Wood River wetland 1998 monitoring report

BLM LIBRARY

WOOD RIVER WETLAND
1998 MONITORING REPORT

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Bureau of Land Management
Klamath Falls Resource Area

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BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
Klamath Falls Field Office
2795 Anderson Avenue, Building 25.
Klamath Falls, Oregon 97603
E-Mail Address: Usemame@kfra.or.blm.gov
Website: 158.68.93.215

1849*1 999

IN REPLY REFER TO:
1760 (OR014)

April 30, 1999

Dear Wood River Wetland Team Participant:

As part of our commitment to keep you informed, we (Bureau of Land Management [BLM])
are sending out this monitoring report , summarizing the activities completed during 1998 at
Wood River Wetland Restoration. We are excited to share this information with you
regarding the implementation of our management plan.

The construction work that has been completed thus far includes; Phase 1- north levee,
ponds, channel meanders, and new pump station; Phase 2 - center levee, filter ponds, and;
Phase 3 (approximately 50%) restoring the Wood River channel to its historic form and
function. We anticipate another busy construction schedule for this field season .In addition to
restoring the channel between the confluence of Crooked Creek and the Dike Road bridge,
we are currently exploring the possibility of expanding our work to restore a 2/3 mile reach
of historic channel in the old delta downstream of the bridge. We also anticipate continuing
our recreation and interpretive improvements. In 1998, we paved the parking lot, installed
bathroom, added a canoe launch, added a trail with benches and picnic tables. In 1999, we
plan to add a second rest-room, interpretive display panels, a wetland boardwalk and some
ditch crossings.

We are continuing to build partnerships and add to our funding base for this important
restoration effort. Our list of committed partners include Oregon Trout, Ducks Unlimited, The
Klamath Tribes, Klamath Basin Working Group, Ecosystem Restoration Office, Bureau of
Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Oregon
Department of Transportation, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, The Governor’s
Watershed Enhancement Board, Jim Root, Winema National Forest, U.S.F.S. Redwood
Sciences Lab, Henley High School, Butte Valley High School, Lost River High School,
Tulelake High School, High Desert Learning Center, and Klamath Basin Audubon. Through
the hard work and support of these partners, we have secured funding for three of the four
phases outlined in our management plan. We will continue to seek funding to carry out this
important restoration project.

Thank you for your interest and support. We look forward to working with you on the Wood
River Restoration project. If you have any questions about the project, please call
Wedge Watkins at (503) 885-4110 or wwatkins@or.blm.gov.

Teresa A. Rami
Area Manager

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WOOD RIVER WETLAND 1998 MONITORING REPORT

BLM-KLAMATH FALLS RESOURCE AREA (KERA)

PROJECT TIME LINE

The project is designed to restore approximately 3,000 acres of wetland habitat. The Bureau of
Land Management’s (BLM’s) project goals include improved water quality and quantity and
improved habitat for two endangered fish species as well as other wildlife. The money spent in
FY 98 went for final design, construction and monitoring of the first, second and third phases of
the project plan implementation.

Phase l

Phase one components consisted of the construction of 2 miles of dike and associated water
control structures, the creation of two ponds in the northeast comer of the property, replacement
of an existing pump station, a new drainage system designed to emulate original stream courses
across the property, and the reconstruction of 0.5 mile of existing levee.

Construction of the new pump station was completed by Ducks Unlimited 9/96 (S 125,000).

Two miles of dike construction (approximately 65,000 cubic yards), the installation of four new
water control structures (full-round risers with screw gates and flash boards), and the creation of
two ponds (approximately 20 acres total) completed by Ducks Unlimited 7/97 (approximately

5400.000) .

US. Fish and Wildlife Service created 6 miles of meandering drainage channels and repaired
0.5 miles of existing levee. Completed 8/97 (contributed labor and equipment was approximately

5100.000) .

Phase 2

A levee across the middle of the project area was reconstructed (1.8 miles and 60,000 cubic
yards). Two settling ponds (30 acres total) were constructed in front of the two pump stations.
These ponds will serve as final treatment for water to be pumped from the property. Three water
control structures were installed in association with this middle levee and ponds (completed
2/98, approximately 5375,000). Four other water control structures were installed prior to June
1998 to complete phase 2 of the restoration at an additional cost of 585,000.

Phase 3

The third phase of the project is to restore the lower 1.8 miles ot the Wood River, from the
confluence of Crooked Creek south to dike road bridge, to its historic form and function. This
phase of the project is designed to improve refugial habitats for the early life stages ot
endangered suckers, fish passage, and instream habitat for trout, and provide a wider floodplain
with improved riparian and wetland habitat for waterfowl and neotropical migrant birds.

2

Oregon Trout is the lead partner providing technical and financial support for this phase of the
restoration project. Construction of this phase began in September of 1997, with the stockpiling
of materials and creation of approximately two acres of wetland habitat. Approximately 40% of
the construction work was completed during 1998. The cost for the 1998 construction was
approximately S500,000. The remainder of the work will be accomplished in 1999. Currently,
our technical design and planning team is evaluating the possibility of extending the channel
restoration work to include a 3,300 foot section of historic channel south of the dike road bridge.

Restoration of this delta stream channel could greatly improve refugial habitat and water
quality.

Phase 4

The final phase of the Wood River Wetland restoration project will be to develop a more sinuous
and diverse interface along Sevenmile Canal. This would involve a two mile reach of existing
levee. This phase of the project will provide improved refugial habitat for larval and juvenile
fish, as well as improved nesting and brood-rearing habitat for waterfowl and neotropical
migrant birds. Implementation of the final phase is expected in 2000. Potential partners include
Ducks Unlimited, Oregon Trout, Water for Life, Trout Unlimited, and the Bureau of
Reclamation.

Partners

A diverse group of partners, committed to restoring the Klamath Basin Ecosystem, is making
this project a reality. To date, Federal partners are Klamath Basin Working Group, BLM,

Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Klamath Basin Refuges), Klamath Basin
Ecosystem Restoration Office, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Winema National Forest.
U.S. Forest Service Redwood Sciences Lab and the U.S. Geological Survey.

Non - federal partners to date are The Klamath Tribes, Oregon Trout, Ducks Unlimited, The
Governor s Watershed Enhancement Board, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality,,
Oregon Department of Transportation, Jim Root Ranch, Concerned Friends of the Winema,
Oregon Shores Recreation Club, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wetlands
Joint Venture, Klamath Basin Audubon, Henley High School, Lost River High School, Tulelake
High School, Butte Valley High School, Chiloquin Elementary School, High Desert Learning
Center and Oregon Wetlands Joint Venture.

