| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
This feasibility analysis evaluated the practicality of restoring Early Stuart sockeye by lake fertilization. The project would involve fertilization of Takla Lake in 2010, targeting the Driftwood River sockeye population. The feasibility of this proposal was examined by evaluating results from other fertilized sockeye lakes, analyzing Takla Lake limnology data and developing an implementation plan. The report addresses a number of key uncertainties which were rated on a 5-point scale: 1=very likely 2=likely 3=uncertain 4=unlikely 5=very unlikely. The following Table reflects the opinion of the report authors: Will Takla Lake respond to fertilization? very likely; Will Early Stuart sockeye juveniles respond to fertilization? likely; Will fertilization alter sockeye-kokanee interactions? uncertain; Will Early Stuart sockeye recover? likely; Is lake fertilization reversible? very likely. There are 3 fertilizer application options involving tug and barge, herring skiffs or helicopter. Program costs are estimated as $159,000 in 2009, and ranging between $455,000 to $582,000 in 2010, depending on the fertilizer application method. An agreement to implement the project is required by June of 2009, so that a fertilizer tank farm can be constructed at Takla Landing before September of 2009. Next steps for moving the project forward include review of the concept by DFO, establishing partnerships and securing the necessary funding. |
