Fish and Wildlife Mgmt Asst-Kootenai River Burbot Egg, Embryo, and Larval Temperature-Dependent Growth and Survival Study

The proposed project will evaluate the effects of altered thermal profiles on the embryo and early life stage of Burbot in the context of current and historical Kootenai River flow regimes. Critical questions that will be addressed in this project include but are not limited to the following: ��� What are the specific thermal requirements (throughout the egg incubation period) for proper embryo and early larval development? ��� Given typical temperature peaks in the Kootenai River during the incubation period, what are the survival rates of Burbot eggs and do they temporally change with egg development? ��� Can optimal flow management profiles be identified that will provide river temperatures that promote egg survival? ��� What is the specific relationship between flow and temperature in the Kootenai River, and can adequate flows be managed during Burbot egg incubation that will be conducive to hatching success? This project is authorized under CFDA Program 15.608 Fish and Wildlife Management Assistance. Authorizing legislation is the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 742a-742j; Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1958, 16 U.S.C. 661-666; Sikes Act of 1974, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 670(a)-670(o); Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. 3101; Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, Public Law 92-522, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 1361-1421; Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1980; Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 4701-4741; the Lacey Act (18 U.S.C. 42; 50 CFR 16).