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Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Document
ARLIS Uniform Cover Page
Title:
SuWa 253
Cook Inlet beluga whale study plan (Study 9.17), 2015 implementation
plan, technical memorandum
Author(s) – Personal:
Author(s) – Corporate:
LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc. and R2 Resource Consultants, Inc.
AEA-identified category, if specified:
September 30, 2014 technical memorandum filings
AEA-identified series, if specified:
Series (ARLIS-assigned report number): Existing numbers on document:
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project document number 253
Published by: Date published:
[Anchorage, Alaska] : Alaska Energy Authority, [2014] September 2014
Published for: Date or date range of report: Alaska Energy Authority
Volume and/or Part numbers:
Final or Draft status, as indicated:
Attachment F
Document type: Pagination:
Technical memorandum 16 p.
Related work(s): Pages added/changed by ARLIS:
Cover letter to this report: Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project,
FERC Project no. 14241-000; Third set of 2014 technical
memoranda for Initial Study Plan meeting. (SuWa 247)
Attachments A-E (SuWa 24 8-252)
Added cover letter (3 pages)
Notes:
All reports in the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Document series include an ARLIS-
produced cover page and an ARLIS-assigned number for uniformity and citability. All reports
are posted online at http://www.arlis.org/resources/susitna-watana/
September 30, 2014
Ms. Kimberly D. Bose
Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First Street, N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20426
Re: Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project, Project No. 14241-000
Third Set of 2014 Technical Memoranda for Initial Study Plan Meetings
Dear Secretary Bose:
As the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) explained in its September 17, 2014 filing
with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission or FERC) for the
proposed Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 14241 (Project), the
June 3, 2014 Initial Study Report (ISR) provided for AEA to prepare certain technical
memoranda and other information based on 2014 work. In accordance with Commission
Staff direction, on September 17 and September 26, AEA filed and distributed the first
and second sets of technical memoranda and other information generated during the 2014
study season.
With this letter, AEA is filing and distributing the third set of technical
memoranda generated during the 2014 study season, as described below.
This third set of technical memoranda includes:
• Attachment A: Baseline Water Quality Study (Study 5.5) and Water Quality
Modeling Study (Study 5.6), Water Quality and Lower River Modeling
Technical Memorandum. This technical memorandum evaluates water quality
data collected during 2013 and 2014 for adequacy in representation of current
riverine conditions. This Technical Memorandum further includes an
assessment of whether to extend the Water Quality Modeling Study’s riverine
model below PRM 29.9.
• Attachment B: Mercury Assessment and Potential for Bioaccumulation Study
(Study 5.7), Evaluation of Continued Mercury Monitoring Beyond 2014
Technical Memorandum. This technical memorandum evaluates the need for
continued monitoring of mercury data beyond 2014 and whether the existing
data collection efforts are sufficient to satisfy objectives for characterizing
baseline mercury conditions in the Susitna River and tributaries (Revised
Study Plan (RSP) Section 5.7.1).
2
• Attachment C: Groundwater Study (Study 7.5), Preliminary Groundwater and
Surface-Water Relationships in Lateral Aquatic Habitats within Focus Areas
FA-128 (Slough 8A) and FA-138 (Gold Creek) in the Middle Susitna River
Technical Memorandum. This technical memorandum provides an overview
of the types of data and information that are being collected to support the
Task 6 activities of the Groundwater Study, and describes the methods and
techniques that are being applied in analyzing the data leading to development
of response functions to be used for evaluating Project operational
effects. The TM centers on the analysis for FA-128 (Slough 8A) and to a
lesser extent FA-138 (Gold Creek) and represents an expansion of the
presentation materials provided during the Proof of Concept meetings held on
April 15-17, 2014.
• Attachment D: Groundwater Study (Study 7.5), Groundwater and Surface-
Water Relationships in Support of Riparian Vegetation Modeling Technical
Memorandum. This technical memorandum provides an overview of the
types of data and information that are being collected to support the Task 5
activities within the Groundwater Study, and describes the methods and
techniques that are being applied in analyzing the data leading to development
of response functions for evaluating Project operational effects. The TM
provides analysis objectives for FA-115 (Slough 6A) as a primary example of
upland versus riverine dominated groundwater conditions. Additional
examples are shown for FA-128 (Slough 8A) and FA-138 (Gold Creek).
• Attachment E: Salmon Escapement Study (Study 9.7), 2014 Implementation
and Preliminary Results Technical Memorandum. This technical
memorandum describes 2014 implementation (including methods and
variances) of and preliminary results from the Salmon Escapement Study.
• Attachment F: Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study Plan (Study 9.17), 2015
Implementation Plan Technical Memorandum. This implementation plan
describes the methods for study activities proposed for 2015 that would
implement the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study (instead of those described in
RSP Section 9.17.1).
AEA appreciates the opportunity to provide this additional information to the
Commission and licensing participants, which it believes will be helpful in determining
the appropriate development of the 2015 study plan as set forth in the ISR. If you have
questions concerning this submission please contact me at wdyok@aidea.org or (907)
771-3955.
