Use of fish barriers in recovery programs for endangered Virgin River fishes in Utah

Authors: Fridell, R., Lentsch, L.D. and Jensen, M.S.

Year: 1997 (xxix)

Abstract

Virgin River fishes have declined due to cumulative impacts including proliferation of non-native red shiner, de-watering from diversion projects, and alteration of natural flow, temperature and sediment regimes. A multiple agency cooperative effort has been established to formulate and implement a recovery program for the Virgin River Basin in Utah. A major goal of the recovery program is the eradication of non-native fish. A stepwise approach is being implemented on a reach by reach basis to eliminate competition between red shiners and native fish. Fish barriers are being used in concert with chemical treatment projects to eradicate red shiners from the Virgin River mainstem and tributaries. Currently, there are three existing barriers on the Virgin River mainstem, one under construction on Ft. Pierce Wash, and two planned on drains to the Washington Fields agricultural area. We will discuss the design, success, and current status of fish barriers associated with the red shiner eradication program. Uso de barreras para peces en los programas de recuperación de peces en peligro del Río Virgin de Utah

Resumen

Los peces del río Virgen han declinado debido a los impactos acumulativos los cuales incluyen la proliferación de la sardinita roja no nativa, proyectos de desviación de las aguas y alteración de la corriente natural, temperatura y regímenes de los sedimentos. Esfuerzos de una agencia cooperativa múltiple ha establecido formular e implementar un programa de recuperación para la cuenca de río Virgen en Utah. La meta principal del programa de recuperación es la eliminación de peces no nativos. Se ha implementado un enfoque gradual basados en lapsos cortos para eliminar la competencia entre la sardinita roja y los peces nativos. Las cercas para peces han