Skagit Projects Reports

Upper Skagit Watershed Ecosystems Management Plan - April 2011

This ecosystem management plan builds upon the foundation of the Upper Skagit Fish and Wildlife Management Plan completed by the Ministry of Environment in 2008. The ecosystem plan broadens its scope to include plants, invertebrates and ecological communities, and focuses on the prioritization of resource allocation to meet management objectives. For context, here is the Conservation Framework primer information link. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/conservationframework/documents/CF_Primer.pdf

BC North Cascades Grizzly Bear Project

Shortly after this project was funded, the BC Minister for the Environment, Barry Penner, put a hold on the augmentation plan. The reason for the hold has never been fully explained. The context for the SEEC funded project changed slightly at that point, with less emphasis on preparing the general human population for living with an increased grizzly bear population and slightly more emphasis on outreach to groups and individuals that might have unwarranted fears of or concerns about grizzly bear recovery.

Ghost Pass Trail Final Report-Oct-07

Historic Trail route, re-access work in 18 Mile Watershed

Assessment of the 1994 Skagit River Sport Fishery

Replicates 1986, 1990, 1992 surveys to monitor changes in angler characteristics and social carrying capacity.

Nlaka'pamux Language Development for Interpretation of Place Names, Oral Traditions and Production of Educational Material

Research to provide the Nlaka'pamux interpretation and perspective to traditional cultural properties and the natural resources of the region. The report focuses on the development of a writing system.

Assessment of the 2002 Skagit River Sport Fishery

Skagit River sport fishery survey conducted on the Canadian Side during the summer and fall of 2002.

A Sense of Place - A Report to Participants in "Community Treasures of the Upper Skagit Valley"

Upper Skagit residents were brought together to identify, prioritize, and map the natural and cultural treasures of the valley.

Mountain School 1999 Final Report

Some 782 participants form 31 classes (grades 5-7) participated in 1999 Mountain School Programs.

Mitigate Cat Island Human Impacts Final Report: 2006

Work on Cat Island to restore vegetation and encourage low-impact behaviours.

Biomonitoring of Vegetation and Brown-Headed Cowbirds in the Skagit Valley Provincial Park

Study demonstrates that there are low levels if Brown-headed Cowbirds in the 5 kilometer radius surrounding Whitworth Hose camp. Makes recommendation for keeping alien species of plants and birds away from the area.

North Cascades Grizzly Bear Project

First year report of the Grizzly Bear Project.

Propertius Duskywing Survey

Continuing study of the 'red-listed' butterfly in the Northern Skagit watershed. Includes recommendation for road maintenance practices to maintain butterfly habitat.

Propertius Duskywing Study

Butterfly survey of the Erynnis Propertius (Duskywings) in the Upper Skagit Valley conducted from April to August 2001. Includes butterfly habitats and host plants.

Feasibility Study for the Skagit Environmental Education Centre

Study to look at the feasibility of establishing an environmental residential high school facility in the Canadian Skagit Watershed. Study concludes that given the political climate such a school would not be feasible but a post-secondary education program might be considered. Follows up on a study by Richard Kool and Sue Stan forth entitled "Visions and Proposals for a Sustainable Learning Community."

Quantifying Fuel Loads and Classifying Vegetation in the Skagit Valley Recreational Area

Measure fossil fuel accumulations and standing live fuel as supporting data for future prescriptions regarding fire management.

Riparian Habitat Creation on Ross Lake Final Report: 2006

Report of a project to improve healthy riparian plant community in and near Dry Creek Bay on Ross Lake.

Ross Lake Rainbow Trout Study 1992-93 Data Appendix

 

Ecosystem Mapping and Conversion of Existing Habitat Maps in the Skagit River Drainage in British Columbia - Draft

Work on mapping rare and endangered wildlife and plant species on the Skagit watershed.

Ross Lake Rainbow Trout Study 1992-93 Progress Report

Progress report in five year study of rainbow trout on Ross Lake.

Ross Lake Rainbow Trout Study 1993-94 Progress Report

Progress report of five year study of rainbow trout on Ross Lake.

