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The Problem
The Cowlitz Falls Hydroelectric Project began operation in the spring of 1994 and was modeled after the Wells Hydroelectric Project on the Columbia River, Washington. The goal of this project is to reintroduce salmon and steelhead to 200 miles of tributaries above Cowlitz Falls Dam. Key to the introduction strategy is a state of the art surface collector and fish facility, which included attraction, collection, dewatering, bypass, and handling/transport facilities. Results at the Cowlitz Falls Project after four full seasons of operation and collection, using mark recaptures, hydro-acoustics, and radio telemetry clearly demonstrated that many salmonid smolts exhibited substantial delay and searching behavior prior to entering the surface collection system. Consequently, many fish passed the project through the turbines, either directly or by an induction slot. Objectives The objective of this study is to implement passage technologies that will improve the collection efficiency of juvenile salmonids at Cowlitz Falls Dam. Methodology
During 2002, we will test a modified entrance to the fish collection flume that is intended to increase the opportunity for fish to discover and enter the surface collection system. We will used an acoustic camera in addition to flume sampling to evaluate the performance of the false front. Highlights and Key Findings To date, we have completed the turbulence fish experiments as identified in the objectives and methodology, but have not yet analyzed the data. Where Are We Headed In 2003 Data analysis will take place in FY03 as well as further testing of the alternative entrance to the fish collection flume. Project Contact Dennis Rondorf Email: dennis_rondorf@usgs.gov Publications |
