Wildfire after effects results in fish endangerment
22 September 2022
Published by: https://krcrtv.com
USA – Chinook Salmon and Steelhead have been found dead in the Klamath River due to the effects of the McKinney Fire.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the rain brought down burnt soil, ash, and other sediments downstream affecting the fish species. Both showed visible signs of bacterial gill rot and ich infection.
In response, the Six Rivers National Forest Fisheries Program in partnership with the Klamath Basin Fish Health Assessment Team say they have been monitoring water quality and fish health conditions within the Klamath River. Crews are surveying mainstem refuges and incoming cold tributaries where adult fish typically hold during their migration.
“We are hopeful that more forecasted rain in the coming weeks can further improve conditions, but the KFHAT is still very concerned about the overall health, migration, and spawning success of this fish run,” said District Fish Biologist LeRoy Cyr in a press release. “It is imperative that we continue to work together to monitor, report, and find a future course of action.”
The KFHAT was formed in 2003 when a large fish kill occurred resulting in the loss of about 35,000 adult Chinook salmon. Low flows, high temperatures and high fish densities in September 2003 allowed the disease to run, according to the USFS. Since that time, basin partners have worked together to develop preventative measures that safeguard against such a catastrophic fish kill from occurring again.