3
Sincerely,
Wayne Dyok
Project Manager
Alaska Energy Authority
Attachments
cc: Distribution List (w/o Attachments)
Attachment F
Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study Plan (Study 9.17), 2015 Implementation Plan
Technical Memorandum
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project
(FERC No. 14241)
Cook Inlet Beluga Whale
Study Plan (Study 9.17)
2015 Implementation Plan
Technical Memorandum
Alaska Energy Authority
Prepared by
LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc., and
R2 Resource Consultants, Inc.
September 2014
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Purpose................................................................................................................................4
2. Background ........................................................................................................................4
2.1. Existing Information and Need for Additional Information ..............................4
2.1.1. Distribution ..................................................................................... 5
2.1.2. Prey Species .................................................................................... 6
2.2. Study Activities to Date .....................................................................................6
2.3. Objectives ..........................................................................................................7
3. Study Area and timing.......................................................................................................9
4. Methods ...............................................................................................................................9
4.1. Land-based CIBW Observations .......................................................................9
4.1.1. Survey stations ................................................................................ 9
4.1.2. Data collection ................................................................................ 9
4.1.3. Environmental data collection ...................................................... 10
4.1.4. Sighting data collection................................................................. 10
4.1.5. Group Counts ................................................................................ 10
4.2. Vessel-based Incidental Observations .............................................................11
4.2.1. Environmental Data Collection ..................................................... 11
4.2.2. Sighting Data Collection ............................................................... 11
4.3. Consistency with Generally Accepted Scientific Practices .............................12
4.3.1. Relationship with Other Studies ................................................... 12
5. Schedule and deliverables ...............................................................................................12
6. Literature Cited ...............................................................................................................13
7. Figures ...............................................................................................................................16
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Study area for vessel- and land-based observations. ..................................................... 16
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
LIST OF ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS
Abbreviation or Symbol Definition
CIBW Cook Inlet beluga whale
PRM Project river mile
~ approximately
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
1. PURPOSE
On December 14, 2012, Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) filed with the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) its Revised Study Plan (RSP), which included
58 individual study plans (AEA 2012). Section 9.17 of the RSP described the Cook Inlet Beluga
Whale Study. The study plan focused on the methods for locating, describing, and assessing
Cook Inlet Beluga Whales (Delphinapterus leucas; CIBW) within the Susitna River delta, which
may be affected as a result of Project construction and operation. RSP 9.17 provided goals,
objectives, and proposed methods for data collection regarding CIBW.
On February 1, 2013, FERC staff issued its study plan determination (February 1 SPD) for 44 of
the 58 studies, approving 31 studies as filed and 13 with modifications. RSP Section 9.17 was
one of the 31 studies approved with no modifications.
Based upon evaluation the overall effectiveness of the methods implemented during the 2013
study season and the 2014 pilot study, AEA has developed significant modifications to this
study’s methods for the activities that will occur in 2015.
Given the scale of modifications to the Study Plan, AEA developed a Modified Revised Study
Plan (MRSP) which was provided as an appendix to the ISR Part C: Section 7 submission on
June 3, 2014. That MRSP and Section 7 of the ISR indicated that an Implementation Plan (IP)
for study activities in 2015 would be provided based on results of work conducted in 2014 which
are summarized in Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study (Study 9.17) 2014 Cook Inlet Beluga Whale
Prey Study Implementation Technical Memorandum (LGL 2014). This IP describes new
methods for study activities in 2015 compared to those described in the RSP (RSP Section
9.17.1). On August 7 and August 26, 2014, AEA discussed 2014 activities and plans for 2015
activities with representatives of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). NMFS
representatives provided informal feedback during those discussions and that input has been
incorporated into this IP.
2. BACKGROUND
2.1. Existing Information and Need for Additional Information
The CIBW was listed as an endangered species under the ESA in October 2008 (73 FR 62919)
and critical habitat for CIBWs was designated in April 2011 (76 FR 20180). When determining
critical habitat, NMFS also identified the following five primary constituent elements (PCEs)
essential to the conservation of the CIBWs:
1. Intertidal and subtidal waters of Cook Inlet with depths <30 feet (mean lower low water;
MLLW) and within 5 miles of high and medium flow anadromous fish streams.
2. Primary prey species consisting of four species of Pacific salmon (Chinook, sockeye,
chum, and coho), Pacific eulachon, Pacific cod, walleye pollock, saffron cod, and
yellowfin sole.
3. Waters free of toxins or other agents of a type and amount harmful to CIBWs.
4. Unrestricted passage within or between the critical habitat areas.
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
5. Waters with in-water noise below levels resulting in the abandonment of critical habitat
areas by CIBWs.
Based on these criteria, NMFS identified two specific marine area types in Cook Inlet that
contained one or more PCEs. Type 1 critical habitat encompasses 1,909 square kilometers (738
square miles) of Cook Inlet northeast of a line from the mouth of Threemile Creek to Point
Possession. Type 1 critical habitat has the highest concentrations of beluga whales from spring
through fall. Type 2 critical habitat consists of 5,891 square kilometers (2,275 square miles) of
known fall and winter use areas. It is located south of Type 1, and includes nearshore areas
along the west side of the Inlet and Kachemak Bay on the east side of the lower inlet. Type 1
critical habitat extends into the Susitna River an estimated 8.6 nautical miles from MLLW.
