Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) and Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus): report on the progress of recovery strategy and action plan implementation 2016 to 2021
Document information
Recommended citation:
Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 2022. Report on the Progress of Recovery Strategy and Action Plan Implementation for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) and the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada for the Period 2016 to 2021. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy and Action Plan Report Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa. iv+ 47 pp.
For copies of the progress report, or for additional information on species at risk, including Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) Status Reports, recovery strategies, residence descriptions, action plans, and other related recovery documents, please visit the Species at Risk Public Registry.
Cover illustration: Nooksack Dace (top) and Salish Sucker (bottom). Photos by Mike Pearson.
Également disponible en français sous le titre
“Rapport sur les progrès de la mise en œuvre des programmes de rétablissement et du plan d’action pour le naseux de la Nooksack (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) et le meunier de Salish (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) au Canada pour la période 2016 à 2021“
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 2022. All rights reserved.
ISBN 978-0-660-42626-6
Catalogue no. En3-4/19-1-2022E-PDF
Content (excluding the cover photos) may be used without permission, with appropriate credit to the source.
Preface
The federal, provincial, and territorial government signatories under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk (1996) agreed to establish complementary legislation and programs that provide for the protection of species at risk throughout Canada. Under section 46 of the Species at Risk Act (S.C. 2002, c.29) (SARA), the competent minister is responsible for reporting on the implementation of the recovery strategy for a species at risk, and on the progress towards meeting its objectives within 5 years of the date when the final recovery strategy was placed on the Species at Risk Public Registry, and in every subsequent 5-year period until its objectives have been achieved or the species’ recovery is no longer feasible. Under section 55 of SARA, the competent minister must monitor the implementation of an action plan and the progress towards meeting its objectives and assess and report on its implementation and its ecological and socio-economic impacts 5 years after the plan comes into effect.
Reporting on the progress of recovery strategy and action plan implementation requires reporting on the collective efforts of the competent minister, provincial and territorial governments, and all other parties involved in conducting activities that contribute to the species’ recovery. Recovery strategies identify broad strategies and approaches that will provide the best chance of ensuring the survival and recovery of species at risk. Action plans provide the detailed recovery planning that supports the strategic direction set out in the recovery strategy for the species. Some of the identified broad strategies and approaches are sequential to the progress or completion of others and not all may be undertaken or show significant progress during the timeframe of a report on the progress of recovery strategy and action plan implementation (progress report).
The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans is the competent minister under SARA for the Nooksack Dace and the Salish Sucker and has prepared this progress report.
As stated in the preamble to SARA, success in the protection and recovery of species at risk depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that will be involved in implementing the directions set out in the recovery strategy and action plan and will not be achieved by Fisheries and Oceans Canada or any other jurisdiction alone. The cost of recovering and conserving species at risk is shared amongst different constituencies. All Canadians are invited to join in supporting and implementing the recovery strategy and action plan for the Nooksack Dace and the Salish Sucker for the benefit of the species and Canadian society as a whole.
Acknowledgments
This progress report was prepared by Carrie Kwok and Andrew Baylis with contributions from Erin Gertzen, Heather Lamson, and Ahdia Hassan (Fisheries and Oceans Canada [DFO]). To the extent possible, this progress report has been prepared with inputs from Jorden Rosenfeld (British Columbia Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy) and Mike Pearson (Pearson Ecological). DFO would also like to express its appreciation to all individuals and organizations who have contributed to the recovery of the Nooksack Dace and the Salish Sucker.
Executive summary
The Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) was listed as endangered under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) in 2003 and the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) was listed under SARA as endangered in 2005 and reclassified as threatened in 2019. The “Recovery Strategy for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) in Canada” was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2008 (Pearson et al. 2008). The “Recovery Strategy for the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada” was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2016 (DFO 2016a). Both recovery strategies were amended in 2020 to include updates to the biology, recovery feasibility assessment, threats, population and distribution objectives, and critical habitat (DFO 2020a, b).
The “Action Plan for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) and the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada” was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2017 (DFO 2017). The action plan was amended in 2020 to reflect changes made in the amended recovery strategies for the 2 species (DFO 2020c).
Nooksack Dace
The main threats identified for the Nooksack Dace include: sediment deposition, seasonal lack of water, harmful substances, physical destruction of habitat, hypoxia, riffle loss to impoundment, and habitat fragmentation. The most widespread and highest risk threat to Nooksack Dace across its Canadian range is sediment deposition.
The population and distribution objectives for the Nooksack Dace are:
- population objective: Nooksack Dace are moderately abundantFootnote 1 in 60 percent of currently or historically occupied reaches by 2030. Occupied reaches means those reaches that currently contain or historically contained more than 10 percent riffle habitat by length in each of the species’ 4 native watersheds in British Columbia (BC)
- distribution objective: Nooksack Dace presence is confirmed in 80 percent of currently or historically occupied reaches by 2030. Occupied reaches means those reaches that currently contain or historically contained more than 10 percent riffle habitat by length in each of the species’ 4 native watersheds in BC
Salish Sucker
The main threats identified for the Salish Sucker include: hypoxia, seasonal lack of water, harmful substances, sediment deposition, habitat fragmentation, physical destruction of habitat, and introduction of aquatic invasive species. The most widespread and highest risk threat to Salish Sucker across its Canadian range is severe hypoxia.
The population and distribution objectives for the Salish Sucker are:
- population objective:
- long-term: reach or exceed watershed-specific population objectives identified in table 5 of the recovery strategy by 2035
- distribution objectives:
- short-term: continued presence in all 11 currently occupied watersheds
- long-term: presence in all critical habitat reaches by 2035
The “Report on the Progress of Recovery Strategy and Action Plan Implementation for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) and the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada for the Period 2016 to 2021” (progress report) summarizes the progress made by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and its partners towards implementing the recovery strategies and action plan and achieving their objectives from 2016 to 2021. During this time period, progress has been made in:
- monitoring recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker through ongoing distribution and population abundance surveys and surveying for undocumented populations in suitable habitats
- filling knowledge gaps that inhibit recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker, including increased understanding of threats to the species
- development, implementation, and monitoring of habitat restoration and enhancement projects
- development and dissemination of public education materials and information to foster community stewardship and participation in species recovery
While progress has been made in recovery, none of the performance indicators for Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker have been met, and population and distribution objectives have not been met. Further work is required to meet population and distribution objectives for both species. Continued efforts will be necessary to ensure long-term survival and recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker in BC, including:
- ongoing surveys to evaluate population abundance estimates and trends
- ongoing habitat restoration and enhancement to improve habitat access and habitat quality
- continued public outreach and watershed stewardship, particularly within the agricultural community
- exploration of short-term and long-term options to address the cumulative effects of local and watershed-scale threats, such as nutrient loading, sedimentation and seasonal water availability, in areas with known Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker distribution and critical habitat
- increased engagement with interested agencies, groups and individuals that support the recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker
Further research may result in identification of additional critical habitat and/or refine the understanding of the functions, features and attributes of the currently identified critical habitat as necessary to support achieving the species’ population and distribution objectives.
DFO remains committed to recovering the Nooksack Dace and the Salish Sucker. The work underway and completed to date has built a strong foundation for continued research, recovery and management of this species over the next reporting period.