Fish Habitat Assessment and Char Utilization for the Upper Skagit River Watershed, BC

Fish habitat study of the Skagit River conducted in conjunction with year 4 of the Upper Skagit River Watershed Native Char Project. Includes key habitat characteristics and conditions for char populations.

Interpretive Inventory and Sign Proposal for the Highway-3 West Corridor in Manning Provincial Park

Document recommends sites and interpretive signage.

Ross Lake Rainbow Trout Study 1994-95 Data Appendix

 

Ross Lake Rainbow Trout Study 1994-95 Final Report

The fifth and final year of a study to evaluate the effect of special sport fishing regulations (implemented in 1990) on reversing a historic decline in the size and numbers of rainbow trout on Ross Lake.

Skagit Char Project, Final Report

Genetic testing to establish whether two distinct populations of char occur in the upper Skagit system. Results: recommend early closure (Mid Sept. on) to all angling in the main river from Twenty-six Mile Bridge downstream to the mouth of Shawatum Cr. to protect the more vulnerable of the two species during spawning. It is believed the two distinct species are necessary to maintain the larger number of hybrids in the system.

High Lakes Survey; Skagit River Watershed, Okanagan National Forest, Methow Valley Ranger District - 1998

10 high lakes were surveyed in the Okanagan National Forest. Compiles and discusses the habitat, in-lake chemical and physical characteristics and the fisheries, macro invertebrates, and wildlife observed.

Skagit Connections

Cross border school program for Grade 5 students. Includes report, materials and photographs.

Harlequin Duck Inventory of the Upper Skagit Watershed

Report on inventory of Harlequin Ducks in the upper Skagit River watershed. There was an estimate of 20 pairs.

Skagit Connections

Cross border school program for Grade 5 students. Includes report, materials and photographs.

Skagit Connections

Cross border school program for Grade 5 students. Includes report, materials and photographs.

Skagit Environment Endowment Area, Status of Wildlife Data

An assessment of known wildlife data and recreational use of the Skagit. Results: Recommends and identifies areas that require further study. Further funding from 86-02 help meet the recommendations.

Hozomeen Fire Management Study

Mapping of vegetation and fire fuels and development of fire control plans. Results: Recommendations: manually thin thickets of small trees near developed area to reduce the risk of wildfire losses, map water sources for fire suppressing actions, and additional mapping of the fuel mosaic.

Skagit Oral History Project Phase 1: Final Report "Perspectives on the High Ross Treaty"

Oral histories of key players in the High Ross Dam controversy including Bert Brink, Tom Brucker, Tony Eberts, Ken Farquharson, John Fraser, Patrick Goldsworthy, Margaret and Joe Miller, Ben Marr, Tom Perry and Bob Boyer.

Skagit Oral History Project Phase 11: Final Report

Continues oral histories with interviews of Joel Connely, Jerry Garmn, Ray Willston, Norm Pearson and Randy Revelle

Skagit River Rare Biological Elements: Part 1 - Pacific Rhododendrons, Part 2 - Small Mammals Part 3 - Bat Survey of the Skagit Watershed in British Columbia

Examination of the plant communities associated with Rhododendron macrophyllum in the Skagit watershed. Results: recommend revision of CWH communities in Skagit to incorporate R. macrophyllum as a diagnostic association Small mammal survey for significant species in 4 eco reserves and 2 additional sites. Results: no rare small mammals located; recommends survey of likely habitat rather than previously delineated survey areas of uniform habitat. An inventory of bat species conducted in August 1993. Results: species located, including, Myotis ciliolabrum (blue list) and historical record for red listed Lasiurus nlossevilli

Ecological Study of the Skagit Valley Provincial Park Lowlands

Completion of available biological studies of the Upper Skagit lowlands and field surveys to fill data gaps. The resulting document provides baseline information for future land-use decisions.

Skagit River Rainbow Trout Population Trends: Underwater Census From 1986 to 1994

Results of research on rainbow trout fishery of the Skagit River in 1986, 1987, 1990. 1992 and 1994. Looks at trends in abundance and size distribution.