2.1.1. Distribution
Cook Inlet beluga whales reside in Cook Inlet year-round, which makes them geographically and
genetically isolated from other beluga whale stocks in Alaska (Allen and Angliss 2014). Given
their limited geographic range, changes in environmental conditions, including temperature and
prey distributions among others, have the potential to influence CIBW distribution within the
Inlet. Since the early 1990s, a variety of studies have been conducted to assess CIBW spatial
and temporal distribution. Beginning in 1993, aerial surveys have been conducted annually or
bi-annually by NMFS-National Marine Mammal Laboratory. These surveys have been flown
annually in June and August with the focus of survey effort concentrated along northern, coastal
waters of the Inlet (within 1.5 kilometers [0.9 miles] from shore) and a reduced survey effort in
the middle and southern portions of the Inlet (NMFS 2008; Hobbs et al. 2011). Historic aerial
surveys for beluga whales also were completed in the late 1970s and early 1980s (Harrison and
Hall 1978; Murray and Fay 1979; Harza-Ebasco 1985). Results indicate that prior to the 1990s
belugas utilized areas throughout the upper, mid, and lower Inlet during the spring, summer, and
fall (Huntington 2000; Rugh et al. 2000; NMFS 2008; Rugh et al. 2010). The distribution has
since contracted northeastward into upper Cook Inlet, which is especially evident in the summer
range (Rugh et al. 2000; Speckman and Piatt 2000; Hobbs et al. 2008; NMFS 2008; Rugh et al.
2010). The distributional shift coincided with the decline in abundance, and suggests the
remaining belugas are congregating in preferred habitat (Moore et al. 2000; Goetz et al 2007;
NMFS 2008; Goetz et al. 2012a). Belugas seem to favor only a few of the many rivers in Cook
Inlet, which are not necessarily those with the largest fish runs (Rugh 2000; Rugh et al. 2005;
NMFS 2008). The whales may, in part, rely on feeding areas with appropriate topography and
fish density (NMFS 2008). Understanding habitat selection is vital to the sustainability and
recovery of the population (Goetz et al. 2012a).
The Susitna River delta in upper Cook Inlet may be a calving ground for CIBWs (Huntington
2000) and seasonal use of the Susitna mudflats by CIBWs has been well documented (McGuire
et al. 2009, 2011a, b; Hobbs et al. 2012). Pregnant or lactating female belugas may depend upon
eulachon and salmon runs in the Susitna River to meet increased energetic demands (Goetz et al.
2012a). Also, the warmer waters of the Susitna River may be important to neonate body
temperature regulation (NMFS 2008).
CIBWs have been documented upriver in Cook Inlet tributaries during spring, summer, and fall.
CIBWs have been observed upstream in both the east and west channels of the Susitna River.
Traditional knowledge tells us that whales occasionally swim as far as 30-40 mi upriver on the
spring tide, but are more likely within 5 miles of the mouth when utilizing the east channel.
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Their range in the west channel is more limited, traveling less than 5 mi upstream (Huntington
2000). Site-specific data on use of the Susitna River above the delta is limited.
CIBWs have also been reported swimming up Beluga River and into Beluga Lake, 30 mi from
the river mouth. In addition, the smaller creeks and rivers between the Beluga River and the
Susitna River appear to be suitable habitat. It is thought that these excursions into tributaries are
associated with foraging on prey species. Because these whales are likely following prey species
into river habitats, any Project-related impacts to prey species abundance, run timing, and/or
density have the potential to cause indirect impacts on CIBWs (PCE 2).
2.1.2. Prey Species
Cook Inlet belugas are opportunistic and feed on a wide variety of prey, targeting specific
species when they are seasonally abundant (Hobbs et al. 2006; NMFS 2008). Seasonal
movement patterns and site fidelity of CIBWs, therefore, appear to be closely linked to prey
availability. In particular, whale movement patterns coincide with seasonal eulachon and salmon
concentrations (Moore et al. 2000). Stomach content analyses indicate that eulachon is a key
prey resource in the spring. As eulachon runs begin to dwindle in the summer, belugas switch to
salmon and rely heavily on several species (Huntington 2000; Hobbs et al. 2006; NMFS 2008).
The timing, location, and abundance of these fish runs can be elemental to beluga whale
distribution.
CIBWs have been documented upriver in Cook Inlet tributaries during spring, summer, and fall.
As described above, CIBWs have been occasionally observed as far as 30-40 mi upstream of the
Susitna River, but predominantly within the lower five miles (Huntington 2000). Prey species
(eulachon and salmon) could potentially be impacted from changes in water quality (i.e.,
temperature) that have the potential to affect adult migration timing as well from changes in
hydrology and geomorphology that could affect available mainstem spawning habitat (eulachon).
Changes in the timing, duration, or magnitude of fish migrations could affect CIBW foraging and
thus reproductive success due to the high energetic demands of pregnant and lactating females
and temporal variation in their presence in the Susitna River. It is, therefore, important to collect
baseline information on CIBW prey species that will facilitate future analysis of potential Project
impacts.