1 Introduction
The “Recovery Strategy for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) in Canada” was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2008 (Pearson et al. 2008) and the “Recovery Strategy for the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada” was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2016 (Fisheries and Oceans Canada [DFO] 2016a). Both recovery strategies were amended in 2020 to include updates to the biology, recovery feasibility assessment, threats, population and distribution objectives, and critical habitat (DFO 2020a, b).
The “Action Plan for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) and the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada” was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in 2017 (DFO 2017). The action plan was amended in 2020 to reflect changes made in the amended recovery strategies for the 2 species (DFO 2020c).
This progress report outlines the progress made towards meeting the broad strategies, approaches, and recovery measures listed in the recovery strategies and action plan for the Nooksack Dace and the Salish Sucker from 2016 to 2021 and is part of a series of documents for these species that are linked and should be taken into consideration together; including the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) status reports (COSEWIC 2012, 2018), the recovery potential assessments (RPAs; DFO 2008, 2015), the “Report on the Progress of Recovery Strategy Implementation for Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) in Canada for the Period 2008 – 2015” (DFO 2016b), the amended recovery strategies (herein referred to as the Nooksack Dace recovery strategy and the Salish Sucker recovery strategy; DFO 2020a, b), and the amended action plan (herein referred to as the action plan; DFO 2020c).
Section 2 of the progress report provides an overview of key information on the threats to the species, population and distribution objectives for achieving their recovery, and performance indicators to measure the progress of recovery. Section 3 reports the progress of activities identified in the recovery strategies and action plan, to support achieving the population and distribution objectives. Section 4 summarizes the progress toward achieving the population and distribution objectives.
2 Background
2.1 COSEWIC assessment summary and threats to the species and its critical habitat
Nooksack Dace
In 2000, COSEWIC assessed the Nooksack Dace as endangered. The species was subsequently listed as endangered under Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act (SARA) in 2003. COSEWIC re-examined and confirmed the status of the Nooksack Dace as endangered in 2007 and 2018, as described in the COSEWIC assessment and status reports (COSEWIC 2007, 2018).
Assessment summary
November 2018
Common name
Nooksack Dace
Scientific name
Rhinichthys cataractae
Status
Endangered
Reason for designation
This small fish is a habitat specialist dependent on stream riffles with loose, rocky substrates. In Canada, it is found in disjunct habitat patches in the Fraser River Valley Lowlands where its distribution is severely limited. It is subject to ongoing habitat loss by destruction of riffle habitat from urban, industrial, and agricultural practices. Streams where the species is found are also impacted by lack of water in late summer due to ground and surface water extraction and climate change. Sediment accumulation in riffles, caused by bank erosion, resulting from gravel mining and/or runoff from urban storm drains, has led to further degradation of water quality and habitat.
Occurrence
British Columbia
Status history
Designated endangered in April 1996. Status re-examined and confirmed in May 2000, April 2007, and November 2018.
Section 5 of the Nooksack Dace recovery strategy provides information on threats to Nooksack Dace’s survival and recovery. These threats include: sediment deposition, seasonal lack of water, harmful substances, physical destruction of habitat, hypoxia, riffle loss to impoundment, and habitat fragmentation. Threat assessments for each population are available in appendix D of the Nooksack Dace recovery strategy. The most widespread and highest risk threat to Nooksack Dace across its Canadian range is sediment deposition.
Critical habitat for the Nooksack Dace was identified, to the extent possible, in section 8 of the Nooksack Dace recovery strategy. The Nooksack Dace recovery strategy also provides examples of activities that are likely to result in destruction of critical habitat (that is, threats to critical habitat). The list of activities provided in table 8 of the recovery strategy is neither exhaustive nor exclusive, and their inclusion has been guided by the relevant threats to habitat described in the recovery strategy. For more details on the activities likely to result in the destruction of critical habitat, consult the Nooksack Dace recovery strategy. Protection of Nooksack Dace’s critical habitat from destruction was achieved in 2016 through a SARA critical habitat order under subsections 58(4) and (5), which invoked the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of identified critical habitat. The critical habitat order was amended in 2020 to refine features and attributes of critical habitat.
Salish Sucker
In 2002, COSEWIC assessed the Salish Sucker as endangered. The species was subsequently added to Schedule 1 of SARA in 2005. Salish Sucker was reclassified as threatened in 2019 following a new COSEWIC assessment and status report (COSEWIC 2012).
Assessment summary
November 2012
Common name
Salish Sucker
Scientific name
Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus
Status
Threatened
Reason for designation
This small fish has a restricted and fragmented range in southwestern British Columbia where it is susceptible to a continuing decline in habitat quality. An improvement in status from endangered stems from a small increase in the number of known locations (from 9 to 14), including 1 location thought to have been extirpated, and some improvements in quality of habitat in areas subject to restoration.
Occurrence
British Columbia
Status history
Designated endangered in April 1986. Status re-examined and confirmed in November 2002. Status re-examined and designated threatened in November 2012.
Section 5 of the Salish Sucker recovery strategy provides information on the threats to Salish Sucker’s survival and recovery. These threats include: hypoxia, seasonal lack of water, harmful substances, sediment deposition, habitat fragmentation, physical destruction of habitat, and introduction of aquatic invasive species. Threat assessments for each population are available in appendix D of the Salish Sucker recovery strategy. The most widespread and highest risk threat to Salish Sucker across its Canadian range is hypoxia.
Critical habitat for the Salish Sucker was identified, to the extent possible, in section 8 of the recovery strategy. The Salish Sucker recovery strategy also provides examples of activities that are likely to result in destruction of critical habitat (that is, threats to critical habitat). The list of activities provided in table 9 of the recovery strategy is neither exhaustive nor exclusive, and their inclusion has been guided by the relevant threats to habitat described in the recovery strategy. For more details on the activities likely to result in the destruction of critical habitat, consult the Salish Sucker recovery strategy. Protection of Salish Sucker’s critical habitat from destruction was achieved in 2019 through a SARA critical habitat order under subsections 58(4) and (5), which invoked the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of identified critical habitat.
2.2 Recovery
This section summarizes the population and distribution objectives and performance indicators for Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker. Population and distribution objectives establish, to the extent possible, the number of individuals and/or populations, and their geographic distribution, that are necessary for the recovery of the species. Performance indicators provide a way to define and measure progress toward achieving those population and distribution objectives. Table 1 describes the population and distribution objectives and performance indicators for Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker; taken from both recovery strategies.
| Population and distribution objectives (Nooksack Dace) | Performance Indicators (Nooksack Dace) |
|---|---|
| Population objective: Nooksack Dace are moderately abundanta in 60 percent of currently or historically occupied reaches by 2030 | Nooksack Dace is found at moderate densityb in:
|
| Distribution objective: Nooksack Dace presence is confirmed in 80 percent of currently or historically occupied reaches by 2030 | Nooksack Dace is presentc in:
|
| Population and distribution objectives (Salish Sucker) | Performance Indicators (Salish Sucker) |
| Long-term population objective: reach or exceed watershed-specific population objectives identified in table 5 of the recovery strategy by 2035 | Salish Sucker is found at abundance levels corresponding with population targetsd, where:
|
| Short-term distribution objective: continued presence in all 11f currently occupied watersheds. Long-term distribution objective: presence in all critical habitat reaches by 2035. |
Salish Sucker is presentc in:
|
a. Moderate abundance is defined by a catch per unit effort exceeding 0.25 fish per Gee minnow trap (n=10) between April 1 and September 30 or observation of more than 50 fry per riffle (n=10 riffles, or complete reach census, whichever is less) between July 1 and August 31 (DFO 2020a).
b. Moderate density is indicated by a catch per unit effort of >0.25 Nooksack Dace per Gee minnow trap (Pearson 2004) with a minimum effort of 1 trap per 5 m of riffle length or 20 traps per reach.
c. Presence is indicated by the capture of an individual in the reach within the past 5 years.
d. Population targets are described in table 5 and use abundance estimates derived from mark-recapture sampling.
e. A twelfth population of Salish Sucker was discovered in Freytag Creek on Chawathil First Nation IR4 in 2018 after the population and distribution objectives were developed in the recovery strategy (Mike Pearson, pers. comm. 2018).
f. While recovery measures are noted for both Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker, this table only addresses activities completed for Nooksack Dace. Activities completed for Salish Sucker can be found in Table 5 below.
