The proposed project addresses three objectives of the FY2025 RFP by adding new waterways, species, and life stages to the alaska anadromous waters catalog (AWC) in areas of proposed development,…

The proposed project addresses three objectives of the FY2025 RFP by adding new waterways, species, and life stages to the alaska anadromous waters catalog (AWC) in areas of proposed development, providing for the novel detection of northern pike, and ensuring no new habitat obstructions are constructed on these streams by describing the full extent of anadromous habitat. By providing timely and accurate information regarding the status of anadromy and any potential invasive species presence to relevant decision makers, this project will benefit salmon in these two critical salmon producing watersheds. Salmon stocks (especially chinook salmon) originating from the theodore and ivan rivers have historically been a major component of the subsistence harvest of upper cook inlet dena INA residing around the native village of tyonek, and those stocks have declined in recent years. Invasive northern pike residing in adjacent streams, and proposed development in and around the watersheds further threaten the freshwater habitat of this important food and community resource. Though the contribution of the theodore and ivan rivers is well known, much of the headwater tributaries of both systems is not listed as anadromous habitat and the status of invasive pike is unknown. Using anadromous fish survey methods and edna collection, ttcd staff aim to more fully describe the extent of anadromous habitats and determine if northern pike are a part of the reason these stocks are in decline. Having a more complete picture of the habitat mosaic needed to sustain these salmon stocks will ensure that any development in the area is conducted responsibly. Knowing the status of invasive pike will also help inform future management and conservation actions in these systems.