsetail
lupine
Amelanchier alnifolia
Amelanchier florida
Ledum groenlandl.cum
Ledum decumbens
Rosa acicularis
Myrica <;ale
Menziesl.a ferruginea
Andromeda polifolia
Potentilla fruticosa
Chamaedaphne calyculata
Oplopanax horridus
Epilobium sp.
Carex sp.
Gramminaea
Polyst1.chum sp.
Eriophyllum lanatum
Equisetum sp.
Angelica genuflexa
Artemesia tilesii
Lupinus sp.
aUpland Alder Thicket (UAT);
High Altitude Riparian (HAR);
Black Cottonwood Riparian (BCR);
Coastal Marsh Riparian (CMR);
Black Spruce Transitional (BST);
Resin Birch Bog (RBB);
Willow Thicket Riparian (WTR); and
Black Spruce Riparian (BSR) .
b . a Ha 1.tat
UAT HAR BCR CMR BST RBB WTR BSR
5
3
3
5
3
3
5
4
5
4
5
5
4
5
3
5
4
5
4
4
5
4
4
3
4
4
5
5
5
2 5
1 3
4
5
3 5
4
4 3
5
3 4
2
3 3
5
3
2
4
4
3 3
2 3 2
4 5
4 5 4
5
Table 6.11 The species composition and relative abundance of mammals identified within
the study area for each of the habitat types. (!=Abundant 3=Cornrnon 5=0ccasional)
Habitat a
Species UAT HAR BCR CMR BST RBB WTR BSR
grizzly bear
black bear
gray wolf
coyote
moose
barren ground caribou
wolverine
mink
river otter
beaver
muskrat
red squirrel
tundra redback vole
tundra vole
porcupine
dusky shrewb
harbor seal b
beluga whale
•
Ursus horribilis
Ursus amer~canus
Canis lupus
Can~s latrans
Alces alces
Rangifer arcticus
Gulo luscus
MUStela v~son
Lutra canadensis
Castor canadens~s
Ondatra z~beth~ca
Tam~asciurus hudsonicus
Clethrionomys rutilus
Microtis oeconomus
Ereth~zon dorsatum
Sorex obscurus
Phoca v~tul~na
Delphinapterus leucas
a Upland Alder Thicket (UAT);
High Altitude Riparian (HAR);
Black Cottonwood Riparian (BCR);
Coastal Marsh Riparian (CMR);
Black Spruce Transitional (BST);
Resin Birch Bog (RBB);
Willow Thicket Riparian (STR) ; and
Black Spruce Riparian (BSR) .
3
1
5
3
5
5
5
5
1
3
b sighted offshore near the mouth of the McArthur ·River.
1
1
3
3
1
5
5
5
5
5
3
3
3
3
3
5
3
1
5
3
5
3
3
5
3
3
3
3
3
3
5
1
3
5
3
5
5
5
5
5
5
3
3
5
3
5 3 3
3 3 3
5
3 3 3
3 3 3
5 5
5 3
5 5
3 3
3 3
5
3
Table 6.12. The species composition and relative abundance of birds identified within the
study area for each of the'habitat types. (!=Abundant 3=Common 5=0ccasional)
Species
trumpeter swan
Canada goose
white-fronted goose
mallard
pintail
American wigeon
green-winged teal
greater scaup
common goldeneye
old squaw
common merganser
red-breasted merganser
sharp-shinned hawk
marsh hawk
red-tailed hawk
Swainson's hawk
bald eagle
spruce grouse
willow ptarmigan
sanhill crane
black-bellied plover
spotted sandpiper
greater yellowlegs
short-billed dowitcher
pectoral sandpiper
least sandpiper
northern phalarope
common snipe
glaucous-winged gull
herring gull
mew gull
Olor buccinator
Branta canadensis
Anser alb1.frons
Anas platyrhynchos
Anas acuta
Mareca americana
Anas carolinensis
Aytilya marila
Bucephala clangula
Clangula hyemalis
Mergus merganser
Mer<;us serrator
Acc1.piter str1.atus
circus cyaneus
Buteo jamaicensis
Buteo swalnsonl
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Canach1.tes canadensis
Lagopus lagopus
Grus canadensis
squatarola squatarola
Actitis macularia
Tetanus melanoleucus
L1.mnodromus gr1.seus
Erolia melanotos
Erol1.a minutilla
Lobipes lobatus
Capella gallinago
Larus glaucescens
Larus argentatus
Larus canus
Habitata
UAT HAR BCR CMR BST RBB WTR BSR
5
5
5
3
5
5
5
5
5
3
3
3
3
3
5
5
5
3
5
3
3
5
3
5
3
...
3
3
1
1
1
1
5
5
5
3
3
5
5
3
5
3
5
5
5
3
1
5
5
5
3
3
5
5
5
5
5
3
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
3
5
5
5
3
3
3
3
5
3
Table 6.13. Industrial Sites.
Site
Number
c 170
c 1313
c 1336
c 1369
c 1483
c 1487
c 1906
Township Location and
Size Description
T.llN., R .12W. , S.M. Tidelands
Sec. 28, 255 B7 ac.
T .llN. 1 R.l2W., S.M. 0 & G Support
Sec. 27, 248.64 ac. Facilities
T .llN. , R .12W. 1 S.M. 0 & G Support
Sec. 28, 351.45 ac. Facilities
T .llN. , R.l2W., S.M. 0 & G Support Facilities
Sec. 28, 126 ac. (tidelands)
T.llN., R.l2W., S.M. 0 & G Support
Sec. 2 9. 397 ac. , Facilities
& Sec. 30, 6 ac.
T.llN., R.l2W., S.M. Ship Docking Facility
Sec. 28 & 33, 36.82 ac 0 & G Support
Facilities (tidelands)
T.llN., R.llW., S.M.
ATS 931, 44.86 ac.
Ship Docking Facility
Kodiak Lumber
Company
Date
Classified
12-13-61
9-30-65
12-27-65
4-13-66
2-21-68
2-6-68
5-28-74
Source: State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources Status
Plats. For complete legal descriptions, including aliquot
part descriptions, contact Alaska Division of Lands.
Table 6.14. Native allotments in shoreline townships.
Location and Certificate No.
Application No. Size and Date
Date
Occupied
AA 6459
1949
AA 7268
7/1946
AA 7324
5/1953
AA 7788
6/1957
A 055082
A 055680
9-15-41
T.l2N., R.llW., S.M. Apln 8-23-71
M & B, 160 ac.
T.l2N., R.llW., S.M. Apln 3-20-72
160 ac.
T.l2N., R.llW., S.M. Apln 3-23-72
160 ac.
T.l2N., R.llW., S.M. Apln 4-20-72
160 ac.
T.l2N., R.llW., S.M. 50-75-0138/3-14-75 11-16-40
U.S.S. 4547, 119.39 ac.
T.l2N , R.llW., S.M. 50-66-0608/6-20-66
u.s.s. 4546, 160 ac.
Source: BLM Status Plats, June 1978. For complete descriptions,
including aliquot part descriptions, contact Alaska Division
of Lands.
Table 6.15. Oil and Gas Fields in the Project Area.
Date of
Field Type Location Discovery Well
1. West Foreland .Gas Onshore April 1962
2. Middle Ground Oil Offshore June 1962
Shoal (MGS)
3. North Cook Inlet Gas Offshore September 1962
4. Beluga River Gas Onshore December 1962
5. North MGS Gas Offshore November 1964
6. Trading Bay Oil Offshore June 1965
7. Granite Point Oil Offshore June 1965
8. McArthur River Oil & Gas Offshore October 1965
9. Moquawkie Gas Onshore November 1965
10. Nicolai Creek Gas Onshore May 1966
11. Ivan River Gas Onshore October 1966
12. Albert Kaloa Gas Onshore January 1968
13. Redoubt Shoal Oil Offshore September 1968
Source: Situations and Prospects Kenai Peninsula Borough 1981.
Table 6.16. State Oil and Gas Lease Sales
Number
40
49
Sale Area
Second Upper cook
Cook Inlet
Proposed Date
9/83
5/86
Comment
Scheduled
Proposed
Source: State of Alaska Current Five-year Oil and Gas Leasing
Schedule -DNR revised 8/31/81 and DNR-DMEM Call for
Comments 81.
Table 6-17. Coal Leaseholdings.
Company Acreage
Placer Amex Inc. 25,926
(Beluga Coal Company)
Diamond-Chuitna 20,571
(Diamond Alaska Co )
Mobil Oil 23,080
AMAX, Inc. 3,880
(Meadowlark Farms)
Employees
Construction -?
Operation -500
Contruction -2000
Operation -800
N/A
N/A
Startup
Date
1987
(30 years)
1987
N/A
N/A
Source: Tyonek Community Profile (Draft) Ralph Darbyshire and
Associates, September 1981.
Table 6.18. Locations where Subsistence Occurs.
Polly Creek The beaches in this area are used for clamming
in the spring.
Redoubt Bay The beaches in this area are used heavily and
have been relied upon for many years for clams.
Use occurs in both spring and fall, but spring
use is especially important after winter food
supplies have been depleted and before the
spring salmon run begins. The beaches south of
Drift River Terminal to Harriet Point are used
most extensively.
Trading Bay and
McArthur River
a. Drift River: Historically, the upper and
middle reaches were used most heavily for
hunting and trapping. Today, some duck and
seal hunting is pursued in the lower reaches.
b. Kustatan River: The entire vicinity is
hunted heavily when the McArthur River area
and other areas do not have many moose.
Some trapping takes place here.
Upper McArthur River areas are used for moose
hunting
and furbearer trapping. McArthur Flats is used
for waterfowl hunting and furbearer trapping.
a. Middle River and lower area flats are used
for moose hunting, trapping and waterfowl
hunting.
Chakachatna River
Noaukta Slough
Chuitkilnacha Creek
and associated
marsh areas
Granite Point to
Chuitna River
Chuitna River and
Chuit Creek Area
Beluga Flats and
Lower reaches of
Beluga River
Used for moose hunting, trapping, and waterfowl
hunting.
Used for duck hunting.
The shoreline areas here are relied upon for
subsistence and commercial salmon and herring
fishing. This is the main fishing area for
Tyonek residents.
Both are used extensively in winter months for
trapping and moose hunting.
a. Chuitbuna Lake referred to as Chuit Lake)
area is used for trapping and hunting
especially in the winter. During the fall
the area around this lake is used for berry
picking. This area has a particular
importance because of its proximity to
Tyonek village.
b. The areas west and north of Beluga village
are used very heavily in fall for hunting
moose and in winter for furbearer trapping.
This is also an important berry picking area.
c. Old Tyonek Creek and the lakes area around
Congahbuna Lake are used for moose hunting
and trapping.
These locations are very important for hunting
whale and waterfowl. Some seals are also taken
here.
Susitna River The mouth and lower reaches are used for beluga
whale and seal hunting in the spring and fall.
Source: A Social, Economic and Environmental Analysis of a State
Oil and Gas Lease Sale in Upper Cook Inlet; Governor's
Agency Advisory Committee on Leasing, 1981.
TaLle 6.1S. Kenai-Cook Inlet Division Area Nonagricultural
Employment and Payroll Industry Series -Alaska. 3rd
cuarter 1980.
I11C:.ustry Average No. of Employees
CorJstructior.
Nanufacturing
'I'r ansport at ion,
lommunic~tion and
Utilities
Wholesale Trade
}{etail Trade
Finance, Insurance
ana Real Estate
.Services
Agriculture, Forestry
ar1c.i Fisheries
Government
Ur1~.;lassif iable
Totals
793
902
2022
671
272
1048
203
1023
51
1169
1131
8185
Average Monthly Wage ($)
3,085
f
3,531
1,581
3,142
2,515
1,021
1,259
1,366
2,387
1,981
1,158
2,055
Source: Statistical Cuarterly -~rd Cuarter, 1980. Department
of LaLor, State of Alaska.
Table 6.20. Anchorage Division Area Nonagricultural Employment
and Payroll Industry Series -Alaska. 3rd Quarter
1980.
Industry
Mining
Construction
Manufacturing
Transportation, Communi-
cation and Utilities
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Finance, Insurance and
Real Estate
Services
Agriculture, Forestry and·
Fisheries
Government
Unclassifiable
TOTALS
Average
No. of Employees
2,915
7,190
2,532
8,318
4,230
13,324
4,900
17,182
197
20,356
607
81,751
Average
Monthly Hage ($)
3,286
3,252
2,636
2,264
2,150
1,171
1,649
1,125
1,019
2,061
1,522
1,958
Source: Statistical Quarterly -3rd Quarter, 1980. Department
of Labor, State of Alaska.
Table 6.21. Historic Trails.
Trail
Name
Susitna -
Tyonek
Winter Trail
Quandrangle
& Number
Q70 -#2
Q70 -#3
Location
T.ll, 12, 13, 14,
15, 16, 17N. R.7,
8, 9, 10, llW. SM
T.llN.R.l2, l3W, SM
Source
ARC Annual Report
1930 Part II, Page
61. & Fifty Years
of Highways -AK
Dept. Public Works,
Div. of Highways
1960, pg. 29-30.
USGS Tyonek Quad
Description
Trail begins at town
of Susitna T.l7N.
R.7W. and runs in a
SW direction for 46
miles to town of
Tyonek T.llN.RllW.
Trail runs from Trad-
ing Bay to cabins on
Nikolai Creek.
Source: State of Alaska. Department of Highways. Alaska Existing Trail System. 1973.
Table 6.22. Airport facility characteristics.
Name Owner Class Length Surface Comments
Tyonek Pvt. Utility 3350' X 100' Gravel
1427' X 100'
Beluga Pvt. Non CAB 3500' X 110' Gravel Lighted
Non CAB 5000" X 110' Gravel Lighted
Nikolai Creek Pvt. Non CAB 4100' X 75' Gravel
Trading Bay Pvt. Non CAB 4500' X 100' Gravel-Lighted
dirt
West Foreland Pvt. Utility 1975' Dirt
(Unit No. 2)
Drift River Pvt. Non CAB 4300' X 150' Gravel Lighted
40' Gravel
Table 6.23. 1982 data collection program for recording gages at Chakachatna and McArthur Rivers.
Site Description Measuring Devices
c Streamflow stage and temperatures of Datapod Model DP211SG
Chakachatna River at lake outlet. dual channel recorder
13.5 Streamflow stage and temperatures of Datapod Model DP211SG
upper McArthur River at rapids. dual channel recorder
Streamflow temperatures of upper Peabody-Ryan Model J-90
McArthur River at rapids. thermograph
15 Streamflow temperatures of upper Peabody-Ryan Model J-90
McArthur River at Powerhouse thermograph
a Average of six measurements at 1 hour intervals.
Period of Record
1982
11 Aug. -13 Oct.
l3 Oct. -Cont.
11 Aug. -17 Aug.
17 Aug. -16 Oct. b,c
16 Oct. -Cont. c
21 Aug. -24 Sept.
21 Aug. -18 Sept.
bApproximate one-week data gap in September due to a storm which dislodged the gage.
Recording
Interval
6 Hours a
6 Hours a
1 Hour
6 Hours a
Continuous
Continuous
cData after approximately 7 October, represent water temperature in dunes of sand that buried the gage.
"!
Table 6.24. Summary of 1982 staff gage data base.
Site ID
1
3
4
6
8
10
11
12
13
15
16
16A
17
17D
18
19
22
Number of Channels
with Gages
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
Period of Record
15 Aug. -16 Oct.
15 Aug. -15 Oct.
16 Aug. -15 Oct.
15 Aug. -14 Oct.
15 Aug. -15 Oct.
13 Aug. -16 Oct.
16 Aug. -20 Aug.
13 Aug. -19 Oct.
13 Aug. -19 Oct.
13 Aug. -19 Oct.
14 Aug. -17 Oct.
15 Aug. -17 Oct.
14 Aug. -17 Oct.
14 Aug. -19 Oct.
16 Aug. -18 Oct.
16 Aug. -17 Aug.
14 Aug. -17 Oct.
Approximate
Frequency
weekly
hi-daily
daily
daily
weekly
weekly
daily
weekly
weekly
weekly
bi-weekly
weekly
weekly
bi-weekly
weekly
daily
bi-weekly
Reference
Elevation a
(ft)
92.25
93.66
b 85.32; 87.39
95.78
84.46
90.39; 93.26
92.90
84.80
86.24
85.59
c
b 78.07; 87.07
74.43
b 88.98; 85.37
91. 4 7 ; 88 . 94
95.12
77.12
88.78
c
aReference elevation is the elevation corresponding to a gage reading of 0.0 ft., referenced to the
btemporary bench mark elevation.
Two reference elevations represent two staff gages; the first elevation is for gage A and the second is
gage B.
cTwo reference elevations represent two staff gages; the first elevation is for the high flow gage and the
second is for the low water gage.
Table 6.25. Measured discharges at selected sites in the study area during the
1982 studies, and comparable discharges measured during the 1981
reconnaissance.
Site
Number
1
3
Description
Lower Chakachatna at McArthur
Lower Chakachatna below Middle
4 Middle below split with
Chakachatna
6
13.5
15
16
17d
18
22
c
Lower Chakachatna above Middlea
Upper McArthur at Rapids
Upper McArthur
Transect 1
Transect 2
Transect 3
b at Powerhouse
Upper Noaukta Slough below
Split
Chakachatna below Bridge
Lower Straight Creek
a Chakachatna below Canyon
Chakachatna at Lake Outlet
1982
Date Discharge
(cfs)
10 Oct 370
8 Oct. 350
9 Oct.
8 Oct.
12 Oct.
12 Oct.
12 Oct.
12 Oct.
10 Oct.
15 Oct.
15 Oct.
14 Oct.
10 Oct.
34
380
270
24
150
93
3400
3100
270
3000
2900
1981
Date Discharge
(cfs)
26 Sept. 480
26 Sept. 430
26 Sept.
22 Sept.
26 Sept.
24 Sept.
24 Sept.
22 Sept.
21 Sept.
21 Sept.
80
680
300
12
41
so
5800
a1982 and 1981 measurements significant distance apart, but have no major
tributaries entering in between.
bMeasurements at Powerhouse location are miscellaneous measurements that are not
additive; they do not represent the total McArthur River discharge at that
location.
cPartial measurement, not all of the channels were measured.
Table 6.26. Mean daily discharges (cfs) in 1982 at three locations in the study a area .
August SeEtember October
Date c 13.5 6 c 13.5 6 c 13.5 6
b c
1 4010 1140 690 3590 320 820 570
2 3960 1050 680 3480 310 810 550
3 3900 990 660 3410 290 780 530
4 3820 950 640 3330 270 760 510
5 3760 1550 620 3260 280 770 490
6 3840 1820 640 3170 260 730 470
7 3890 1490 660 3080 240 710 450
8 3890 1270 660 3020 230 700 430
9 3830 1150 640 2970 230 700 420
10 3780 1140 630 2900 220 690 400
11 3720 1040 610 2850 220 690 390
12 4510 1240 840 3610 940 580 2810 230 700 380
13 4530 1230 840 3540 1210 560 210 680
14 4510 1320 840 3470 1230 540 210 670
15 4560 1340 850 3490 2200 550 200 660
16 4620 1250 870 3980 680 190 650
17 4560 1190 850 4310 780
18 4480 1180 830 4530 840
19 4430 1210 810 4670 890
20 4360 1230 790 4670 890
21 4320 1260 780 4680 890
22 4290 1220 770 4700 900
23 4260 1230 760 4570 860
b c
24 4240 1240 760 4430 470 970 810
25 4230 1210 750 4280 410 900 770
26 4190 1190 740 4140 470 970 730
27 4140 1210 730 4020 380 860 690
28 4100 1130 710 3890 370 870 660
29 4090 1370 710 3790 360 840 630
30 4090 1340 710 3700 340 860 600
31 4060 1240 700
aPrecision presented is for informational purposes of denoting trends and does not
represent the accuracy of the data.
b Data computed using full cross section.
cData computed using sedimented cross section.
Table 6.27. Summary of 1982 streamflow characteristics in comparison with U.S.G.S. records.
Site
Number Description Year
15294500 Chakachatna at Lakea 1959
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970d
1971
1972
c
13.5
6
Chakachatna at Lake
McArthur at Rapids
Chakachatna above
Middle
Avg.
Std. Dev.
1982
1982
1982
Average Discharges for Period Indicated
12 Aug.-12 Oct. 12 Aug.-18 Aug. 15 Sept.-21 Sept.
Q % of Q % of Q % of
(cfs) Avg. (cfs) Avg. (cfs) Avg.