More information about this monitoring report, or the Wood River Wetland project, is available
by contacting Wedge Watkins at the Klamath Falls Resource Area (54 1 )-885-4 1 10, or
wwatkins@or.blm.gov.

3

O

WATERFOWL

Historic Property Management

From 1985 through 1994, this property was managed as irrigated pasture land for beef cattle
production. Under this management objective, the mode of operation was as follows. Water
that accumulated on the property over the winter was pumped off beginning in February or
March. Pumping continued until the property was without surface water except in the drainage
canals. This condition was usually achieved by approximately May 1. Cattle were trucked into
the ranch beginning in April and turned out on the north half of the property. Approximately
1,300 cow/calf pairs grazed the property through November with some variation in these dates
due to weather. The property was usually irrigated during July, August, and September. Under
this management scenario open water was limited to the drainage ditches from May to
December. Nesting cover was also limited to a few areas that were not grazed in the previous
year. Spring and fall forage for migrating geese was abundant. Vegetation on the property was
dominated by grasses, sedges, and weeds. In 1995, much of the property remained wet, resulting
in dramatic changes in vegetation (away from grasses), and increased waterfowl use primarily by
ducks.

Management in 1997

Management of the property in 1997 was essentially the same as in 1996. Pumping, of
accumulated water, was initiated in February and completed in May. The property was
completely dry by July first, in preparation for construction activities. The entire property was
again dominated by grasses and sedges. Forbs were also abundant in spots during the spring.
Aquatic smartweed was less abundant than in 1995 and hard stem bulrush increased.

Management in 1998

Water management in 1998 was somewhat different than in previous years. Due to the need to
complete earth moving and water control structure installation, the property was kept dry trom
January through April. After the construction work was completed, the property was flooded in
May. Water levels averaged approximately 14 inches over the south half ot the property and
approximately 4 inches on the north half. These water levels were maintained through July.

The need to salvage wetland plants from the south half of the property resulted in a general
drying of the property during August and September. Open water was restricted to the ponds and
channels during this time. The south half of the property was reflooded during November for
waterfowl hunting.

Field Observations in 1998

Waterfowl and shore birds appeared to respond well to the water management in 1998. Goose
production appeared to be improved over 1997.

4

In 1998 we attempted to quantify duck production for the first time. The brood count conducted
during August was impressive, both in the number of birds and in the variety of species observed
with broods.

The acquisition of approximately 7,000 acres to the west of Wood River Wetland by the Bureau
of Reclamation (BOR) greatly influenced waterfowl during 1998. Because of the timing of the
acquisition, the BOR property was not grazed during 1998. In fact it was flooded with
approximately 18 inches of water throughout the summer and fall. This provided excellent
habitat for resident and migrating waterfowl, with peak numbers exceeding 300,000 birds.

Periodic flights have been made over the property during the past five years (except May-
August) by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Results of those flights are displayed in Table 2 .

Wood River Wetland Waterfowl Brood Count 1998

On August 4, 1998 a waterfow l brood count was conducted on the south half of the Wood River
Wetland. The survey was conducted between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., on approximately six
miles of channels using a combination of canoe and pick-up trucks. Two observers, used
binoculars to determine species, number of young, age of young, and presence of adult birds
with the brood. Table 1 reflects the data collected during this one day of observation. The survey
did not count young of the year birds observed in flight. Gadwall hens were observed incubating
eggs during the time of survey. As a result, early broods and late broods are not represented in
this data.

Table 1 BROOD COUNT DATA 8/4/98

Species

Total Young

Misc. Notes

Gadwall

541

Many gadwall hens were still on
nests.

Cinnamon Teal

174

Mallard

84

Several mallard broods were
already able to fly, and were not
counted.

Shoveler

19

Ruddy Duck

19

Ring- necked Duck

14

Scaup

14

Coot

4

Horned Grebe

2

Eared Grebe

2

Total Production

873

5

Several family groups with young of the year birds were observed in flight. No attempt was
made to estimate production based on these observations . These family groups included Canada
geese, mallards, cinnamon teal, pintails, black necked stilts, common snipe, long billed
dowitcher and white faced ibis.

Conclusions

Wetland vegetation and waterfowl responded positively to the changes in water management
during 1998. Although this limited data can not provide any far reaching conclusions, it does
show that water level management is a critical factor in achieving the long term project goals.
This year (1999) will be the first year that construction activities will not influence wetland
management at Wood River Wetland. The ability to flood each half of the property, at different
water depths, will be implemented throughout the growing season. This should greatly increase
management options and habitat effectiveness. We hope to see waterfowl use and numbers
responding to this new management during 1999. By 2000, the effects of wetland restoration on
waterfowl will have become more evident.

Table 2

Total Ducks and Geese

120000

100000

80000

60000

40000

20000

0

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□

NEOTROPICAL MIGRATORY BIRD AND YELLOW RAIL SURVEYS

Introduction

The third year of the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) baseline monitoring for neotropical
migratory birds was completed at the Wood River Wetland in July 1997.

C

6

Major wetland and river restoration work was initiated during late summer in 1997; therefore,
changes in habitat conditions warranted the end of baseline monitoring for this group of species.

Monitoring efforts conducted by the Redwood Sciences Lab (RSL), Pacific Southwest Research
of the U.S. Forest Serv ice, continued in 1998 to collect data on demographics and use of the area
during fall migration. This study is being conducted under an interagency agreement between
the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.

Surveys for yellow rails were conducted by The Nature Conservancy on the northeast portion of
the property where restoration work has been completed. In addition, mid-winter bald eagle
counts have been conducted by BLM personnel on the property for the past two years.

Methods

In 1998, sampling at the “Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship’’ (MAPS) site
continued at Wood River to collect data on reproductive success, use of the area during fall
migration, and overall trend for neotropical migratory birds. The methods involved for
monitoring under this study include mist netting, point counts associated with mist net sites
during the breeding season, and area search at the mist net sites during fall migration. The site is
sampled from mid-May through the end of October.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Neotropical Migratory Birds

A total of 154 bird species, including 1 1 not previously observed, were documented at Wood
River as of November 1998 (Table 3). This list includes species detected during the MAPS
study. Eight of the eleven new bird species were detected by RSL during mist netting and
censusing. Of these, three species (green-tailed towhee, olive-sided flycatcher, and red-naped
sapsucker) were detected during the breeding/post breeding season. Four Species (brown
creeper, spotted towhee, varied thrush, and white-throated sparrow) were detected during the fall
migration period. The red-breasted sapsucker was found during both the breeding/post breeding
and fall periods (Table 4).

