Movement Patterns of Anadromous Brook Trout in a Restored Coastal Stream System in Southern Massachusetts

We sought to describe movement patterns of brook trout in a small coastal system, Red Brook, following dam removal and stream restoration.   Specifically, we wanted to identify patterns of movement between the stream, estuary, and bay.  Between June 2010 and September 2011, we surgically implanted 70 brook trout (189-289 mm FL) with acoustic transmitters.  To monitor movement, we deployed 15 stationary acoustic receivers; four in Red Brook, three in the estuary, and eight in the bay.  Preliminary data reveal that four tagged fish have traveled into the estuary and bay.  At least one individual was detected back in Red Brook after residing in the bay between November 2010 and January 2011. In June 2012 we will deploy 14 additional transmitters and conduct manual tracking in Red Brook to further understand in-stream movement.  Using data from temperature and conductivity loggers deployed with the receivers, and comparing fish movements with tidal current data, we will present an analysis of factors that could be influencing the movement patterns of brook trout in the Red Brook system.