Many juvenile salmon use the Skagit River delta (above), making it an ideal site for studying density-dependent interactions

Project Title

Density-Dependent Dynamics in the Skagit River Tidal Delta

Description

Understanding of habitat relationships and being able to predict population responses to habitat improvements depend upon a sound knowledge of density-dependent interactions, which is illustrated by habitat use in juvenile chinook salmon. Many juveniles use the Skagit River tidal delta, and long-term field research supports the hypothesis of density dependence in the delta. A key question that remains unresolved is whether juveniles can reduce competitive interactions by moving to lower density areas.

To answer this question, the project is conducting field experiments that will partition density-dependent effects into survival and movement components. Large field enclosures, which are subject to different density treatments, will be manipulated, impacting both initial density and the ability of fish to move.

Investigators

Correigh Greene

Collaborators

Eric Beamer (Skagit System Cooperative)

Support

NOAA Fisheries

Project Status

Data analyses ongoing

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