Important Considerations for Upstream Migrant Facility Design

Lack of sufficient upstream passage can be a primary limiting factor for fish populations. Poor passage conditions can lead to direct injury and mortality, reduced gamete quality, increased straying of hatchery fish, and unsustainable levels of pre-spawn mortality (PSM). This issue also applies to species beyond our familiar anadromous salmonids, including Pacific lamprey, shad, eels and other migratory species.  We will discuss fundamental elements of early facility design that are key to success when taking on the challenge of providing safe and effective upstream migrant facilities.