2.2. Study Activities to Date
As described in detail in the Study 9.17 ISR Sections 4, 5, and 6, the first season of research,
conducted from May through October 2013, included aerial surveys of the Susitna River delta
and the use of digital still and video cameras to document CIBW use in the Lower Susitna River.
Various logistical and technical issues limited the duration of time the camera systems were in
place and operating. During video sampling between September 3 and 24 at Project River Mile
(PRM) 6, CIBWs were sighted nine times; seven sightings (of likely the same group) on
September 20 and two on September 22. A single group of one white individual and one gray
individual was captured in a still photograph on September 4, also at PRM 6. No beluga whales
were photographed by still cameras positioned from PRM 11 through PRM 16. Given these
observations, additional information is needed to describe specifically how and when the CIBWs
use Susitna River habitats.
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Seventeen aerial surveys were conducted between May 6 and October 11, 2013. Six surveys
were flown during high tide, six during low tide and five during the intermediate tide between
high and low. CIBWs were sighted during 12 of the 17 aerial surveys, including all surveys
between May 6 and August 30, except for an incomplete survey on June 27. Although surveys
were flown into October, no CIBWs were observed in the Susitna River delta after the survey on
August 30. Locations of CIBW sightings varied among flights, with most sightings occurring
within two miles of the Cook Inlet shoreline in the Susitna River delta (between the Beluga and
Little Susitna rivers). The number of CIBW groups observed during each survey ranged from
zero to nine and the monthly sighting rate of CIBW groups (among months that had any
sightings) was highest in July and August and lowest in June. Measured on an individual whale
basis (i.e., CIBWs observed per hour of survey effort), sighting rates increased steadily from
May to July and were highest from July to August. The observed spatial distribution is generally
consistent with previous studies that included the survey area during a similar timescale (e.g.
Rugh et al. 2004; Goetz et al. 2012b; Sims et al. 2012; Shelden et al. 2013). The temporal
pattern of abundance is consistent with other studies that also showed increased presence of
CIBWs in the Susitna River delta in May and June, and again in mid- July through August
(Hobbs et al. 2005; Funk et al. 2005; McGuire et al. 2008, 2009, 2011; McGuire and Kaplan
2009; McGuire and Bourdon 2009, 2012). These patterns are likely in response to seasonal
migrations of fish (NMFS 2008).
In 2014, a pilot study was conducted to determine if vessel-based surveys combining
simultaneous data collection on CIBW prey and CIBW distribution, behavior, and group
composition could fill data gaps from the 2013 study (LGL 2014). Prey density and marine
mammal observations were recorded during nine surveys in June and July in the Susitna River
delta. A split beam sonar was operated during each survey to document bathymetry and prey
species abundance. Some channels or holes were identified in the central Susitna River Delta,
but few fish were detected. Fish densities were much higher on low tide surveys at the edge of
the Susitna Flats than on high tide surveys closer to the Susitna River mouth. CIBW sightings
and group size were much higher in July than June, although there was no difference in group
composition between these months. There was a temporal relationship between fish density and
CIBW sightings in July when fish densities were higher overall. While surveys in 2014 were
successful in detecting fish and marine mammals, the timing of the surveys and weather
restrictions affected the ability to collect data on a regular basis. Additionally, the vessel could
not intentionally approach whales to characterize the bathymetry and the fish density in close
proximity to CIBW groups due to the risk of harassment. For those reasons, the methods used in
2014 are not planned to be implemented in 2015 activities.
2.3. Objectives
As described in the RSP for Study 9.17, the goals of this study are threefold: (1) to provide
current, fine scale information on Cook Inlet Beluga Whale (Delphinapterus leucas; CIBW)
distribution and movements within the Susitna River delta, (2) to correlate these data with
information on the ecology and habitat parameters of CIBW prey species, including eulachon
and Pacific salmon, and (3) to record incidental observations of all marine mammals sighted
during beluga whale studies. Three specific objectives were identified including:
1. Document CIBWs and other marine mammals in the Susitna River delta, focusing on
CIBW distribution and upstream extent.
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
2. Document CIBW group size, group composition, and behavior within the Susitna
River delta.
3. Develop a model to describe the relationships between river flows, water surface
elevation, and CIBW foraging habitats in the Susitna River.
The results of aerial and vessel surveys in 2013 and 2014 are consistent with previous and
ongoing studies in the Susitna River delta. Extensive survey effort for similar data, such as the
aerial surveys flown annually by the National Marine Mammal Laboratory (NMML) and photo-
ID surveys funded by NMFS, continues to be conducted, and it is not the intent of 2015 activities
to reproduce these efforts. Thus, it is not necessary to collect further data to address objectives 1
and 2 of Study 9.17, except for documenting CIBW use of the Lower Susitna River. Activities
in 2015 will therefore focus on CIBW distribution and group composition in the Lower Susitna
River.