The six most common neotropcial migratory bird species captured during the breeding/post
breeding period, in order of abundance, included the song sparrow, American robin, red-winged
blackbird and yellow warbler, brown-headed cowbird, and Wilson’s warbler. There were 30
Wilson’s warblers were captured one morning in late May; these birds, were likely migrating
through the area. During subsequent sampling days conducted during the peak of the breeding
season, only four were captured. This species was rarely encountered during BLM’s point count
surveys conducted from 1995 through 1997.

7

The five most common bird species captured through mist netting during the fall migration
period, in order of abundance, were the hermit thrush, song sparrow, orange-crowned warbler,
varied thrush, and fox sparrow. Except for the song sparrow, none of these species were
detected during the breeding season surveys conducted by BLM during 1995, 1996, or 1997, and
none were found by RSL during the peak breeding season.

With the exception of the song sparrow which is a year - round resident, these species likely
used the area primarily for migration. Of these most commonly captured fall migrants, all
except the varied thrush were also detected during 1997.

A few bird species rare to uncommon in the Klamath Basin (based on Summers 1993) which
were first detected during 1998 included the white-throated sparrow and red-naped sapsucker.
The yellow-breasted chat was captured again in 1998 for the second year. This species is
“inexplicably found only as a transient, and is a difficult bird to find”, (Summers, 1993). In
addition, a colony of nesting tri-colored blackbirds was found along the north dike. Colonies of
this bird have been found for the past four years, including 1998.

Yellow Rail

In 1998, the potential yellow rail habitat was flooded subsequent to completion of restoration
work in that area. The presence of shallow water is one of the breeding habitat requirements for
the yellow' rail. During the 1998 breeding season, six territorial male yellow rails were captured
and four of these were subsequently banded. Two of the six birds were recaptures that had been
banded at the Four-mile Creek Wetland earlier in the 1998 season.

Bald Eagle

Mid-winter bald eagle counts were conducted during 1998 and 1999. Mid-winter counts are
conducted annually on a nationwide basis during target dates in January. The route at Wood
River consists of a 6-mile route around the perimeter of the property. In 1998, five immature
bald eagles and one adult bald eagle were observed along the route. In 1999, two adult bald
eagles and two immatures were documented. Bald eagles also have been frequently observed
hunting at Wood River during the spring and summer months.

Future Monitoring

The MAPS study will continue as funding is available. Because the above data is preliminary,
no conclusions can be made on the importance of the Wood River Wetland as habitat for
migrating neotropcial birds, or overall trend for these birds, at this time . Bald eagle mid-winter
counts will continue indefinitely.

Table 3. List of All Bird Species Documented at the Wood River Wetland as of November 1 998.

American avocet
American bittern
American coot
American goldfinch
American kestrel

American robin
American white pelican
American widgeon
Bald eagle
Barn swallow

8

Belted kingfisher
Black-billed magpie
Black-capped chickadee
Black-crowned night heron
Black-headed grosbeak
Black-necked stilt
Black tern
Blue-winged teal
Bonaparte's gull
Brant

Brewer's blackbird
Brown creeper *
Brown-headed cowbird
Bufflehead
Bullock=s oriole
California gull
California quail
Canada goose
Canvasback
Caspian tern
Cedar waxwing
Chestnut-backed chickadee
Chipping sparrow
Cinnamon teal
Clark's grebe
Cliff swallow
Common barn owl
Common loon
Common merganser
Common nighthawk
Common raven
Common snipe
Common yellowthroat
Dark-eyed junco
Double-crested cormorant
Downy woodpecker
Eared grebe
European starling
Ferruginous hawk
Forster's tern
Fox sparrow
Franklin's gull
Gadwall

Golden-crowned kinglet

Golden-crowned sparrow

Goldeneye

Grasshopper sparrow

Great blue heron

Great egret

Great horned owl

Greater white-fronted goose

Greater yellowlegs

Green-backed heron

Green-tailed towhee *

Green-winged teal

Hermit thrush

Hermit warbler

Horned grebe

Horned lark

House wren

Killdeer

Lazuli bunting
Least sandpiper
Lesser scaup
Lesser yellowlegs
Lincoln sparrow
Loggerhead shrike
Long-billed dowitcher
Long-eared owl
MacGillivray's warbler
Mallard
Marsh Wren
Merlin

Mountain bluebird
Mountain chickadee
Mourning dove
Nashville warbler
Northern flicker
Northern harrier
Northern pintail

Northern rough-winged swallow
Northern saw-whet owl
Northern shoveler
Olive-sided flycatcher *
Orange-crowned warbler
Osprey

Peregrine falcon
Pied-billed grebe
Pine siskin
Prairie falcon
Purple finch

Red-breasted sapsucker ’
Redhead

Red-naped sapsucker *
Red-tailed hawk
Red-winged blackbird
Ring-billed gull
Ring-necked duck
Ross= goose
Ruby-crowned kinglet
Ruddy duck
Sandhill crane
Savannah sparrow
Scaup

Sharp-shinned hawk
Short-billed dowitcher
Snow goose
Snowy egret
Solitary vireo
Song sparrow
Sora

Spotted sandpiper
Spotted towhee *

Stellar=s jay
Swainson=s thrush
Tree swallow
Tri-colored blackbird
Tundra swan
Turkey vulture
Varied thrush *

Violet-green swallow
Virginia rail

9

Willet

Wilson's phalarope
Wilson's warbler
Winter wren
Wood duck
Yellow-breasted chat
Yellow-headed blackbird
Yellow rail

Yellow-rumped warbler
Audubon=s warbler
Myrtle warbler
Yellow warbler

Total number of species = 154 Total number of species not previously detected = 1 1

'Species not previously documented at Wood River which were detected during mist netting and censusing
conducted by Redwood Sciences Lab during the spring, summer, and fall of 1998.

Table 4. Bird species not previously detected at Wood River which were captured in 1998
through mist netting at Petrie Dike during the breeding/post breeding and fall migration
periods. Sampling was conducted by the Redwood Sciences Lab, Pacific Southwest
Research, U.S. Forest Service.