7182
5621
7415
7007
8265
7177
10000
7599
9443
6180
4278
5542
7748
7189
1564
3949
-2.07c
1066d
892e
681
100
78
103
97
115
100
139
106
131
86
60
77
108
100
55
15d
12e
9
9633
11014
11243
10443
11109
11843
13571
10629
18642
13686
8874
9030
25143
12971
12702
4359
4537
-1.87c
1250d
846
76
87
89
82
87
93
107
84
147
108
70
71
198
102
100
36
10d
7
4171
4040
8947
5086
6300
4859
13029
6923
3493
3700
3150
5049
3771
6717
5660
2672
4333
-0.50c
788
74
71
158
90
111
86
230
122
62
65
56
89
67
119
100
77
14
aData from U.S.G.S. records for the period 1959 to 1972.
6 Oct.-12 Oct.
Q % of
(cfs) Avg.
2514
2044
3099
2060
3194
2410
4950
5359
6357
1796
2867
2576
1517
3134
1491
2973
-0.11 c
704d
231e
421
80
65
99
66
102
77
158
171
203
57
91
82
48
100
95
22d
7e
13
bData for 1971 is of poor quality due to a 470,000 cfs flood on 11 August which damaged the U.S.G.S. gage.
c Number of standard deviations of the average 1982 data from the average value for the period of record.
d Data computed using full cross section for entire period.
e Data computed using full cross section up to the flood on 15 September and sedimented cross section from
24 RPQtemhor to 1~ Octohor
Table 6.28. Summary of 1982 streamflow temperature records in °C from the
recording gage on the Chakachatna River at the lake outlet.
August SeEtember October
Mean Min. Max. Mean Min. Max. Mean Min. Max.
1 8.4 8.0 8.5 7.0 7.0 7.0
2 7.9 7.5 8.0 6.9 6.5 7.0
3 8.1 7.5 8.5 6.8 6.5 7.0
4 8.0 8.0 8.0 6.5 6.5 6.5
5 6.4 5.5 7.5 6.5 6.5 6.5
6 5.6 5.5 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0
7 8.4 8.0 8.5 6.0 6.0 6.0
8 8.5 8.5 8.5 6. 1 6.0 6.5
9 7.9 7.5 8.0 6.0 6.0 6.0
10 7.0 7.0 7.0 6.0 6.0 6.0
11 7.6 7.0 8.0 6.0 6.0 6.0
12 8. 1 7.5 8.5 8.0 8.0 8.0 5.9 5.5 6.0
13 8.1 8.0 8.5 6.7a 6.0 7.5 5.5 5.5 5.5
14 8.0 7.5 8.5 5.8 5.5 6.0
15 8.5 8.5 8.5 6.5 6.0 7.0
16 8.4 8.0 8.5 6.5 6.5 6.5
17 8.5 8.5 8.5 6.5 6.5 6.5
18 8.4 8.0 8.5 6.5 6.5 6.5
19 8. 1 8.0 8.5 6.5 6.5 6.5
20 8.3 8.0 8.5 6.9 6.5 7.0
21 8.0 7.5 8.5 6.6 6.5 7.0
22 7.6 7.5 8.0 6.6 6.5 7.0
23 7.1 7.0 7.5 7.0 7.0 7.0
24 6.8 6.5 7.0 6.9 6.5 7.0
25 7.5 6.5 8.0 7.0 7.0 7.0
26 8.5 8.0 9.0 7.0 7.0 7.0
27 8.9 8.5 9.0 7.0 7.0 7.0
28 7.9 7.0 8.5 7.0 7.0 7.0
29 6.1 6.0 6.5 7.0 7.0 7.0
30 7.6 7.0 8.0 7.0 7.0 7.0
31 8.5 8.5 8.5
a Data based upon three of four readings; no data for the period 12:00-18:00.
Table 6.29. Summary of 1982 streamflow temperature records in °C
recording gage on the McArthur River at the rapids.
August SeEtember
Mean Min. Max. Mean Min.
1 5.2 3.0
2 4.5 2.5
3 4.9 3.5
4 4.3 3.5
5 4.5 4.0
6 4 .1 3.0
7 4.0 3.0
8 4.0 2.5
9 3.9 3.5
10 4.0 3.5
11 3.0 2.0
12 4.2 3.0
13 4.4b 4.0
14 5.4 4.5
15 4.2c 3.5
16 4.6c 4.1
17 5.9a 4.0 7.5 5.7c 4.7
18 5.8 3.0 10.0 4.1 c 3.2
19 5.7 3.0 10.0 3.6c 3.3
20 5.8 3.0 10.0 3.8c 3.5
21 5.6 3.0 9.5 4.0c 3.6
22 4.9 3.0 7.5 4.7c 3.7
23 5.3 4.0 7.0 c 3.7 4.5d
24 4.6 4.0 5.5 4.0 3.5
25 4.8 3.5 7.0 3.1 3.0
26 5.2 3.0 9.5 3.9 3.0
27 5.4 3.0 9.5 3.7 3.0
28 4.3 3.5 5.5 3.6 3.5
29 5.0 4.0 6.5 3.6 3.5
30 4.2 3.5 6.0 4.0 3.5
31 4.9 2.5 8.5
a Incomplete record for the day.
bRecording gage dislodged by rainstorm flood.
c Peabody-Ryan thermograph data.
dRecording gage reinstalled.
Max.
9.5
7.0
7.5
6.0
5.5
4.5
6.5
5.5
4.5
5.0
4.0
5.0
5.0
7.5
4.9
5.2
7.4
5.2
3.9
4.2
4.6
5.9
5.2
4.5
3.5
4.5
4.5
4.0
4.0
4.5
October
Mean Min.
3.8 3.5
3.8 3.5
3.6 3.5
3.3 3.0
3.0 2.5
1.6 0.5
2.5 2.0
2.5 2.5
2.5 2.5
2.5 2.5
2.2 2.0
2. 1 2.0
2.1 2.0
2.0 1.5
1.7 1.5
1.9 1.5
from the
Max.
4.5
4.0
4.0
3.5
3.0
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.0
2.0
2.0
Table 6.30. Summary of 1982 streamflow temperature records in °C from the
recording gage on the McArthur River at the powerhouse location
(Station 15).
August Se2tember October
Mean Min. Max. Mean Min. Max. Mean Min. Max.
1 3.2 2.4 4.7
2 3. 1 1.9 4.8
3 3.0 2.4 4.2
4 3 .1 2.4 4.5
5 2.8 2.3 3.7
6 2.5 2.2 2.8
7 1.9 1.5 2.4
8 2.2 1.2 3.8
9 2.6 1.9 4.0
10 2.3 1.8 2.9
11 2.4 1.8 3.8
12 1.8 0.5 4. 1
13 1.7 1.0 2.3
14 2.4 2.2 2.7
15 2.5 2.1 4.2
16 3.5 2.5 4.9
17
18
19
20
21 3.5 2.1 7.3
22 3.4 2. 1 5.9
23 3.5 3.0 4.7
24 3.4 2.9 4.2
25 2.9 2.4 3.7
26 2.9 1.8 4.9
27 3.5 2.1 5.8
28 3.4 2.4 5.7
29 3.2 3.0 3.6
30 2.8 2.3 4.0
31 2.7 1.8 4.2
Table 6.31. General substrate and sediment transport characteristics of the Chakachatna and McArthur River
systems in 1982.
Reach
Chakachatna River in Chakachatna Canyon
Chakachatna River from Canyon Outlet to
Noaukta Slough Split
Upper McArthur River near Powerhouse
Upper McArthur River at Rapids
McArthur River near Blockade Glacier
McArthur River below Blockade Glacier,
Noaukta Slough, Lower Chakachatna
River, and Middle River
Representative Main
Channel Substrate
Cobble/Boulder
Gravel/Cobble
Sand with some gravel.
Cobble/Boulder
Sand with some areas of
gravel/cobble.
Silty sand with limited areas
of gravel.
Sediment Transport
Characteristics
Silts a~d sands are carried in
suspension; gravel/cobble sizes
are likely moved as bed load.
Silts and sands are carried in
suspension; gravels are likely
moved as bed load.
Silts and fine sands are moved in
suspension; sand and small
gravel may move as bed load.
Silts and sands are moved in
suspension; gravel and cobbles
likely moved as bed load.
Silts and fine sands are moved in
suspension; course sands and small
gravels are likely moved as bed
load.
Silts are carried in suspension;
Sands are moved as bed load in
large dune forms.
Table 6.32 Stream life of salmon from various sources
DATA SOURCE
SPECIES LITERATURE
Sockeye 12 days 2
Chinooks
Pinks
11.83 -26.5 8
(weighted average = 13.8)
13.1 -7.7 days
(early-late)7
Chums 10 days 2
Coho
17.31 ±7.19 4 (n = 65)
5-9 days 5
. 6 11 -18 days
11 days t 3
10 days
CARCASS 1
(Chakachatna Data
by stream/station)
'\,12 days (17)
<13 days (Chilligan)
'\,5 days (12. 4)
'\,7 days (13x)
'\,6 days (13u)
'\.6 days (12 .1)
'\,6 days (19)
'\,8 days (Cl}
<16 days (17)
'\,8 days (Cl)
'\,9 days (17)
1 For areas where good counts were obtained only.
2 Bell and Atkinson (1982)
3 Wydowski and Whitney (1979)
TAGS
(Chakachatna Data
by stream/station)
12 days (17)
<13 days (Chilligan)
6 days (12.1)
5-7 days (13x)
'\,10-14 days (19)
'\,7 days (19)
'\,7 days (17)
<7 days (12.1)
10 days (Cl)
9-11 days (17}
9-12 days (17}
<12 days
(Chakachamna
River Canyon}
<11 days (Straiqht
Creek Mouth
4 Bruya (1981) -artificial spawning channels in Washington, reduced predation
situation.
5 Hale, S. (1981) stream 1 ife.
6 Hale, S. (1981) freshwater life.
7 Neilsen and Green (1981) -early and late arriving spawners.
8 Barrett (1972) -stream life.
Table 6.33 Fyke Net deployment schedule for 1982
Station 1
1D 3 4
Date Set Sept. 23 Sept. 19 Sept.10
Date Pulled Oct. 16 Oct. 17 Oct. 17
Date Set
Date Pulled
Date Set
Date Pulled
Date Set
Date Pulled
1 See figure 6.30 for station location
2 Net Lost
6
Aug.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
9 11
6 Sept. 26 Aug. 6
26 Oct. 17 Aug. 7
10 Aug. 9
16 Aug. 26
Sept. 14
Sept. 15 2
Oct. 1
Oct. 17
Table 6.34 Lake Chakachamna water temperatures and
dissolved oxygen levels (March 22, 1982)
Site 1.
m ft
0 0
1.5 5
3.0 10
4.6 15
6. 1 20
7.6 25
9. 1 30
10.7 35
12.2 40
13.7 45
15.2 50
16.8 55
18.3 60
19.8 65
21.3 70
23.2 76
26.8 88
29.6 97
36.0 118
41.1 135
1Measured from
Water Temperature
( 0 c)
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.0
1. 25
1. 25
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 50
1. 65
·1. 90
2.00
2.00
2.10
water surface.
Dissolved Oxygen Level
( mg /1 )
13.3
13.3
12.4
12.3
12.4
12.0
11.4
11.4
11.4
10.6
10.6
10.8
11.0
11. 1
11. 1
11.0
11.0
11.0
11. 1
10.8
Table 6.35 Depth distribution of targets detected under
the ice, density corrected percentages, 45°
and 15° transducer deployments,Chakachamna
Lake, March 1982.
45 15 Dee1o~ment 15 6 Dee1o~ment
Site Deeth 1 Site 2 Site 1 Site 2
m ft % of targets % of targets
0 -3.0 0 -10 99.25 100.00 78.31 65.00
3.0 -6. 1 10 -20 0.68 0.00 5.07 35.00
6. 1 -9. 1 20 -30 0.00 0.00 7.25 0.00
9. 1 -12.2 30 -40 0.00 0.00 6.76 0.00
12.2 -15. 2 40 -50 0.00 0.00 1. 87 0.00
15.2 18.3 50 60 0.00 0.00 0.74 0.00
18.3 -21.3 60 -70 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
21.3 -24.4 70 -80 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00
24.4 -27.4 80 -90 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00
27.4-30.5 90 -100 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
30.5 -33.5 100 -110 0.00 0.00
33.5 -36.6 110 -120 0.00 0.00
36.6 -39.6 120 -130 0.00 0.00
39.6 -42.7 130 -140 0.00 0.00
42.7 -45.7 140 -150 0.02 0.00
45.7 -48.8 150 -160 0.00
48.8 -51.8 160 -170 0.00
51.8 -54.9 170 -180 0.00
54.9 -57.9 180 -190 0.00
57.9 -61.0 190 -200 0.00
61.0 -64.0 200 -210 0.00
64.0 -6 7. 1 210 -220 0.00
7 6. 1 -70.1 220 -230 0.00
70. 1 -73.2 230 -240 0.00
73.2 -76.2 240 -250 0.00
76.2 -79.2 250 -260 0.00
Table 6.36 Habitat data measured at Station 17 sloughs,
March 1982.
Station = Left Bank Slough
1 2 3 4
Distance from
left bank (m) 0.3 2..4 5.2 8.5
Depth (m) 0.8 1.6 1.0 0.6
Velocity at . 6
depth (m/s) <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Water temperature
( 0 c) 2.0 2.0 2.0 1.8
Dissolved Oxygen
( mg /1 ) 12.8 12.9 13. 1 13.2
Station = Right Bank Slough
Distance from
left bank (m) 1.5 3.0 4.5
Depth (m) 0.4 0.6 0.4
Velocity (m/s) 0.30 0.36 0.30
5
10.6
0. 5
0.03
2.0
13.2
Table 6.37 Water quality data-McArthur Rivers winter 1982.
Dissolved
Temperature
Station ( 0 c )
Mean (SD)3
15 1.2 ( 0. 3 )
13 0.3 1 (0.1)2
0.8 ( 0. 3)
1 Poo1 2 Riffle 3 standard derivation
Oxygen
(mg/1)
Mean (SD)3
13.0 ( 0. 1 )
11. 1 1 (0.3)2
11.5 ( 0. 1 )
Depth Velocity
( m) (m/s) 3 Mean (SD)3 Mean (SD)
0.3 ( 0 . 2) 0. 1 ( 0. 0)
0.2 ( 0. 1 ) 0.2 1 (0.1)2
0.6 ( 0. 3)
Table 6.38 Water quality data-Chakachatna River drainage. May 1982.
Dissolved
Temperature Oxygen Conductivity Turbidity pH Depth Velocity
Station (oc) ( mg /l ) (tJmho/cm) (mg/l) (m) (m/s)
Mean (SD) Mean (SD) Mean (SD) Mean (SD) Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (SO)
29 5.3 (0.2) 10.6 (0.2) 29.0 (0.0) 17.0 (0.0) 0.4 (0.2) 0.8 (0.4) 6.6 (0.1)
30 8.4 (0.3) 9.8 (0.4) 3.0 (0.0) 5.5 ( 2. 1) 0.2 (0.0) 0.7 (0.2) 6.6 (0.1)
26 4.2 (0.0) 10.7 (0.0) 81.0 (0.0) 410.0 (57.0) 0.3 ( -) 0.7 (-) 6.8 (0.0)
22 6.7 10,6 76.0 250.0 0.6 0.6 6,8
17d 4.6 10.7 66.0 55,0 0.6 0.8 6.8
17 LB+2 4.2 (0.6) 10.3 (1.1) 70.0 (7.0) 65.0 ( 7. 1) 0.4 (0.1) 0.3 (0.3) 5.7 (0.4)
17 LB+O 2.3 (0.3) 9.8 (0.3) 83.0 (1.4) 23.5 ( 3. 9) 0.4 (0.3) 0.1 (0.1) 6.0 (0.1)
5 8.4 (0.1) 8.2 (0.1) 73.7 (0.6) 36.7 ( 0. 6) 0.2 (0.1) 0.3 (0.02) 6.4 (0.0)
10 4. 7 10.4 55.0 84.0 0.5 0.2 6.7
18 Main
channel 2.7 11.2 20.0 54.0 5.4 0.5 1.1
18 Side
channel
cove 2.7 11. 1 20.0 49.0 5.0 0.2 0.6
18 Side
channel
riffle 2. 7 11. 1 20.0 53.0 5.2 0.3 0.3
....
Table 6.39 Water quality-McArthur drainage. May 1982.
Dissolved
Temperature Oxygen Conductivity Turbidity pH Depth Velocity
Station ( OC) ( mg /1 ) (Mmho/cm) ( mg /1 ) (m) (m/s)
Mean (SO) Mean (SD) Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (SO)
15. 5 1.1 (0.1) 11.0 (0.3) 16.3 (1.2) 86.7 (5.8) 6.5 (0.1) 0.5 (0.1) 0.3 (0.1)
15 3.5 (0.0) 10.5 (0.2) 60.0(77.3) 13.7 ( 1. 2) 5.9 (0.1) 0.3 (0.7} 0.3 (0.1)
13 4.9 (0.0) 10.8 (0.4) 155.0 {7.1) 13.0 (0.0) 6.4 (0.1) 0.6 (0.3) 0.4 (0.1)
13u Mouth
a rea 4.2 (0.3) 10.4 (0.1) 123.3(61.1) 10.3 ( 2. 3) 6.5 (0.2) 0.4 (0.1) 0.2 (0.1)
so Standard Deviation
• '!'
Table 6.40 Plankton net sampling for outmigrants -sample location. volume and fish
densities (May 25-27. 1982).
Location
(station number)
Kenibuna Lake outlet (29)
Chakachatna River (22)
McArthur River (15)
McArthur River tributary
(13U)
Noaukta Slough (10)
Chakachatna River (17D}
Middle River (5)
Straight Creek (18)
Chakachatna River (17)
-day
Chakachatna River (17)
-night
1 Net clogged.
Volume
sampled (m 3 )
353.08
336.03
144.73
132.37
77.46
147.46
303.78
348.52
191.47
Tot a 1 fish
density #/100m 3
0.0
0.55
1
0.0
1
1. 36
0.0
0.0
o.o
,
Species collected
Dolly Varden (parr).
sculpin (juvenile)
Dolly Varden(parr).
coho salmon (parr)
w
Table 6.41 Water quality data-Chakachatna River drainage. June 8-11. 1982.
Dissolved
Temperature Oxygen Conductivity Turbidity pH Depth Velocity
Station (oc) (mg/1) (\lmho/cm) ( mg I 1 ) ('") (m/s)
Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (so) Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (SO) Mean (SO)
31 pond 9.5 10.4 42.0 11.0 5.9 0.3 (0.1) 0.2
31 10.4 10.3 28.0 31.0 5.8 0.6 (0.2) 0.5 (0.1~
32 7.0 11. 1 14.0 4.0 6.3 0.2 (0.1) 0.4 (0.3
33 7.2 10.8 7.0 9.0 6. 1 0.8 (0.2) 0.5 (0.3)
30 4.5 (0.1) 11.8 (0.1) 16.0 (1.4) 3.5 ( 3. 5) 5. 8 ( o. 3) 0.5 (0.2) 0.6 (0.6)
27 4.0 11. 7 21.0 16.0 5.8
25 3.3 11.6 21.0 17.0 5.7
24 3.2 (0.1) 12.4 (0.0) 21.5 (2.1) 71.5 (21.9) 6.5 (0.1) 0.4 (0.2) 0.5 (0.2)
22 3.8 (0.1) 12.3 (0.4) 31.7 (1.2) 336.0 (20.9) 6.2 (0.1) 0.5 (0.3) 0.4 (0.2)
20 5.3 12.4 36.0 270.0 6.6 2.1 (6.0) 0.0 (0.0)
17 main 5. 1 11.9 39.0 130.0 6.3 0.2 0.4
17 LB+2 5.8 (1.1) 11.5 (0.5) 59.7(23.4) 60.7 (60.6) 6.1 (0.2) 0.2 (0.3) 0.2 ~0.1)
1 8.5 (0.4) 10.7 (0.3) 53.0 (1.4) 113.0 (79.2) 5.9 (0.4) 0.4 (0.2~ 0.4 0.1)
5 7.7 (0.1) 10.3 (0.8) 38.5 (2.1) 52.0 (63.6) 6.0 (0.1) 0.4 (0.3 0.2 0.1)
16A 4.6 12.3 29.0 470.0 6.0 0. 3 ( o. 2) 0.2 (0.3)
10 5. 1 11. 5 34.0 162.0 6.2 0.5 (0.2) 0.3 (0.3)
18 3. 8 (0.1) 12.1 (0.2) 13.0 (0.0) 197.5 (24.7) 5.8 (0.0) 0. 3 ( 0. 1) 0.9 (0.7)
'I t "
Table 6.42 Water quality data -McArthur River drainage, June 8-11, 1982.
