3.1 SOW .docx

Scope of Work: McDermitt Basin LCT Recovery Project, Eradication Plan

Activities:

Assess previous recovery efforts using genetic analysis, eDNA, and current fish barrier effectiveness to determine the scale and feasibility of retreatment necessary to extirpate nonnative trout from the McDermitt Creek drainage.

Review a variety of source information from state and federal agencies and others associated with the previous recovery effort.

Prepare a report with input and concurrence from agencies on which streams of the McDermitt drainage require retreatment and likely why.

Survey McDermitt Creek, Sage Creek, Indian Creek, Cottonwood Creek and Riser Creek drainages at time of year when retreatment is expected to occur to:

Assess limiting physical factors and site characteristics in the application of rotenone, Map entire drainage including current tributaries and seeps/spring and areas with limited continuity.

Determine rotenone dose, location of application stations, and equipment and personnel needed necessary to extirpate nonnative trout from the drainage under likely treatment conditions.

Survey drainages with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), and Trout Unlimited (TU) staff to determine current distribution of trout and treatment area necessary to plan treatment.

Develop overall strategy for treating the streams in sequence, generally beginning upstream and working downstream, including treating each stream in two concurrent years (twice) until no nonnative trout are present. Several drainages may be treated concurrently.

Conduct on-site toxicity test(s) with rainbow trout using liquid rotenone formulation during anticipated treatment time (early summer). Alternatively, we will write down the test procedures, provide training, and let local staff conduct the tests, especially if this is at a different time from the on-site survey.

Determine basic water quality conditions (temperature, pH, alkalinity) throughout the drainage during the time of year when the treatment is expected to occur.

Collect discharge and velocity (travel time) measurements throughout the drainage during the time of year when the treatment is expected to occur and identify areas lacking water continuity.

From information in 1.1.1 and 1.1.2 above, prepare a Preliminary Treatment Plan describing the multiyear strategy for the successful removal of nonnative trout from McDermitt Creek, Sage Creek and tributaries, Indian Creek, Cottonwood Creek and Riser Creek, review and approval by ODFW, NDOW, and FWS. Work with BLM in the development of a National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) Environmental Assessment (EA). Convene two video meetings for involved staff and agencies to provide review and comments.

Develop rotenone and potassium permanganate application, safety and monitoring plans for those areas in McDermitt Creek drainage that require retreatment based on the Preliminary Treatment Plan described in 3 above.

Oversee the implementation of the plans for the drainage and the eradication of nonnative trout from the McDermitt Creek drainage.

Deliverables:

From Activity 1.1.1, a report assessing previous LCT recovery efforts in McDermitt Creek Drainage and future feasibility, including the identification of potential limiting factors, of eliminating nonnative trout in the drainage. Deadline June 1, 2025 From Activities 1.1.1 and 1.1.2, a feasibility report discussing the efficacy of rotenone in eliminating nonnative and hybridized trout in McDermitt Creek drainage, chemical characteristics of McDermitt Creek that impact the carrying capacity of rotenone, discharges and velocities throughout the drainage that impact the carrying capacity of rotenone, and identification of all tributaries, seeps and other areas requiring treatment. Deadline: June 1, 2025 From Activity 1.1.3, a Preliminary Project Plan that details the multiyear strategy and schedule for retreating the McDermitt Creek Drainage. Deadline January 1, 2026 From Activity 1.1.4, various implementation plans for rotenone application, potassium permanganate deactivation, monitoring, and environmental, applicator and public safety for accomplishing Activity 5 above. Deadline January 1, 2026 On-site Implementation and Coordination. Deadline December 31, 2027.

Revised 2023-04 Page 2 of 7 Nevada State Purchasing Style Guide