Bird Species

Breeding/Post Breeding
Season Detections

Fall Migration Season
Detections

Brown creeper

X

Green-tailed towhee

X

Olive-sided flycatcher

X

Red-breasted sapsucker

X

X

Red-naped sapsucker

X

Spotted towhee

X

Varied thrush

X

White-throated sparrow

X

V

Warbling vireo

Western flycatcher

Western grebe

Western kingbird

Western meadowlark

Western sandpiper

Western tanager

Western wood-pewee

White-crowned sparrow (gambelii)

White-throated sparrow *

White-faced ibis

Willow flycatcher

VEGETATION

Data were collected from 29 vegetation monitoring plots on the Wood River Wetland property
during 1997. This completed baseline monitoring for vegetation change in the interior wetland
area of the Wood River Wetland. Therefore, no vegetation monitoring plots were sampled in
1998. Although 1998 was the first growing season of water levels managed for wetland
restoration, significant changes in vegetation were qualitatively observed . Therefore, it is
planned to sample all 29 vegetation monitoring plots during 1999 to more quantitatively describe
the observed changes in the vegetation. This sampling frequency is earlier than the 3 to 5 year
interval initially planned to occur after baseline data were collected.

10

RIPARIAN RESOURCES

Photo Points

Photos were taken at the 1 1 established photo points along the Seven Mile dike and the Wood
River (see Map 1). An additional photo point was added at the pond area in the northeast comer
of the property. The riparian photo points are located approximately 1,000 meters apart. At
each point four photos are taken (one in each of the four cardinal directions North, South, East,
and West) using a compass to determine the direction. The photos are taken between the middle
to end of June.

Photo points were first taken in 1995, the first year after livestock were removed from the
property. A review of the photos, shows an obvious increase in the total amount of vegetation
present in succeeding years. The 1995 photos show patches of bare ground that are no longer
evident in the 1998 photos. Changes in the species composition are not immediately evident
from the photos. These photo points will continue to be valuable as water levels and channel
configurations are manipulated. Vegetation amounts and species composition will likely change
with different moisture regimes.

Copies of the photos are located in the Wood River Photo Points binder located at Dana Eckard's
desk in the Klamath Falls Field Office. These photos will be retaken in 1999.

11

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WATER QUALITY

o

The Klamath Tribes collected water quality data in 1996. 1997 and 1998. However, this data has
not yet been analyzed and no conclusions have been drawn from it at this point. It is displayed
here in raw form for the purpose of sharing information. When a final report summarizing the
data is compiled, it will be made available though a supplemental Monitoring Report. Table 5
displays the raw data collected over the past three years.

Table 5 Water Quality Data

Site # Site Code

Description

41

WODR

Wood River @ AGENCY LAKE (Dike Rd.)

42

WOWR

Wood River (WEED ROAD)

43

WODX

Wood River Dixon Road

44

WRRPE

Wood River Ranch PUMP EAST (INTO WOOD RIVER)

45

WRRPW

Wood River Ranch PUMP WEST (INTO 7-MILE CANAL)

VARIABLE

DESCRIPTION

UNITS

TP

Total Phosphorus

ug L'1 (micrograms per liter)

SRP

Soluble Reactive Phosphorus

ug L‘' (micrograms per liter)

NH

Ammonia Nitrogen (NH4-N)

ug L'1 (micrograms per liter)

NO

Nitrate + Nitrite Nitrogen (N03-N + N02-N)

ug L'1 (micrograms per liter)

TN

Total Nitrogen

ug L’1 (micrograms per liter)

Q

Discharge

cfs (cubic feet per second)