Dissolved
Temperature Oxygen Conductivity Turbidity pH Depth Velocity
Station (oc) (mg/l) (IJmho/cm) ( mg/ l) (m) (m/s)
Mean (SD) Mean (SD) Mean (SD) Mean (SD) Mean (SO) Mean (SD) Mean (SO)
15 upper 3.4 11.5 2.0 55.0 6.6 0.3 (0.1) 0.6 (0.1)
15 lower 3.8 (0.4) 10.9 (0.1) 3.0 (2.8) 38.0 (7. 1) 6.5 (0.1) 0.3 (0.1) 0.8 (0.2)
13 4.3 11.6 9.0 126.0 6.8 0.4 (0.1) 0.3 (0.1)
12 4.6 11.6 10.0 141.0 6. 1 0.6 (0.3) 0.3 (0.1)
11.5 5.7 10.8 42.0 105.0 6.3 0.7 0.4
11 5.9 11.2 42.0 105.0 6.7 0.3 (0.1) 0.4 (0.4)
1D 6.4 10.8 17.0 171.0 5.9 0.3 (0.1) 0.3 (0.1)
Table 6.43 Estimated escapement of chinook salmon, 1982.
Waterbody
Chakachatna Drainage
Straight Creek -
Clearwater Tributary (19)
McArthur Drainage
Stream 13x
13u
12.2
Totals
Chakachatna Drainage
McArthur Drainage
1Based upon 12 day stream life.
~Based upon count of live and dead fish.
Included in drainage estimate totals.
Estimated Escapement
1 2
1422
452
1633
1422
2107
1099
268
1186
22 3
1099
1476
Table 6.44 Estimated escapement of sockeye
Waterbody 1
Chakachatna Drainage
Chilligan River 38,576
Igitna River 2,781
Chakachatna Canyon
Sloughs 392
Chakachatna Tributary
(C1) 238
Straight Creek Mouth 203
Straight Creek -
Clearwater Tributary {19) 254
Chakachatna Bridge
Sloughs 1,193
McArthur Drainage
McArthur Canyon 333
Stream 13X 2,708
Stream 13U 606
Stream 12.1 8,356
Stream 12.2 3,042
Stream 12.3 1,256
Stream 12.4 1,164
Stream 12.5
TOTALS:
Chakachatna Drainage 43,637
McArthur Drainage 17,467
1Based upon 12 day stream life.
2Based upon 6 day stream life.
!Based upon peak count.
Included in drainage total estimates.
salmon, 1982.
Estimated EscaEement
2 3
666
5,416 3,223
1,213
16 '711
6,085
2,512
2,328
24
34,933
Table 6.45 Estimated escapement of pink salmon, 1982.
Waterbody
Chakachatna Drainage
Chakachatna Canyon Sloughs 279
Chakachatna Tributary (C1) 0
Straight Creek -
Clearwater Tributary 7925
Chakachatna Bridge Sloughs 59
McArthur Drainage
McArthur Canyon
Stream 13x
13u
Stream 12.1
Stream 12.2
Stream 12.3
Stream 12.4
Stream 12.5
Totals
Chakachatna Drainage
McArthur Drainage
56
4225
5402
8499
1566
8263
19777
~Based upon 7 =day stream life.
3Based upon count of live and dead fish.
Included in drainage estimate total.
Estimated Escapement
,,
Table 6.46 Estimated escapement of chum salmon, 1982.
Waterbody
Chakachatna Drainage
Chakachatna Canyon Sloughs 121
Chakachatna Tributary (Cl) 165
Straight Creek Mouth 152
Chakachatna Bridge Sloughs 1482
McArthur Drainage
McArthur Canyon
Stream 13U
Stream 12.1
Stream 12.4
Totals
Chakachatna Drainage
McArthur Drainage
1Based upon 10 day stream life. 2Based upon peak on total counts. 3 rncluded in drainage estimate total.
23
1920
29
Estimated Escapement
1 2
Table 6.47. Estimated escapement of coho salmon, 1982.
Waterbody
Chakachatna Drainage
Chakachatna Canyon Sloughs 608
Chakachatna Tributary (Cl) 183
Straight Creek Mouth 76
Straight Creek -
Clearwater Tributary 172
Chakchanta Bridge Sloughs 1560
McArthur Drainage
McArthur Canyon
Stream 13X
Stream 13U
Stream 12.1
Stream 12.2
Stream 12.3
Stream 12.5
Totals
Chakachatna Drainage
McArthur Drainage
1Based upon 10 days stream life.
1182
1378
32
2000
46
89
2599
4729
Estimated Escapement
1 2
2Based upon peak count (live and dead fish). 3 rncluded in drainage estimate total.
Table 6.48 Percent species composition of fish collected for all
fyke net combined. -1982
Percent Composition
---------------------------------------
Species August September October August-
October
Dolly Varden 83.4 72.7 59.4 66.8
Coho salmon 2.9 8.6 15.8 12.4
Rainbow trout 1.6 11.8 14.6 11.84
Round whitefish 0.8 2. 1 3.3 2.7
Pygmy whitefish 1.5 1.5 3.5 2.7
Bering cisco 0.0 1.2 0.9 0.9
Slimy sculpin 1.9 0.4 0.8 0.8
Three-spine stickleback 4.6 0.0 0.0 0.4
Chum salmon 0.0 1.1 0. 1 0.4
Longfin smelt 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.3
Pink salmon 3.3 0.0 0.0 0.3
Eulachon 0.0 0.3 0.3 0.3
Chinook salmon 0.0 0.2 0.02 0.07
Sockeye salmon 0.0 0. 1 0.02 0.07
Rainbow smelt 0.0 0.0 0.02 0.01
Table 6.49 Percentage species composition of fish collected in
fyke net 6, Chakachatna River. -1982 1
Species Percent Composition
August September October
Dolly Varden 89.57 77.57 55.43
Coho salmon 0.54 5.14 23.93
Rainbow trout 1. 62 10.00 12.38
1only net set continuously during sampling
Table 6.50 Monthly catch per effort values for all lifestages of
major species collected by fyke nets -1982
Catch Per Effort (All Nets)
Species August September October
Dolly Varden 33.50 78.87 155.8
Coho salmon 1. 15 12.82 41.5
Rainbow trout 0.63 17.64 38.3
Catch Per Effort (Net 6)1
Species August September October
Dolly Varden 24.90 15. 10 67.2
Coho salmon 0. 15 1. 00 29.0
Rainbow trout 0.45 1. 95 15.0
1only net set continuously during sampling
Table 6.51 Percentage of total fyke net catch per effort
represented by sub-adults of all species -1982.
Chakachatna (Net 6)
Chakachatna (Net 3)
McArthur (Net 11)
McArthur (Net 10)
Noaukta Slough (Net
Middle River (Net 4)
*
+
Not Sampled
Net Lost
%
9)
of Total % of Total % of Total
August September October
43.5 57.6 79.9
* 53.2 63.7
79.5 + 71.5
* 85.6 65.26
* 49.4 47.6
* 59.0 66.6
Table 6.52 Species composition by location Fyke Nets -1982
Species
Dolly Varden
Coho salmon
Rainbow trout
Round whitefish
Pygmy whitefish
Bering cisco
Slimy sculpin
Threes pine stickleback
Chum salmon
Longfin smelt
Pink salmon
Eulachon
Chinook salmon
Sockeye salmon
Rainbow smelt
McArthur
River
Chakachatna Middle
River River
Noaukta
Slough
Stations 1 & 11 Stations 3 & 6 Station 4 Station 9
74.0 61.5 69.6 72.9
9.4 16.2 7.3 7.7
4.5 13.2 19.8 9.5
1.3 3.6 0.6 4. 1
0.3 3.8 1.5 3.8
4.4 0.0 0.0 0.0
0.5 0.9 1.0 0.3
1.8 0.04 0.0 0.0
0.9 0. 1 0.2 0.9
1.6 0.0 0.0 0.0
0. 1 0.5 0.0 0.0
1.2 0.0 0.0 0.3
0.0 0.03 0. 1 0.5
0.0 0. 1 0.2 0.0
0. 1 0.0 0.0 0.0
Table 6.53 Percentage of species -specific catch per effort
(c/f) represented by each lifestage for major species
collected by fyke net 6 -1982 1.
Percent of c/f bx Life Stage
August September October
Dolly Varden c/f=24.9 c/f=15.1 c/f=67.2
Parr 1.8 1.4 0 0 2
Juvenile 40.6 59.6 85.0
Adult 56.2 39.0 14.9
Coho salmon C/f= 0.2 c/f= 1.0 c/f=29.01
Parr 0.0 58.0 97.45
Juvenile 0.0 0.0 2.3
Adult 100.0 42.0 0.2
Rainbow trout c/f= 0.5 c/f= 2.0 c/f=15.01
Parr 11. 1 2.6 0.5
Juvenile 33.3 29.7 53.8
Adult 55.6 67.7 45.8
1only net set continuously throughout sampling
Table 6.54 Mean (~) and standard error (SE) for catch per
effort-values for all lifestages of major
species collected by fyke net -·1982.
Species
Dolly Varden
Coho salmon
Rainbow trout
McArthur
River
SE
17.6 7. 2
2.4 1.2
1.1 0.4
Chakachatna
River
SE
28.4 10.1
7.5 5.5
6.1 2.6
Middle
River
SE
23.2 9.0
2.4 1.3
6.6 4.7
Noaukta
River
SE
19.7 10.1
2.1 1.7
2.6 0.9
Table 6.55 Results of mark and recapture of Dolly Varden (DV) and rainbow
trout (RT) on the McArthur-Chakachatna system.
Recapture
Station
1
2
3
4
5
6
9
1 1
12. 1
Fish tagged at fyke net stations -1982
1
4 DV
3 DV
3 DV
2 DV
2 DV
3
1 RT
2 DV
4 RT
11 DV
2 DV
4 RT
9 DV
2 RT
4
1 RT
7 DV
9 RT
24 0
1 RT
9 RT
28 DV
2 DV
Tagging
Station
6
3 DV
3 RT
7 DV
1 RT
5 DV
2 RT
21 DV
1 RT
37 DV
1 DV
9 11
2 DV
1 RT
1 DV
1 RT
2 DV 1 DV
3 DV
Note: ___ indicates that fish were recaptured at same station as marked.
TABLE 6.51:... C-ATCH PER EFFORT: MINNOW TRAP SAMPLES
AUGUST, t9e2
NUMBER Cf CATCH/ LENGTH (CI'\l STATION DATE SPECIES LIFE STAGE REFUCATES EFFORT MEAN S.D. N ------------------------------~-------------------------------------------------------0006 100882 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 o.:.o 8.00 0.0(1 1
SLIMY SCULPIN 4 (1,50 0.00 0.00 0
110082 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 3 1.40 11.58 1. 79 5
[I(ILLY VARDEN ,JUVENILE 3 0.33 13.70 0.00 1
SLIMY SCULPIN JUVENILE 3 O.t..7 7.70 0.42 '.•
' J.
0010 1~.0002 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 3 2.00 8.05 1.63 6
SlIMY SCULP m JUVENILE '• 1.00 7.33 0.71 3 .;)
0011 110002 DOLLY VAR[IEN PARR 4 2.00 11. 1b 1. so a
THREESPINE STICKLEBACK ADLILT 4 1.50 8.02 0.75 6
0013 170882 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 1.50 8.88 2.14 6
COHO SALMON PARR 4 0 r,~ • .t..J 5.40 0.00 1
0016 160882 [lOLlY VARDEt~ PARR 5 2.00 9.03 0.95 10
[lOLLY VARDEN JUVENILE 5 0.20 14.20 0.00 1 SLIMY SCULPIN JUVENILE 5 0.80 7.40 0.45 4
0019 130882 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 10 5.60 9.22 2.0b 54 COHO SALMON PARR 10 2.70 b.10 1.49 26
CHINOOK SALI"!ON PARR 10 3.20 5.82 0.48 31
CH WOOK SALMON JUVENILE 10 0.10 14.00 0.00 1
RAINBOW TROUT PARR 10 0.40 7.b0 1. 01 4
SLIMY SCULPIN JUVENILE 10 0.50 8.00 0.61 "' •.J SLIMY SCLILPIN ADULT 10 0.20 12.60 4.10 r,
J.
0022 160832 DOLLY VARDEN PAHR .•, 3.00 10.30 2.((: 9 .;.
Sll MY SCULPIN ,JUVENILE ~. O.b7 9.70 0.00 2 "
0023 140882 DOLLY VAR[:EtJ f'ARF: :;; 2.67 . 10.00 2.07 ... 0 DClL V VARDEN ,JIJ\'E tH LE .'') CU3 13.10 0. (l(l 1 ....
006A 240882 DOLLY VAHDEN ,JiJVEtJILE ') < 11. :.7 ' 15 ~· '-'<J 1
[lOLLY VARDEN ADULT 3 I. 14.75 G. 4
TABLE 6.56. CATCH PER EFFORT: MINNOW TRAP SAMPLES AUGUST, 1932
STATION [lATE SPECIES LIFE STAGE
-----------------------------------------------------OOM 240882 SLIMY SCULPIN ,JUVENILE
Sll MY ~.cLILP t N ADULT
016A 160882 [lOLLY VAR[IEN PARR
"
NUMBER OF
REFLICATES ----------
"' ~·
3
")
L
CATCH/ LENGTH tCI'll
EFFORT rEAN S.D. N ------___ ..,.. ___ -----------
0.67 3.80 1. 70 ~. ..
0.33 9.00 0.00
4.5~ 11.21 2.05 9
TABLE 6.57. CATCH PER E~FORT: MINNOI-J TRAP :;AMPLE~;
':H1EMBER, I'i:;·~
NUt-1Ef=:R CF CATCH/ LENGTH ((:Ml
STATIOt-.j DATE ·:;F·ECI E'::. LIFE STAGE REFLICAT:. E.FFORT MEA~l ::;.D. N --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
001:1 140S·:;:;:: DOLL'/ VARDEN PARR 4 1.00 9.:,3 1. 75 4
c::H:) SALM(:tJ PARfi 4 0. 2~5 lo,:30 0.00 1
0002 1 ~0982 [:OLL Y VARDEN PARR 4 o.:::. 9,30 0.00
COHO ~;ALMON PARR 4 1.25 6.'50 !.57 c
J
PYGMY WHlTE FISH PA~;:R 4 0.25 6.10 0.00 ::t 1 M'l ~.CULP l t~ ,IUVENII...E ll 0.:·5 7.20 0.00
1-lREE':J 1 '<E :;;11 CI'LEBACL A[:!_IL T ll (• '•10
) ....... ~' s.t.o (l,(i!)
CH)O:::: 1 ~(:9:::? DOLL'/ IJARDEN P~RR 4 0.50 9.55 1. 34 ·1
L
[GLLY VAR[:EN ,::_!VEt~ l LE n 0.25 12.9(1 0.00 1
C::•H:) ~:AL~',tJ pc;~:R ' 0.?:. 7 .n::: 1.11 " .. .)
COC:4 200S·.:.: DOL:... 'I VARDEN PARR 4 1.2:, 10.14 0.42 c .J
DCU 'I VARi E~l ._II_!IJEN; L E 4 o. 2':· 14.10 (1, (l(l 1
~U M'l ":UU'I N .YJVE~~1LE 4 (• "•" ~:. :·o (:,(n 1 ·'• ...:-_1 ~:_I .. W ::.:·::~_!LF'1~~ h~):_t T t 0.50 C: I :::o 1.13 "•
L
ooo:. 20(:9:::2 ~::._I MY ~;(:I_U I:~ ADULT 4 0.75 '?.53 O.t·8 "• .)
1Hf·:EE'::~· I ~~t :::.r; CflE[i;.CK ._1!YJEN I LE 4 o.::~, :.70 (:,0)
l~PEESPI~E STI~KLEB~[V hro1 H 'T Ll!_oL) 4 o. ;::~. ::.to 0.(:(1
ncr::s :20Gn:: ::Ll\11'1 ~;CULF'l'~ ,I:J'VCHLE .-, 2.:.o /:..4/:. :. 74 c
~
,.
o:)o::: ::10~~::2 r:::UY VARDEN F'ARR 4 0. ~~CJ 7.30 1. 41 .-,
L
[.GLL Y VARL::i~ &l'JE~JILE ~ 0.~~· 14.1(: (1,(;0
( ~:~:~: ~ . .;~(~' i~J F·Ar\R 4 c:.::5 5.9.:) (l, (:(l
(l(;(lr; 231)9:::2 [:(ILLY VA1;'DEN F'ARR t 1.:.o 11.20 1.65 6
[::::LL Y VA::.:IHl ._::_tVE:llLE ·1 (), :o 14.:::::, 1),(17 2
F"I~~~Y ~HI1c FEH ,IUVENILF 4 ,-, -.c
l_'.~·-· 10.00 (l,(l(l 1
':U ~y :;::UL.F'Hi ·-~~-~\~~ ~J: LE t. (;.:~. 4.9(1 0. \}) 1
fl(ll G 2'3(1''•:::.:: F'YGM'I WHJTE FI':;H ._::_:vtr~~LE 4 ('.75 ·=-· ':•'""J 0.:23 "• f I'-' _o .:·
·:t~'~'-' ·<:_\J'l": C.I:IJL ~ 4 (: • ~·~I ·~j' )~) 1. ~ 1
TABLE 6.57. CATCH PER EFFORT: MmN::JW TRAF' ~:AMPLES
:::EPTEMBEF\, J'.'f::::
NIJ~BER OF CATCH/ LENGTH lCI'Il
STATION tlAiE ~3PEC1ES LIFE STAGE REPLICATE:: EFFORT MEAN S.D. N
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0011 1209:::2 COHO SALMON PARR 4 4.00 7.?4 ~"'} ""·Q
4-•LV 16
SLIMY SCLILF' W ~UJVENILE 4 0.2'5 3.HI 0.00 1
~:LIMY \:HILPIN ADULT 4 0.2~1 10. O.GO 1
THREE~:F·JNE STICKLEBACK JUvENILE 4 2.00 " o.:.::: a .;,
Tl-mE'CSPlNE ~:TICIUBACK AR!L T 4 o.::::. 7. (1,(10 1
0012 12CI9:32 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 1. 75 10.50 "' , ...... J.,•JL 7
SOCKEYE :::ALMON F'A~:R 4 1.0(1 7.18 1. 4) 4
::LJ MY ~.(IJLF· IN ~IIJVENILE 4 (1.25 7.20 0.0(1 I
N I N~SP HlE :~ Tl ClLEBACK ADULT 4 0. :t(j 5/50 0.14 .-.
j~
(1(113 12(!9:32 DOLLY VARW~ PARR 4 4.':.0 7.t.O 1. ~'~t 1 .... C•
C ~:JH(: ~J•L ~C~-~ FA~R 4 o.:rs 5.(:0 O.tY') 1
0014 120'f32 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 4.50 8. 71:. l. 74 1C• ,_,
0015 12fi'1:32 DO:.L Y ~'ARDEN P~RR 4 o. 7'5 9.07 1.01 'j ·-·
0011:. 2109~:2 DOLL 'i VARDE!Il PARR -0.~:3 ~~.to o.oo ~·
0017 250<~:::2 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 2.00 9.85 3.24 Q
L'
:3LII1V ·:.WLPJ~ ~IU'.JEN!LE ' o.~.o " "'"' 0.~::. 2 ~ ~~-._,_1
0018 2":·0'iE:2 DOLLY VI\R[!Pl PARR ·:· 5.33 9.03 2.)4 1(1 ,.
VARDEN LiUVENILE ,) \·:. ::::?, 14.00 0.00 1
SALMCtrJ PARR 3 4. C·1 b. f-t. 0.8! t::
CH l NCtOI< ~;ALMON PARR r, 0.33 6.80 (I, (II) 1 ~·
0019 2'50982 [ICILL V VARDEN PARR 4 0.75 7.27 1.19 3
VAR[<EN ,JUVENILE 4 t).2~1 13. ~;(I 0.00 1
<::CULPlN JUVENILE 4 0.25 7 .~:o 0.00 1
(;(('0 2509f:2 DOLLY VARDEtJ PARR 4.33 7.21 1.84 12
[:(U Y VAR[:Etl LIUVENILE 0.67 12./:.Cl 1. ·~ .i.
