NMFS-NC-BO-IWW-09

Relocation Activities Associated with either Method of Capture (electrofishing or seining) for Salmonids

– Salmonids shall not be overcrowded into buckets; allowing no more than 150 0+ fish (approximately six cubic inches per young-of-the-year [0+] individuals approximately) per five-gallon bucket and fewer individuals per bucket for larger fish.
– Every effort shall be made not to mix (0+) salmonids with larger salmonids, or other potential predators. Have at least two containers and segregate (0+) fish from larger age classes. Larger amphibians shall be placed in the container with larger fish.
– Native salmonid predators collected and relocated during electrofishing or seining activities shall be relocated in a dispersive manner so as to not concentrate them in one area. Particular emphasis shall be placed on avoiding relocation of predators into steelhead and salmon relocation pools. To minimize predation on salmonids, these species shall be distributed throughout the wetted portion of the stream so as not to concentrate them in one area.
– All captured listed fish shall be relocated outside of the proposed construction site and placed in suitable habitat. Captured fish shall be placed into a pool, preferably with a depth of greater than two feet with available instream cover.
– All native captured fish will be allowed to recover from electrofishing and anesthesia before being returned to the stream.
– Temporarily hold fish in cool, shaded, aerated water in a container with a lid. Provide aeration with a battery-powered external bubbler. Protect fish from jostling and noise and do not remove fish from this container until time of release.
– Place a thermometer in holding containers and, if necessary, periodically conduct partial water changes to maintain a stable water temperature.