Pre-and post-DAM-removal fish community composition variation, and early detection of aquatic invasive species in the klamath river estuary using traditional and edna metabarcoding…

This Cooperative Agreement award from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) under the Cooperative Research Units (CFDA 15.812) program will provide $186,488.68 to Cal Poly Humboldt Sponsored Programs Foundation (HSU Foundation) to conduct a 2-year study on the Klamath River estuary. The objectives are to document pre- and post-dam removal effects on fish communities, compare traditional fish sampling methods with eDNA metabarcoding, and establish an early detection network for aquatic invasive species. Key activities include bimonthly fish sampling, eDNA collection and analysis, data compilation, and presentations at a scientific symposium. Deliverables include annual summaries of fish community data, reports on detected invasive species, and a final multi-year study summary. The intended beneficiaries are tribal, federal, and state agencies interested in the impacts of dam removal on fish communities and invasive species prevention.

Pre-and post-DAM-removal fish community composition variation, and early detection of aquatic invasive species in the klamath river estuary using traditional and edna metabarcoding methodologies.project period: 05 01 2025 - 12 31 2026THIS award will provide funding for CAL poly humboldt graduate and undergraduate students and professors to conduct fish community sampling of the klamath river estuary. The objectives of the study are to document pre- and post-DAM removal effects on fish communities, conduct research comparing traditional fish sampling methods and edna meta-barcoding sampling methods for characterizing fish communities, and generate data for establishing an early detection network for aquatic invasive species. Activities to be performed - conduct 2 years of fish sampling in the klamath river estuary. Collect monthly edna samples and prepare for processing.compile data and present at scientific symposium (1 presentation per year) deliverables and expected outcomes -monthly summaries of fish community data (traditional and edna sampling) delivered on an annual basis.summary of aquatic invasive species detected every 6 months.final report summarizing multi-year studies. Intended beneficiary(IES) -tribal, federal, and state fishery and water quality managers interested in impacts of DAM removal on fish communities and prevention of invasive species proliferation. Subrecipient activities, if known or specified at the time of award -no subrecipients