COt-:0 SALMOtl PARfi 0./:.7 :?,, 1 (I 0. -,
.L
TABLE 6.57 CATCH PER EFFORi: MINNOW TRAP ~;AMFUS
~HTEMBER, 1 n:::
NUMBER OF CATCH/ LENGTH (CMl
STATION [lATE SPECIES LIFE STAGE REPLICATES EFFORT MEAN S.D. N --------------------------------------------------------------------------- -----------
00.:'0 250'f82 SOCYE'IE ~3ALMC:N PARR 3 0.33 g,(JO 0.00
0021 2409C:2 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 1. 75 10. ~53 l.b3 6
[:•)LL Y VARI:EN JUVENILE 4 o.:~~ 13.20 0.00 1
0022 240'm DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 o.~.o 10.90 0.2t: " i.
DOLLY VAR[:EN ,.JUVENILE 4 o.~~o 14.25 0.07 r,
i.
0023 2409:::2 DOLLY VAR[:EN F·ARR f:. 0.17 11.80 0.00
DOLLY VAriDEN cii.IVENILE 6 0.83 13./:.6 1. 1:.7 " .J
0024 240932 DOLLY VARD~N PARR 4 1.00 9.73 2.09 4
DC ILLY VI~R ~ EN ciUVENILE 4 0.2~· 12.go 0.00 1
LAVE TROUl FARfi 4 0.~0 7.80 0.14 r,
i.
ll(l~.A 2309:::2 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 1.~~1 11.12 1. 41 " ~·
016A 210'~:::2 DOLLY VARDEN PARR ;,
0 ~~.50 11.67 2.16 44
DOLLY VAR[1EN ciUVENILE 8 0.62 13.54 0.62 " .J
COHO ~::AU'1:JN PA~:R ;, 1.13 7.28 1.13 9 0
SOCH'IE ~.ALMON PARR 8 0.50 7.4:3 0.74 4 SLI M'l SCULPIN ciUVENILE :3 0.12 7.60 0.00 1
::UMY SCULPIN ADULT (.1 0.25 C• rc 0.21 2 C' \..! • ._I,J
NINESF'INE ~mo:LEBACK cii_IVENlLE .:, o.~.o ~~.68 0.3~: 4 ·-· NINE~:PH~E ~;TICHEIWK @JLT ;, 0.25 7.40 0.~8 " C• i.
0170 2209:::2 DO:..L Y VARDEN PARR 4 1.50 9.48 0.99 b
~LIMY ~·CII:_FJN JUVENILE 4 0.25 7.70 0.00 1
::U~1'1 ::.::.ULF'IN ADULT 4 O.i5 10.80 0.00 1
TABLE t .. 58. CATCH PER
OCTOBER,
MINNOW TRAP SAMPLES
NUMBER OF CATCH/ LENGTH ((:M)
STAT lOt~ DATE SPECIES LIFE ~:TAGE REPLICAT~S EFFORT MEAN S.D. N
0001
(1(1(:2
0003
1610B2 DOLLY VARDEN
COHO SALMON
PYGMY WHITE FE:H
:::OCI:HE SALMON
SOCKEYE S~LMON
SLIMY SCULPIN
NINESPINE STICKLEBACK
NINESPINE STICKLEBACK
NWE~iPINE ':;TICKLEEtACK
151032 DOLLY VARDEN
COi-10 SALMON
F'%MY WHITE FISH
SOCKEYE SALMON
~UMY SCULPm
~UMY SCULF'!N
N I NE~.p INE STI CKLEBAO:
1'51082 [lOLLY VARDEN
(1004 151 082 DOLL V VARDEN
DOLLY VARDEN
COHO SALMON
SOCKEYE '::ALMON
':U MY SCULPIN
~.UMY SCULPIN
oen:, 151 OB2 COHO SALMON
COHO SALMON
~:OCKEYE ::.ALMON
NWESPINE snC:I\LEBAfl
NINE:::PWE ::;TJULEBA::y
0006 r:.J Ot:2 DOLL V VARDHl
PARR
PARR
PARR
PARR
JUVENILE
~IIJVENILE
&lVENILE
ADULT
PARR
PARR
PARR
PARR
JUVENILE
ADULT
,IU'JEN!LE
P4RR
PARR
,IIJVE~ILE
PARR
ciUVENILE
PARR
PARR
JUVENILE
ADULT
F'ARR
,JUVENILE
A[iLU
PARR
.JUVENILE
PARR
._.uv;:NILE
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
·~ ~· 3
3
3
~. ,,
r, .,;.
.-,
0
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
.-. ...
'• '-.-,
L .-, ...
"• '-
4
4
4
4
0.50
6.00
0.~5 .... .-.c
i...i....J
0.50
0.25
4.75
23.75
4.50
0.33
0.33
0.33
0.3:3 ::.oo
0.33
4.67
1.00
t"l •")C'
v.L.J
l.Z5
10.45 :3.04
8.(12 2.01
5.40 0.00
6.26 0.54
5.60 1.41
4.90 o.oo o.oo
r ':1':< ........ .};.}
b. f:.:·~ (l, 48
6.10
12.40
6.40 0.(10
6.10 O.GO
~·.13 o. n
10.90 0.00
5,/:..1;, 0.67
8.85 1.31
14.40 . O.(l(l
6.24 1.26
0.50 10.25 2.33
0.75 3.80
0.25 6.10
0.25 5.'?0
0.25 8.10 o.oo
0.2'5 9,10 (l,(l(l
1.00 6.50 2.69 o.5o 6.:::.·o o.oo
1.00 6.50 0.42
2.00 4.75 0.61
0.50 7.70 0.00
o. 2'5 : •• 70 0. 00
0.25 14.30 0.00 o. 25 13.00 o.
0.25 ·:::.:o
2
24
1
9
'"j
L
1
(I
~:5
8
1
1
1
1
6
1
14
4
1
r:
cl
2 .-.
i.
1
1
1
1
'I
L
1
2
4
1
TABLE 6.58. CATCH F'ER EFFORT: MINNOW TRAP :::AMPLES
OCTOBER, 19:32
NUMBER OF CATCH/ LENGTH (C11l
STATION DATE SPECIES LIFE STAGE RH'LICATES EFFORT MEAtJ :3. D. N --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CJO(I(:. 1510:::2 SLIMY SCULPIN ~IUVENILE 4 1.50 C..15 1.30 6
SLIMY ~:cLILF' IN ADULT 4 0.':·0 9.75 1. 48 2
NlNESPINE :;;TICKLEBACV. .JUVENILE 4 0.25 5,40 0.00
0003 151082 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 3.75 10.63 1.18 15
DOLLY VARDEN ,JIJVEtHLE 4 0.':·0 13.60 0.42 '• i.
COHO SALMON PARR 4 1. 75 7.30 1.84 ..,
I
SLIMY SCULPIN JU'JEtHLE 4 0.25 6.90 0.00 1
NINESPWE STICKLEBACK ~lUVEtHLE 4 0. 7~· ~~.50 0.69 " "
0009 171 o:::·z DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 1. ':·0 B.~~8 3.56 f:..
DOLLY VAF:DEtl JUVENILE 4 0.25 1C..30 0.00 l
COHO SALr.:)N PARR 4 0.50 6.t.5 0.64 '")
L
PYGMY WHITE FISH PARR 4 0.50 6.30 0.00 'J
L
PYGMY WHITE FI~:H ADULT 4 0.25 10.30 (I,(H) 1
SOCKEYE :::ALMON PARR 4 0.50 7.80 1.n '")
L
:::~JM'f ~:CtlLPJN ~IU'JE~HLE 4 0.':·0 /:...70 2.12 '!
0010 1610:32 DOLLY VARDEN F'ARR 4 1. 50 1o.n 1.B3 b
[:~illY VAF:DEN ~IUVENILE 4 0.75 13.:::7 0.5~: '• .;.
COHO SALMO~l PARR 4 o.:.o 9.95 2.7/:. '")
L ·:u MY ::.C:I_ILF' IN .J!JVEtHLE 4 0.50 7.0(1 0.2:3 '• i.
~LIMY ECULPJN A[IUL T 4 1. (1(1 9,75 0.72 4
C:Ol1 1 /:. 1 OB2 COHO ~:ALMON PARR • 0.75 7.63 0. 71:.. '• ., " :::OCf:EYE :::ALMON PARR 4 0.75 7 .~:(1 0.00
NI NE:::F· I ~~E ~:TJ CKLEBACY .JU'v'EN I LE 4 o.~~~ 4.70 0.00
001~ 1910::::2 [:(::_L Y VA~:~'Etl PARR 4 0.50 7.95 2./:..2 '· ~
non 191082 DOLLY VAR[:E~~ F'ARR q 0.50 8.70 2.26 ·'")
L
~,LJ ~'( ~:CUL.FJ r 4 ~IUVENILE 4 0.25 :::.70 0.00
0014 191(:82 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 6.2:, 9.1C. 2.16 '•>= i.--.1
c:::HO SALMC:t1 PARR 4 .-, ,C'
L• I ·J !: .• 9~1 C!. 6/:, 11
~LIMY ~::ClU'JN ,_ii_!VENILE q 0.75 7. 77 0.49 -·-· ~·~I rJE:::P I~~:: :::~ 11](.LEBACK ._1'_1'./EtHLE 4 0.~:. /:... ::·o (1,(:(1
TABLE 6.53. CATCH PER EFFORT: MINNOW TRAP ~:AMPLES
OCTOBER, 19B2
NUMBER OF CATCH/ LENGTH lCMl
STATION DATE SPECIES LIFE STAGE REF'LlCATES EFFORT MEAN 8.[1. N ----------------------------------------------------------------~---------- -----------
0015 191 OS:' DOLLY VARCEN PARR 4 5.75 8.05 2.07 23
VARDEN JU'.JENILE 4 0.25 1(:..70 0.00 1
SALMON PARR 4 0.::5 7.£:0 0.00 1
0011:· 171082 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 0.25 11.70 0.00
DOLLY VARDEN ~,.nJVENILE 4 1 '•" ,i,...; 14.30 o.·n " . .J
SLIMY ~:CliLF'IN ADULT 4 0.25 10.10 0.00 1
0017 171082 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 0.50 8.70 2.83 2
SLIMY SCULPIN ~IU\'ENILE 4 0.25 5.20 0.00 1
0018 181082 [lOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 0.25 3.40 0.00
COHO SP.LMCIN PARR 4 0.25 5.b0 0.00
0019 181032 COHO SALMON PARR 4 0.50 6.40 0.99 " i.
CHINOOK SALMON PARR 4 0.50 7.05 0.07 " i.
NINE ~:p I NE ~. T I ClLEBACY ~IUVENILE 4 0.25 5.30 0.00 1
0021 131082 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 0.50 11.60 0.14 ") ..
DOLLY VARDEN ,JIJVEN!LE 4 0.75 14.43 1.17 ')
~· PYGMY WHITE FISH ADULT 4 0.25 12.80 c.
SLIMY SCULPIN A[:LIL T 4 0.25 11.~·0
0022 181032 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 0.50 13.10 0.14 ")
L
SLIMY SCULPIN JU'JENILE 4 0.25 5.20 0.00 1
006A 171032 DOLLY VARDEN F'ARR 3 1.00 10.07 2.39 3
f'YGMV WHilE FISH ~IIJVEtHLE ~. 0.33 10.00 o.oo 1 .)
0 ll.A 171032 DOLLY VARDEN PARR 4 0.25 10.~:0 o.oo 1
COHO £;ALMON PARR 4 3.5(1 B.OO 2.16 14
COHO SALMON JUVENILE 4 0.25 6.30 o.oo 1
SLIMY ~:CULP W JUVENILE 4 2.00 6.96 0.56 ,..,
C•
SLIMY SCULPIN ADULT 4 () .-.r: ~ • i.....J 7./:..(1 0.0(1
NINE'::PINE STICKLEBACK ~iUVEtHLE 4 A ·'•" -• L.J
It:' .-.,
._t. (oi.J 0.77 ~,.,
.,;...J
NINESPlNE ~:TICHEBACK ADULT 4 2.T5 7 '.·~ ai.,.i 0.3(. 11
TABLE 6.58. CATCH PER EFFORT: MINNOW TRAP SAMPLES
OCTOBER, 19:32
STATION [lATE SPECIES
Ol7D 191 OE:2 DOLL V VARDEN
COHO
SLIMY
SLIMY
LIFE STAGE
PARR
PAF;R
JUVENILE
ABUL T
NUMBER OF
REPLICATES ----------
4
4
4
4
CATCH/
EFFORT
"} ')C:
'L• J...J
0.25
1. 75
0.50
LENGTH !CM>
MEAN S,[l, N ------ -----------
11.33 1.98 9
12.70 o.oo 1
5.91 1.04 7
9.25 0.07 :;::
Table 6.59 Dolly Varden parr catch per effort using minnow traps
1982.1
Station August Seetember October
1 1.00 0.50
2 0.25 0.33
3 1.25 1.00
4 1.25 0.50
5 0.00 0.00
6 2.83 0.00 0.25
6A 0.00 1.25 1.00
8 0.50 3.75
9 1.50 1.50
10 1.50 0.00 1.50
11 2.00 0.00 0.00
12 1. 75 0.50
13 1.50 4.50 0.50
14 4.50 6.25
15 0.75 5.75
16 2.00 0.25 0.25
16A 4.50 5.50 0.25
17 2.00 0.50
170 1.50 2.25 ~
18 4.00 0.00
19 5.60 0.75 0.00
20 2.60 0.00
21 1. 75 0.50
22 3.00 0.50 0.50
23 2.00 0.17
24 1.00 0.00
-not fished
1fish/trap/day
Table 6.60 Dolly Varden juveniles catch per effort using minnow traps
1982.
Station August Se~tember October
1 0.00 0.00
2 0.00 0.00
3 0.25 0.00
4 0.25 0.75
5 0.00 0.00
6 0.50 0.00 0.25
6A 5.33 0.00 0.00
8 0.25 0.50
9 0.50 0.25
10 0.00 0.00 0.75
11 0.00 0.00 0.00
12 0.00 0.00
13 0.00 0.00 0.00
14 0.00 0.00
15 0.00 0.25
16 0.20 0.00 1.25
16A 0.00 0.62 0.00
17 0.00 0.00
170 0.00 0.00
18 0.25 0.00
19 0.00 0.25 0.00
20 0.40 0.00
21 0.25 0.75
22 0.00 0.50 0.00
23 0.25 0.83
24 0.25 0.00
-not fished
Table 6.61 Dolly Varden juvenile and parr catch per effort using
minnow traps 1982.1
Station August September October
1 1.00 0.50
2 0.25 0.33
3 1.50 1.00
4 1.50 1.25
5 0.00 0.00
6 3.33 0.00 0.50
6A 5.33 1.25 1.00
8 0.75 4.25
9 2.00 1. 75
10 1. 50 0.00 . 2. 25
11 2.00 0.00 0.00
12 1. 75 0.50
13 1.50 4.50 0.50
14 4.50 6.25
15 0.75 6.00
16 2.20 0.25 1.50
16A 4.50 6.12 0.50
17 2.00 0.25
170 1. 50 2.25
18 4.25 0.25
19 5.60 1.00 0.00
20 3.00 0.00
21 2.00 1.25
22 3.00 1.00 0.50
23 2.25 1.00
24 1.25 0.00
-not fished
1fish/trap/day
-
Table 6.62 Percentage incidence of juveniles of important salmonid
species by month for all collection gear, sampling
stations downstream of Chakachamna Lake -1982.
Species August September October
Dolly Varden 95.0 80.8 92.3
Coho salmon 60.0 46.2 61.5
Chinook salmon 15.0 11.5 11.5
Sockeye salmon 30.0 26.9 34.6
Rainbow trout 15.0 23.1 23.1
Pygmy whitefish . 30.0 38.5 46.2
Table 6.63 Mean c/f for each reach by month for juvenile Dolly Varden
and coho salmon -1982.1
Doll.Y: Varden Coho Salmon
(parr? juveniles) (parr)
Aug Sept Oct Aug Sept Oct
Upper Chakachatna 2.63 1.08 0.25 0.00 0.00 0.00
River (Canyon)
Mid-Chakachatna River 2.13 1.00 0.10 0.06
Noaukta Slough 2.73 1.08 2.00 0.00 0.28 1.30
Lower Chakachatna River 3.05 0.63 0.68 0.00 0.52 0.31
Upper McArthur River 1. 50 3.25 4.25 0.13 0.08 1.00
Lower McArthur River 2.00 1.42 0.33 0.00 1.42 2.25
Chakachatna Tributaries 5.60 2.63 0.13 2.70 1.75 0.38
Upper Chakachatna River (Canyon)
Mid-Chakachatna River
Stations 22, 23, 24
Stations 17, 170, 20, 21
Stations 8, 9, 10, 16, 16A
Stations 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6A
Stations 13, 14, 15
Noaukta Slough
Lower Chakachatna River
Upper McArthur River
Lower McArthur River
Chakachatna Tributaries
Stations 10(1), 11, 12
Stations 18, 19
Table 6.64 Percentage of total catch of minnow trap captures based
on catch/effort 1982.1
SPECIES August September October
Dolly Varden 70.6 61.8 24.7
Coho salmon· 6.6 17.3 14.2
Chinook salmon 7.3 0.4 0.4
Rainbow trout 0.9 0.0 0.0
Threespine stickleback 3. 3 4.4 0.0
Slimy sculpin 12.0 9.0 11.8
Sockeye 0.0 2.5 3.6
Pygmy whitefish 0.0 1.8 1.7
Nines pine stickleback 0.0 1.8 42.9
Lake trout 0.0 0.7 0.0
1fish/trap/day
Table 6.65 Coho salmon parr catch per effort using minnow traps
1982.1
Station August September October
1 0.25 6.00
2 1. 25 0.33
3 0.75 0.25
4 0.00 0.25
5 0.00 0.50
6 0.00 0.00 0.25
6A 0.00 0.00 0.00
8 0.25 1. 75
9 0.00 0.50
10 0.00 0.00 0.50
11 0.00 4.00 0.75
12 0.00 0.00
13 0.25 0.25 0.00
14 0.00 2.75
15 0.00 0.00 0.25
16 0.00 0.00 0.00
16A 0.00 1.13 3.50
17 0.00 0.00
170 0.00 0.25
18 3.50 0.50
19 2.70 0.00 0.00
20 0.40 0.00
21 0.00 0.00
22 0.00 0.00 0.00
23 0.00 0.00
24 0.00 0.00
-not fished
1fish/trap/day
Table 6.66 Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid species
August -1982
Dolly Rainbow Pygmy
Station Varden Coho Chinook Sockeye Trout Whitefish
1 + + +
3 + + +
4 +
5 + +
6 + + +
6A +
8 +
10 + +
11 + + + +
12 + +
13 + + +
15 +
16 + +
16A + +
17 + + +
18 + + + +
19 + + + +
20 + + + +
22 +
23 + +
Table 6,67 Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid species
September -1982
Dolly Rainbow Pygmy
Station Varden Coho Chinook Sockeye Trout Whitefish
1 + + + + +
2 + + +
3 + + + +
4 + + + + +
5
6 + + + + +
6A + + +
8 + +
9 + + + +
10 +
11 +
12 + +
13 + + +
14 +
15 +
16 + +
16A + + + + +
17 + +
170 +
18 + + +
19 +
20 + + +
21 +
22 +
23 +
24 +
Table 6.68 Distribution of juveniles of i~portant salmonid species
October -1982
Dolly Rainbow Pygmy
Station Varden Coho Chinook Sockeye Trout Whitefish
1 + + + + +
2 + + + +
3 + + + + +
4 + + + + +
5 + + +
6 + + + + +
6A + +
8 + + +
9 + + + + +
10 + +
11 + + + + +
12 +
13 +
14 + +
15 + +
16 +
16A + +
17 + +
17D + +
18 + + +
19 + +
20 + +
21 + +
22 +
23 +
24 + +
Table 6.69 Distribution of juveniles of important salmonid species
all collection gears -1982
~ Sept Oct ~ Sept Oct
Dolly_ Varden Coho
(Canyon) Upper Chakachatna River
Mid-Chakachatna River
Noaukta Slough
Lower Chakachatna River
Upper McArthur River
Lower McArthur River
Chakachatna Tributary Streams
Upper Chakachatna River (Canyon)
Mid-Chakachatna River
Noaukta Slough
Lower Chakachatna River
Upper McArthur River
Lower McArthur River
Chakachatna Tributary Streams
Upper Chakachatna River (Canyon)
Mid-Chakachatna River
Noaukta Slough
Lower Chakachatna River
Upper McArthur River
Lower McArthur River
Chakachatna Tributary Streams
Upper Chakachatna River (Canyon)
Mid-Chakachatna River
Noaukta Slough
Lower Chakachatna River
Upper McArthur River
Lower McArthur River
Chakachatna Tributaries
+ + +
+ + + + + +
+ + + + + +
+ + + + + +
+ + + + + +
+ + + + + +
+ + + + + +
Chinook Sockey_e
+ +
+ + +
+ + +
+ + + +
+ + + + +
+ + +
Rainbow Trout Py_gmy_ Whitefish
+
+
+
+ + +
+ + + + +
+ + + + +
+ +
+ + + + +
+ +
Stations 22, 23, 24
Stations 17, 17D, 20, 21
Stations 8, 9, 10; 16, 16A
Stations 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6A
Stations 13, 14, 15
Stations 1D(1), 11, 12
Stations 18, 19
Table 6.70 Chinook salmon juvenile and parr catch per effort using
minnow traps 1982.
