RIVER WATER LEVELS AND TEMPERATURES Water levels affecting returning salmon stocks, such as Fraser River sockeye, are a concern throughout British Columbia. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is monitoring river water levels and water temperatures to determine possible impacts on the 2001 salmon fishery. Concerns are growing that a continuation of generally dry weather and low winter snow packs throughout British Columbia could mean below-normal water flows and higher-than-normal water temperatures in many streams and rivers this spring and summer. The Department's Environment Watch program begins operations at this time of year to keep updated environmental conditions and resulting fish behaviour in the Fraser River watershed and the ocean. Sockeye stocks returning to spawn in the Fraser watershed are most susceptible to abnormal water levels and temperatures because of their long, summer migration. Therefore, although the Department's preliminary estimate for Fraser River sockeye salmon this season has suggested a strong run size, it may be adversely below normal due to low water flows and higher-than-normal water temperatures. For example, Environment Watch scientists will closely monitor the Fraser River during the Horsefly River stock migration period, the stock that spawns in the Quesnel River watershed typically migrates up the Fraser in late July and August. This year is expected to see the largest return for the stock in its four year (1997-2001) cycle. Environment Watch collects water level and water temperature data from several locations across the Fraser watershed and the ocean, and uses scientific models to make short-term predictions of environmental conditions. Program scientists provide these reports to the Department's fisheries managers and the Fraser River Panel, who use the information when considering their in-season fisheries strategies. This year, Environment Canada is reporting that, with a few exceptions, snow accumulations in February were below normal, maintaining the pattern observed throughout the fall and winter. The accumulated precipitation totals since the beginning of November, particularly in the southern half of the province, were well below normal. Many areas have historically reported lower snow packs at this time of year. Mountain snow accumulations should continue during March - and even longer at higher elevations. Higher than normal precipitation during this period and the following months could increase water supply. Watersheds on Vancouver Island and southern British Columbia with dams or flow control structures are a particular concern because reservoir levels are currently well below normal. Unless increased precipitation adds more water to reservoirs, impacts on fisheries resources, resulting from low streamflows, can be anticipated. Fisheries and Oceans Canada will be working with the provincial government, local municipalities, B.C. Hydro, and stakeholders to mitigate any potential impacts to the fisheries resource. In the North Coast Skeena and Nass watersheds, as well as the Stikine and Taku watersheds, snow pack levels are reported to be approximately 19 per cent below normal for this time of year. The northern areas of the province are generally not experiencing the same low water levels as southern B.C. Planning for the 2001 salmon season is well underway by Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Initial consultations with the stakeholder groups have begun and will continue throughout the season, providing two-way communications on key issues, areas of concern and potential fishing opportunities. Integrated fisheries management plans are being developed that will describe the outcome of consultations, fishing plans, objectives and decision rules for managing the fisheries. In recent years, adverse water conditions have lead to in-season management actions throughout the Province to ensure adequate numbers of fish reach the spawning grounds. This will be the case again in 2001 if conditions warrant. -30-
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