3 Progress towards recovery
Each of the recovery strategies divides recovery planning and implementation into 5 broad strategies to address identified threats. Under these broad strategies, 12 research and management approaches to meet the population and distribution objectives were identified (table 2). The action plan divides the broad strategies and approaches further into 34 recovery measures (table 3).
| Broad strategy | Research and management approaches | Relevant species |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory and monitoring | Approach 1-A: monitor recovery | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Research | Approach 2-B: fill knowledge gaps that inhibit recovery | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-C: reduce sediment entry to instream habitats | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-D: minimize entry of harmful substances to instream habitats | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-E: reduce fragmentation of instream habitats | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-F: ensure the integrity and proper function and reduce the fragmentation of riparian areas throughout watersheds | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-G: protect existing habitat, restore lost or degraded habitat, and create new habitat | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-H: establish and maintain adequate baseflow Nooksack Dace) and water depth (Salish Sucker) in all habitats with high potential productivity | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Management and coordination | Approach 3-I: reduce incidence of severe hypoxia in instream critical habitat | Salish Sucker |
| Stewardship and outreach | Approach 4-J: encourage stewardship amongst private landowners, local governments and the general public | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Stewardship and outreach | Approach 4-K: support stewardship projects to increase awareness of aquatic invasive species | Salish Sucker |
| International collaboration | Approach 5-L: explore opportunities for coordinating population assessment and recovery efforts with interested groups in the United States | Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker |
| Recovery measure | Approach |
|---|---|
|
1-A |
|
1-A |
|
1-A |
|
2-B |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-H |
|
4-J |
|
1-A |
|
2-B |
|
2-B |
|
2-B |
|
2-B |
|
2-B |
|
3-D |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-H |
|
4-J |
|
5-L |
|
2-B |
|
3-C |
|
3-D |
|
3-D |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
|
3-H |
|
3-I |
|
4-J |
|
4-J |
|
4-J |
|
4-J |
|
4-K |
Progress in carrying out these broad strategies, approaches and recovery measures is reported in section 3.1 of this report. Section 3.2 reports on the activities identified in the schedule of studies to identify critical habitat. Section 3.3 reports on the progress made towards meeting the performance indicators identified in the recovery strategies.
3.1 Activities supporting recovery
Tables 4 and 5 provide information on the implementation of activities undertaken to address broad strategies and approaches identified in the recovery strategies as well as recovery measures identified in the action plan. A number of recovery activities were implemented prior to 2016 and have been documented under section 7.1 of the amended recovery strategies and in the “Report on the Progress of Recovery Strategy Implementation for Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) in Canada for the Period 2008 to 2015” (DFO 2016b).
3.1.1 Recovery activities for Nooksack Dace
| Recovery measurea | Approach | Description and results | Participantsb |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1-A | Protocols for monitoring Nooksack Dace recovery have not been developed; however, standardized monitoring methods have been implemented. Minnow trapping and visual fry surveys were conducted from 2017 to 2018 to assess distribution and estimate population abundance in the 4 occupied watersheds. Combined across all watersheds, Nooksack Dace was found to be present in 40% of sampled critical habitat reaches. Moderate abundancec of Nooksack Dace was observed in 20% of sampled critical habitat reaches.
|
BC Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy (BC ENV), Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Fraser Valley Conservancy (FVC), Pearson Ecological (PE) |
|
1-A | A robust quantitative method of estimating abundance has not been developed due to low capture efficiencies for Nooksack Dace. As outlined in the recovery strategy, Gee minnow trapping of adults and visual fry surveys have been selected as the preferred sampling methods for Nooksack Dace. | N/A |
|
1-A | Field surveys and genetic analyses of fin clips were conducted from 2017 to 2018 to confirm potential new populations of Nooksack Dace from upper Chilliwack River, Chilliwack Lake, Harrison Lake and 3 of its tributaries. Preliminary results suggested that 90% of the sampled dace from Chilliwack River upstream of Chilliwack Lake had Nooksack Dace mitochondrial DNA (mDNA) markers (does not meet the 99% required to be considered a pure population; Eric Taylor, University of British Columbia [UBC] pers. comm.), with lower percentage of Nooksack Dace mitochondrial DNA markers at other sample sites. This indicates that a small amount of historical admixture has occurred with the Columbia form of Longnose Dace. Dace samples at the tributaries of Harrison Lake had 0% Nooksack Dace mDNA. | BC ENV, DFO, PE, UBC (Eric Taylor Lab.) |
|
2-B | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | A comprehensive inventory of completed and ongoing habitat restoration activities occurring in Nooksack Dace critical habitat was conducted in 2021. High priority opportunities for future habitat restoration and creation projects were identified. | DFO, PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Information and advice on habitat restoration projects is communicated by species experts on an ongoing basis. DFO funding opportunities for habitat restoration (for example, Habitat Stewardship Program, and the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk, Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk) encourage multi-species, threat-based and area-based approaches. | DFO |
|
3-H | Hydrometric stations were installed in Bertrand Creek watershed (2 sites at the mainstem and 1 site at Howe’s Creek) in 2019 and 2020 to continuously monitor flow. These hydrometric data are publicly available at Aquarius. This tool, along with Water Survey of Canada station data at Fishtrap and Pepin creeks, is publicly available. Watersheds vulnerable to inadequate base flow could be identified through analysis of this continuous flow data; however, this has not been completed. | BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development (FLNRORD) |
|
4-J | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
1-A | Formal protocols for monitoring Nooksack Dace recovery have not been developed for implementation; however, population monitoring is ongoing via a standardized method (refer to recovery measure 1). | BC ENV, DFO, FVC, PE |
|
2-B | In 2018, 256 underwater substrate photos were taken in Nooksack Dace critical habitat to evaluate sediment accumulation in riffles. Photos will be analyzed to characterize current habitat quality. Specific sediment sources within Nooksack Dace watersheds have not been identified. | BC ENV, DFO, PE |
|
2-B | As specified in the action plan, this recovery measure for Nooksack Dace was completed in 2017. | N/A |
|
2-B | As specified in the action plan, this recovery measure for Nooksack Dace was completed in 2017. | N/A |
|
2-B | This recovery measure does not apply to Nooksack Dace. | N/A |
|
2-B | This recovery measure does not apply to Nooksack Dace. | N/A |
|
3-D | The British Columbia (BC) - Washington (WA) Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group (TCG) was formed to conduct a 3-year water quality monitoring program from 2018 to 2021 to monitor, identify, and reduce fecal bacteria concentrations in the Nooksack River watershed, which include the Bertrand Creek, Fishtrap Creek, and Pepin Creek sub-basin watersheds (BC-WA Nooksack River Transboundary TCG 2019, 2020, 2021). Outreach and compliance promotion was conducted with agricultural, industrial, and residential sectors as well as municipalities. See activities under recovery measure 16 for habitat restoration activities that contribute to reduction of harmful substances to instream habitats, namely riparian vegetation planting. |