Station· August September October
1 0.00 0.00
2 0.00 0.00
3 0.00 0.00
4 0.00 0.00
5 0.00 0.00
6 0.00 0.00 0.00
6A 0.00 0.00 0.00
8 0,00 0.00
9 0.00 0.00
10 0.00 0.00 0.00
11 0.00 0.00 0.00
12 0.00 0.00
13 0.00 0.00 0.00
14 0.00 0.00
15 0.00 0.00
16 0.00 0.00 0.00
16A 0.00 0.00 0.00
17 0.00 0.00
170 0.00 0.00
18 0.25 0.00
19 3.30 0.00 0.50
20 0.00 0.00
21 0.00 0.00
22 0.00 0.00 0.00
23 0.00 0.00
24 0.00 0.00
-not fished
Table 6.71 Sockeye salmon parr catch per effort using minnow traps
1982.
Station August September October
1 0.00 0.25
2 0.00 0.33
3 0.00 0.00
4 0.00 0.25
5 0.00 0.50
6 0.00 0.00 0.00
6A 0.00 0.00 0.00
8 0.00 0.00
9 0.00 0.50
10 0.00 0.00 0.00
11 0.00 0.00 0.25
12 1.00 0.00
13 0.00 0.00 0.00
14 0.00 0.00
15 0.00 0.00
16 0.00 0.00 0.00
16A 0.00 0.50 0.00
17 0.00 0.00
170 0.00 0.00
18 0.00 0.00
19 0.00 0.00 0.00
20 0.20 0.00
21 0.00 0.00
22 0.00 0.00 0.00
23 0.00 0.00
24 0.00 0.00
-not fished
Table 6.72 Pygmy whitefish catch per effort using minnow traps 1982.
Station August SeEtember October
1 0.00 0.25
2 0.25 0.33
3 0.00 0.00
4 0.00 0.00
5 0.00 0.00
6 0.00 0.00 0.25
6A 0.00 0.00 0.33
8 0.00 0.00
9 0.25 0.75
10 0.00 0.75 0.00
11 0.00 0.00 0.00
12 0.00 0.00
13 0.00 0.00 0.00
14 0.00 0.00
15 0.00 0.00
16 0.00 0.00 0.00
16A 0.00 0.00 0.00
17 0.00 0.00
170 0.00 0.00
18 0.00 0.00
19 0.00 0.00 0.00
20 0.00 0.00
21 0.00 0.25
22 0.00 0.00 0.00
23 0.00 0.00
24 0.00 0.00
-not fished
Table 6.73 Water qua 1 ity profiles of Chukachamna Lake -August, 1982
Dissolved
De~th Tem~erature Ox~gen Conductivit~ Turbid it~
(meters) (feet) (oc) (mg/1) (umho/cm) (mg/1)
0.0 0.0 16.5 11.4 38 35
0.4 1. 25 11.7 11.9 34 40
0.8 2.5 11.7 12.0 31 44
1.5 5.0 8.6 12.2 29 44
2.3 7.5 8.6 12.2 25 42
3.0 10.0 8.2 12.4 29 45
3.8 12.5 8.2 12.4 29 44
4.5 15.0 8.0 12.4 29 44
5.3 17.5 7.8 12.4 28 43
6. 1 20.0 7.8 12.5 28 42
6.9 22.5 7.8 12.6 27 43
7.6 25.0 7.7 12.6 27 43
8.4 27.5 7.6 12.7 26 43
9. 1 30.0 7.5 10.9 26 43
12.2 40.0 7.2 11.1 29 310
15.2 50.0 7.1 11.2 30 245
18.3 60.0 7.1 11.2 30 125
21.3 70.0 7.2 11.0 33 150
30.5 100.0 7.0 11.3 33 328
36.6 120.0 6.5 11.3 30 82
45.7 150.0 5.9 11.6 30 76
61.0 200.0 5.7 11.6 33 210
76.2 250.0 5.6 11.6 25 320
87.8 288.0 5.3 11.6 27 200
Table 6.74 Lake Chakachamna/Transect 1. Hydroacoustic Fish Density Estimates, 19 September, 1982 (1 is North shore area).
Depth
3.05m
(10 ft)
Strata
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Sample
Vol~me
(m )
146
441
731
1026
1319
1611
1886
2198
2489
2785
3076
3370
3661
3956
15 4248
16(49m) 4541
Total
MaKimum Bottom
Uepth in meters
2 3
0.98
1.06
0.46 0.46
0.36
Number of Fish Per m'"' x 10-3
Distance from Start of hansect (180m Increments)
4 5 6 7
0.46
0.36 0.36
0.23
8
0.32
9 10 11 12 13 14
0.46
0.32
1.08
1. 30
0.30
0.27
15 16 17 18 19 Tota 1
0.0
0.0
1.37 1.37
0.98
0.76 0.76
1.24 0.62 1.86
1.59 1.06 2.12 5.83
0.46 1.82 0.91 4.09 9.15
0.40 0.40 2.81 0.80 5.22 9.63
1.08 3.59 0.72 4.67 12.22
1.95 0.96 2.28 7.13
1.48 0.59 0.59 2.96
1.09
0.25
1.36
0.25
0.23
0.22 0.22 0.44
1.52 1.80 0.0 0.36 0.59 0.46 0.0 0.32 0.0 0.32 0.46 0.0 2.95 0.0 0.40 1.94 13.24 7.84 21.94
73 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91; 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 82
11 '\!
Table 6.75 Lake Chakachamna Transect 2. Hydroacoustic Fish Density Estimates, 19 September, 1982 (1 is South shore area).
IJeptn
3.05 meters
(10 ft)
Strata
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
ll
12
13
14
Sample
Vol~me
(m )
146
441
731
1026
1319
1611
1886
2198
2489
2785
3076
3370
3661
3956
15 4248
16( 49. m) 4541
Total
Maximum Bottom Depth(m)
' '
~ .,
lfunilier of Fish Perm--XTil-"'
Distance from Start of Transect (180m Increments)
2 3 4
1.59 1.06
0.91
0.80
0.36 0.36 0,36
0.98 0.33
0.30 0.59 0.30
0.55 0.82
0.25 0.25
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
0° 0 0.53 0.53 0.53 0.53
0.40 0.40
0.30
0.27
0.33
0.30
0.25
0.33
0.30
14 15 16 17
6.80 4.54
6.84 2.74
9.75 2.92 0.97
II. 37 3. 79
3.10 3.10 1.86
4.25 3.19
l. 82 1. 82
0.80 1.61 1.21 1.21
o. 72
0.33 0.33
0.30 0.59
0.55 0.27
0.51 0.25
2.69 3.64 3.12 0.36 0.0 0.40 0.97 0.53 1.16 0.25 0.30 0.86 0.53 0.80 47.72 24.75 4.37
46 ~1+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+
,
Tota I
0.0
11.34
9.58
13.64
15.16
8,06
12.21
4.55
6.43
1.80
2.42
2.98
2.46
1. 51
0.0
0.0
Table 6.76 lake Chakachamna --Transect 3. Hydroacoustic Fish Density Estimates, 19 September, 1982 (1 is North Shore area).
Depth
3.05 meters
(lOft.)
Strata
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16(49m)
Samp1e
Vol~me
(m )
146
441
731
1026
1319
1611
1886
2198
2489
2785
3076
3370
3661
3956
4248
4541
Tota1
Maximum Bottom Depth (m)
2 3
Number of Fish Per mv X 10-3
Distance from Start of Transect (180m Increments)
4 5 6 7
0.53
0.36 0.36
0.30
8 9 10 11 12
1. 37
1. 95
4.54
0.76 0.76
1. 24
1.06 0.53
1.36 1.36 0.45
13 14 15
1. 52
0.62
0.53 0.53
0.45 0,45
16
0.40 0.80 0.40 0.80 0.40 0.40 1.21
0.36 0.36 0.36 0.36 1.08 0.72
0.33 0.33
0.30
0.25
0.22
0.65 0.65 0.33
0.30 0.89 0.30
0.82 0.55
1.01 0.25
0.24
0.22 0.66
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.53 0.66 0.36 0.0 0.40 9.23 8.16 2.14 1.01 0.76 1.68 8.78 3.08
3 29 55 78 90 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 91+ 9lt 91t 91t 56
Tota1
0.0
4.54
1. 37
1. 95
3.04
1.86
2.65
4.07
4.41
3,96
2.31
2.09
1. 37
1. 51
0.24
1.10
Table 6.77 Water Quality Profiles of Chakachamna Lake
September, 1982
Dissolved
Deeth Temeerature Oxygen Conductivit~ Turbid it~
(meters) (feet) (oc) (mg/1) (umho/cm) (mg/1)
0.0
0.8
1.5
2.1
3.0
4.6
6.1
7.6
9. 1
15.2
22.9
30.5
45.7
61.0
76.2
91.4
0.0 5.9 11.9 23
2.5 6~0 10.8 23
5.0 6.0 12.5 23
7.0 5.9 12.5 23
10.0 5.9 12.4 27
15.0 5.9 11.9 27
20.0 5.9 12. 1 23
25.0 5.9 11.6 24
30.0 5.9 11.9 28
50.0 6.2 [2] 28
75.0 6.3 [2] 24
100.0 6.2 [2j 25
150.0 6.3 [2] 23
200.0 6.3 [2] 23
250.0 6.3 [2] 22
300.0 6.5 [2] 23
1 -Data taken immedfately follwing heav,¥ rains and storm,
waves 1.2 -1.5 meters (4.5 -5.0 ft).
54
58
58
57
58
61
63
64
64
66
70
62
54
53
58
80
2 -Samples taken with Van Dorn bottle showed signs of
supersaturation -effervescence, dissolved oxygen could
not be measured reliably.
Table 6.78 General substrate and cover characteristics by station.
(1982)
Station
no.
1
10
2
3
4
5
6
6A
8
9
10
11
11.5
12
13
14
15
16
16A
17
170
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
Substrate
sand-sand/silt
sand/silt
sand/silt
sand/silt some small gravel
sand/silt some small area of gravel
sand/silt
sand/silt some gravel
sand/silt
sand/silt some small gravel
silt/mud
silt/mud
sand-sand/silt
sand/silt
sand-silt
gravel/cobble-sand
sand/s i1 t
gravel/sand
cobble/gravel-armored in
channel
sand/silt/gravel
gravel/cobble/sand -main
channel armored
cobble/gravel -heavily
armored
sand/gravel
gravel/sand
small boulders/cobble/sand
cobble/rubble/some gravel
gravel/cobble-armored in
channel
rubble/cobble/sand-armored
in channel
cobble/rubble/gravel -some
sand-armored in channel
sand
sand
sand/gravel some cobble
rubble, bedrock
cobb 1 e, grave 1
gravel, cobble
sand/silt/little gravel
gravel/sand
cobble/gravel
Cover
vegetation -limited
none
vegetation/snags
vegetation/snags -limited
vegetation/snags -limited
vegetation
vegetation/snags
vegetation/roots
snags - 1 imited
vegetation
snags
snags -limited
snags - 1 imited
snags - 1 imited
cobble/rubble
vegetation
vegetation/boulders, rubble
snags/rubble
snags/cobble
cobble/vegetation
few snags
cobble/snags
snags/vegetation
snags/vegetation
boulders/cobble/snags
cobble/snags
cobble/snags
rubble
rubble/snags
cobble
rubble
cobble
cobble/vegetation, snags
vegetation
cobble
cobble/rubble
Table 6.79 Water quality data by station, July 1982.
Station
15
17
13X
30
19
1standard
Water
Temperature 1 ~lean S.D.
4.5 0.0
10.3 0.4
10.3 0.0
7.1 0.2
8.0 0.0
Deviation
Dissolved
Oxygen
Mean S.D.
13.0 0.4
11.3 0.6
11.3 0.2
Conductivity
Mean S.D.
51.0 1.4
3.0 0.0
13.7 0.6
Turbidity
Mean S.D.
12.0 4.2
9.0 2.8
29.3 0.6
N
1
2
2
3
Table 6.80 Water quality data by station, August 1982.
Water Dissolved
Temeerature Ox:z-:gen Conduct i v it:z-: Turbidit:z-:
Station Mean S.D. Mean s. 0. Mean S.D. Mean s. D. N
1 10.5 10.1 42.0 53.0 1
1D 5.8 0.35 11.0 0. 70 20.3 0.58 72.0 1. 73 3
2 8.3 11.9 51.0 27.0 1
3 8. 9. 0.04 10.6 0.64 39.6 3.21 73.0 7.84 5
4 12.9 9.2 46.0 70.0 1
5 10.8 10.2 41.0 60.0 1
6 7.9 2.22 11.5 0. 75 34.7 4.08 83.1 35.16 14
6A 8.8 0.05 10.6 0.34 33.8 0.45 72.8 6.83 5
8 9.3 0.16 11.4 0.55 33.3 1. 50 166.1 42.60 9
10 8.2 0.44 11.7 0.33 42.8 23.62 218.1 28.65 8
11 11.3 1. 37 10.5 1.08 43.0 9.30 61.9 31.40 20
12 3.7 0.47 12.7 0.61 7.4 1.19 228.1 82.46 8
12L 1.8 13.7 7.0 436.0 1
13 5.9 1. 95 11.0 1. 99 46.6 22.43 70.1 57.03 7
15 4.9 1. 73 12.7 0.51 14.6 25.75 30.7 8.03 9
16 8.2 0.32 12.1 0.12 35.6 14.23 130.6 59.10 10
16A 9.5 0.24 10.8 0.86 36.3 4.92 114.0 20.99 4
17 9.2 0.36 10.0 1. 67 36.2 2.17 91.2 7.16 5
17 LB0&1 10.2 10.21 9.9 0.80 44.9 8.65 21.4 6,64 50
17 LB0&2 11.6 1.12 11.5 0.80 61.9 17.34 4.5 7.30 13
18 5.0 0.82 12.1 0.70 51.8 3.63 272.1 15.00 9
19 9.0 2.47 10.8 1.18 20.8 10.10 14.0 9.06 21
19A 8.4 0.21 10.9 1. 34 18.0 0 10.5 0.71 2
20 8.8 0.34 11.7 0.16 36.5 4.36 108.5 1.29 4
22 8.1 0.15 11.9 0.21 50.0 20.66 92.3 21.94 3
23 8.2 0,20 11.6 0.85 45.3 0.58 21.3 5.86 3
27 12.5 2.57 11.0 1.06 47.7 17.49 41.5 9.57 10
28 10.0 1.19 11.9 0.40 26.7 1.15 47.7 4.62 3
30 6.4 10.1 22.0 4.0 1
1standard deviation
Table 6.81 Water quality data by station, September 1982.
Water Dissolved
Temeerature Ox~gen Conductivit~ Turbid it~
Station. Mean S.D. Mean S.D. Mean S.D. Mean S.D. N ~..,.
1 7.5 0.45 10.7 0.89 46.5 7.72 107.5 49.78 4
2 6.8 0.22 12.3 0. 21 37.5 1.00 105.0 17.66 4
3 6.4 0.05 12.0 0.10 36.5 0.58 89.5 5.07 4
6A 6.9 0.18 12.0 0.13 33.0 0.82 129.5 9.98 4
8 7 .1 0.10 11.5 0.56 26.8 2.36 335.3 72.72 4
9 6.6 0.19 12.3 0.26 31.5 1.00 286.3 275.90 4
10 5.5 0.13 12.5 0.51 29.8 1. 50 108.3 18.95 4
11 7.4 0.36 10.2 1.26 40.5 2.38 178.8 48.87 4
12 3.0 0.78 13.2 0.71 12.0 6.24 594.3 419.23 3
13 5.0 0.46 11.4 0.70 62.5 13.18 19.8 14.45 4
14 2.9 0.31 13.8 0.31 9.5 1. 73 23.0 1.83 4
15 2.6 0.34 13.8 1. 27 10.2 13.20 13.7 10.63 9
16 6.3 0.19 12.3 0.52 25.3 1. 26 455.0 23.09 4
16A 7.1 0.20 11.1 0.69 29.0 3.19 451.7 113.02 12
17LB &2 6.5 0.05 12.7 0.22 34.3 2.22 78.0 9.63 4
17D 6.4 0.13 10.7 0.10 30.3 0.50 201.8 21.11 4
19 3.8 0.13 13.1 0.15 14.0 0.0 67.3 17.84 4
20 5.8 12.4 34.0 75.0 1
21 6.8 0.08 12.8 0.85 31.0 0 87.3 11.93 4
22 6.6 0.08 11.5 0.35 31.0 0 84.3 10.24 4
23 6.6 0.23 12.0 0.46 38.7 8.43 86.8 89.28 6
24 6.3 0.10 12.4 0.50 22.5 1.00 88.5 30.49 4
standard deviation
Table 6.82 Water quality data by station, October 1982.
Water Dissolved
Temeerature Ox,t:gen Conduct i vit~ Turbidit,t:
Station trlean S.D. Mean s.O. Mean S. . Mean S.D. N
1 2.1 0.56 11.5 0.29 59.5 4.73 85.3 89.65 4
2 2.9 0.10 13.9 0.06 47.0 1. 73 64.7 26.39 3
3 2.5 0.05 13.7 0.37 46.5 1. 91 65.8 17.76 4
4 0.7 0.48 5.9 6.78 57.8 12.09 42.0 6.63 4
5 0.2 14.0 4.24 33.0 1. 41 2
6 4.1 3.63 12.5 0.54 44.8 3.20 59.0 4.24 4
6A 3.8 0.61 11.7 0.20 53.3 11.85 43.0 12.77 3
8 0.5 0.40 13.4 0.23 21.8 6.95 9.0 2.83 4
9 3.6 0.05 12.0 0.26 47.8 2.87 70.3 16.76 4
10 3.8 0.05 11.0 0.31 50.5 11.03 59.5 3.00 4
11 3.6 0.10 10.3 0.62 52.0 12.11 74.8 37.03 4
12 0.1 0.06 12.8 0.59 17.0 38.5 2.52 4
13 0.5 0.22 12.5 0.47 24.8 3.50 60.3 19.64 4
14 0.7 0.18 11.9 0.75 13.6 2.07 6.2 1.64 5
15 1.2 0.26 12.7 0.21 15.8 5.19 2.3 0.50 4
16 4.2 0.15 11. 7 0.19 53.0 4.24 74.3 16.38 4
16A 2.0 0.38 8.8 0. 72 74.8 10.21 38.3 14.24 4
17 LB&2 3.8 0.72 10.8 0.54 60.1 3.44 10.7 2.28 17
17D 4.6 0.13 12.2 0.57 51.3 2.99 65.0 7.44 4
18 1.7 0.24 12.0 0.18 35.0 1.15 81.0 59.94 4
19 1.5 0.10 11.1 0. 71 15.5 2.65 65.3 40.01 4
20 2.3 0.17 11.9 0.06 43.3 1. 26 186.5 85.78 4
21 4.6 0.05 11.7 0. 24 49.8 0.96 148.3 59.13 4
22 4.5 0.18 11.3 0.42 47.3 0.50 68.8 10.53 4
23 4.2 0.06 10.8 0.12 57.0 8.66 64.7 0.58 3
24 4.8 0.28 10.9 0.28 22.3 7.70 73.0 7.35 8
standard deviation
Table 6.83 Sources of Additional Inflow Identified at Sampling
Stations 1982
location Station
Another River 33
Igitna River 32
Neacola River 31
Chilligan River 30
Kenibuna Lake Outlet 29
Chakachamna Lake 28
Chakachamna Lake 27
Nisishlamina River Delta 26
Chakachamna Lake 25
Chakachatna River Canyon 24
Chakachatna River Canyon 23
Chakachatna River Canyon 22
Chakachatna Canyon Sloughs (22)
Chakachatna River 21
Tributary Cl (21)
Buckwater Area 20
Clearwater Tributary 19
S t r a i g h t C re e k 18
Straight Creek Mouth Area (18)
Chakachatna River Bridge Area 17
Chakachatna River 170
Noaukta Slough 16
Noaukta Slough 16A
McArthur Canyon 15
Lower McArthur Canyon 14
Upper McArthur River 13
McArthur River 12
McArthur River 11
Noaukta Slough 10
Noaukta Slouah 9
Noaukta Slough 8
Chakachatna River 6A
Chakachatna River 6
Middle River 5
Middle River 4
Lower Chakachatna River 3
Chakachatna River 2
Chakachatna River 1
McArthur River 10
Tributary 13U
Tributary 13X
Tributary 12.1
Tributary 12.2
Tributary 12.3
Tributary 12.4
Tributary 12.5
1 Beaver Pond Seepage
~un-off from land drainage
Upwelling
(slough)
flow
present
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Clearwater
tributary
flow
present
+
J
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
Other
additional
in flow
present
+
T~~·e 6.84. Sumn?ry ot estimated salmon escapement by waterbody and drainage for 1982.
