Characterize the Hydrogeomorphology and Thermal Patterns of Wood RVR & Tribs to Support Habitat Restoration & Anadromous Salmonid Reintroduction FY2014

The Klamath Tribes used PCSRF funds to perform a hydrogeomorphic assessments of the Wood River sub-basin. The study helped determine habitat suitability for reintroduction of anadromous salmonids. The work identified opportunities for habitat restoration or enhancement. A clear understanding of the condition and geomorphic processes at work in the Wood River was gained by the Klamath Tribes. The information gathered for this project is summarized in a final completion report that provides a strong basis for targeted habitat restoration efforts in the Wood River sub-basin.

(1) Explore and evaluate hydrogeomorphic habitat types in the Wood River. Like many of the Upper Klamath tributaries, the Wood River and its tributaries are largely low gradient with a simplified fine grained bed, unlike typical gravel bed salmon streams. Field reconnaissance will focus on sediment characterization, habitat unit mapping, channel health, migration impediments, riparian vegetation and sources of impairment such as levees. Detailed study sites will be established in representative reaches to assess geomorphic conditions such as channel plan form, longitudinal profile, grain size distribution and sediment transport dynamics. In spring areas specific attention will be paid to areas of upwelling water. (2) Characterize thermal patterns and variability in Wood River and its tributaries. Positive relationships between suitable spawning and rearing areas and appropriate temperature ranges for egg incubation, hatching, and juvenile rearing are likely important determinants of successful spawning and recruitment by reintroduced anadromous salmonids. This part of the project will characterize thermal habitat patterns and variability of the Wood river. Several thermographs will be deployed to develop a long record of water temperature with special attention focused on defining areas of thermal variability and upwelling. The project will also utilize Thermal Infared Radiometry (TIR) data collected for the Wood River basin in the summer of 2013 to characterize large scale thermal conditions, patterns and to identify suitable thermal habitat. (3) Accurately describe the geomorphic setting and processes to evaluate the potential for habitat restoration projects. Habitat and thermal data collected in the field will be analyzed to better describe the geomorphic setting and identify key processes driving channel dynamics. This information can help identify reaches that are not functioning properly and may need restoration actions. Existing restoration projects will e identified and discussed within the geomorphic context. This project is a continuation of a PCSRF funded tribal program to carefully assess all upper basin streams for potential salmonid habitat. This program and this project are a necessary precursor to implementing priority salmonid habitat restoration and reintroduction efforts identified in the KBRA.