To achieve objective 3 and fill other data gaps necessary for addressing potential impacts on
CIBW, additional activities will be conducted as a part of other studies in 2015 (Study 8.5 and
9.16). Tetra Tech (2014) showed that below PRM 29.9, long-term hydrology, hydraulics,
sediment transport, and channel geomorphology changes from Project operations would be small
compared to the large range of natural variability. Because change in stage over specific periods
will primarily result from changed river discharge, AEA recommended that fluvial
geomorphology modeling (including associated 1-D hydraulic modeling and tidal hydrodynamic
modeling) not be extended below PRM 29.9. Stage and tide data will, however, be collected in
the Lower River using pressure transducers co-located with surveyed cross sections. The
pressure transducer study and associated stage height modeling will provide input data on water
surface elevations for a wetted perimeter analysis to determine whether the streambank geometry
and substrate provide acceptable spawning conditions for eulachon as the water level varies
along the shoreline in response to potential Project effects on flow in the Lower Susitna River
(see proposed modification to Eulachon Study 9.16 (R2 2014).
Information from the following studies will be synthesized with the beluga whale study results to
provide an ecologically based description of beluga whale distribution and habitats. The Salmon
Escapement Study (Study 9.7) and Eulachon Run Timing, Distribution and Spawning in the
Susitna River Study (Study 9.16) will provide information on the distribution of beluga whale
prey species in the Lower River while the Baseline Water Quality Study (Study 5.5), Water
Quality Modeling Study (Study 5.6), Geomorphology studies (Studies 6.5 and 6.6), and the Fish
and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5) will provide information on physical and
chemical processes that may influence riverine habitats and through that have possible indirect
effects on the distributions of CIBWs and their prey species. Additionally, Eulachon Study
(9.16) will place pressure transducers and collect stage height information in the Lower River to
conduct a wetted perimeter analysis to determine whether the streambank geometry and substrate
provide acceptable spawning conditions for eulachon as the water level migrates in and out along
the shoreline in response to potential Project effects on flow in the Lower Susitna River (R2
2014). Collectively, this information will be used by FERC in its National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA) and licensing processes, for the NMFS Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)
and Endangered Species Act (ESA) reviews, and for the development of potential protection,
mitigation, and enhancement (PM&E) measures.
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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM COOK INLET BELUGA WHALE STUDY 2015 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
3. STUDY AREA AND TIMING
The study area encompasses the Susitna River mouth upstream to the upper extent of CIBW
distribution. Vessel-based observations incidental to the Eulachon Study (9.16) will occur from
approximately PRM 6 to PRM 50, and take place in May through mid- June. Land -based
observations will focus on CIBW presence and group composition in the lower Susitna River
between approximately PRM 6 and PRM 20. Land-based observations will occur from breakup
until early October. Weather permitting, observation stations will be staffed every day from
breakup through the eulachon spawning run, and every day from July 15 through August 15
during peak use of the Susitna River Delta by CIBW coincident with Pacific salmon spawning
runs. During all other periods, observation stations will be staffed 2-3 days per week, weather
permitting.
4. METHODS
4.1. Land-based CIBW Observations
Land-based observations are appropriate to document the occurrence of CIBWs in the Susitna
River at specific locations. Land -based observers will provide continuous data over longer time
periods than aerial or vessel-based surveys and allow for data collection without disturbing study
animals (Funk et al. 2005; McGuire and Bourdon 2009; Cornick et al. 2010).
4.1.1. Survey s tations
Two survey stations will be established along the Susitna River. Site evaluations must still be
completed, but it is likely that one survey station would be located on Big Island at
approximately PRM 6 where live-feed video cameras were installed in 2013. An additional
survey station will be placed farther upriver downstream of PRM 20. The specific location of
survey stations will be dependent upon accessibility, field-of-view, permits and co-location with
instruments from other studies. If necessary, temporary elevated platforms for observations may
be constructed to enhance the observer’s field-of-view. Weather permitting, survey stations will
be staffed seven days a week during peak CIBW use of the Susitna River delta. These intensive
periods will include from breakup through the eulachon run and July 15 through August 15
during Pacific salmon spawning runs. At other times between May and October, the observation
stations will be staffed two to three days per week, weather permitting.
4.1.2. Data collection
On days when observation stations are staffed, two observers will be assigned to each station for
an 8-10 hour monitoring period. Observers will use hand-held binoculars and the naked eye to
search for belugas. Observers will record environmental data, marine mammal sighting data, and
take high resolution photographs when possible. Data will be recorded in real time using
electronic data entry software. In addition, post-processed data will be presented in monthly
reports that reflect monitoring effort and beluga whale activity (presence, group size, location,
composition) as well as environmental conditions. While not the focus of this study, if any
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photographs were high quality enough to be used for photo-identification purposes, AEA will
provide this information in the CIBW photo-ID catalogue.
4.1.3. Environmental data collection
Environmental data will be collected at the beginning of the survey, at the end of the survey, and
once every 30 minutes during the survey, or sooner if conditions affecting visibility change
rapidly. Environmental data are collected using custom-built data entry software.