Bats of the Northern Skagit Watershed

The objectives of the study to identify bat diversity and distribution in the Northern Skagit watershed and compare bar activity levels between forests of different ecosystem zones and ages.

The Skagit Environmental Education Centre: Visions and Proposals for a Sustainable Learning Community

A study to look at the idea of establishing an environmental education centre on the Canadian side of the Skagit.

Environmental Assessment Enhance Recreational Opportunities in Ross Lake National Recreation Area

A report looking at recreational opportunities while conserving park resources.

Tourism Planning and Environmental Education in the Upper Skagit River Valley

Part of SEEC's education initiative the study looks at opportunities for tourism and environmental education on the US side.

Student Conservation Association Canada-US Program - 2006

Report on the crew and work completed in the summer of 2006.

Distribution and Abundance of Mountain Goats Within the Ross Lake Watershed

Mountain goat study in Ross Lake Watershed, North Cascades National Park.

Student Conservation Association Canada-US Program - 2007

Report on the crew and work completed in the summer of 2007.

Student Conservation Association Canada-US Program - 2008

Report on the crew and work completed in the summer of 2008.

Student Conservation Association Work Crew Final Report - 2000

Report on the crew and work completed in the summer of 2000.

Current Status of Deer Spring Ranges at Whitworth and Ponderosa Meadows, Lower Skagit Valley

Study to determine the impact of vegetation succession on the major spring ranges and compare to data already collected.

Skagit River Rainbow Trout Population Trends: Underwater Census From 1982 to 1994

Rainbow trout studies on the Can Skagit and Ross Reservoir from snorkeler surveys.

Current Population Status of Black Bear, Grizzly Bear, Cougar and Wolf in the Skagit River Watershed

Looks at population estimates for carnivores within the Skagit watershed.

Current Population Status and Seasonal Distribution of Mountain Goat in the Skagit River Watershed

Study to determine number of mountain goats in the Skagit. Conclusion that the goat population is depressed possibly die to over hunting prior to 1970.

Skagit River Watershed Background Report

A background report to assist with the development of a Fish and Wildlife Management Plan for the Skagit Watershed

Conservation Biology Funding Priorities in the Upper Skagit Watershed

Report on past funding and recommendations for future funding for SEEC. Includes information from a workshop at University in March 2005.

Skagit Valley Provincial Park/North Cascades National Park Interpretive Programs, Summer 2000

Summary of the Interpretive program at Hozomeen in the summer of 2000. Includes recommendations for future years.

Characteristics of the 1986 Fall Hunting Effort and Harvest in the Skagit River Watershed

Baseline data for number of hunters, species of games and current level of harvest.

Status of Fur Harvesting in the Skagit River Watershed, 1970 - 1986

Documents fur harvesting activities in the Skagit River Watershed from 1970 - 1986 and makes recommendation for wild fur harvesting in the watershed.

Biophysical Wildlife Habitat Mapping of the Skagit

The project provides maps of wildlife habitat and discusses habitat quality for the Skagit River drainage of BC. The maps are stored on computer so that interpretations can be changed as new information becomes available. Wildlife species interpretations thought to be of immediate import are included in the report.

Status of Harlequin Ducks in the Upper Skagit River Watershed, British Columbia

Report of 4 year study of Harlequin Ducks in the Upper Skagit Watershed. Identifies population estimates, nesting locations, mortality factors and disturbance. Includes recommendations for managing Harlequin Ducks.

Wildlife-Resistant Storage Containers for Boat-In Campgrounds in Ross Lake National recreational area

Report of pilot program to install wildlife-resistant containers at Lightening Creek and Big Beaver boat-in campgrounds and educate campers on their value.

Genetic Variation and Reproductive Ecology of Rhododendron Macrophyllum (Pac. Rhodo) in Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks - Phase 1

Year one of study to compare genetic characteristics and reproductive success of Skagit Valley Rhododendron populations.

The Future of the Skagit Valley

An early study of the Skagit Valley presented to the International Joint Commission in Ottawa prior to the creation of SEEC.