STAFF

Staff Gage Reading

feet

DATE JD SITES STAFF Q

TP

SRP

TN

NH

NO|

03-Jan-96

3 WODR

2.3

374

117

92

280

30

16

08-Feb-96

39 WODR

2.72

166

395

31

13-Feb-96

44 WODR

3.36

519

123

98

480

58

5

28-Feb-96

59 WODR

3.59

377

106

118

428

26

5

03-Apr-96

94 WODR

3.77

163

146

498

116

13

1 5-Apr-96

106 WODR

177

109

2730

130

17

08-May-96

129 WODR

4.15

352

151

119

134

5

5

20-May-96

141 WODR

4.38

549

124

115

165

23

12

03-Jun-96

155 WODR

4.19

359

121

97

127

37

5

19-Jun-96

171 WODR

3.55

388

107

99

181

33

5

01 -Jul-96

183 WODR

2.99

228

103

83

190

13

5

1 5-Jul-96

197 WODR

2.42

205

100

24

50

5

5

29-Jul-96

211 WODR

1.79

301

112

95

236

5

5

13-Aug-96

226 WODR

273

107

87

215

46

5

28-Aug-96

241 WODR

1.69

299

104

79

104

17

5

24-Sep-96

268 WODR

0.22

455

87

81

183

43

5

09-Oct-96

283 WODR

409

104

85

132

25

5

13

07-Nov-96

312 WODR

0.2

475

84

79

50

48

14

DATE JD

SITES

STAFF Q

TP

SRP

TN

NH

NO

25-NOV-96

330 WODR

0.65

561

101

95

169

27

19

13-Dec-96

348 WODR

242

178

1030

69

39

03-Jan-97

3 WODR

3.35

90

230

23

08-Jan-97

8 WODR

3.81

111

97

332

16

57

28-Jan-97

28 WODR

2.67

620

109

94

172

5

24

18-Feb-97

49 WODR

2.76

313

133

115

259

15

15

01 -Apr-97

91 WODR

3.43

672

92

89

109

21

12

07-May-97

127 WODR

4.05

387

103

89

50

22

5

14-May-97

134 WODR

4.11

389

82

96

132

23

5

1 1-Jun-97

162 WODR

3.88

404

91

55

50

5

5

26-Jun-97

177 WODR

3.42

233

99

249

50

26

5

08-Jul-97

189 WODR

2.78

419

88

76

50

17

5

22-Jul-97

203 WODR

3.25

327

115

91

127

13

5

03-Sep-97

246 WODR

1.29

399

100

50

18

5

1 3-Oct-97

286 WODR

1.12

501

82

71

50

18

5

14-Jan-98

14 WODR

93

160

02-Feb-98

33 WODR

2.8

110

268

5

26-Feb-98

57 WODR

2.96

94

113

5

10-Mar-98

69 WODR

3.1

467

104

97

195

5

15

24-Mar-98

83 WODR

3.83

92

70

344

20

16

07-Apr-98

97 WODR

3.7

666

97

84

119

22

5

21 -Apr-98

111 WODR

3.81

519

107

83

149

16

5

09-Jun-98

160 WODR

4.19

479

98

80

130

5

5

23-Jun-98

174 WODR

4.19

317

101

76

132

5

5

09-Jul-98

190 WODR

3.95

370

100

71

160

5

5

21 -Jul-98

202 WODR

3.45

292

115

81

196

5

5

11 -Aug-98

223 WODR

2.4

243

99

76

140

28

5

26-Aug-98

238 WODR

1.75

16-Sep-98

259 WODR

1.15

440

112

79

289

17

5

30-Sep-98

273 WODR

0.92

108

64

220

17

10

IO-Oct-95

283 WODX

2.18

206

07-NOV-95

311 WODX

2.2

208

29-Nov-95

333 WODX

2.18

216

08-Feb-96

39 WODX

80

114

22

13-Feb-96

44 WODX

2.34

240

71

67

199

5

5

03-Jan-96

3 WOWR

9.59

403

83

47

184

28

18

08-Feb-96

39 WOWR

108

925

19

13-Feb-96

44 WOWR

9.8

430

91

59

193

26

5

28-Feb-96

59 WOWR

9.58

373

67

67

244

17

13

03-Apr-96

94 WOWR

9.69

70

71

130

37

14

1 5-Apr-96

106 WOWR

9.75

365

76

55

136

19

12

08-May-96

129 WOWR

9.46

305

73

68

50

5

11

20-May-96

141 WOWR

484

70

60

36

5

18

03-Jun-96

155 WOWR

9.86

330

81

62

114

28

10

19-Jun-96

171 WOWR

9.47

275

79

71

141

32

5

01 -Jul-96

183 WOWR

9.44

252

79

61

133

10

10

15-Jul-96

197 WOWR

9.39

246

87

67

50

5

12

29-Jul-96

211 WOWR

9.31

238

81

71

199

5

5

13-Aug-96

226 WOWR

9

231

82

68

117

5

5

28-Aug-96

241 WOWR

8.87

268

80

64

101

14

5

14

DATE JD SITES STAFF Q

TP

SRP

TN

NH

NO

25-Sep-96

269 WOWR

9.65

447

74

69

50

5

14

09-Oct-96

283 WOWR

9.46

377

78

74

85

5

12

07-NOV-96

312 WOWR

9.72

472

62

65

50

5

5

25-Nov-96

330 WOWR

88

74

168

23

19

13-Dec-96

348 WOWR

137

91

531

22

18

03-Jan-97

3 WOWR

70

155

12

08-Jan-97

8 WOWR

72

71

115

5

30

27-Jan-97

27 WOWR

464

83

71

146

5

25

20-Feb-97

51 WOWR

10

500

76

78

156

5

5

01 -Apr-97

91 WOWR

9.82

451

67

72

50

5

16

07-May-97

127 WOWR

9.36

324

80

70

50

11

5

14-May-97

134 WOWR

9.55

362

74

59

102

5

5

1 1-Jun-97

162 WOWR

9.75

363

84

52

50

5

5

25-Jun-97

176 WOWR

9.05

255

76

73

50

11

10

07-Jul-97

188 WOWR

9.18

270

90

72

124

17

10

22-Jul-97

203 WOWR

9.21

282

79

65

109

22

5

03-Sep-97

246 WOWR

9.62

339

88

62

50

7

10

1 3-Oct-97

286 WOWR

422

74

67

117

9

5

14-Jan-98

14 WOWR

81

129

02-Feb-98

33 WOWR

83

227

5

26-Feb-98

57 WOWR

79

50

5

10-Mar-98

69 WOWR

429

74

75

50

5

20

24-Mar-98

83 WOWR

74

58

268

21

17

07-Apr-98

97 WOWR

79

67

92

16

5

21 -Apr-98

1 1 1 WOWR

381

85

67

81

13

5

09-Jun-98

160 WOWR

358

84

63

129

5

5

23-Jun-98

174 WOWR

366

83

59

145

5

11

09-Jul-98

190 WOWR

336

91

61

170

5

5

2 1 -Jul-98

202 WOWR

9.47

254

93

65

137

5

5

11 -Aug-98

223 WOWR

9.1

217

83

68

121

14

5

26-Aug-98

238 WOWR

8.93

221

76

55

50

5

5

16-Sep-98

259 WOWR

9.55

305

80

69

116

18

11

30-Sep-98

273 WOWR

9.96

71

66

57

5

13

17-Aug-93

229 WRRPE

358

226

2360

94

18

05-Apr-94

95 WRRPE

1510

1170

3370

171

17

1 3-Apr-94

103 WRRPE

1620

1080

4470

773

23

31 -May-94

151 WRRPE

233

131

1070

11

5

14-Jun-94

165 WRRPE

171

1370

35

05-May-95

125 WRRPE

548

1210

222

23-May-95

143 WRRPE

1220

970

2030

174

5

06-Jun-95

157 WRRPE

1570

1100

2290

170

31

21-Jun-95

172 WRRPE

1330

870

2690

86

64

05-Jul-95

186 WRRPE

1780

1370

3380

314

17

28-Feb-96

59 WRRPE

541

318

1990

50

5

15-Apr-96

106 WRRPE

2220

830

6130

2660

153

29-Aug-96

242 WRRPE

176

44

1570

175

5

07-Nov-96

312 WRRPE

230

167

1645

985

127

1 3-Dec-96

348 WRRPE

1060

318

5470

674

190

08-Jan-97

8 WRRPE

755

297

2140

264

172

28-Jan-97

28 WRRPE

707

467

2140

156

73

15

9

DATE JD

SITES STAFF Q

TP

SRP

TN

NH

NO

18-Feb-97

49 WRRPE

800

806

3030

5

18

25-Jun-97

176 WRRPE

646

299

1610

663

40

25-Nov-91

329 WRRPW

68

31

531

5

5

25-Mar-93

84 WRRPW

628

360

2610

321

502

31-Mar-93

90 WRRPW

562

443

2190

35

10

06-Apr-93

96 WRRPW

676

378

2360

56

199

14-Apr-93

104 WRRPW

912

396

2180

5

13

20-Apr-93

110 WRRPW

566

82

1750

18

11

29-Apr-93

119 WRRPW

682

2180

36

05-May-93

125 WRRPW

714

368

2580

37

12

13-May-93

133 WRRPW

1000

522

2240

36

5

18-May-93

138 WRRPW

1115

685

2380

118

19

26-May-93

146 WRRPW

1120

639

4100

592

5

05-Aug-93

217 WRRPW

243

221

1010

78

17

29-Mar-94

88 WRRPW

1400

1150

2950

154

18

05- Apr-94

95 WRRPW

1540

1280

3270

287

19

14-Jun-94

165 WRRPW

406

1120

88

05-May-95

125 WRRPW

1020

4020

781

08-May-95

128 WRRPW

902

762

2570

5

5

05-Jul-95

186 WRRPW

1600

1040

3610

368

15

28-Feb-96

59 WRRPW

873

512

2560

103

19

15-Apr-96

106 WRRPW

1310

466

6180

2260

138

13-Dec-96

348 WRRPW

798