CHAKACHATNA RIVER DRAINAGE
Chakachatna
Straight Bridge Chakachatna Chakachatna Straight Creek
Creek Side Channels Canyon Tributary Ig itna Chilligan Straight Clearwater Ora i nage
Species Mouth and Sloughs Sloughs (Cl) River River Creek Tributary Total
-
Sockeye
Salmon 203 1,193 392 238 2' 781 38,576 0 254 43,637
Chinook
Salmon 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,422 1,422
Pink
Salmon 0 59 279 0 0 0 0 7,925 8,263
Chum
Salmon 152 1,482 121 165 0 0 0 0 1 '920
Coho
Salmon 76 1 '560 608 183 0 0 0 172 2,599
-------------------~---------------------~-----------~-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Species
Sockeye
Salmon
Chinook
Salmon
Pink
Salmon
Chum
Salmon
Coho
Salmon
McArthur
666
0
60
1,182
Stream 13X
5,416
452
4,225
0
1,378
MCARTHUR RIVER DRAINAGE
Stream 13U
1,213 16,711
1,633 0
5,402 8,499
23 4
32 2,000
Drainage
Total
6,085 2,512 2,328 0 34,933
22 0 0 0 2.107
1,566 4 18 3 19.777
0 0 1 0 29
46 89 0 0 4. 729
FIGURES
-·
--
. '
· •7 ___ Representative Location at whi .ch discharges
have been computed.
Location of hydrologic study areas during
the 1981 reconnaissance
Approximate boundaries of reaches having
homogeneous configuration where: \~-B-Braided
5 --Split
M -·Meandering
Mt -Mountainous
;
u.s.c.s.: Kenai and Tyonek
1a2.50.000 Tooo•
t ... ocations Of Hydrolog1c ..
~Study Are~~. Representative
Locations. And ChanneJ
Configuration Jreach
Bou~daries 1981 .,
"
"
5
4
3
2
1
0 ..-...
+>
'+--1
5 ~2 ,_,
~ -3 > w
_J -4 Ld
-5
-6
-7
-8
-9
-10
L
0
~
QJ
QJ
s... u
+> ·.c.
<0
>, c:
S.-+>
Cl) 10
"0 ..c c: 0'\ u
::I c: ro
0 .,... ~
coc:ro .,... ..c c: >, ro u .,...
S...+> ro roc:c:.--c: 0 .,... 0.. .,... u "0
s...
QJ
> .,...
a::
10 c:
+>
10
..c
u 0'\ .,...
10 s...
+-1
V1
0'\ 3:-"0 ros...oo
EOr-'-r-,_, u.. u.. u.. ~ ,A~proximate
.c Natural Q 10 u
100 200 300
+> c:
QJ
0) .
+-1 +> u c
QJ 0..
Ill c: Ill
IO·r-
S... .c
I-I-
L I I • ---r··----~~-···---I
400 500 600 700
DISTANCE (ft)
800
Note: Site is located upstream of confluence with
Straight Creek in Study Area D. Transect as shown is
lookinq in downstream direction.
900 1000 1100 1200
Figure 6.3
Stream And Floodplain Transect
on Chakachatna River
Showing Approximate Range
of Natural Stages
1981
~-------------------------~
·~~'~'-::o •. 't'...__.,_. >~"~· •• ~·-1t""~~····..,.."'."•"'",_.,,:.._-., .. ..,.~,. ..... , ........ ~,,..,.._.,...,"'""'··-·~'-"t-h•..n:...._.__,......~~\...,..;~-... u'·"l..,., .... -.,.~-":~ ... ~.~-'"-"Ji..o..:::_"""'~t~.'<f<L.-..'-:;e,..,"'"·•·--•--LK·;-...: _...,.,.._..,_ .. r....t:o..'~·,..·,h~, ... ·."'' ••'"•'·•:a._..,_c .. . ··---.--;lo..·::...:---~·~·-"'"""' .. -.-...."'>~~"'""""~~,l,.~/~-...... .. "~~:o....-:~-., ... ~·-.. -'>_)..~}''"·' .. ~~ ...... -....... ·-· '.,.,, ,, ~ \:., .......
ill'~
"
"'
1Fl1
,..
. '
•
....
16
14
12
10
8 -+' 6 ...... -
z: 4 0 .......
I-
<t: 2 ::> w
-1 w
0
-2
-4
-6
-8
-10
I
Approximate---
1 /----Natural Q 10
1=\
!_] Approximate
Range of Stage
~ for Natural
Flow
0
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
100 200 300 400
DISTANCE (ft)
Note: Site is located upstream of confluence with
Upper Blockade Glacier Channel in St~dy Area L.
Transect as shown is looking in downstream direction.
I Figure 6.4 I. itream and Floodplain Transect
1981
on Upper McArthur River ! Showing Approximate Range
I j of Natural Stages
• • ~
940..-4
·-~
""' . .,
'1!11
....
...
·~
'<!lJil
..
~ , I
~ i
I ·'
9.4052
8
7
6
5
--~--~--~----+---~--~~--+----+----~--4---~----+----+--~·--~----l~
-r-----------------------·----------------------l Approximate
4 ~-Natural Q 1b
3
2
1
·o
-1
-2
-3
-4
-5
-6
.f-)
4-
z
0 .......
_l w
Note: Transect is located upstream of Lower Noaukta Slough
channel confluence in Study Area P. Transect as shown is
pproxi.-
mate
atural
nver
-,ow
-----~-----J' ,ange
J looking in downstream direction.
I I I I I I 1~-~r---r--+-·--~--~---r---r-~-~r--r--+---;---r--~ --,~~~~
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500
DISTANCE (ft)
C :: .:::fi;.~re 6.5 1
!r'tream and Floodplain Transect
on McArthur River Showing
Approximate Range of ~
Natural Stages l I 1981 1
-: 1
f ~
....
lt"'f
"''''
..
.,.
~ ..
...
i
ij ;
§
" ~
~Ji
j
I
94052
-·-~--~-----~~ . I
6
5
4
'I II I I I I
ec-~r Nov Oct May Sept
>-
t-........
u
0
_J
w
:>
Natural Range of Mean Monthly Flows
VELOCI~
/
/
I June
~-
I_ _---At!T" Ju\y
600
500 r-----------
WIDTH/
/ / DEPTH -----------------------------------------------
3
2 400 ---------------
//
//
I(
·I ,,
fJ r
01 --ri~~~~~~~-+:K~-4--4---~~~~~~_L I I 1 I I I I I I ·J I I I
1000 3000 '5000 . 7000
DISCHARGE (CFS)
Note: Site is located upstream of confluence with Straight Creek
in Study Area 0. For transect, refer to Figure 6.3 .
I I I I I I I -+-1 -~~~ I
11 ooo I 130110 9000
......
4-
:c
1-
c:J
:~::
~
Figure 6.6 I
Hydraulic Geometry of ~
Chakachatna River Showing I
• Approximate Range of ~
Natural Flow i
1 981 .
I
....
...
""
""'
• 16
15
"'~ 14
-13
U)
[:;: 12 -
>-11 1-......
g 10
_J
w 9 >
~
8 .....
4-
7
:-c
1-6 a.. w '"""'. C)
5
4
3
2
0
~ Natural Range of Mean Monthly Flow
/'_,..,/
-------_./
/'---.
/
WIDTH /.,./"'
//
//
_,-/ VELOCITY
(
/--------------------~EPlli-// ------
~ r/
I I ,----.
1000 2000 3000
DISCHARGE ( CFS)
Note: Site is located upstream of confluence with
Upper Blockade Glacier Channel in Study Area l.
For transect, refer to Figure 6.4.
~~ ........... ,.-,.,..:,..,~,.,
4000 500(
··•<.-.,...,., -.1-~~
200
150
.....
4-
:t:
1-
0 100~-<
3:
50
... --........ ..~::....!~>' ....... : ......... ,.;;;~· .......... -..~----. ¢'L..I,..-..,..~ . ..-:"'.
Figure 6.7
f
~
I ~
I
I
~
i
!
' !
i
~
i
I
I •
-~
Hydrau 1 i c Geometry of Upper f
McArthur River Showing
Approximate Range of
Natural Flow
1981
I
_,..,..,. •.•• "'-"o,..._,,.h~ ..... -.......... 11(·-· ........... ~\--$? .....
..-~
...
!i'O"•
'!"!!
,.,
...
..
...
...
.....
"' .~
i j I
i ~
i
I
94052
Vl
0...
lL. --
>-
1-.......
u
0
_J
w
>
<>.:!
~ ......
4--
:r:
1-
0.. w a
4 ..L( _.A. j Natural Range of Nean Monthly Flows
3
2 -
---""" \.
', ____ ;_E!:9.£Ut..----------
---------------~DTH ------------/
,I
I
'I
1/
// / ____ ___
/I
./
/_/
5000
I I I I I I I I 1 1
10000 15000
DISCHARGE (CFS)
Note: Site is located upstream of confluence with
Lower Noaukta Slough Channel in Study Area ~
For transect, refer to Figure 6.5.
20000
__ __ ?t;nnn
3000
2000
1000
-......
4--
:r:
1-a .......
3:
Figure 6.8
Hydraulic Geometry of McArthur
River Showing Approximate
Range of Natural Flow
1981
!II
""
"""'
I
;t:·' .
\\Ali
"
940~2
-0
-10 ., -
-20
-30
-40
-50 .
.-..
t:: -60
..J w
> w
..J
w ::..::
~
.....1
-70
-80
-90
3: -100
0
..J
~ -110
6 -120 ......
!;;: -130 > w
~ -140
-150
0
, • 1 1 r , , ' , , , r 1 , ' , • ' ' '
Lake Bottom Profile_/
Note: Site is located in Study Area A
500
\)
1000
DISTANCE ( ft)
1500 2000
~·
Figure 6.9
Chakachamna Lake Bottom
Profile Offshore From
Shamrock Glacier Rapids
1981
10
....., 0 !=-"
4--10
z: -20 0 ...... -30 ~ 1-
c:t: -40 >
LU
--' -50 LU
10
0
-10
....., -20
4--30
z: -40 0 ......
1--50 c:t: -60 >
LU
--' -70 LU
-80 3500
10
0
-10
-20
30
1-40
50
60
70
80
90
~00 ~20 .....,
4-130
140
z 50 0 ......
1-160 c:t: > 170 LU
--' 180 LU
90
?00
-~10
7000
500
Chilligan River
~ater surface
bed ;:A
4000
1000
4500
Chakachamna Lake
I
Chilligan River
~water surface
bed ./1
dist. (ft)
1500 2000 2500 3000 3500
Chakachamna Lake
approx. di~t-=~-=====::=:;::==:::::::=j
1 ake bottom profi 1 e fl
dist. (ft)
5000 5500 6000 6500 70 0
~water surface
~lake bottom profile
dist. (ft)
7500 8000 8500 9000 9500 1nnnn 10500
Figure 6.10
Note: Site is located in Study Area B.
Chilligan River and
Chakachamna Lake
Bottom Profiles
1981
ClJ t:: ...-ClJ Vl :(/') t:: "0 0 t:: .,... c:( +.l 10 en u t:: 0 ,.... .,... .:...J co ~ enO'\ u 0 t::,.... .J: ..,... Ill ,.... 0 a. s.. E +.l 10 u (/) ClJ ,.... L&J ' /.,.'::: .>l "' c 0 >-... ClJ "' s.. c 0 c:( ..... en .... 0 s::: '"c .,... ~0 ,.... :..:0 a. .. "' E .N Cl) -10 ..... c (/) e, z: 0 .,; L&J (!) ~ L&J -1
-- -
-
"'0 (1) X •r-LL. Ill 4-~ 0 Q)r--V'lCO s:: ~en 0 •r-(1),....... ~ z: <0 (.) 0 ....J ,/ /~~ \ s:: ~ ~o .. ~ •r-c (1)~ Ill 0 s:: >. ... Z:<O 0 (.) •r-0.0 ~ O....J <0 0 (.) :c 0. 0 <0 ....J ~s... ~t-+> (1) Z:3: z: 0 0 r--s:: (1) z: r--s:: .¥ w "r-•r-~ C) <.!) :::E w ....J •
-
-~.,· .. ·
~::;:· . .• • t - \ .. _ • .., .. ' 1: «-~~:·~_,.
~--~: ~ ~/~ ... ~ ..
.. ~ ~
:--.:
LEGEND
s Spawni ng Habitat
M Migratory Pathway
N Nurs ery Habitat
A Adult Habi tat
\~'\
x Identified Habitat Utilization
? Potential Habitat Utilization
K Kokanee Present or Pote ntial l y Prese nt
<=:)More Then Seven Samp l es Taken
.<::>
SAutO.. Lake Rainbow Dolly Arctic l f"&J.~Wt.-_m\Ji,:)_,{.-;\t,;;\:·)~\~i\\Y;.W'~~~¥y~::;tJ __ ,,.i:J.J .. <·. ~ ...
Pink Chum Sockeye Coho Chinook Trout Trout Varden -· · -~\l'V~~ J .. : .. ·' '· ~-~-1', ... ',J.t\ •. ,., I1 .. O:l. · I .. v .
SNHA SNHA SNHA SNHA SNHA SNHA SNHA SNHA
1 X ? X
x1 ? ? ? x ~t·:;~~R:~.-~t-\ . ....,_,. \:!·,~·Wt\~\r·_~,.~._..\''~'~Y~W .. \\\'-t'~n\':.~t:.rf ·,\ \ .. \\·) ·· ~. -.... . . .
X X X
\ y~ ·. O i'll .'I{ .. <YJ'-'"':i :,.·· ..... _·, ~;,·i ·' ~~~-' .· .·. '1 6 ? 1 1 ? 1 X X '· ,.r .61 ~-,-;-·ft·~·'·.-.~--~:-..-·-,-~,_-·.·-:r·· ·(fi··· 1 1-;~~-~--'iJ""' ---~5 x
Y ' '··.J f 1 . ~ ~)\)~ ,--:! : ):) k:.: · 1
·•. ~ 1; ; ~ :_, _. ~ . ~'-· ».t: ...., :rr i / ,-: · . 7 1 X 1 ? 1 ? X
XXK ?X X ?X
XXK ?X X X ?X
X X K X
XXK ?X X XXXX
X X K X X X X X X ~ \ '· ,'.·•!
-? X ? X ? ' ~-1' ~
X X X X ? ? ? '~_. \kl#!.t : \.f.,_i\,, \
X X X X _ _,_.,. '"' ;r"For~i ·· ... ·· , -~--. :ntJ . iii--:-.,:' ... . \
X X X X X X X X i f.'C'' ; ' . . ~
X XX ?? ?XX ?? X ?XXX r---
X X X ? X X ? 1 X ? X X X ..-, FIG URE 6.13
X X ??X ?XX ? ?XXX "" ,
X X X XXX? X ??X ?????XXX
X X X X X XXX ...J.:"\.
X X X X X X ? ? X X X !1_ 1' \ • • • •
x x x x x 1 1 1 1 1 ·1 x x x · 'I Hab1 t at Ut 1l1Zat1 on
' of Cha kac hatna River
X? ?X? X ??XX ?XXX
X . X X ? X X X X X X .}-. 1 9 8 l
XX ?XX ?XXX XXX
?X ? ?? ?X
I
9
i ;;,
6
',. '\,''\ -~ ; .;,
' -~ ..
••
0 Spawning Observed
:-• -; P.otent i a 1 Spawning
'-• .I Substrate
U.S.C.S.: Tyonek A-8, B-8
1:63,360 Topoa
-N-
~
17
I
I
, ..
20 1 21
C H A K .4 C d A .V N A
!
Sockeye Salmon Spawning
Area -Chilligan River
and Kenibuna Outflow
1981
/ . ' C1l C1l ~ ~ VI ttl ttl _J ~ C1l (.) ~ tel 0 c( r::r-V) Eco C'l ttlm ..... r:: -Br-ttl or-..... r:: ttl ...., ): ~ r:: ttl ttl C1l 0. .r. ...., 0 V) u c.. I z ·4!!'"' I Cl) 0'1 I r:: E JQ ..... ttl .: r:: C1l ): ~ I ttl ...., JQ 0. V) ..; V) I "'0 -< ..... C1l tel N ,... ..... ..... lo ...., ..... " <>D r:: or-.>I"'! C1l ttl ...., .. ..., ...., C1l ;::, c:>D 0 ~ r:: 0 -Cl c.. c:( =:I :; ... z I.LJ ~ ~ <.!l "' I.LJ <:1 _J "'
'/ \ ' '. . \ ,,... \ \ ' \. ---,~ /' ~-' _ ... ' ' \ s::: s::: 0 0 >. E s::: ..::.!. ,..... IU Q) IU u Q) V) II) ~ 1.0 IU ~ u ,..... Q) Q) Q) >. ~ > .., 1.0 Q) ex: ...... .s= ....... ..::.!. 0::: 0) cou 0) ..... 0'10 s::: IU IU V) ...... s::: ~ s::: ~ .., -o ~ IU V) s::: IU .s= IU a. u -o V) IU s::: E ..::.!. IU ::I IU .s= .s= u u ,·/ /~' II) IU Q) ·~ ex: F .,... s::: ~ IU a a. z V) w 0 (!) w _J 00 I ... ... I ... 00 J: .... lo <.I} ""'<;, .. ..., C-D 0 -r:--. en u en ;:;
D r
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' ·.·. I..>C~~ \ \.-~. ,'~ . {f •r-. / / I r ?·~~--,~-)~!: /,,,~ ~ ~\\ ·\\\ 'v-"' ·,~: ::.. ·, ·" _., ~ ·--lo~~~ .. • ~":P.
. \.-.-,_ ~~~~;(~ -. <;:J-~-~:--~
//
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' ' y '>.--<-..)' _,.....--",., >(/ \>~.. I : ~ '.._, ' 'i ;> ' .-~ . ' I / , '
,'<9 \ (A I _:_/' • ' ~ • \\~.. / . " /
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\
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/r,_, I' /".' ' / ' ,. ' ' y' ·, ' ', ,, "', , __. ·, ;; • • , . ~. ' I , . '. -' , .. "" "'' ' . ' . .· ' ' . ... . ' I . ., I ' " ' > ' -. '' "' ' ' • ' ' •, •. ' ··' r "it) , • • • ';! ··.· ' • ' ' X i v · · v"-• I ~. .J .. // !·. I ... " ... ' ' / '··. i
1
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·' / ""' ' 'h.\'· .... ~ /' \. ... -~ \''. ' \ ', " .. / " ... /. .. . ~\ ., . /' '\ ",, 0 . ' . . . -.l -.• ' -~-~ t ~ _.,." '·-...... \·-.\
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" '· ... ''·,:y" '' ' ., ~-.... ,_., ",, ,·· ............... , ... , "" ·' -... ~· .. ,,,.