Genetic Variation and Reproductive Ecology of Rhododendron Macrophyllum (Pac. Rhodo) in the Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks - Phase II

Comparison of the genetic characteristics and reproductive success of Skagit Valley Rhododendron populations with those found in other areas.

00002FBA.pdf

 

Sumallo River Stocking Evaluation: Progress 1989

The introduction of a resident strain of yearling rainbow trout into the Sumallo River was evaluated during summer to fall, 1989. Results: Recommends deferring further restocking, extend the trapping period, document the age structure of migrant and in-stream populations of trout and char to confirm growth patterns, and re-examine previous capacity and standing crop estimates in the Sumallo River.

Forest Dwelling Songbirds in the Skagit Valley, BC: Development of a Wildlife Viewing Program

Information for input to the development of a wildlife viewing program in the Skagit Valley.

Fire Management Plan (Summary), EC Manning Park, Skagit Valley Recreation Area

Summary of the fire management plan for the valley.

00002FBE.pdf

 

International Interpretive Program: Annual Interpretive Assessment 2005

Report for the 2005 joint international interpretive program at Hozomeen.

Terrestrial Riparian Arthropod Investigations in the Big Beaver Creek Research Natural Area, NCNPS Complex, 1995-1996: Part III, Arachnida:Araneae

Assessment of riparian arthropod occurrence, abundance and habitat associations in Big Beaver Cr.

Terrestrial Riparian Arthropod Investigations in the Big Beaver Creek Research Natural Area, NCNPS Complex, 1995-1996: Part I, Hemiptera:Heteroptera

Assessment of riparian arthropod occurrence, abundance and habitat associations in Big Beaver Cr. Results: There are a number of significant species recorded, but the area could use additional study. It is an ideal site to study boreal insects because of the ice shield in the park.

Terrestrial Riparian Arthropod Investigations in the Big Beaver Creek Research Natural Area, NCNPS Complex, 1995-1996: Part II, Coleoptera

Assessment of riparian arthropod occurrence, abundance and habitat associations in Big Beaver Cr.

Reproductive and Genetic Variation of Rhododendron Macrophyllum (G. Don ex D. Don) at Populations in British Columbia and Washington

Study of the ericaceous shrub Rhododendron macrophyllum at twelve sites in the Skagit watershed. Includes information on genetic variability and reproductive success.

International Interpretive Program: Annual Interpretive Assessment 2006

Report for the 2006 joint international interpretive program at Hozomeen.

Terrestrial Riparian Arthropod Investigations in the Big Beaver Creek Research Natural Area, NCNPS Complex, 1995-1996: Part V Analysis of Arthropod Community Characteristics and Habitat Assoc.

Assessment of riparian arthropod occurrence, abundance and habitat associations in Big Beaver Cr.

International Interpretive Program: Annual Interpretive Assessment 2007

Report for the 2007 joint international interpretive program at Hozomeen.

Hozomeen International Interpretive Program, Annual Interpretive Assessment - 2001

Report on the 2001 Interpretive program at Hozomeen.

Ross Lake Campground Maps and Information

Surveys of the US Ross Lake campgrounds and the denuded areas. Created a brochure on Ross Lake rehabilitations.

Harlequin Duck Inventory of the Upper Skagit Watershed: Interim Data Report Year 1

Following up on the inventory work in 2000, further investigation into Harlequin Ducks and recommendations for conservation and land use to preserve habitat and populations.

Harlequin Duck Inventory of the Upper Skagit Watershed: Interim Data Report Year 2

Following up on the inventory work in 2000 and 2001 indicating only 13 pairs in area.

Lightning Lake Assessment of Fish Populations 1992

Determination of fish populations in Lightning Lake, Manning Park BC in 1992.

Hozomeen Long-range Interpretive Plan North Cascades National Park/Skagit Valley Provincial Park

Describes the area, the visitors, current interpretive efforts and recommendations for furthering the interpretive goals of BC Parks and the US NPS.

Inventory of Cross-country Recreational Impacts in the Ross Lake Watershed of North Cascades National Park.

