Title: Ecology of Juvenile Salmonids in Shallow Tidal Freshwater Habitats in the Vicinity of the Sandy River Delta in the Lower Columbia River

This study continues research started in 2007 to: 1) provide basic data on the migration characteristics and ecology of yearling and subyearling salmonids in tidal freshwater habitats in the vicinity of the Sandy River delta in the lower Columbia River ; and 2) assess feasibility to apply acoustic telemetry technology for action effectiveness research  and for quantification of residence times and migration pathways in shallow, tidal freshwater habitats.  The Sandy River delta and vicinity was chosen as the study area primarily because it is within the understudied portion of the tidal freshwater area of the Columbia River (RM 110-146). Secondly, there are plans for a major habitat restoration project (rechannelization) having the potential for significant restoration of shallow water habitat for juvenile salmonids.  Research on juvenile salmonid ecology in tidal freshwater is also called for in the Northwest Power and Conservation Council’s Lower Columbia Subbasin Plan and draft Research Plan.  Finally, the project was included in the 2008 Biological Opinion on operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System (NOAA Fisheries 2008).  We propose to use a shallow (0-3 m) beach seine to sample fish within three of the most common shallow tidal freshwater habitats: river confluence floodplain, shallows, and mainstem island.  The study will perform status and trends monitoring and uncertainties research on yearling and subyearling salmonids in tidal freshwater and conduct action effectiveness research applicable to a potential rechannelization restoration activity in the delta.  We will substantively coordinate and integrate our results with other relevant studies in the lower Columbia River and estuary (LCRE).  Year 2 of the Tidal Freshwater Monitoring (TFM) project will build on results from Year 1.