• Position of observers;
• Visibility, sun glare, sea state, precipitation;
• Positions of other marine mammals or humans (including vessel traffic) in the
vicinity of the observer location;
4.1.4. Sighting data collection
The following information will be recorded at the beginning, end, and at five minute intervals
during each CIBW sighting. Sighting data recorded includes:
• species, group size, age/size categories;
• general behavior of the group and specific behavior of individuals;
• group formation and spread;
• location, bearing, and distance from observer;
• apparent reaction if human activities are occurring (e.g., none, avoidance, approach,
paralleling, etc.), and behavioral pace; and
• positions of other marine mammals or humans (including vessel traffic) in the vicinity
of the observer location.
Sighting data will be collected using a combination of electronic data entry software and paper
datasheets. Observers will capture a timestamp at the beginning of a sighting as well as generate
a unique Sighting ID. For each 5 minute sampling or resight during a sighting, a unique Record
ID will be created. To record the location of CIBWs, the study area will be divided into
segments using a numbered grid covering the station’s field-of-view. When beluga whales are
present, observers will record the group location by grid number and any changes in grid location
as a result of movement or behavior.
4.1.5. Group Counts
Upon sighting a group of whales, one observer will conduct focal group sampling, while the
second observer will continue to scan the study area for the presence of other groups of whales.
The goal of focal group sampling is to extract the most information possible from the group
without compromising data from additional groups. Once a group enters the field-of-view, one
observer will begin focal group sampling and will remain focused on that group for as long as is
possible given the time of observation within the monitoring period, the presence of other CIBW
groups or other marine mammals, and environmental conditions.
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Each whale sighting will be assigned two identification numbers: a “day group” number that
reflects the actual order of when a specific group was detected that day and an “archive group”
that defines the group and thus, remains constant for all sightings during the study period. For
example, a group sighted four times in one day would be assigned “day group” numbers of 1, 2,
3, and 4, and if it is the first unique group of that day the “archive group” number would be 1. If
a single group of whales splits into distinct segments, letters would be used to denote archival
subgroups of the same parent group (e.g., 1a, 1b, etc.). The only time that an archival group
number would change is if two known groups merge into one. In such an instance, e.g., Group 1
joins Group 2, the combined group would be given the archive group number of the group that
joined, in this case, Group 2. This method of documentation allows for detailed tracking of
animal groups, movements, and interactions without inflating animal numbers.
For reporting purposes, beluga whale sightings would be in reference to archive groups in order
to accurately reflect the total number of groups and individuals observed. Sightings data such as
behavior, composition, and/or location would be reported by “day group” in order to reflect
dynamic changes within the study area by a single group.
4.2. Vessel-based Incidental Observations
Each of AEA’s Project studies are responsible for reporting incidental CIBW sightings that occur
during study activities, but meaningful conclusions cannot be made without records of
observational effort. Coordination with on-water activities for Study 9.16 will provide an
opportunity to link incidental observations of CIBWs with on-water effort in the Lower River.
Biologists will already be present on the Lower River for Study 9.16 and they will be trained to
document observational effort and presence of CIBW in the Susitna River during Study 9.16
activities.
4.2.1. Environmental Data Collection
Environmental data will be collected on paper datasheets at the beginning and end of vessel
transits along the river and observers will make notes if conditions affecting visibility change
rapidly. A GPS will be present on the vessels and observation effort will be extrapolated from
the trackline. Data to be collected include:
• time and location of departure and arrival;
• visibility, sea state, precipitation; and
• presence of other human activities on the water.
4.2.2. Sighting Data Collection
Observers will collect data for any CIBWs observed incidentally during vessel operations.
Sighting data recorded will include:
• Time at the beginning and end of each sighting;
• species, group size, age/size categories;
• general behavior of the group (if any);
• heading, bearing, and distance from vessel; and
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• apparent reaction to vessel or other human activities (e.g., none, avoidance, approach,
paralleling, etc.), and behavioral pace.
Sighting data will be collected using paper datasheets. Photographs of each sighting will be
taken when possible.
4.3. Consistency with Generally Accepted Scientific Practices
The study methods presented here are consistent with methods commonly followed in
investigations of CIBW. Land-based visual observations of CIBW have been conducted to
document whale usage of, and potential reactions to anthropogenic activities at, a number of
locations in Upper Cook Inlet including Knik Arm (Funk et al. 2005; Prevel-Ramos et al. 2006;
Cornick et al. 2010), Turnagain Arm (Markowitz et al. 2007), Fire Island (McGuire and Bourdon
2009), and near Tyonek (Nemeth et al. 2007; Prevel-Ramos et al. 2008).
4.3.1. Relationship with Other Studies
The Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study will interrelate with at least seven of AEA’s other Project
studies. The flow of information into the CIBW Study is anticipated to occur over the entire
study period through an iterative process. As previously discussed, all Project studies report
incidental CIBW sightings and coordination with Study 9.16 will connect vessel effort and
sightability with any incidental CIBW sightings recorded.