BC ENV, Whatcom Clean Water Program |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Gordon’s Brook (tributary to Pepin Creek; PEP13 reach) from 2017 to 2021 (approximately 10,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included development and implementation of a beaver management plan, ephemeral wetland construction, native vegetation planting, and monitoring/ maintenance. Deterrence of beaver habitat reconstruction (for example, removal and lowering of beaver dams, relocation of beavers) has been partially successful and monitoring is ongoing. | DFO, FVC, Fraser Valley Watersheds Coalition (FVWC), Harrison Nature Stewards, Metro Vancouver Parks (Metro Van Parks), Pacific Salmon Foundation (PSF), PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Fishtrap Creek in 2018 (approximately 1,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included side channel construction, large woody debris complexing, riffle placement, and riparian vegetation planting. | BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (BC MoTI), City of Abbotsford |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted in Bertrand Creek watershed from 2019 to 2020 (approximately 2,150 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included native vegetation planting, invasive plant removal, monitoring/ maintenance, and riparian health assessments. | Bertrand Creek Enhancement Society (BCES), DFO, Langley Environmental Partners Society (LEPS), PE, Township of Langley (ToL) |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
A beaver management plan was developed and implemented at Gordon’s Brook (a tributary of Pepin Creek) which included mapping the extent of beaver activity within that reach; beaver deterrence has been partially successful and monitoring is ongoing (refer to recovery measure 16). Development of a beaver management plan for the full critical habitat extent of Nooksack Dace at Pepin Creek is underway. | DFO, FVC, FVWC, Harrison Nature Stewards, Metro Van Parks, PSF, PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G |
Stewardship practices guides from the Stewardship Centre for British Columbia (SCBC) were updated in 2018 for drainage maintenance/ stewardship and riparian restoration/ enhancement activities that relate directly to Nooksack Dace and their habitats (SCBC 2018a, b). The updated guides provide best practices for restoring/enhancing riparian areas (for example, livestock exclusion fencing, creation of riparian wetlands) and for drainage maintenance (for example, working sensitively with machinery in water). Habitat restoration projects conducted in the Bertrand Creek watershed were conducted in partnership with landowners on their private properties (refer to recovery measure 16). Landowner engagement was conducted in conjunction with the restoration projects to promote best land management practices. No incentive programs currently exist that directly target Nooksack Dace. |
BCES, DFO, LEPS, PE, SCBC, ToL |
|
3-H | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
4-J | Habitat enhancement guidelines were drafted in 2018 to provide guiding principles and practical advice for incorporating habitat features that benefit Nooksack Dace into non-targeted habitat restoration projects and instream works (Pearson 2018 in draft). | DFO, FVC, PE |
|
5-L | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
2-B | This recovery measure does not apply to Nooksack Dace. | N/A |
|
3-C | See activities under recovery measure 16 for details on recovery activities related to riparian vegetation planting and bank stabilization to prevent and mitigate sediment entry and sedimentation of riffles. Reduction of sedimentation from urban and industrial sources has not been achieved. Any works, undertakings, or activities that result in the death of fish or the harmful alteration, disruption, or destruction of fish habitat are subject to regulatory review and authorization under the federal Fisheries Act to prevent and mitigate sedimentation. The BC Riparian Areas Protection Act (RAPA) protects riparian areas from new development, which limits additional sediment entry into stream habitat. Both the Fisheries Act and the Riparian Areas Protection Regulation, established under RAPA, were amended in 2019. |
DFO, Municipal Government |
|
3-D | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-D | Stewardship practices guides from the SCBC were updated in 2018 for drainage maintenance/ stewardship and riparian restoration/ enhancement activities that relate directly to Nooksack Dace and their habitats (SCBC 2018a, b). The updated guides provide best practices for reducing input of harmful substances (for example, proper application and storage of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers). The British Columbia (BC - Washington (WA) Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group conducted outreach and promoted compliance to reduce or eliminate sources of harmful substances to agricultural, industrial, and residential sectors as well as municipalities from 2018 to 2021. |
BC ENV, SCBC, Whatcom Clean Water Program |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration projects conducted in the Bertrand Creek watershed were conducted in partnership with landowners on their private properties (refer to recovery measure 16). Landowner engagement was conducted in conjunction with the restoration projects to promote best land management practices. Stewardship practices guides from the SCBC were updated in 2018 for drainage maintenance/ stewardship and riparian restoration/ enhancement activities that relate directly to Nooksack Dace and their habitats (SCBC 2018a, b). The updated guides provide best practices for restoring/enhancing riparian areas (for example, livestock exclusion fencing, creation of riparian wetlands) and for drainage maintenance (for example, working with machinery in water). No incentive programs currently exist that directly target Nooksack Dace needs. |
BCES, DFO, LEPS, PE, SCBC, ToL |
|
3-H | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-I | This recovery measure does not apply to Nooksack Dace. | N/A |
|
4-J | A Nooksack Dace stewardship and engagement strategy has not been developed; however, engagement and public outreach for Nooksack Dace has been conducted during this progress reporting period (refer to recovery measures 18 and 32). | BCES, DFO, Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISC), LEPS, PE, SCBC, ToL |
|
4-J | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
4-J | Twenty species at risk education sessions were delivered from 2017 to 2020 which included awareness and promotion of Nooksack Dace recovery to students, government, and professional organizations in Langley. Education sessions were conducted in numerous formats, including classroom presentations/workshops, interpretative walks, and volunteer planting. | DFO, ISC, LEPS |
|
4-J | Various ongoing initiatives consider Nooksack Dace needs (refer to recovery measures 18, 27, 30, 32). | BCES, DFO, ISC, LEPS, PE, SCBC, ToL |
|
4-K | This recovery measure does not apply to Nooksack Dace. | N/A |
a. While recovery measures are noted for both Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker, this table only addresses activities completed for Nooksack Dace. Activities completed for Salish Sucker can be found in Table 5 below.
b. Participants are listed in alphabetical order, with project leads identified in bold. DFO acknowledges the large network of people that contribute to recovery of Nooksack Dace and regrets any potential omissions of contributors.
c. Moderate abundance is defined by a catch per unit effort exceeding 0.25 fish per Gee minnow trap (n=10) between April 1 and September 30 or observation of more than 50 fry per riffle (n=10 riffles, or complete reach census, whichever is less) between July 1 and August 31 (DFO 2020a).
