Conduct Fall Chinook Salmon Spawning Escapement Enumeration Projects

Spawning escapement surveys are conducted by the Karuk Fisheries Program annually in the mainstem Klamath River from Iron Gate Dam down river to Happy Camp and in cooperation with the Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office (FWO). Surveys collect data regarding wild Chinook spawning escapement in the mainstem. The data collected and annual report generated by California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is used in the determination of harvest levels for the management of Klamath River Fall Chinook stocks by the Klamath Fisheries Management Council. Project funding historically was provided partially by the Klamath River Restoration Task Force and the Klamath Restoration Act of 1986. The 1986 Act expired in 2006 and Task Forceâ¿¿s funding has ended, leaving a critical funding gap for the survey. The Karuk Tribe is a full cooperator in annual fall Chinook spawning surveys. These cooperative surveys include support from the Karuk Tribal Government, Salmon River Restoration Council, Mid Klamath Watershed Council, Scott Valley CRMP, local volunteers, and public schools. The data collected and annual report generated by CDFW is used in the determination of harvest levels for the management of Klamath River Fall Chinook stocks by the Klamath Fisheries Management Council. Project funding was historically provided partially by the Klamath River Restoration Task Force and Klamath Restoration Act of 1986.