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I
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' ...
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' '-...,
-,
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-;! ./ ? ,-,-~.... . .. --..
~ ,-.;." . ~ •. ~ '
0 -~ .... • . --~
I( "' \.\......-.. ),-8 -~
. -·~.. \ "\_'\14 '·,... 'C' / · ,v~.-,, _ ".. ~7
" '., ' .
'-../?1 ~-"I.....J,), /I.> / R .\ J\\ ,.,......;
I \'I I /:.-. ; ;
( ,-•. . ~ 'i.·\ ,\' /
,·..... '·._ '.\ __ ,1 1\ \.
" ., •, ~''··I ~-... ~ ' " J ) ••· 1' I .••. ,\: I I
' I 'II '~--\l/ ( .. ~~!, ;")
·A, ·: J; '· ( ' • \\ )~~.(,, , .
I ,_,\~ )< • -~
-"::
. A>::"-~~ • ·,.1 -~ 0. ~ ~' '.: . ' .~ ' .·
... , ' I ~· / ..... '·
/
·..,..,, .. ~ '\ ·-i. • ' ""
~~· o·.-, f', , .. \.t· , ·-·· ~ ~ , ...
• ' J '1:> I ,-· 't,' ' . ""-"'-.. ' ·N #'/
( ' " v • -~ ......
/' ' '># "' J ' . . .... -...
FIG URE 6.17
LE GEN D
A Straight Creek
Clearwater Tributary
+, c:J Spawning Site~
U.S.G.S.r Tyonek A-5, A-6, and
KP~ai D-6 1 !6~_360 Tooos
' ,
Chakachatna River
Mainstem Sockeye, Chum
~nd Pink Salmon Spawning
Sites
---~-----·'"'·
0
> -
• .., 0 ~ "' i;J c:a..., ~~ ~.;:
s Spawning Habitat \ ~~-~· ./f./ ~· \__·;.~ ~~:~'t.a\:.~ .:~.4..'-''~"f,"{Jt >~.s\\(1} ' 't ;/:.'J~ >·r·~~'"· \ '. I . ' MCARTHUR RIVER DRAINAGE HABITAT UTILIZATION BY SALMON AND TROUT SPEC IES
M Migratory · Pathway ,4,, I BASED UPON SAMPLE COLLECTIONS AND OBSERVATIONS
N Nursery Habitat -~, ~J SALMON Lake Rainbow Dolly
Pink Chum Sockeye Coho Chinook Trou t Trout Varden
A Adult Habitat s N M A s N H A s N H A s N M A s N H A s N H A s N H A s N H A
r ·1 " / ? X x· ? X X X x Identified Habitat Utilization · // ! ! X X X X X X -? ? ? X X X X X ? ? ? X X X X
1 ? X X X X X X X X X
? Potential Habitat Utilization 1 ~1 ~ 1 ? X X X ? X X ? ? ? ? X ? X
? X X X X X X X X ?
1 X X X X X 1 X X X X J) Habitat Utilization
X X X X X 1 x ·? X X X ? X X X
? ? ? ? X ? X ? ? 1 ? ? ? ? ? ? of McArthur River ? X X X X ? X X X X
More Then Seven Samples Taken 1~10 ? X ? X ? ? X X X 1981 !. ~ • 1 X X X X ? 1 X X X X . .. . -....... 1 X X X X ? ? X X
0 Sampling Location
II) 10 G.l s.. s.. G.l < > .,... 0'1 0::: s::::· .,... s.. s:::: :::3 ]:: -.s:: 10 co ~ c. 0'1 s.. (/) 10 -u "0 :::E: G.l .... s.. '+-G.l .,... c. ~ c. c =:;) G.l "0 -II) ·10 .s:: ·G.I s.. II)
< ....
... 1.1..
"0
I s:::: < ~ 0 .0
I
Q..
>0 "'' I 0 "0 s.. <c.. G.l
G.l 0 Ill -= .... ~
10 > •r-
G.l 10 co .0
G.l 0-c 10 s..
al :.-..., < ... . .s:: .... c
+I ">D 7' 0'1 en.:: -c c c cu . =:;) -s.. ~ c
I 10 en a.. . a. a. ::>
U\ <
:::: ::::
I
I
I
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-
-./ \ /,,.-·
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/ '"' --
>
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-y
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t ~v
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-It....,:-,, t
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o3 ~ .. L~ ~-~--.
Upland Alder Thicket
2 Hi~h Altitude Riparian
~-'\. ~ "' ·-4 1'"': ..... ~·-'tl~· !!'~ . "' ....... _.-'\;. ~-'i ~ . ' ·., 11( ~-.. ;(,< ....
' _\-. _·'\<. "' /'<"'-"~ " --.• "'~ ~'JI; ~_,._A ... . '-_ . ~ ' . / > . " " ~ y
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<;
< !\ , , , G ;· ., ., -.. -,,,a ..
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. --'" Y'-/ -~ I ,.
"' "' , 't< )-·"' ~ • '•. .be_ -/,. '' '-'. · ;,' _·· · ·-1 '-'> ., ,---., ~ ~j .· H., .. •.
, I '.i' .. , ;, ;, --~ ,, ' '· ..._ ""'-· ~~ ~ ... / '._., " ,( , ' '·7 ....._ t .,
... "'·"' ~~: ', 8 -~ ~', '•
.. ~· y ... ~. ... ' " \ , • ~ ' ' -.., "'-I_, .,., "' ,, -'I ,
s--, ., / .. .;. '
. " ;·,. "'"' ""'"' .. Jl( 'l • "r:< /'· -.-._,'., .,.., "' . ' ., > . ,. • "' . • . • .. <· ' ., r</ • ''-' ., r ''
'{ .·""· ,, ' \ '
·.. .. ' ,_ -:---.,_ ' " '· ('· ... " ., r, . .,._... ~-
' -Jr.,
; "" ~· Glt •••
... "" .... ~' i,j JJ~ ' \~-
•• ·¥ ) ...
I; " ., ·"' !\. ,,
•,
., '\
s Black Spruce Transitional 1 981
s ·Resin Birch Bog
3 '
,-
'I
! i
3 Bla~k Cottonwood Riparian
4 Coastal Marsh Riparian
1 Willow Thicket Riparian
8 Black Spruce Rdparian
·'A,/ /'
u.s.G.S.: Kenai. D-5, D-6 and
.The Location Of Habitat
And Vegetative Types
Within The Study Area
sheet 1 of 6
nek A-4, A-5 1:63,360
I
\-
~ , ..
/o
I
{~
t
.~}~~
') ~
"-3 ~
t,};~
LEGEND ''"'b
1 UPLAND ALDER THICKET
2 H I GH ALTITUDE RIPARIAN
3 BLACK COTTONWOOD RIPARIAN
4
5
6
7
8
COASTAL MARSH RIPARIAN
BLACK SPRUCE TRANSITIONAL
RESI N BIRCH BOG
WILLOW THICKET RIPARIAN/
BLACK SPRUCE RIPARIAN -'
~~-
~-, /6 )/ .. ......,
/
-~
" . /'-,,, (
\ _yv;-1(-
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'l (_ ~
t._
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.,
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) "~' '· rs j ; / -,_ I J <::' ,J -, .. / \ ( ' ~ ' (j' . '
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. \ -~ ) <'<9 / I \.. ·:'~
. '•, \ .,_, ~ ·) .
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1
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/I 1d· l
\( .. /'•" I '• •l {f~-\;: I
:(~~. / ;/' :,·~~·~~~·I FIGURE 6.24 ,. . I '---. ( 1 9 81
I The Loca -tion Of H~ ao1tat
And Vegetativ e Types
Wit hin the Study Area
sheet 2 of 6
~ ., Ill ~ ttl -ClJ ClJ .&l a. s.. ., ~ c( \0 :I: ..... ClJ >,..._ 0 > -go ....... ~ c ~ Vl M o ~ttl ~ ....... ~ ClJ ·GJ .s::. ClJ ~ ~ ClJ 10 ClJ ~ .s::. g > c Ill ...J "'0 .,.... c .s::. Q) c( ~ .s::. .,.... t-3
,/
/"'' c ,.....
ttl ttl .,.... c c
c s.. c 0 ttl
ttl ttl ttl .,.... .,....
.fJ .,.... a. .,.... .fJ s..
ClJ s.. .,.... s.. .,.... ttl
~ ttl 0::: ttl VI a.
u a. a. c .,.... .,.... .,.... "'0 .,.... ttl 0:::
.s::. 0::: 0 0::: s.. Ol
~ 0 ~ 0 ....,
ClJ ~ .s::. a:) ClJ s.. "'0 c Ill ClJ ~
ClJ :::l 0 s.. u .s::. u
"'0 ~ ~ ttl :::l u .,.... ,..... .,.... ...., ::E: s.. s.. .s::.
c( ~ 0 a. .,.... ~ ,..... u ,..... Vl a:)
"'0 c( ttl ~ c ~ .fJ ~ c 0
ttl .s::. u VI u .,.... ,..... ,..... Ol ttl ttl ttl VI
a. .,.... ,..... 0 ,..... ClJ .,....
Cl :::::> :X: a:) u a:) 0::: 3 :z:
LLJ N ..., lt'l CD .... co (.!J ..
LLJ ,-
...J ; -
. '
22
L A:J(E
2!
..,
I·
~1
18 .. ·17
<;:· H A ~~-~-4-,_-., ... -.:..--;.. . ..:..,;; i ·; ~'-'.___·---~"'!":.:.;;;;;..;;
I
N !9 20 :n
LEGEND
2
-·~ 3
4
-N-
~ 5
6
7
Upland Alder Thicket
High Altitude Riparian
Black .Cot_fonwood Riparian
Coastal Marsh Riparian
Black Spruce Transitional
Resin Birch Bog
Willow Thicket Riparian
I / (
-) '~
1 981
The Location Of Habitat
And Vegetative , Types
Within The Study Area
sheet 4 of 6
.-
.... A.-';
' .l
LEGEND
·Upland Alder Thicket
2 High Altitude Riparian
3 Black Cottonwood Riparian
4 Coastal Marsh Riparian -N-
5
6
Black Spruce Transitional
r' Resin Birch Bog
1 Willow Thicket Riparian
a Black ~pruce R.ipari an
17
I
l I
1
19 . i 20 1 21 I
CHAKACHAMN A
FIGURE 6.24.
1981
-~
The Location Of Habi ta·t
And Vegetative Types
Within The Study Area
sheet 5 of 6
LEGEND \
Upland Ald~r Thicket
/
2 High Altitude Riparian ,•'
3 Black Cottonwood Riparian ·~
4 Coastal Marsh Riparian
5 Black Spruce Transitional
e Resin Birch Bog
1 Willow Thicket Riparian
-
:.;.
FIGURE 6.24
1981
The location Of Habitat
And Vegetative Types
Within The Study Area
sheet 6 of 6
..
:I
148
142
138
132
126
120
Jl4
108
";;; I 02
(])
96! s...
VIet: 90 z ct:>. 84 3:-c
VI :::I ....., 78
l.J....V'I
0 72+ (])
c:::.S::. 66
w+-'
co so+ ::Ec: ::::> •r-
z.s::. 54 .....,
•r-48+
3: -42
36 .J.
30•
24·
IBt
12
6
J
0
TOTAL POPULATION • •-•-•
CYGNETS --
BREEDING PAIRS ----
.. -----·-·
.,/·/
.,/
/
.. /.
~·
.,.,. .. ---·-· , .. .,.,. ..
r·-• I • I
/-
/.
•
./·/
/ -
./·/ // ___ ......---
./ / ~--------------;; ---------
.//
o-1 o:2 o:a o~ o~5 ~6 0~1 o~a o~ ~10 ~~ o-=!2 O.:..j3 o=.J4 o:.15 o.:.16 o.:.11 o.:.1e o-19
DISTANCE FROM COOK INLET
(miles)
FIGURE 6.25
The Cumulative Number of
Breeding Pairs
Figure is based on d~ta obtained in a 1980 Within the Study Area
1981
USFWS survey of the Cook Inlet waterfowl refuges.
Vl 'f.-ttl 0 Vl Vl 0 c Vl +-> 0 ttl Vl (X) .,... <lJ 0'1 ...... +-' Vl 0 :z: ttl +-> (X) u Vl 0'1 c +-' 0 <lJ ...... ttl Vl ...J :z: 3:: :::::1 >, C.l) 0"1 <lJ ttl c ...... :::E s.. .,... 0"1 <lJ 'f.-+-> ttl +-> Vl LLJ <lJ 0 <lJ 0.. :z: '"0 E ...... :::::1 ttl s.. co I-\ ., Vl .)/.· .. \ Vl <lJ "' <lJ +-' 0 +-> ...... >-. ,... C.l) ... .. C.l) ..., 0"1 "' 0"1 c ..... c .,... -;:g .,... +-> +-' Vl ;a Vl <lJ ~0 Q) z _.,., z •N Q) "' .. ..... c 0 ttl 0"1 3:: ttl "' 0 ',C.Il LLJ ;:; z \ LLJ (.!] 0 <J LLJ ...J .
-
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Q) Q) or-
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ltl +-J >, ltl ltl ...... ...... ...... ...... Q) __,
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"'0 41 .Ill 0 c: 0.. 0 0 s... .... Ill 0... ., 41 co .,... "'0 ., +.) c: s... .,... co co 0 .-0'1 0.. .,... m Ill 0 c: c: co •r-co u.. ., s... Ill 1--.... X L&J
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•Ill .o 41 ~
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SNOI1V.l.S 9NI1dWVS ~961 :10
NOI.LV~I.:II.l.N301 ONV NOI.l.V~01
~IUQ UO!JD~S f>U!IdWDS 0
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UO!JDOOl af>no~ f>U!PJOOaH 0
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S91!W
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c: L-OC'l ::I or-c: ...C:+Jor-Q) +J 10 '"0 ., L-UL-::::1 <(:000 U-IU...C: :E CVL-c:ncx: Q,l L-C: ~ CV ·~ N 0 O.):GOa... 0.00'\ ::::> ...c: ~ '"0 Vl c: ~ Q) .., OL-...C: en Q)+JQ)Q) 0. > C'l+J 10 ·~ ~ 10 ·~ ::E:CX:O<!'Vl
~
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zo
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84.0
82.0 -• • ~
z
0
1-~
~ 90.0
1&.1
88.0
X
\
\
\
\
W.L. 9/15/82
W. L. 8/12/82
W.L. 9/24/
W.L. 10/12/82
~-------------------
0 20 40 60 80
DISTANCE, Feet
~ APPROXIMATE GAGE LOCATION
---TRANSECT DATA SURVEYED ON 12 OCTOBER 1982
__ --APPROXIMATE TRANSECT CONFIGURATION PRIOR
TO THE FLOOD
....... , APPROXIMATE BANK PROFILE
100
..
120 140 160
FIGURE 6.32
1982 Cross-Section of
McArthur River at
Recording Gage. Looking
Downstream.
,.,
.. ~
•
"'-
i
"'.
~ 4700 .-............_..,... """""""""'~~~""'"''''''""'-"""=c '
I!_ ~ll~ ~' j I.!J
! (!) ; Ci: ~ ~~
;; E, 3700,
~ (I) !'
j c
~ ~ I!
2700-=-
/ -...,
I ...... . -~
I . ------.. ~ ' -~-----·---I -..._ .
"---' -----~---
r:-' r.t,~/ :'\C"-"' fi .. -r~s-.1' ,..,r~l--~,\..--,. .. ,/"',I I ,.,A cry~ r· v~" "'-'-\...."
-~ .. ~ ~·,:~tf::;4S~~~:IOi:)
i 0 1 ~ 1 r ~-----~------""""" -=-i
I
I
I
I I
~
H
"' ;
:i
.... ~
., -0
L!J
(!)
0::
4000
<( 2000 J: u en
c
8/12 8/17 8/22 8/27 9/1 9/6 9/11 9/16 9/21
DATE
~ II
I
I
I
I
I
I
/
10/6 10/!1 10/16
McARTHUR SITE 13.5
-~ DAILY AVERAGE (MEASURED)
--HOURLY READING (MEASURED)
....• DAILY AVERAGE (REViSED WI DUNES) ·
(COMPUTED) '
-·-ESTIMATED (VlSLH\LLY)
....__
----~aac-.~.=---=:7.:_:_--.------~-----------~~-------• ~ .. •.. --... ....... ______ _ ·········· ·········· ·--·-· 0 •••••.•..•...•.... i' l.
~~
8/12 8117 8/22 8/27
1000
"' -0
~
L!J
(!)
0:
<(
:::t: u en 500-:
c
9/1 9/6 9/11
DATE
9/16 9/21 9/26 10/! 10/6 10/!1 10/i6
CHAKACHATNA SITE 6
-COMPUTED
MEASURED
~
r·~ ..
,_
~
b
f~
0~---,--------~------~--------~------~--------~------~~------~--------~-------r--------~------~--------y--------,
8/12 8/17 8/22 8/27 911 9/6 9/11
DATE
9/16 9/21 9/26 lOIII 10/16 " , ________ L.'lMoDIIii'........,__:Jf'_~~·~ 10/ I 10/6
. ~
~ FIGURE 6.33 r--·---
1 Hydrographs of
l~
1982 Hean Daily
~ ~ I~ ~
I
Flows At Three Locations in the
Study Area.
~~---...---------·------------------~-
~ ~ ~ ·~~-~~nrsns ca-ee=•-'1M!e~-OL:~ M "' '~'"'R~.>:."m•••a:~ . ..JI.illlillll:.tclt.! ' 'WX"?_.., .-. "*"'""*'···i':Fr•3' =-...,...-..a~-.-..
cP
~
0
(i.i
0 :r
)>
::n
G>
ITI
!:;
(I)
::j
ITI
0
(')
Cit
0
0
§.
35 0 I H ~ t H ~j 1 !-J~ g I I jtH! !!ilj!tt!
a6, DISCHARGE AT SITE 6 1 cfs
b
0
0
FIGURE 6.34
~0
0
0
0
1982 Regression
Relationship Between
Discharges at Site 6
and Discharges at the
Chakachatna Recording
Gage.
,..
r.,.;;::;;r~;t,•'fl"'5!1!'a-N•+"~~~"'Wi:.""99D'i'~~.;.a._~~!YC"#.o:f't'11!1¢l'V~~ nz:::~sr=m r CiJ'1i.T=s ~~_>.:_?t.L!rrC""i£11'1i!!'!GI3"'f:ll.7~.$.)$JJ3lfW!'KWI5H5!'41''-Jil;rw:r=-!~~~-._jiWI"'?ii 37"#3"' ~~~~~'3m='WW~ .. hr"S!<i'"'F.,.....m:..:::.....'!'"~.~;:.:,~~.::._,:;~--~e~.:...!!~...:,r-..a;~:~-..l...,..~..:,;;;;:._~,--,i
··1 ""-....... .•
N ~ ; ~
t;
~~ ~ ~
~ ~ " 10.0)
I ,.. ' ' ' ~ I
' I ~s.o I I
w I I
0: l ~ ~ I I •. <[ I "o:
w l ~s.o I I
~ I I
4.0
2.0
\ I
\ I
\ I
\..I
:\
I
I I' I
' I \ I
\ I
I I
\ I
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\
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I \ ,.,
u
fi
I
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,~
--DATAPOD MODZL DP211SG RECCRDEF~
--PE.0.80DY RYAN MODEL J-90 THERMCGR/•.PH
,,,
1
·1 \
: \' . '( \
I ' I
I
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. I \ 11 tt
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I \ I
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\\u/1
\ ' "J
0.0~~~-----------------.------------------r-----------------~-----------------,------------------~-----------------r----------------~
I
8/21 8/24 8/27 8/30 9/2 9/5 9/8 9/11
DATE
FIGURE 6.35
1982 Water Temperature Records at
the McArthur Ri.ver Recording Gage
Site Showing Diurnal Variation.
•
.,
~~
f;
:_:
,;
i:
~: I' ii
~
fi ~
~
~ ~ ,
:i
f~
~
~ ~ ~ ~
I I ~
I
f• ~
I
l_. J _.,_..__ =· -== ~
I
I
I
I
en
ILl _, 0
::IE
NUMBER Of fiSH
1200
1000 p... 1\
800 r-
600 r-
400P-
200 r-
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.37
Chinook Sah1on
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Clearwater Tributar;
to Straight Creek (19)
TRANSDUCER
[]
101 ECHO SOUNDER
·01mour
fTll. .IIJCEIVU
Tl'IIG. IYNC ;---..
