Fish Entrainment and Strategies for Diversion

by Andrew R. Blystra, Thunder Bay Power Co, Traverse, United States,
Dennis J. McCauley, Thunder Bay Power Co, Traverse, United States,
John E. Navarro, Thunder Bay Power Co, Traverse, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract:

Hydroelectric power projects often impound reservoirs which contain important recreational fisheries. The entrainment of fish through these facilities and the possible associated entrainment mortality may be a factor limiting healthy reservoir and river fish populations. Unless prevented from doing so, fish are entrained and released downstream whenever water is discharged from a project. Mitigative techniques are necessary to prevent or minimize fish entrainment and associated mortality. A fish entrainment study was conducted at Four-Mile Dam in northeastern Michigan from May of 1992 through April of 1993 to determine the extent of fish entrainment. The study estimated fish abundance, species and size composition and diurnal and seasonal distribution. That information was used to develop tentative fish diversion and exclusion strategies for the overall operational plan for the facility. Preliminary studies indicated that a combination of fine air bubble curtain deployment and strobe lighting were successful as fish diversion/exclusion techniques.

Subject Headings: Fish and fishery management | Entrainment | Hydro power | Reservoirs | Water discharge | Spillways | Project management | Michigan | United States

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