Lower Granite - Hells Canyon Subpopulation Status and
Trends
Information and data adapted from Parker, B., T, Rien, B. James, R. Beamesderfer.
2013. Review Draft Columbia Basin White Sturgeon Planning Framework. Portland, Or.
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The Lower Granite-Hells Canyon white sturgeon subpopulation is a productive, self-sustaining
population that the Idaho Department of Fish and Game manages as a core conservation
population. The most recent population assessment occurred in 2000, at which time
the population was estimated at 3,625 white sturgeon (fish > 28 inches) equating
to a density of 17). The assessment in 2000, as well as prior surveys dating back
to 1972, indicated that recruitment has been consistent through the years which
has led to a healthy population structure (i.e., stock structure dominated by juveniles,
wide range of sizes, and stages of maturity from immature juveniles to reproductive
adults).
Although recruitment is consistent, the current density of 17 white sturgeon/km
is significantly less than the IDFG’s goal of 32 fish/km. Also, given the uncertainty
of the overall abundance trend since 2000, the IDFG continues to implement a conservative
approach relative to harvest management. To continue to protect the healthy population
structure and approach the density goal, sport angling is limited to catch-and-release
fishing.
Abundance
* Monitoring did not occur during years
for which data do not exist.
Density
No data available at this time.
Productivity
No data available at this time.
Harvest
There is no harvest since catch-and-release regulations are in effect for this subpopulation.