Information from the following studies will be synthesized with the beluga whale study results to
provide an ecologically based description of beluga whale distribution and habitats. The Salmon
Escapement Study (Study 9.7) and Eulachon Run Timing, Distribution and Spawning in the
Susitna River Study (Study 9.16) will provide information on the distribution of beluga whale
prey species in the Lower River while the Baseline Water Quality Study (Study 5.5), Water
Quality Modeling Study (Study 5.6), Geomorphology studies (Studies 6.5 and 6.6), and the Fish
and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5) will provide information on physical and
chemical processes that may influence riverine habitats and through that have possible indirect
effects on the distributions of CIBWs and their prey species. Additionally, Eulachon Study
(9.16) will place pressure transducers and collect stage height information in the Lower River to
conduct a wetted perimeter analysis to determine whether the streambank geometry and substrate
provide acceptable spawning conditions for eulachon as the water level migrates in and out along
the shoreline in response to potential Project effects on flow in the Lower Susitna River (R2
2014). Information from these studies will be used for the environmental analysis that will be
prepared in support of AEA’s FERC License Application. Additional formal data sharing will
occur among studies after completion of QA/QC procedures with the delivery of the Updated
Study Report (February 2016).
5. SCHEDULE AND DELIVERABLES
The anticipated field schedule for 2015 will last from breakup until early October. The schedule
for incidental observations of belugas from Study 9.16 vessels will be determined by the
schedules of that study, but primarily occur from May through late June. Land based visual
observations will occur from May until October. More observation effort will occur when
CIBW use of the Susitna River Delta is most prevalent and the likelihood of use of the Lower
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Susitna River is expected to be highest. These times coincide with the eulachon run in spring and
during the salmon run and CIBW calving period in mid- summer. Thus, land-based observations
are planned 7 days a week, weather permitting, from breakup until the end of the eulachon run
and from July 15 to August 15. Land -based observations will occur approximately two to three
days a week during all other times and through early October.
Quality Assurance (QA)/Quality Control (QC) reviews of the data analyses will be completed by
the end of 2015. Reporting will be completed in the February 2016 Updated Study Report.
6. LITERATURE CITED
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Inlet beluga whales and other marine mammals at the Port of Anchorage Marine
Terminal Redevelopment Project May – November 2009. Scientific marine mammal
monitoring program 2009 annual report prepared for U.S. DOT, Port of Anchorage,
ICRC. 44 pp.
Funk, D.W., T.M. Markowitz, and R. Rodrigues (eds.). 2005. Baseline studies of beluga whale
habitat use in Knik Arm, Upper Cook Inlet, Alaska, July 2004-July 2005. Rep. from LGL
Alaska Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage, AK, in association with HDR Alaska, Inc.,
Anchorage, AK, for Knik Arm Bridge and Toll Authority, Anchorage, AK, Department
of Transportation and Public Facilities, Anchorage, AK, and Federal Highway
Administration, Juneau, AK. 232 p.
Goetz, K.T., R.A. Montgomery, J.M. Ver Hoef, R.C. Hobbs, D.S. Johnson. 2012a. Identifying
essential summer habitat of the endangered beluga whale Delphinapterus leucas in Cook
Inlet, Alaska. Endangered Species Research. 16: 135-147.
Goetz, K.T., P.W. Robinson, R.C. Hobbs, K.L. Laidre, L.A. Huckstadt, and K.E.W. Shelden.
2012b. Movement and dive behavior of beluga whales in Cook Inlet, Alaska. AFSC
Processed Rep. 2012-03, 40 p. Alaska Fish. Sci. Cent., NOAA, Natl. Mar. Fish. Serv.,
7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle WA 98115.
Goetz, K.T., D.J. Rugh, A.J. Read, and R.C. Hobbs. 2007. Habitat use in a marine ecosystem:
beluga whales Delphinapterus leucas in Cook Inlet, Alaska. Marine Ecology Progress
Series 330:247-256.
Harrison, C.S. and Hall, J.D. 1978. Alaskan distribution of the beluga whale, Delphinapterus
leucas. Canadian Field Naturalist 92:235-241.
Harza-Ebasco Susitna Joint Venture (Harza-Ebasco). 1985. Fish, wildlife, and botanical
resources for the Susitna Hydroelectric Project. Exhibit E, Volume 9. Prepared for the
Alaska Power Authority by the Harza-Ebasco Susitna Joint Venture, Anchorage, Alaska.
Hobbs, R.C., K.L. Laidre, D.J. Vos, B.A. Mahoney, M.Eagleton. 2005. Movement and area use
of belugas, Delphinapterus Leucas, in a subarctic Alaskan estuary. Arctic. 58:4, 331-340.
Hobbs, R.C., K.E.W. Shelden, D.J. Rugh, and S.A. Norman. 2008. 2008 status review and
extinction risk assessment of Cook Inlet belugas (Delphinapterus leucas). AFSC
Processed Rep. 2008-02, 116p. Alaska Fish. Sci. Cent. NOAA, Natl. Mar. Fish. Serv.,
7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle WA 98115.
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Hobbs, R.C., C.L. Sims, and K.E. W Shelden. 2011. Estimated abundance of belugas in Cook
Inlet, Alaska, from aerial surveys conducted in June 2011. Unpublished report. National
Marine Fisheries Service, National Marine Mammals Laboratory.
