Laboratory evaluation of fish survival and behavior associated with passage through hydrokinetic turbines

Fish injury and mortality from blade strike is a major issue associated with the application of hydrokinetic turbines in rivers, tidal areas, and marine environments.  To address this issue, we are conducting laboratory studies to estimate survival of fish passing through two hydrokinetic turbine designs as part of a DOE-funded project.  Assessments of fish behavior as they approach and pass downstream of each turbine are also being conducted.  Survival testing consists of releasing fish upstream at a point where passage through each turbine is expected to occur and then collecting them downstream for injury and mortality examinations.  All fish are being held for 48 hrs post passage to assess latent mortality.  A video system is being used to observe fish as they approach and pass downstream of each turbine.  Injury and survival rates will be presented for each set of test conditions (e.g., species, size, velocity).  Observations of behavior as fish encounter an operating turbine will be summarized and quantified, to the extent practicable.  The results from these studies will provide resource agencies and developers with information that is needed to make informed decisions on potential impacts of hydrokinetic turbines on fishery resources at sites being considered for power development.