3.1.2 Recovery activities for Salish Sucker
| Recovery measurea | Approach | Description and results | Participantsb |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1-A | Protocols for monitoring Salish Sucker recovery have not been developed; however, standardized monitoring methods have been implemented. Mark-recapture surveys were conducted from 2016 to 2020 to estimate population abundance at Mountain Slough, Bertrand Creek, Little Campbell River, Salmon River, and Hopedale Slough/Salwein Creek, Fishtrap Creek, and Freytag Creek watersheds (7 of the 12 occupied watersheds). Populations in Pepin Creek, Chilliwack Delta, Agassiz Slough, and Miami Creek watersheds were not sampled over this reporting period. Based on survey results between 2016 and 2020, population objectives from the recovery strategy are not being met across all sampled Salish Sucker populations.
|
A Rocha Canada (A Rocha), British Columbia Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy (BC ENV), Cheam First Nation, Chilliwack Field Naturalists, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Fraser Valley Conservancy (FVC), Fraser Valley Watersheds Coalition (FVWC), Little Campbell Watershed Society, Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance (LFFA), Pearson Ecological (PE), seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., Save Our Slough, Skwah First Nation, Soowahlie First Nation, Trinity Western University (TWU), University of British Columbia (UBC), The WaterWealth Project, Watershed Watch Salmon Society |
|
1-A | This recovery measure does not apply to Salish Sucker. | N/A |
|
1-A | Surveys for undocumented populations of Salish Sucker at Alouette River, Fraser River (Herrling Island Swamp), Nicomen Slough/Norrish Creek, Stave watershed, and Widgeon Creek/Pitt Addington Marsh were conducted in 2017 and 2018; Salish Sucker individuals were not observed. Surveys were also conducted at Chilliwack Lake in 2019 and 2020; fin clips of suspected Salish Sucker individuals were collected. Results of genetic analysis are pending. | BC ENV, DFO, FVC, FVWC, Katzie First Nation, Leq’a:mel First Nation, PE, Soowalie First Nation, The WaterWealth Project, UBC |
|
1-A | A Salish Sucker population was discovered in 2018 in Freytag Creek on Chawathil First Nation IR4 near Hope, BC. Following this discovery, fish trapping and inventory mapping of spawning, juvenile rearing, adult foraging, and overwintering habitat areas was conducted from 2019 to 2020. Habitat mapping results indicated minimal suitable habitat at Chawathil First Nation IR4 (a single 1-acre pond and approximately 200 m length of creek at the inlet). | Chawathil First Nation, DFO, PE |
|
1-A | In 2020, an environmental DNA (eDNA) primer was developed for Salish Sucker for use as a non-invasive sampling method that detects presence of the species' genetic material from environmental samples (for example, water). eDNA sampling could be used to survey suspected locations of Salish Sucker in the future. | J Hobbs Ecological Consulting Ltd., Metro Van Parks, PE |
|
2-B | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | A comprehensive inventory of completed and ongoing habitat restoration activities occurring in Salish Sucker critical habitat was conducted in 2021. High priority opportunities for future habitat restoration and creation projects were identified. | DFO, PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Watershed-level riparian habitat surveys were conducted in the Little Campbell River watershed in 2019 to evaluate rate of canopy cover loss and regeneration. Priority riparian restoration areas were identified. | A Rocha, DFO |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Information and advice on habitat restoration projects is communicated by species experts on an ongoing basis. DFO funding opportunities for habitat restoration (for example, Habitat Stewardship Program, and the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk, Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk) encourage multi-species, threat-based and area-based approaches. | DFO |
|
3-H | The threat of seasonal low flow and water depth was monitored and quantified in the Little Campbell River watershed. Results from dry reach monitoring at the 200th Street crossing indicated that peak dewatering occurred in mid-September: 1.7 km channel length in 2018, 1.8 km channel length in 2019, and 1.6 km channel length in 2020. These dry reach events decrease available habitat and fragments existing habitat for Salish Sucker. Howe’s Creek, a tributary of Bertrand Creek, has had several dewatering events during dry summers between 2013 and 2020 (Pearson pers. comms. 2020). No further work has been conducted during this reporting period to identify and monitor low water depth in other Salish Sucker-occupied watersheds. |
A Rocha, DFO, PE |
|
3-H | Hydrometric stations were installed in Bertrand Creek watershed (2 sites at the mainstem and 1 site at Howe’s Creek) in 2019 and 2020 to continuously monitor flow. These hydrometric data are publicly available at Aquarius. This tool, along with Water Survey of Canada station data at Fishtrap Creek, Pepin Creek, and Salmon River is publicly available. Watersheds vulnerable to inadequate base flow could be identified through analysis of this continuous flow data; however, this has not been completed. | BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development (FLNRORD) |
|
4-J | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
1-A | Formal protocols for monitoring Salish Sucker recovery have not been developed; however, population monitoring using standardized sampling methods is ongoing (refer to recovery measure 1). | A Rocha, BC ENV, Cheam First Nation, Chilliwack Field Naturalists, DFO, FVC, FVWC, Little Campbell Watershed Society, LFFA, PE, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., Save Our Slough, Skwah First Nation, Soowahlie First Nation, TWU, UBC, The WaterWealth Project, Watershed Watch Salmon Society |
|
2-B | Analysis of substrate photos taken in 2018 within Nooksack Dace critical habitat could inform sediment accumulation issues in riffles in watersheds occupied by both Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker (refer to recovery measure 10 in table 4 for details). Specific sediment sources within Salish Sucker watersheds have not been identified. | BC ENV, DFO, PE |
|
2-B | The levels and types of sediment in riffles that are harmful to Salish Sucker have not been evaluated. However, research on effects of sediment accumulation on Nooksack Dace may inform the threat to Salish Sucker; as specified in the action plan. This was completed in 2017. | N/A |
|
2-B | Hydrometric monitoring (water depth and discharge rates) was conducted on the Little Campbell River (north of the 16th Ave crossing) from June 2019 to April 2021. Discharge rates fell below 10% mean annual discharge from June to November 2019 and June to October 2020. In addition, continuous water data (including water depth, temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, and pH) was collected between November 2018 and March 2021 using water quality sondes at 2 locations (16th Ave and 176th Street crossings) within the Little Campbell River watershed. Results from dry reach monitoring at 200th Street crossing indicated that peak dewatering occurred in mid-September (refer to recovery measure 7 in this table). | A Rocha, DFO |
|
2-B | Analysis of survey data from 2003 to 2018 on fish community and water quality (dissolved oxygen and temperature) throughout Salish Sucker critical habitat showed that hypoxia is driven by a synergy between low summer flows, elevated temperatures, and high primary production associated with eutrophication (Rosenfeld et al. 2021). Results showed that over 40% of Salish Sucker critical habitat experiences hypoxia (dissolved oxygen <4 mg/L) by late summer. Salish Sucker showed strong selection against high water temperatures and weak negative selection against low dissolved oxygen. Climate projections showed declining summer flows and elevated temperatures, which could result in increasing hypoxia without watershed-scale management, including reduction and mitigation of nutrient loading. | BC ENV, DFO, PE, UBC |
|
2-B | Flow manipulation experiments conducted in 2018 showed that eutrophication is a key driver of hypoxia in reduced flows, and that Salish Sucker are sensitive to water quality and temperature conditions (Zinn 2020). | BC ENV, DFO, UBC |
|
2-B | Continuous dissolved oxygen data was collected using water quality sondes within the Little Campbell River watershed (16th Ave and 176th Street crossings) from November 2018 to March 2021. Detailed seasonal oxygen profiles have not been collected in other watersheds. |
A Rocha, DFO |
|
2-B | Dissolved oxygen data has been collected through previous surveys and restoration projects. Reaches that experience severe hypoxia have been documented and include reaches in Mountain Slough (above an existing beaver dam), McCallum Slough, Little Campbell River, and Freytag Creek. | A Rocha, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, FVC, FVWC, LFFA, PE |
|
3-D | The British Columbia-Washington Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group (TCG) was formed to conduct a 3-year water quality monitoring program from 2018 to 2021 to monitor, identify, and reduce fecal bacteria concentrations in the Nooksack River watershed, which include the Bertrand Creek, Fishtrap Creek, and Pepin Creek sub-basin watersheds (BC-WA Nooksack River Transboundary TCG 2019, 2020, 2021). Outreach and compliance promotion was conducted with agricultural, industrial, and residential sectors as well as municipalities. See activities under recovery measure 16 for habitat restoration activities that contribute to reduction of harmful substances to instream habitats, namely riparian vegetation planting. |
