Merging hydraulic modeling and population dynamics to protect Saskatchewan River Lake Sturgeon

Similar to many North American Lake sturgeon populations, Lake Sturgeon within the Saskatchewan River system are believed to be at historically low levels.  To ensure future survival Fisheries and Oceans Canada is reviewing the population’s status country wide with the option of listing Lake Sturgeon under the Species At Risk Act.  Preliminary examination has identified the presence and operation of hydro dams as the most likely impendence to population recovery. As owners of the one of the largest dams on the Saskatchewan River system the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority is dedicated to mediating environmental impacts caused by the operation of its dams whenever possible.  The Watershed Authority is nearing the end of a three year study that has included telemetry, hydraulic modeling and population health and abundance.  These results are being combined to link current water management with impacts on the quantity and quality of available habitat.  By combining these datasets the Watershed Authority will create a comprehensive picture of the relationship between water management and Lake Sturgeon to help ensure the success of this unique species.