236

4370

440

193

08-Jan-97

8 WRRPW

664

147

6680

314

172

28-Jan-97

28 WRRPW

551

480

2380

512

52

03-Jan-96

3 7MCA

207

540

58

534

48

24

08-Feb-96

39 7MCA

172

653

37

13-Feb-96

44 7MCA

428

90

49

1780

52

5

28-Feb-96

59 7MCA

08-May-96

129 7MCA

217

99

71

216

5

5

03-Jun-96

155 7MCA

110

116

66

244

57

5

0 1 -Jul-96

183 7MCA

56

146

795

577

34

5

1 5-Jul-96

197 7MCA

163

373

202

746

359

62

29-Jul-96

211 7MCA

28-Aug-96

241 7MCA

86

205

108

688

123

5

09-Oct-96

283 7MCA

83

118

79

261

51

5

06-Nov-96

311 7MCA

165

71

65

110

31

10

25-Nov-96

330 7MCA

219

119

95

485

65

40

1 3-Dec-96

348 7MCA

173

88

755

48

20

08-Jan-97

8 7MCA

84

70

652

30

53

27-Jan-97

27 7MCA

289

102

72

454

45

24

19-Feb-97

50 7MCA

173

94

62

519

30

16

02-Apr-97

92 7MCA

86

82

71

159

32

5

07-May-97

127 7MCA

169

97

71

157

52

5

14-May-97

134 7MCA

242

98

91

256

43

5

13-Jan-98

13 7MCA

258

96

484

02-Feb-98

33 7MCA

105

514

24

26-Feb-98

57 7MCA

95

363

48

24-Mar-98 83 7MCA

i)

16

DATE JD

SITES STAFF Q

TP

SRP

TN

NH

NO

07-Apr-98

97 7MCA

194

128

63

535

81

5

21 -Apr-98

111 7MCA

76

135

62

616

24

5

09-Jun-98

160 7MCA

171

142

83

319

11

5

23-Jun-98

174 7MCA

09-Jul-98

190 7MCA

26-Aug-98

238 7MCA

80

193

80

562

85

5

16-Sep-98

259 7MCA

30-Sep-98

273 7MCA

92

67

256

39

5

WATER TEMPERATURE MONITORING

Methods. Water temperature loggers (Onset Tidbit and Hobo-Temp) were deployed at three
locations in the Wood River to record changes in water temperature over time. Instantaneous
water temperatures are logged hourly for the duration of the monitoring period. Guidelines for
calibration and deployment can be reviewed in "Klamath Falls Resource Area Waterbody
Temperature Report. 1997" available at the Klamath Falls Resource Area office.

Results: Three water temperature data loggers were deployed within the channel restoration
project reach. Temperature logger locations are: 1) North property line (approximately 3 miles
upstream from the dike road bridge) ; 2) immediately downstream of confluence with Crooked
Creek; 3) immediately downstream from dike road bridge.

Temperatures recorded between April and August showed the maximum water temperatures
ranged between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit for the three sites. During July, average warming
through this reach was approximately 8 degrees from the upper station to the lower station.
Water temperatures will again be monitored in 1999 and in 2000 to assess the effects of channel
reconstruction on stream temperatures.

Wood River Water Temperature, 1998

Temperature (‘F)(4133) Temperature (*F) (4135)

Temperature ( * F ) (4140)

FISH POPULATION MONITORING

Introduction: This section of the report addresses fish monitoring and inventory relating to
wetland and channel restoration. In general, there were three sampling categories:

Inrerior wetland. Fish populations within the interior wetland are samples with the
objective of gathering baseline information on fish abundance and distribution as habitat
changes over time.

Wood River larval and juvenile out-migration. Sampling was done with a shoreline
orientated trap net and fishing with drift nets and Fyke nets off the Dike Road bridge.

The objective is to gather baseline information on timing of early life stages and species
presence of suckers and trout in the project area.

Channel Construction Salvage. Data presented here includes capture data from efforts to
collect fish that would be harmed from channel construction activities. The goal was to
collect and move all fish before dredging and filling (except fathead minnows) and move
them into un-impacted areas of the Wood River.

Interior Wetland: Fish presence within the interior marsh was sampled by using a single Vi inch
mesh trap net with a 100 foot lead extension. Traps were set for two nights each at two pond
habitat sites between July 9, 1998 and August 6, 1998. The ponds were by removing borrow
material for dike building in 1996 and 1997. The ponds are located near the northeast comer the
property and near the Wood River pump station. Shoreline vegetation at these sites is relatively
sparse consisting mostly of recently colonized willow, Potamogeton , aquatic smartweed and
scattered bulrush. Average and maximum water depths were approximately three feet and five
feet, respectively. Little or no emergent vegetation was noted and bottom substrate was a
mixture of peat and pumice sand. Figure 1 represents the combined catch at both pond sites. All
fish sampled, except the chub species are introduced species to the Klamath Basin.

Relative Species Abundance Interior Marsh Trap Net

Fathead minnow

□ Chub Species ■ Fathead minnow □ Brown bullhead □Pumkinseed

Figure 1.

18

A single water quality sample was taken with a multiprobe Hydrolab device at the pump pond
trap site:

Date: 07/16/98 Time: 1544

Temp: 34.25 degrees Celsius D.O. saturation: 60. 1%

Spec Cond: 283 us D.O.: 4.31 mg/1 O

pH: 7.46 Sample depth: 0.4 m

Total Dissolved Solids: 0.181

Of particular note in this water quality sample was the extremely high water temperature of
96.65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Data collected on the interior ponds has significant limitations. For example, data represent an
extremely small temporal and spatial sample. Additionally, there are gear limitations that
include species and size specific trap avoidance. Since the trap is effective only for fish over 60
mm fork length, small species such as fathead minnow are likely under-represented. All brown
bullhead captured were from a single trap set in the pump pond.

Wood River larval and juvenile out-migration. The larval trap net was used to monitor fish
presence in the 1998 construction area and to obtain information on presence and timing of
possible larval or juvenile out-migration. Unfortunately, no suckers or trout were sampled using
this method. The trap was set in moving water sections of the existing west shoreline of the
Wood River and within historic channel meanders before construction began. The trap,
consisting of 1 mm nytex was set overnight on five occasions between July 15 and July 22,

1998.

Relative Abundance Larval Trap (7/15-7/22/98)

□ Fathead minnow BSculpin QYellow Perch aTui Chub

Figure 2.

Figure 2 is combined data from all trap nights. Fathead minnow was the most frequently
captured fish for most trap locations.

One possible significant gear bias is that schooling fish, such as juvenile fathead minnows, may

19

have been attracted to the trap as cover structure. Additionally, shoreline areas were generally
low velocity and migrating juvenile trout and suckers may have been avoiding these areas.