BC ENV, Whatcom Clean Water Program |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Macroinvertebrate and water quality sampling was conducted in Hope Slough and Elk Creek (a tributary to Hope Slough) from 2017 to 2019 to evaluate existing habitat conditions, identify habitat issues, and help build technical capacity among participating First Nations and the broader community. Water and habitat quality issues were observed. Invasive plant removal was conducted at Elk Creek in 2019 as part of an Oregon Spotted Frog habitat restoration project (approximately 400 m2 enhanced) which provides direct habitat benefits to Salish Sucker. | Cheam First Nation, Chilliwack Field Naturalists, DFO, FVC, PE, Save Our Slough, Skwah First Nation, Soowahlie First Nation, The WaterWealth Project, Watershed Watch Salmon Society |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted in Salmon River watershed from 2017 to 2019 (approximately 2,500 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included native vegetation planting, tree protection (beaver guards), and off-channel pond construction. Landowner engagement was also conducted. As part of the restoration project, Indigenous Knowledge interviews on Salish Sucker were conducted with Kwantlen community members in 2018. Interview transcriptions were added to the Kwantlen Territory knowledge database. | DFO, FVWC, Greater Vancouver Zoo (GVZ), Langley Environmental Partners Society (LEPS), LFFA, PE, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., TWU |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Agassiz Slough and McCallum Slough from 2017 to 2021 (approximately 10,512 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included native vegetation planting, invasive plant removal, tree protection (beaver guards), and monitoring/ maintenance. Landowner engagement was also conducted. Planting resulted in low plant survival and restoration success was limited. | DFO, FVC, FVWC, Metro Van Parks, Pacific Salmon Foundation (PSF), PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Fishtrap Creek in 2018 (approximately 1,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included side channel construction, large woody debris complexing, riffle placement, and riparian vegetation planting. | BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (BC MoTI), City of Abbotsford |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Luckakuck Creek and Semmihault Creek in Chilliwack Delta from 2018 to 2020 (approximately 10,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included deepening of existing pond in a side channel to Luckakuck Creek, riffle construction to control pond water levels and improve fish access, native vegetation planting, and pre-and post-restoration monitoring, and maintenance. Landowner engagement was also conducted. Riparian vegetation planting was also conducted at Semmihault Creek as part of an Oregon Spotted Frog habitat restoration project (approximately 1,600 m2 enhanced) which provides direct habitat benefits to Salish Sucker. | DFO, FVC, FVWC, Metro Van Parks, PSF, PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Gordon’s Brook (tributary to Pepin Creek) from 2018 to 2020 (approximately 10,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included native vegetation planting, monitoring/ maintenance, ephemeral wetland construction, and development and implementation of beaver management plan. Deterrence of beaver habitat reconstruction (for example, removal and lowering of beaver dams, relocation of beavers) has been partially successful and monitoring is ongoing. | Ibid |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Miami River from 2018 to 2019 (approximately 15,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included substrate enhancement, native vegetation planting, instream habitat enhancement (construction of off-channel ponds and spawning riffle), and monitoring/ maintenance. Landowner engagement was also conducted. Use of constructed habitat (off-channel ponds) by Salish Sucker has been confirmed. | Ibid, Harrison Nature Stewards |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Little Campbell River watershed from 2018 to 2021 (approximately 1,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included native vegetation planting, invasive plant removal, and monitoring/ maintenance. Landowner engagement was also conducted. | A Rocha, DFO |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Bertrand Creek watershed from 2019 to 2020 (approximately 2,150 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included culvert replacement at Cave Creek, native vegetation planting, invasive plant removal, monitoring/ maintenance, and riparian health assessments. Landowner engagement was also conducted. | BCES, DFO, LEPS, PE, Township of Langley (ToL) |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration was conducted at Freytag Creek on Chawathil First Nation IR4 from 2019 to 2021 (approximately 5,000 m2 enhanced). Restoration activities included instream habitat enhancement, and monitoring/ maintenance. Elders and Knowledge Holders were interviewed on Chawathil habitat history and the restoration design from 2019 to 2020. Engagement yielded information on high historical flow rates. | Chawathil First Nation, DFO, LFFA, PE |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | This recovery measure does not apply to Salish Sucker. | N/A |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Stewardship practices guides from the SCBC were updated in 2018 for drainage maintenance/ stewardship and riparian restoration/ enhancement activities that relate directly to Salish Sucker and their habitats (SCBC 2018a, b). The updated guides provide best practices for restoring/enhancing riparian areas (for example, livestock exclusion fencing, creation of riparian wetlands) and for drainage maintenance (for example, working with machinery in water).
Several habitat restoration projects were conducted in partnership with First Nations and private landowners (refer to recovery measure 16). Engagement was conducted in conjunction with restoration projects to promote best land management practices, including a large door-to-door canvassing campaign in the Hope Slough watershed from 2017 to 2019 to raise species awareness and identify priority habitat enhancement opportunities. Over 200 landowners were contacted. Habitat assessments were conducted on the properties of interested landowners and information was shared about the Farmland Advantagec incentive program. No incentive programs currently exist that directly target Salish Sucker needs. |
A Rocha, BCES, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, FVC, FVWC, GVZ, LEPS, LFFA, Metro Van Parks, PE, PSF, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., SCBC, ToL, TWU |
|
3-H | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
4-J | Habitat enhancement guidelines were drafted in 2018 to provide guiding principles and practical advice for incorporating habitat features that benefit Salish Sucker into non-targeted habitat restoration projects and instream works. These draft guidelines have not been published. | DFO, FVC, PE |
|
5-L | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
2-B | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-C | See activities under recovery measure 16 for details on recovery activities related to riparian vegetation planting and bank stabilization to prevent and mitigate sediment entry and sedimentation of riffles. Reduction of sedimentation from urban and industrial sources has not been achieved. Any works, undertakings, or activities that result in the death of fish or the harmful alteration, disruption, or destruction of fish habitat are subject to regulatory review and authorization under the federal Fisheries Act to prevent and mitigate sedimentation. The BC RAPA protects riparian areas from new development, which limits additional sediment entry into stream habitat. Both the Fisheries Act and the Riparian Areas Protection Regulation, established under RAPA, were amended in 2019. |
DFO, Municipal Governments |
|
3-D | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-D | Stewardship practices guides from the SCBC were updated in 2018 for drainage maintenance/ stewardship and riparian restoration/ enhancement activities that relate directly to Salish Sucker and their habitats (SCBC 2018a, b). The updated guides provide best practices for reducing input of harmful substances (for example, proper application and storage of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers). The British Columbia (BC) - Washington (WA) Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group conducted outreach and compliance promotion to reduce or eliminate sources of harmful substances to agricultural, industrial, and residential sectors as well as municipalities from 2018 to 2021. |
BC ENV, SCBC, Whatcom Clean Water Program |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Habitat restoration conducted at Luckakuck Creek and Semmihault Creek in Chilliwack Delta from 2018 to 2020 included riffle construction to control pond water levels and improve fish access.
