BPA genetic monitoring (BPA Genetic Monitoring Project)

Initiated in 1989, this study monitors genetic changes associated with hatchery propagation in multiple Snake River sub-basins for Chinook salmon and steelhead. We also derive estimates of reproductive success for individual families and groups of fish in three different systems: Catherine Creek and Lostine River (Grande Ronde, OR) for Chinook, and Little Sheep Creek (Imnaha, OR) for steelhead.

The information obtained from this study directly addresses a critical knowledge gap identified by comanagers, which is this: under what conditions does hatchery supplementation provide a sustained contribution to natural production? This type of monitoring work is now an essential part of hatchery reform and the goal of using widespread hatchery propagation in recovery of natural populations. Co-managers include Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Nez Perce Tribe, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribe.