Population Characteristics of the Fish Community in the Niobrara River Downstream of Spencer Dam, Nebraska
The objective of this research will be to investigate the entire fish community of the Niobrara River downstream of Spencer Dam, Nebraska. This study began in April 2008 and will continue through the end of 2009. We will provide a detailed summary of the fish fauna, incorporating seasonal variations corresponding to habitat conditions. This study will evaluate the relative abundance, size structure, and spatial attributes of the entire fish community in this reach of the Niobrara River.
We will use a variety of gears to sample the fish community. Drifted trammel nets and trotlines will be used to target larger (> 12 inches) fish. Eletrofishing and seines will be used to target small-bodied fishes. Larval drift nets will be used to capture drifting eggs, larval, and juvenile fish. A detailed report of our findings is planned to be published in May 2010.