A culvert was replaced at Cave Creek in 2019 to improve upstream access to Salish Sucker habitat. The culvert requires ongoing maintenance to improve functionality. Refer to recovery measure 16 for details. |
BCES, DFO, FVC, FVWC, LEPS, Metro Van Parks, PSF, PE, ToL |
|
3-E, 3-F, 3-G | Several habitat restoration projects were conducted in partnership with First Nations and private landowners (refer to recovery measure 16). Engagement was conducted in conjunction with the restoration projects to promote best land management practices, including a large door-to-door canvassing campaign in the Hope Slough watershed from 2017 to 2019 to raise species awareness and identify priority habitat enhancement opportunities. Over 200 landowners were contacted. Habitat assessments were conducted on the properties of interested landowners and information was shared about the Farmland Advantage incentive program. Stewardship practices guides from the SCBC were updated in 2018 for drainage maintenance/ stewardship and riparian restoration/ enhancement activities that relate directly to Salish Sucker and their habitats (SCBC 2018a, b). The updated guides provide best practices for restoring/enhancing riparian areas (for example, livestock exclusion fencing, creation of riparian wetlands) and for drainage maintenance (for example, working sensitively with machinery in water). No incentive programs currently exist that directly target Salish Sucker needs. |
A Rocha, BCES, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, FVC, FVWC, GVZ, LEPS, LFFA, Metro Van Parks, PE, PSF, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., SCBC, ToL, TWU |
|
3-H | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
3-I | Best nutrient and water management practices have been shared by local stewardship groups during activities associated with riparian vegetation planting and landowner engagement (refer to recovery measures 16 and 32). | A Rocha, BCES, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, FVC, FVWC, GVZ, ISC, LEPS, LFFA, Metro Van Parks, PE, PSF, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., ToL, TWU |
|
4-J | A Salish Sucker stewardship and engagement strategy has not been developed; however, engagement and public outreach for Salish Sucker has been conducted during this progress reporting period (refer to recovery measures 18 and 32). | A Rocha, BCES, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, FVC, FVWC, GVZ, ISC, LEPS, LFFA, Metro Van Parks, PE, PSF, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., SCBC, ToL, TWU |
|
4-J | No work was completed on this recovery measure during the reporting period. | N/A |
|
4-J | Outreach presentations were conducted at/with UBC (4), British Columbia Institute of Technology, Simon Fraser University, Chilliwack Field Naturalists, BC Nature Field Camp, Chilliwack Valley Ratepayers Association, and DFO Fishery Officer Workshop from 2017 to 2020. A total of 3 interpretive signs about Salish Sucker were installed at Greater Vancouver Zoo (GVZ) in 2017 and 2018. |
DFO, FVC, FVWC, GVZ, PE |
|
4-J | 20 species at risk education sessions were delivered from 2017 to 2020 which included awareness and promotion of Salish Sucker recovery to students, government, and professional organizations in Langley, BC. Education sessions were conducted in numerous formats, including classroom presentations/workshops, interpretative walks, and how volunteers can undertake planting. An outreach newsletter was printed in 2018 LEPS annual report to highlight Salish Sucker biology and distributed to partner organizations. | DFO, ISC, LEPS |
|
4-J | Over 120 people attended conservation science presentations in 2018 and 2019 which raised community awareness on species at risk conservation in the Little Campbell River watershed. These presentations included educational information on Salish Sucker and low flow and hypoxic issues within the watershed. Little Campbell River watershed report cards were developed in 2019 and 2020 to evaluate overall watershed health (including monitoring of Salish Sucker, low flows, and hypoxia). The 2019 report card was distributed to over 4,000 landowners. The 2020 report card was distributed to visitors of the A Rocha Brooksdale property. |
A Rocha, DFO |
|
4-J | Various ongoing initiatives consider Salish Sucker needs (refer to recovery measures 18, 27, 30, 32) | A Rocha, BCES, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, FVC, FVWC, GVZ, LEPS, LFFA, Metro Van Parks, PE, PSF, seyem’ Qwantlen Resources Ltd., SCBC, ToL, TWU |
|
4-K | General public awareness of aquatic invasive species through outreach programs has increased over the reporting period owing to increased provincial- and national-scale aquatic invasive species prevention campaigns such as: Don’t Let it Loose and Clean, Drain, and Dry. Signage on invasive Smallmouth Bass was installed at Cultus Lake (upstream of Salish Sucker habitat in Salwein Creek) after it was first detected in 2018. | BC ENV, FLNRORD, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC (FFSBC) |
a. While recovery measures are noted for both Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker, this table only addresses activities completed for Salish Sucker. Activities completed for Nooksack Dace can be found in Table 4 above.
b. Participants are listed in alphabetical order, with project leads identified in bold. DFO acknowledges the large network of people that contribute to recovery of Salish Sucker and regrets any potential omissions of contributors.
c. Farmland Advantage is a research and development program that works with farmers to protect and conserve critical, natural lands, streams and habitats in British Columbia.
3.2 Activities supporting the identification and refinement of critical habitat
Tables 6 and 7 provide information on the implementation of the studies outlined in the schedule of studies to identify and refine critical habitat within both recovery strategies (DFO 2020a, b). Each study has been assigned 1 of 4 statuses:
- completed: the study has been carried out and concluded
- in progress:the planned study is underway and has not concluded
- not started: the study has been planned but has yet to start
- cancelled: the planned study will not be started or completed
For both Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker, critical habitat has been identified in the recovery strategies to the extent possible, using the best available information, and provides the functions, features, and attributes necessary to support the species’ life-cycle processes and to achieve the species’ population and distribution objectives. Further research may result in identification of additional critical habitat and/or refine understanding of the functions, features and attributes of the currently identified critical habitat.
| Study | Recovery strategy timeline | Status | Descriptions and results | Participantsa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reconnaissance surveys for undocumented Nooksack Dace populations (for example, Chilliwack River; Harrison Lake, Stave Lake, and Hayward Lake tributaries) |
2018 to 2022 | In progress | Field surveys and genetic analysis of fin clips were conducted from 2017 to 2018 to confirm potential new populations of Nooksack Dace from upper Chilliwack River, Chilliwack Lake, Harrison Lake and 3 of its tributaries (refer to recovery measure 3 in table 4). | BC Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy (BC ENV), Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Pearson Ecological (PE) |
| Evaluation of riffle quality in all critical habitat reaches using measures of sedimentation, minimum flows, macroinvertebrate productivity and diversity, and relative abundance of Nooksack Dace |
2019 to 2023 | In progress | Harmful levels and types of sediment in riffles and biologically based minimum in-stream flows for Nooksack Dace have been identified. Both these factors impact riffle quality (refer to recovery measures 11 and 12 in table 4). In 2018, 256 underwater substrate photos were taken in Nooksack Dace critical habitat to evaluate sediment accumulation in riffles (refer to recovery measure 10 in table 4). Photos will be analyzed to characterize current habitat quality. Evaluation of riffle quality using measures of relative abundance of Nooksack Dace in specific critical habitat reaches has not been conducted. |
BC ENV, DFO, PE |
a. Listed participants is based on best available information; DFO acknowledges the large network of people that contribute to recovery of Nooksack Dace or Salish Sucker and regrets any potential omissions of contributors. When more than a single participant is associated with an activity, they are listed in alphabetical order with project leads identified in bold.