Drift nets and a fyke net were deployed off the Dike road bridge on July 22 from approximately
7 PM to 8 PM. No fish were captured. On July 28, the same traps were deployed at two hour
intervals from 6 PM to midnight. One redband trout (90 mm FL) and one juvenile sucker
(Catostomidae) at 63 mm FL were captured in the large Fyke net.

Channel Construction Salvage. The objective of the fish salvage was to rescue fish just after
areas were hydrologically isolated for dredging and filling operations. In 1998, this occurred in
the upper two historic meander bends and in the adjacent existing Wood River channel
(approximately 4 acres of aquatic habitat). The historic meander bends had much of the
submergent and floating vegetation (primarily aquatic buttercup) manually removed one week
prior to salvage activities. This activity, in combination with heavy boat traffic, may have
displaced many of the fish prior to the salvage activity. Fish were captured be seining with 1/8
inch beech seines and two passes with backpack electroshockers. Fish were placed in containers
and then moved to the Wood River below the construction site where fish were identified to
species, measured, and released. Figure 3 represents the combined capture between 8/17/98
and8/24/98.

□ ■Pumpkmseed gSucker nYellowPerch HTuichub DLamprey BDace QRedband ^Fathead ■ Sculpin

Figure 3.

Fathead minnows are under-represented in the sample due to an intentional effort to avoid
capturing them while electroshocking. They were abundant in the warm water microhabitats
among floating mats of aquatic Ranunculus in the historic meander bends, as well as the main
channel. Additionally, sculpin are likely under-represented due to their escape by nosing into
soft substrate. Three sculpin species were represented in the capture data. Flowever, due to time
constraints, no attempt was made to quantify relative abundance.

Sculpin species observed include the marbled sculpin ( Cottus klaniathensis), the Klamath Lake

20

sculptn (Cornis princeps), and the slender sculpin ( Cottas tenuis). All lamprey ( Lampetra )
captured were ameocetes (larval form). No attempt was made to identify lamprey ameocetes to
species. All suckers (4 total) were 1998 cohort (59-77 mm FL) and were identified as shortnose
suckers (Chasmistes brevirostris). There is some degree of uncertainty in distinguishing
between juvenile Klamath largescale suckers ( Catostomus snyderi) and shortnose suckers.
Redband trout were captured only in the historic meander bends. Figure 4 represents 50 mm size
class distribution for redband trout.

Redband Trout Length Class Distribution

Figure 4. Redband trout length distribution, 1998 channel salvage (fork length in

millimeters)

Snorkel survey. A single snorkel survey was conducted in the 1998 construction area on July
22, 1998. The purpose was to assess the need for fish salvage related to construction activity and
to determine if snorkel surveys could be a viable project monitoring tool. Three snorkelers
drifted downstream while attempting to stay equidistant from each other and the shoreline.

Figure 5 represents relative species abundance observed in the 1998 project area. All redband
trout were observed in a cohesive school in the deep water of the lower meander bend. Most of
these trout ranged between 150 to 250 mm fork length. Only one brown trout (80 mm) and one
lamprey were observed. No fish were observed in the main channel. Notable limitations to this
survey included dense aquatic vegetation, deep water, turbidity, and high channel width.

21

Relative Species Abundance Snorkle Survey (7/22/98)

Brown trout Yellow oerch

□ Brown trout Blamprey QYellow perch Q Pumpkinseed

■ Redband trout □ Fathead minnow BChub species □

Figure 5.

SPOTTED FROG POPULATIONS

Surveys

Amphibian surveys, primarily focused on the Oregon spotted frog population, were conducted as
part of an ongoing effort to monitor changes in population size and distribution as restoration of
interior wetland habitat proceeds. Surveys were conducted on four different days between July
16 and August 8, 1998. A total of 50 spotted frogs were captured, measured, and released. An
additional 56 spotted frogs were observed but not captured.

Spotted frogs were found only in areas known to have had strong breeding populations during
past survey years. These include the entire length of the North Canal, the East canal along the
Wood River, and the small channel just west of the East canal. Additional areas that were
considered suitable habitat were surveyed, including several of the north/south running interior
ditches. No spotted frogs w'ere observed in these areas. Preliminary water quality measurements
indicate that current spotted frog distribution may be limited by water quality in the interior
marsh. Temperature and dissolved oxygen were measured at 8 microhabitats where spotted
frogs were observed basking. Dissolved oxygen ranged from 7.27 mg/1 to 10.36 mg/1.
Temperature ranged from 19.6 to 27.09 degrees Celsius. Spotted frog density appeared to
decrease in all cases as distance from the Wood River source increased. Spotted frogs were
observed only in areas that receive varying amounts of perennial flow.

Of particular interest in this year’s survey results was the apparent shift in previous size
frequency distributions from a predominantly juvenile age structure to one dominated by adults
and sub-adults (84% adult/sub-adult).

22

It should be noted, however, that there were significantly fewer juvenile spotted frogs observ ed
in 1998 than in previous years whereas a similar number of adults per unit of surv ey effort were
observed. During the 1997 survey 59 frogs were tagged with PIT tags. Of the 42 adult/sub-
adults captured during 1998, four had been previously tagged. An analysis of these frogs
movements from their 1997 location is currently being conducted. No new PIT (passive induced
transponder) tags were placed in 1998.

If these areas develop the floating, submergent, and low emergent vegetation that favors adults
Oregon spotted frogs, the population may be enhanced. However, predicting such an effect is
risky because some of the aquatic structure may favor non-native fish (such as fathead minnow).
Keeping low water levels in the ponds early in the season is likely to favor recruitment of the
Oregon spotted frog and other amphibians and disfavor non-native fishes.

Subsequent slow raising of water levels as the season advances will probably increase refuge
area and food levels for more advanced life stages. While this scenario seems likely, it contains
certain elements of unpredictability, so it should be viewed as experimental. In the latter
context, some kind of monitoring should be implemented to determine the actual consequences
of these manipulations.

Some amphibian species at Wood River are rarely observed (long-toed salamander western toad)
either because their populations may be limited or they display erratic, unpredictable
reproduction. It will be of special interest to determine whether pond creation and the water
management favor these species in a manner in which they can be observed more frequently in a
more predictable way. Table 9 and Figure 4 display size distributions and allow comparisons of
species observations between years.

1998 Spotted Frog Length Distribution

□ No. Individules

23

O

RECREATION

The Klamath Falls BLM conducted several different recreation monitoring efforts throughout
1998. Through monitoring, the BLM is continuing to gain valuable information about the types
and levels of recreation use occurring on the wetland property.