Hobbs, R., C. Sims, K. Shelden, L. Vate Brattström, and D. Rugh. 2012. Annual calf indices for
beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) in Cook Inlet, Alaska, 2006–2010. AFSC
Processed Rep. 2012-05, 29 p. Alaska Fish. Sci. Cent., NOAA, Natl. Mar. Fish. Serv.,
7600 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle WA 98115.
Huntington, H.P. 2000. Traditional knowledge of the ecology of beluga, Delphinapterus leucas,
in Cook Inlet, Alaska. Marine Fisheries Review 62(3): 134-140.
LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc. 2014. Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study (Study 9.17) 2014
Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Prey Study Implementation. Technical Memorandum.
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McGuire, T.L., M.K. Blees, and M.L. Bourdon. 2011a. The development of a catalog of left-
side digital images of individually-identified Cook Inlet beluga whales, Delphinapterus
leucas. Final Report 910 prepared for the North Pacific Research Board.
McGuire, T.L., M.K. Blees, and M.L. Bourdon. 2011b. Photo-identification of beluga whales in
Upper Cook Inlet, Alaska. Final report of field activities and belugas resighted in 2009.
Prepared for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips
Alaska, Inc. by LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage, Alaska.
McGuire, T.L., and M.L. Bourdon. 2009. Pre-Deployment Visual Monitoring for Beluga Whales
in and near the Cook Inlet Tidal Energy Project Proposed Deployment Area, June-
November 2009. Report prepared by LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage,
AK, for Ocean Renewable Power Company, Anchorage, AK. 36 p. + Appendices.
McGuire, T. and M.L. Bourdon. 2012. Photo-identification of beluga whales in Upper Cook
Inlet, Alaska. Final report of field activities and belugas re-sighted in 2010. Report
prepared by LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage, AK, for National Fish
and Wildlife Foundation, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc. 43 p. + Appendices.
McGuire, T.L. and C.C. Kaplan. 2009. Photo-identification of beluga whales in Upper Cook
Inlet, Alaska. Final Report of Field Activities in 2008. Report prepared by LGL Alaska
Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage, AK, for National Fish and Wildlife Foundation,
Chevron, and ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc. 28 p. + Appendices.
McGuire, T.L., C.C. Kaplan, and M.K. Blees. 2009. Photo-identification of beluga whales in
Upper Cook Inlet, Alaska. Final Report of Belugas Resighted in 2008. Report prepared
by LGL Alaska Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage, AK, for National Fish and
Wildlife Foundation, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc. 42 p. + Appendices.
McGuire, T.L., C.C. Kaplan, M.K. Blees, and M.R. Link. 2008. Photo-identification of beluga
whales in Upper Cook Inlet, Alaska. 2007 Annual Report. Report prepared by LGL
Alaska Research Associates, Inc., Anchorage, AK, for Chevron, National Fish and
Wildlife Foundation, and ConocoPhillips Alaska, Inc. 52 p. + Appendices.
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Moore, S.E., K.E.W. Shelden, L.K. Litzky, B.A. Mahoney and D.J. Rugh. 2000. Beluga whale,
(Delphinapterus leucas) habitat associations in Cook Inlet, Alaska. Marine Fisheries
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Murray, N.K. and Fay, F.H. 1979. The white whales or belukhas, Delphinapterus leucas, of
Cook Inlet, Alaska. Paper SC/31/SM12 presented to the Sub-committee on Small
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Unpublished. 7pp. Available from AFSC, NMML Library, 7600 Sand Point Way N.E.,
Seattle, WA 98115.
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whale (Delphinapterus leucas). National Marine Fisheries Service, Juneau, Alaska. 122
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Rugh, D.J., B.A. Mahoney, and B.K. Smith. 2004 Aerial surveys of beluga whales in Cook Inlet,
Alaska between June 2001 and June 2002. U.S. Dep. Commer., NOAA Tech. Memo.
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leucas, in Cook Inlet, Alaska, during June/July 1993-2000. Marine Fisheries Review
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Hobbs. 2005. Aerial surveys of belugas in Cook Inlet, Alaska, June 2001, 2002, 2003,
and 2004. U.S. Dep. Commer., NOAA Tech. Memo. NMFS-AFSC-149, 71 p.
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survey of belugas in Cook Inlet, Alaska, June 2011. NMFS, NMML Unpublished Field
Report, Seattle, WA, 18p.
Shelden, K.E.W., D J. Rugh, K.T. Goetz, C.L. Sims, L. Vate Brattström, J.A. Mocklin, B. A.
Mahoney, B.K. Smith, and R.C. Hobbs. 2013. Aerial surveys of beluga whales,
Delphinapterus leucas, in Cook Inlet, Alaska, June 2005 to 2012. U.S. Dep. Commer.,
NOAA Tech. Memo. NMFS-AFSC-263, 122 p.
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Alaska, August 2012. NMFS, NMML Unpublished Field Report. 11 p.
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belugas, Delphinapterus leucas. Marine Fisheries Review 62(3):22-26.
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7. FIGURES
Figure 1. Study area for Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Study vessel- and land-based
observations.
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