A baseline survey of impacts of recreational use on backcountry trails to Ruby Mtn., Jack Mtn, Starvation Ridge, Picket Traverse, Depot-Whatcom, Prophet Range, Elijah Ridge, Ragged Ridge, and Hozomeen/Silver. Includes a map and photographic log.

Visitor Services Project: Report 5

 

Skagit River Angling

 

A Survey of Spotted Owl in the Skagit River Region of British Columbia

 

A Pacific Giant Salamander Survey and List of Herpetological Records in the Skagit River Watershed

 

Angler Catch and Use Survey of Ross Reservoir and the Canadian Skagit River, 1985

Angler catch and effort study, to determine if numbers of trout had declined. Results: Angler catches in the Ross Reservoir and Canadian Skagit River declined since the early 1970’s. Recommends an increase in sampling frequency, collect scale samples, and complete further trout tagging from April to June.

Helicopter Nesting and Habitat Survey of Peregrine Falcon, Golden Eagle and Osprey; and Ground-Survey of Spotted, Barred and Great Gray Owls in the Ross Lake Drainage, Washington State

A helicopter survey of nesting Peregrine Falcons, Golden Eagles, Ospreys, and Bald Eagles was carried out during 2 days in June. A ground census of Spotted, Great Grey, and Barred Owls was carried out over 10 weeks. Results: No Peregrine Falcons were found, but there were abundant suitable nesting sites. Continued monitoring of Peregrine Falcon nesting habitat is recommended, as well as monitoring of the 6 Osprey nests found. No Spotted Owls were located, but further census is recommended.

Estimate of the Deer Population in the Skagit Watershed

 

Canadian Skagit River Rainbow Trout Sampling Program - 1987

Stock monitoring of the Skagit River drainage.

A Floristic Survey of Big Beaver Valley

 

Skagit River and Ross Reservoir Fisheries Management Plan 1989-1993

Summary of historical data and assessment of fish habitat for the development of a joint Canada/US fisheries management plan.

Skagit Valley User Survey

A survey was conducted to find user characteristics and demographics, experiences and recommendations. Recommendations to improve access to waterfront areas, increase picnic tables, provide information on fishing regulations, trails, and other park facilities. Stresses the importance of leaving the park undeveloped (no commercial facilities).

Heritage Resource Inventory and Mitigation for the Ross Lake Provincial Park Campground Expansion Project, Upper Skagit Valley, B.C.

Discusses archaeological finding for the Ross Lake area

A Population Assessment and Stocking Evaluation of Rainbow Trout in the Sumallo River

Objectives: to determine the migration timing of rainbow trout and Dolly Varden char by means of a fish fence; measure various parameters known to affect trout and char-rearing capability; make a standing stock estimate of numbers and biomass; determine if the adfluvial-lacustrine life-history pattern is an important component; and examine angling-catch statistics of hatchery-stocked trout.

Water, Sewage, and Power Supply Skagit Valley/North Cascade Park

Ministry of Parks Infrastructure Study. Results: Recommendations for a groundwater exploration program, assessment and testing of possible percolation fields, application for a permit to construct sewage treatment facilities, and that Phase I of the staging plan should be brought forward for design while the Parks are still accessible.

Living With Mountains: A Guide for Learning and Teaching About Mountain Landscapes

A curriculum guide grouped into three main areas: mountain landforms, mountain ecosystems, and mountain people. Activities focus on grades 5/6, and can be adapted for older of younger children by the teacher. An extensive resources section is included recommending reference books, children’s books, audio-visual materials, and computer programs.

Skagit River Rainbow Trout Sampling Program, Data Report

Data appendix.

Ross Lake Rainbow Trout Study 1991-92 Progress Report

 

Chert Procurement in the Upper Skagit Valley, RLNRA, WA

 

Vegetation and Wildlife Findings for Three Ecological Reserves in the Skagit River Valley

Inventory assessment and review of existing ecological reserves at ER 21,22 and 89. Due to lack of time and poor accessibility, one ecological reserve (#106) did not get inventoried. Results: Recommendations were to do studies on amphibians and small mammals in the ecological reserves of the Skagit Valley, bird surveys, and a vegetation inventory in the fourth reserve.