We head to the stream this week to show you how electrofishing works. This video was taken last week on Martin Creek near Sula and features Bitterroot Forest Fisheries Biologist Mike Jakober (with net) and Fisheries Tech Nathan Olson (with backpack). Electrofishing is a common scientific survey method used to sample fish populations to determine abundance, density, and species composition. The method relies on two electrodes which deliver current into the water to stun the fish. This results in no permanent harm to the fish which return to their natural state in as little as two minutes after being stunned. There are 3 types of electrofishers: backpack models (shown in video), tote barge, and boat mounted models, sometimes called a stunboat. The purpose of last weeks survey was to record bull trout, westslope cuttthroat trout, and non-native trout populations in Martin Creek, a tributary of the Bitterroot River. Video by Abby Kirkaldie
Posted on: Wed, 20 Aug 2014 23:00:00 +0000
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