Lake Ozette Hydrologic Investigations

The project is composed of several tasks developed to contribute to the recovery of threatened Lake Ozette sockeye. Tasks include 1) hydrologic investigations (historic data compilation and present conditions) to reconstruct shoreline conditions prior to logjam removal from the Ozette River in 1953. This model will be used for comparison with current shoreline profiles and vegetation surveys along Lake Ozette and tributary deltas. 2) Age and species distribution will be mapped in Lake Ozette, and 3) channel profiles and cross-sections will be mapped in Big River and Umbrella Creek to develop stage-discharge curves for the Lake, River and Creek, and tag wood in the Ozette River. 4) Researchers will collect wind/precipitation data and develop a wave energy model to analyze effects of modeled lake levels on spawning beach substrate. 5) Models of the water surface elevation of the lake, tributaries, and outlets with and without woody debris will be developed. 6) Sediment delivery to Lake Ozette will be analyzed.

Develop understanding of habitat formation and physical processes (flow regimes) that may serve as limiting factors for Federally Threatened Lake Ozette sockeye. Investigations will guide future implementation of any physical changes needed to improve spawning habitat.