Bull Trout Research
One of the many uses of national wildlife refuges is scientific research into the lives and needs of wildlife, both by FWS researchers, the academic world and occasionally private researchers. On McNary NWR, the FWS has been conducting research into bull trout. Bull trout are salmonid native to the Northwest and are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. On the Walla Walla River, bull trout are captured, PIT tagged (Passive Integrated Transponder), and released back to the river. As the trout move up and down the river (or not), each time they pass by a PIT tag reader, their movement is noted, and FWS scientists in Vancouver, Washington, can track their movements. By knowing how, where and when the bull trout are moving, the FWS can devise and refine plans for their recovery. Just one of the many beneficial uses of your national wildlife refuges.
At McNary NWR, we have several osprey nesting platforms. Basically, we put a large, flat platform on top of a telephone pole. Why? Because ospreys nest in the tops of trees near water, and while we have plenty of water, trees are at a premium. Osprey nesting platforms are wildly successful if done correctly and if there is a source of fish. At McNary we’ve had varying success, but the platform just across the slough from our offices has had tremendous success, raising multiple chicks to adulthood over the last few years.
More About Ospreys