IN OUT .OET!CTlD
0 0 0 I I
CHART
RECORDER
~----------------------------~OINTERFACE
MONITOR SCOPE
B
0
0
0
0
CHART
RECORDER
Figure 6.38
Hydroacoustic Survey
System Schematic
Winter 1982
VERTICAL SCAN
TRANSDUCER
15° SCAN
45° SCAN
rPIPE ASSEMBLY
rPIPE ASSEMBLY
• -115°
~--......;:··-..z:::---~--..__, -(,_ ___ ........ __
rPIPE ASSEMBLY
ECHO RECORDER
ECHO RECORDER
ECHO RECORDER
Figure 6.39
Hydroacoustic Survey
Transducer Deplo~ent
Winter !.982
--· ·-· .. --·· c ~ A
Gill At< A l
M N
14 I r;-• J\ I{ D
'""' ll
• Site 2
lb '.P'
• ··~·-· ---· -· --· _ Site 1 ,...,J.,.~'/ , ... . ... ~,:=~ ) ~ '-
U/ ~~-_;'1'._ .. rA====---:· ,t / H~~~~·: ;:::::J~:T~_/((;;.~7 :~ff~~~~<l \~-\\ ~ ~t,,_,.~ ... ~l~~~~~\\>~,/+~~ '<P IifP.::: ~' \.)"\_\ \ ~: ~· )_: \\) '\ 1\ i ' I J1 ' l \ I --~ "--~ '\:( ),., -) f {··l>/JI 1 0\\\\,: ~~~ \\ , ,! l Figure 6.40 --~> . )'·_'(,b)\ 1 ·~· 1· 1,\ ·~~ ;\.fl() )~l)?;l;~f{t l i /, • Hydroacoustic
..J" .1~' -.1\r'·"·· ., ~.1\ ) 1 'I/ ,. s1tes . /-,\ lr 1 :\ ~' .· 1, scAt£ 16nw . '·. 1 ~ • -~~-)(1~:.~; / ~.: i ·,: ',r.'' ' ' ~( :(.~ ( r \' -~H-
f· ~. -"l 'I " II ' I ' • II ' I ~ I I . . It I ; . ' ' , ,_ ,, •• i. t l .·'· r---------_j
Winter 1982 Hydrocoustic
Survey Sites
, ~
TRANSDUCER
[]
101 ECHO SOUNDER
ETX. 80TTOM
RECEIVER
OUTPUTS
TAIG. DETECT SYNC 8
IN OUT OUT DETECTED KHZ
0 0 0 0
CHART
RECORDER
~----------------------------~~ INTERFACE
MONITOR SCOPE
B
DIGITAL RECOAOEA
I
1 J 4
() 0 ()
0
0
0
0
+
VOICE
LOG
CHART
RECORDER
Figure 6.41
Hydroacoustic Survey
System Schematic
Summer-Fall 1982
(J N IU ~ co 4-J 4-J tn 0\ IC CD 4-J ...... e :l u ~ 0 IU ~ ~ u Cf.l IU 0 !U t:: .0 ~ 0 I:Q e: C.'"' ~ QJ c. "'0 E-t 4-J < ;>... c. = IU tf.l
..
--~~--:_
-·' ~-
~ Spawnin!J
'/ MILES
/"'' 5 -~ "" --
Areas
5
Chinook Sa:mon
spawning areas
1982 study
NUMBER OF FISH
300
I
250 1-I
I
I
I
I
I
200 1-I
I
I
. I
I
150 1-
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
100 I
I
I
I
I
I
I
50 -I
I
I
I
)
/
/
0 -.-J
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
Figure 6. 4L;
Chinook Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Oxbow Creek (13X)
NUMBER OF FISH
1200
1000
800
I
600
400
I
200
I July 1 August 1
' ----Projected Fish Numbers
I
September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 45
Chinook Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Upper Tributary (l3U)
NUMBER OF FISH
18
16
14 r-
12
10 r-
8 r-
6 r-
4 r-
2 r-
0 I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.46
Chinook Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.2
14
... -.. ·-
a Milling Areas ~
MILES -N-
0 1/2 ~
ll II
Figure 6.47
Sockeye Milling Areas
Streams 13X. 12.1,
12.2' 12.3
1982
Detail Area E
E
a Milling Areas ~
-N-
~ MILES
0 1/2
' 11 j -'
Figurr> 6.48
Sockeye Milling Area
at Stream 13u
1982
Detail Area F
~ " 1 '
I\ ~--""~. ____
i-
•, \
. '
/
./ ... -
Figure 6.49
Salmon Sockeye Areas Spawning
1982
. '
\,
-""
e Milling Areas
MILES \
0 1/2 1
Figure 6.51
Sockeye Salmon Milling
areas Chilligan
River 1982
Detail Area C
~Milling Area
0
MILES
1/2
~.,. __ _ -,_-----·
Figure 6.52
Sockeye Salmon
Milling Areas
Igitna River
Detail Area D
-')'---.---......,~---:--
NUMBER OF FISH
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.53
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Canyon (stations 15 & 14)
NUMBER OF FISH
700
..
600
500
400 -
300 i-
200 !-
100 1-
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.54
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River Upper
Tributary (13U)
NUMBER OF FISH
3500
3000 1-I
2500
2000
1500
1000
500 1-
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.55
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Oxbow Creek (l3X)
NUMBER OF FISH
6000
5000
I
4000 1-
3000 1-
2000 1-
1000
0 T I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.56
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.1
NUMBER OF FISH
6000
5000
4000 ~
3000 ~
2000 ,...
1000 ,...
0 ~ ~
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.57
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.2
NUMBER OF FISH
1000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.58
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.3
NUMBER OF FISH
1000
900 ~
800 ~
700 ~
600 ~
500 ~
400 1-
300 -
200
100
0 I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.59
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.4
NUMBER OF FISH
10
9 i-
8 r-
7 t-
6 t-
5 t-
4 i-
3 i-
2 i-
1 1-
0 I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.60
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12. 5
NUMBER OF FISH
600
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.61
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Bridge Area
Chakachatna River (17)
NUMBER OF FISH
300
250 1-
200 1-
150 1-
100 1-
50 1-
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.62
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Clearwater Tributary to
Straight Creek (19)
NUMBER OF FISH
90
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.63
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Clearwater Tributary
to Straight Creek (19)
NUMBER OF FISH
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 64
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Tributary (C 1 )
NUMBER OF FISH
180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.65
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Canyon Sloughes
NUMBER OF FISH
1200
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 66
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Igitna River
NUMBER OF FISH
18000
16000
14000
12000
10000
8000
6000
4000
2000
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.67
Sockeye Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chilligan River
Areas
5
Pink Salmon
Spawning Areas
1982
. c ,.
a Milling Areas
MILES
0 1/2
Figure 6.69
Pink Salmon Milling
Area Stream 19
1982
0
Milling Areas
MILES
1/2
6.70
Pink Salmon
Milling Area
Stream 13u
1982
F
14
a Milling Areas
MILES
0 1/2
14 ll
--.... ..... _ .... ~
.......... ·-... -... -........ -,...... .....
.... ..;. .46 ..... ~ ---..... ~ ... _ ....... -~ --.. --...
II
t Figure t). 71
Pi11.k Salmrm
Milling Areas
Streams 12.1, 12.2, 12.3
1982
-N
~
a
E
NUMBER OF FISH
250
200
150 ~
100 ~
50 1-
0 '-.._
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 72
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Canyon Sloughes
NUMBER OF FISH
4000
3500
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 73
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Cleanwater Tributary to
Straight Creek (19)
NUMBER OF FISH
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.74
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Bridge Area
Chakachatna River (17)
NUMBER OF FISH
30
25 f..
20
15
10 1-
5 1-
0 I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.75
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
HcArthur River
Canyon
NUMBER OF FISH
2500
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 76
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Upper Tributary (13U)
NUMBER OF FISH
2500
' '
2000
1500 1-
1000 1-
500 1-
0 ~ \
I l I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1 .
Figure 6. 77
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Oxbow Creek (13X)
NUMBER OF FISH
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 78
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.1
NUMBER OF FISH
1200
. '
1000 1-
800
600 1-
400 1-
200 1-
0
____.....__
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1 .
Figure 6.79
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.2
NUMBER OF FISH
10
9 r
8 r
7 ~
6 1-
5 r
4 ~ ,..,
3 -
2
1
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.80
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.3
NUMBER OF FISH
20
18
' '
16
14 1-
12 1-
10 1-
8 1-
6 1-
4 1-
2 1-
0 \
I I I
July 1 August 1 Septem~er 1 October 1
Figure 6.81
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.4
NUMBER OF FISH
10
9 -
, ..
8
7
6
5 ""
4
3 ~
2 ~
1\ 1 f-
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.82
Pink Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.5
Chum Salmon
i ng Areas Spawn
1982
NUMBER OF FISH
50
45 t-
40 t-
35 t-
30 1-
25 t-
20 -
15
10 r-
5 ,...
0 L_
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.84
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Canyon Sloughes
NUMBER OF FISH
140
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 85
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Tributary ( Cl)
' '
NUMBER OF FISH
90
80
' '
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
July 1 August 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
September 1 October 1
I
I
\
Figure 6. 86
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Straight Creek
Mouth Sloughes
NUMBER OF FISH
900
BOO
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.87
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Bridge Area
Chakachatna River (17)
NUMBER OF FISH
25
' '
20 1-
15 r-
10
5 -
0
July 1 .
I 1
August 1 September 1
~
I
October 1
Figure 6. 88
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
I
Upper Tributary (13u)
NUMBER OF FISH
10
9
8
7 1-
6 1-
5 1-
4 1-
3 1-
2 1-
I \ 1
0 I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.89
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.1
NUMBER OF FISH
10
9 1-. '
8
7 1-
6
5 1-
4 1-
3
2 1-
1 1-/'',,, 0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1 .
----Projected Fish Numbers
Figure 6.90
Chum Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.4
..
~ Milling Areas
MILES
0 1/2
Coho Salmon
Milling Area
Stream 13 u
1982
Detail Area F
F
14
a Millinll Areas t
MILES -N
0 112 I
~
13 II
•
Figure 6.92
Coho Milling Areas
Streams 13X, 12.1, 12.2,
12.3, 12.4
1982
Detail Area E
E
..... ::.,.. .
... , . .., ~:-5 --=-
Coho Salmon
Spawning Areas
1982
~
-N-
~ Milling Areas l
MILES
1/2
~ ~ ~
')~
..--'
Cobo Milling Areas
Chakachatna Canyon
1982
Detail Area B
~ ~ l
4 3
10
~ Milling Areas
MILES
0 1/2
ll 12
Coho Milling Areas
Station 17
1982
Detail Area A
'" 0 u ...
<(
.E
I'll <IJ ~ s.. 0 < :>-. ~ 001'11 ~u ...-! N ...... ,..co ...... ;:lO'\
...t.C:,....; X 4-1 ,..
O< .c: u ox u
0
0 t'lj ,Q) s.. <
...... .....
t'lj
4-1
QJ
0
I
I
'
t
•
I
I
I
I
./ /~'~--5
Coho Migratory
Pathways
1982
NUMBER OF FISH
160
140
120
100
80 I
I
I
I
60 I
40
20
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
0 ~-------------r--------------~-------------.-------------·
July 1 August 1 September 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
October 1
Figure 6.98
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Canyon Sloughes
NUMBER OF FISH
120
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 99
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Chakachatna River
Tributary (C 1 )
NUMBER OF FISH
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
July 1 August 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
September 1 October 1
Figure 6.100
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Straight Creek
Mouth Sloughes
NUMBER OF FISH
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
July 1 August 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 101
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Clearwater Tributary
to Straight Creek (19)
NUMBER OF FISH
500
450 ""
400 -
350
\
\
300 -\
\
\
250 \
\
200
150
100
50
0
I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
Figure 6. 102
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Bridge Area
Chakachatna River (17)
500
450
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
NUMBER OF FISH
\
\
I
I
\
\
\
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
OL-----------~-------------.--~--------r-----------U
July 1 August 1 September 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
October 1
Figure 6. 103
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Canyon
NUMBER OF FISH
16
14
I
\
12 \
I
I
I
10 I
8
6
4
2
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
\
I
I
0 ~------------~----------------~-------------.----------~_J
July 1 August 1 September 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
October 1
Figure 6.104
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Upper Tributary (13u)
NUMBER OF FISH
450
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6.105
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
McArthur River
Oxbow Creek (l3X)
NUMBER OF FISH
900
BOO
700
600
500
400
\
\ 300
\
\
\
\ 200
\
\
100 \
\
\
\ 0 ~--------------~---------------r~==----------~------------~
July 1 August 1 September 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
October 1
Figure 6. 106
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.1
..
NUMBER OF FISH
July 1 August t September 1 October 1
Figure 6.107
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.2
NUMBER OF FISH
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
0 ~------------~--------------~--------------~--------~~
July 1 August 1 September 1
----Projected Fish Numbers
October 1
Figure 6. 108
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.3
NUMBER OF FISH
10
9 ...
8
7 .....
6 .....
5 .....
4 .....
3 .....
2 ~
/\ 1 ~
0 I I I
July 1 August 1 September 1 October 1
Figure 6. 109
Coho Salmon
Estimated Fish
Escapement For
Tributary 12.5
' '~'-... \,1~,_
~~ ~~?
~
/ ~ Spawning Areas
, , MILES
/ '~-, 5•--=:.--=::~~-•oc=::=====:l5
Figure 6. 110
Dolly Varden
Migrations
1982
...
..
...
D lly Varden
o Areas Sp awning
1'982
en
0
Cll ...
<;t
01 Cl'l c: 1&.1 0 'i ...1
0 :i
Q.
(f)
-'= (I) r.:;: -0
...._
il)
~ t:
:J z
250
200
1'50
100
f982 FYKE NET DAfA
DOLLY VARDEN
L .. tl "I t It [ II t .,~ ' ., d l t .:: Ill )
Figure 6.113
Dolly Varden
Length-frequency Histogram
August-October fyke Nets
1982
-0 .._
Q)
~ ::s z
A U G U S T , 1 9 8 2 F 't I< E N [ T D ,', T 1\
DOLL.<' Ve'\ROEH
L e 11 ··~ t h I ,, t e , ... , ,, l ( c: ,,, !
Figure 6.114
Dolly Varden
Length-Frequency Histogram
August Fyke Nets
lg82
...
..:::
"' G: -0
>.....
(1)
~
:J z
fJ t)
60
40
20
0
SE.PTE:11DEF.·. 1 ·;>c;:,• FYI<L NET Dr'<Tf.1
DOLl.. Y VAl'< PEN
L e n g t h I n t 6! 1' 11 cl l ' c iu )
Figure 6.115
Dolly Varden
Length-Frequency Histogram
September Fyke Nets
1982
.c.
VI
G: -0
....
Q,) .c
E
;;j z
1 4 ,,
1 2 0
j (:) ()
80
60
40
20
0
u l; f 0 !.: r· h: . l 'i' B ;• F Y I·; E ~J f l lJ 11 r /1
DDI..l..Y V;';I;:DFN
l
Figure 6.116
DolLy Varden
Length-Frequency Hiscogram
October Fyke Necs
t982
J::
"' G: -0 ....
Q)
..l.l
E
:l z
50
40
30
20
10
0
1982 FYK[ NET DATA
I~:Air~BU\J TROUT
L e n 9 t I• I '' t ~ l ., d l ( ,; ''' l
Figure 6."117
Rainbow Trouc
Length-Frequency Hiscogram
Augusc-Occober Fyke Nets
1982
l 2 \;) -
100 -
80 -
60
40
::?0 -
0
1982 FYKE NET DATA
COHO s t t vet-SALMON
L e tl ··< t 1, I ,, t •: r ., "' l < c "' )
Figure 6.118
Coho (Silver) Salmon
Length-Frequency Histogram
August-October Fvke Necs
1982
..
. '
J:
Cl)
G: -0
.....
Q) .u
E :s z
.30
20
198~ MfNNOW TRAP OAfA
i)OLL i VAP[JFr·!
L~nqt~1 Inter·'Jcil <<:Ill)
Figure 6.119
DoLly Varden
Length-Frequency Histogram
Summer-Fall Minnow Traps
1982
J;
(II r.:;: -0
1...
ID
~
:l z
15
0
s
AUGUST, 19tl2 MINNOW TRAP DA If.~
DOLLY VAF:DEN
L ·= ,, q t ll r I I t e ,· " d I ( c Ill )
Figure 6.120
DolLy Varden
Length-Frequency Histogram
August Minnow Traps
1982
1 5
.:::
Cl)
G: -0
I... 1 0
a> -g
~ z
5
0
SEPTEMDEI<:, 1 ?tl:-2 MU~NClW TrUll'' !Hllr<
DDI...L'f IIJ'',RDLN
. '
L '~ ,,\ q t h I 11 t e f' v " t t ,: '" J
figure 6.121
Dollv V<1rden
Lengch-F'requencv Hiscogr3m
September Minnow Tr3ps
lq82
1 5
,... 10 -(I) r.:;:
0
.....
Q)
.Q
E ::s z 5
0
l) C T 0 £< E R , I ·;> c1 :2 11 I N N t) W !' 1;: ~~ P D ~~ T t,
DOLLY Vt,RDEN
l.~ll'1tll 1fltf?fv,;l. (<:wl
Figure 6.122
Dolly Varden
Length-Frequency Histogram
October Minnow Traps
1982
..... -Cl)
G: -0
>...
il1
..Q
E
::l z
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
1182 MINNOW fRAP OAfA
GDHO ,,. 1 l ve1· Sr·~LMI)N
. '
l ~ fl q t h I ,, t t1 f' ., ., l ( '· m J
'.
Figure 6.123
Coho (Silver) Salmon
Length-Frequency Histogram
August-October Minnow Traps
1982
8 -
6 -
..... -~
G: -0
.... 4
a> ..a
E
:J z
2
I'UGIJST, i 982 M INNUW fF\itP Dri fA
COHO s-1 lver St'\LMON
Length Inte.-Yal ( ml
Figure 6.124
Coho (Silver) Salmon
Length-Frequency Hiscogr3m
August Minnow Tr3ps
l982
-r}
t+·
0
.....
Q)
t
:J z
1 I)
8
4
2
S E P T E M Et E f( , 1 ~~ B 2 M I ri N 0 W r f( ~~ I" D ?t T ;;
C Cl H () s i L 'J e ,. S f~ L M 0 N
Len·~ t 1·, I fl t,e ,-"d l \ c "' )
. '
Figur~ 6.125
Coho (Silver) Salmon
Length-Frequencv Histogram
September ~innow Traps
1982
15
,.--(/') r.:;: -0
~ 10
Q)
~
E
::l z
5
0 C T 0 B E R . 1 '.' :3 2 M I N N 0 W f 1:;: r:, P D ,', I ,:,
C 0 H () ;; 1 l '-" e .': o'\L. M 0 N
Figure 6.126
Coho (Silver) Scilmon
Lengch-Frequency Hiscogram
Occober Minnow Traps
t982
,..
f!!!,!
...
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Figure 6.130
Water Temperature Record at Station 15
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Figure 6.131
SOCKEYE
'CHINOOK
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LEGEND •·.A i .. ,, ' . ""''t 1.,.. i • I ,..· • .,, . 'j \\\
A
B
c
D
E
F
G
H
I
STRAIGHT CREEK NEAR MOUTH
STRAIGHT CREEK
CHAKACHATNACANYONSLOUGHS
MCARTHUR RIVER CANYON
NAGISHLAMINA RIVER
CHILLIGAN RIVER
IGITNA RIVER
ANOTHER RIVER
NEACOLA RIVER
.~:c · •: .. ''"'"' \ .. ·•'. . .:.<~.,.. f\
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12.1-12.5 STREAMS 12.1-12.5
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13U STREAM 13U
13X STREAM 13X
17 CHAKACHATNA RIVER AT DWR BRIDGE
19 CLEARWATER TRIBUTARY TO STRAIGHT CREEK
C1 CHAKACHATNA TRIBUTARY
ESCAPEMENT VALUES PRESENTED APPLY TO THE ENTIRE
STREAM DRAINAGE UNLESS SPECIFIC SAMPLING STATIONS
ARE GIVEN.
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Figure 6.137
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Chum Salmon·
1982
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Phenology of Jmportanl
Non-Salmon species ... Life History Events
Chakachatna and
McArthur RivC'rs
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