As the recreation use pattern becomes better defined, so will the development of adequate and
appropriate recreation facilities.

Recreational use was monitored and observed informally a fairly regular basis throughout the
year by BLM employees visiting the wetland property. Additional monitoring occurred through
the use of (and comments from) voluntary self-registration forms and more personal contacts
with visitors. Based on these informal observations and other monitoring, some general
conclusions from the 1998 recreation use season can be made:

1) Recreational use of the wetland increased during the 1998 waterfowl hunting season versus
the 1997 hunting season. The opportunities for finding waterfowl and hunting success were
much greater, as the former pasture lands within the wetland property provided good cover
and open water for waterfowl.

2) 2) Use of the property by non-hunters (fisherman, sightseers, wildlife viewers, hikers, etc.)
continues to greatly exceed use by hunters.

3) Use of the area during the non-hunting season increased over the same period in 1997, but
overall year-round use remains light (estimated to average five visitors per day).

4) Average group size remains small, probably less than three individuals per group.

5) Local residents (Agency Lake area) represent the largest visitor group using the property on
regular basis.

Regarding recreational facility development, the area received substantial improvements in
1998. The entrance, parking, and staging areas wrere paved to reduce concerns regarding dust. A
new vault type toilet, canoe and small boat launch, and parking area landscaping were installed.
A one-half mile fully accessible trail was constructed from the parking area to the main wetland
area. A contract was awarded to design and fabricate six interpretive display panels to orient
visitors, interpret wildlife, wetland function, and other resources to visitors. The interpretive
contract and trail work were partially funded with a wetland restoration grant received through
the Klamath Falls Bureau of Reclamation.

These new facilities appear to receive good use and were almost universally praised by visitors
contacted by the BLM.

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Future improvements include an additional permanent restroom near the Wood River bridge,
installation of the above mentioned interpretive displays, floating boardwalk levee crossings and
complete planning for a wetland trail and environmental education site in 1999. Another
contract for design and fabrication of approximately six additional interpretive displays will also
be awarded. Some of this work will be funded by grant monies received from the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service and the state of Oregon.

VISUAL RESOURCES

Wood River channel restoration, other wetland restoration efforts and recreation facility
development continued in 1998. Informal monitoring of these surface disturbing activities
showed greater short-term visual contrasts to the existing environment. As these areas are re-
vegetated and the wetland areas re-established, it is fully expected that the visual resources
should be greatly improved over the previous grazed pasture land area. It is also hoped that
through additional landscaping, and cottonwood and willow plantings will further enhance visual
resources. As stated in the Wood River RMP/EIS, the area’s visual resources are to be managed
for the long-term objectives of improving or providing positive effects to visual resources.

Dike building and other wetland restoration efforts continued in 1997. Informal monitoring of
these surface-disturbing activities showed greater short-term visual contrasts to the existing
environment. As these areas are re-vegetated and the wetland areas are re-established, visual
resources are expected to be greatly improved over the previous grazed pasture land area.

Lands

Land Sales

When Congress authorized the Bureau of Land Management (BLM’s) purchase of the Wood
River property, it also instructed BLM to dispose of public lands in Klamath County to offset
losses in property tax revenue that could occur from the acquisition. In 1998 the Klamath Falls
Resource Area sold 1,600 acres of public land to the American Land Conserv ancy for the
appraised fair market value of $625,400. The American Land Conservancy subsequently sold the
property to the Jeld-Wen corporation. The mineral estate (except for the oil, gas and geothermal
resources) was also conveyed.

Lands Actions in Support of Restoration Efforts

Land surveys by the BLM Cadastral Surveyors are programmed for the summer of 1999. The
surveys will identify private lands that need to be acquired to facilitate phase 3 of the Wood
River restoration.

BLM and private landowners have verbally agreed to cooperate on phase 4 of the Wood River
restoration.

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CULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

The BLM Cultural Resource Program provided supported various project activities at the Wood
River Wetland in 1998. Activities centered on archaeological survey, cultural site protection,
and consultation with the Klamath Tribes on cultural issues. Much time was expended to guide
the management of cultural resources encountered during construction phases of the Wood River
channel restoration project.

The National Historic Preservation Act, in addition to other laws and regulations, require that
potential impacts to cultural resources be addressed prior to and during implementation of
construction and various other projects. To assess potential project impacts, archaeological
survey is often required. During 1998, two cultural resource surveys were conducted by a BLM
Archaeologist in support of Wood River Restoration activities. One survey w'as conducted along
the Wood River dike below the confluence of Crooked Creek within the area of Phase 1 and
Phase 2 construction. The other survey, with assistance from a Cultural Site Protection
Specialist of the Klamath Tribes, was conducted in the area of Phase 3 construction along the
historic channel of the Wood River downstream from the Agency Lake dike bridge. This survey
was performed under rather adverse conditions with dense marsh vegetation and much standing
water. Another cultural resource survey, associated with a Watergate replacement, was
performed at the northwest comer of the property.

Extensive cultural resource monitoring occurred during 1998 Wood River Restoration
construction activities. Though archaeological sites had not been discovered during previous
surveys conducted along the Wood River, it was anticipated that cultural resources would be
encountered during restoration construction. An agreement had been signed between the
Klamath Tribes and Oregon Trout to provide monitoring support and the protection of cultural
sites. As anticipated, numerous sites were discovered during construction.

Four sites were encountered during Phase 1 and Phase 2 construction activities. Efforts were
made to protect and isolate three of the smaller sites. The remaining site was quite extensive and
required substantial recording and protection work. In part due to cultural concerns, project
activity was suspended in this area during 1998. In conjunction with the Klamath Tribes and
guidance from the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office, the BLM is preparing a cultural
resource management plan for this site to ensure potential construction impacts are considered
and mitigated during 1999 construction. In some areas, construction plans have been modified
to minimize impacts to cultural resources. Many features of the river restoration project should
serve to protect cultural resources from damage caused by fluvial erosion and unauthorized
collection. Two additional archaeological sites were recorded within areas outside of project
impacts.

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Numerous meetings were held with Klamath Tribes staff and monitors to consult on various
cultural resource issues as related to the Wood River Restoration project.

The BLM Archaeologist spent many field days at the Wood River Property working alongside
Klamath Tribes monitors and staff to ensure cultural issues were addressed. Cultural resource
management activities will continue at the Wood River Property in 1999. As indicated above, a
cultural resource management plan is being developed to address concerns associated with a
significant site encountered during 1998 construction. Measures will be implemented to mitigate
potential damage to archaeological resources. The Klamath Tribes will continue to provide
cultural resource monitors during restoration construction.

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