| Study | Recovery strategy timeline | Status | Descriptions and results | Participantsa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter habitat use | 2018 to 2020 | In progress | Winter sampling was conducted in Pepin Creek, Miami River, Mountain Slough and Bertrand Creek watersheds to evaluate Salish Sucker winter habitat distribution from 2018 to 2019. Winter occupancy of Salish Sucker in reaches that are typically dry or anoxic and devoid of fish in the summer was confirmed in all watersheds except for Mountain Slough. Inventory mapping of overwintering habitat areas was conducted in Freytag Creek from 2019 to 2020 and will inform critical habitat identification for the Chawathil population (refer to recovery measure 3 in table 5) It has not been determined whether these winter captures represent large scale seasonal movements and redistributions within the watershed. |
BC ENV, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, PE |
| Extent and severity of seasonal hypoxia in critical habitat | 2018 to 2022 | In progress | Dissolved oxygen data has been collected through previous surveys and restoration projects. Reaches that experience severe hypoxia have been documented and include reaches in Mountain Slough (above an existing beaver dam), McCallum Slough, Little Campbell River, and Freytag Creek (refer to recovery measure 14 of table 5). Analysis of survey data from 2003 to 2018 showed that over 40% of Salish Sucker critical habitat experiences hypoxia (dissolved oxygen <4 mg/L) by late summer and that it is driven by a synergy between low summer flows, elevated temperatures, and high primary production associated with eutrophication (Rosenfeld et al. 2021; refer to recovery measure 13 in table 5). Continual monitoring and analysis of dissolved oxygen levels (including diurnal and seasonal patterns) will provide further understanding of the threat and trends of hypoxia in Salish Sucker critical habitat. |
A Rocha, BC ENV, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, Fraser Valley Conservancy (FVC), Fraser Valley Watersheds Coalition (FVWC), Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance (LFFA), PE |
| Identify spawning sites for all populations | 2016 to 2021 | In progress | Knowledge of spawning sites is incomplete for all watersheds. Spawning locations at Agassiz Slough, Miami Creek, Chilliwack Delta, and Hopedale Slough watersheds are unknown (Pearson pers. comm. 2021). In other watersheds, it is assumed that riffles in occupied reaches are spawning sites based on previous field surveys.
Trapping studies within Little Campbell River watershed from 2018 to 2021 confirmed spawning sites at the Red Willow Ranch reach and in a tributary near 192 Street. |
A Rocha, DFO, PE |
| Improve information used to identify juvenile critical habitat | 2016 to 2020 | In progress | Identification of suitable juvenile critical habitat has been documented through juvenile overwintering habitat surveys, pre- and post-construction monitoring of restoration projects, and mark-recapture surveys to estimate population abundances. Refer to recovery measures 1, 3, and 16 in table 5. | A Rocha, BC ENV, Chawathil First Nation, DFO, PE |
a. Listed participants is based on best available information; DFO acknowledges the large network of people that contribute to recovery of Nooksack Dace or Salish Sucker and regrets any potential omissions of contributors. When more than a single participant is associated with an activity, they are listed in alphabetical order with project leads identified in bold.
3.3 Summary of progress towards recovery
3.3.1 Status of performance indicators
Table 8 and 9 provide a summary of the progress made toward meeting the performance indicators outlined in table 1. Each indicator has been assigned 1 of 4 statuses:
- not met: the performance indicator has not been met, and little to no progress has been made
- partially met, underway: moderate to significant progress has been made toward meeting 1 or more elements of the performance indicator, and further work is ongoing or planned
- met: the performance indicator has been met and no further action is required
- met, ongoing: the performance indicator has been met, but efforts will continue until such time the population is considered to be recovered
| Performance indicator | Statusa | Details |
|---|---|---|
Performance indicator for population objective: Nooksack Dace is found at moderate densityb in:
|
Not met | Based on 2018 surveys (refer to measure 1 in table 4), Nooksack Dace was detected in moderate densities (catch per unit effort [CPUE] >0.25 fish per trap) in 46% (5 of 11) of sampled critical habitat reaches in Bertrand Creek watershed. Moderate densities were not observed in Brunette (2 reaches sampled), Fishtrap (7 reaches sampled), and Pepin (5 reaches sampled) watersheds. Moderate abundance of Nooksack Dace was only observed in 20% of sampled critical habitat reaches in all 4 occupied watersheds in BC. |
Performance indicator for distribution objective: Nooksack Dace is present in:
|
Not met | Based on 2018 surveys (refer to measure 1 in table 4), Nooksack Dace was found to be present at:
|
a. The progress status of performance indicators correspond with timelines laid out in the population and distribution objectives. See table 1 for further details.
b. Moderate density is indicated by a catch per unit effort of >0.25 Nooksack Dace per Gee minnow trap (Pearson 2004) with a minimum effort of 1 trap per 5 m of riffle length or 20 traps per reach.
| Performance indicator | Statusa | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Performance indicator for population objective: Salish Sucker is found at abundance levels corresponding with population targets, where the population target for each watershed is met or exceeded, which indicates recovery of that watershed’s population abundance | Not met | Population abundances are below target population levels at all watershedsb:
|
| Performance indicator for population objective: Salish Sucker is found at abundance levels corresponding with population targets, where the population targets across all 11 occupied watersheds in British Columbia (BC) are met or exceeded, which indicates recovery of Salish Sucker in Canada | Not met | Population abundance targets have not been met across all occupied watersheds. |
| Performance indicator for distribution objectives: Salish Sucker is present in all reaches that have been identified as critical habitat in each watershed, which indicates recovery of a watershed’s population distribution | Not met | There are no watersheds in which presence of Salish Sucker has been confirmed in all critical habitat reaches:
|
| Performance indicator for distribution objectives: Salish Sucker is present in all reaches that have been identified as critical habitat across all 11 occupied watersheds in BC, which indicates recovery of the Salish Sucker distribution in Canada | Not met | Salish Sucker presence has not been confirmed in all critical habitat reaches across all occupied watersheds. |
a. While recovery measures are noted for both Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker, this table only addresses activities completed for Salish Sucker. Activities completed for Nooksack Dace can be found in Table 4 above.
b. Recovery targets do not exist for the Freytag Creek population at Chawathil First Nation
c. Population ranges provided in this cell are based on 95% confidence intervals
3.3.2 Critical habitat identification and protection
Critical habitat for Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker was identified to the extent possible in the recovery strategies using best available information, and provides the functions, features, and attributes necessary to support the species’ life-cycle processes and to achieve the species’ population and distribution objectives. A critical habitat order was established in 2016 and amended in 2020 to protect the Nooksack Dace’s critical habitat from destruction. A critical habitat order was established in 2019 to protect the Salish Sucker’s critical habitat from destruction. SARA critical habitat orders are made under subsections 58(4) and (5) and invoke the prohibition in subsection 58(1) against the destruction of identified critical habitat.
The schedule of studies provided in section 8 of the recovery strategies outline further research required to identify additional critical habitat and refine the understanding of the functions, features and attributes of the currently identified critical habitat necessary to support the species’ population and distribution objectives and protect critical habitat from destruction.
3.3.3 Socio-economic impact
Under section 55 of SARA, the responsible federal minister is required to undertake an evaluation of the socio-economic costs of the action plan and benefits to be derived from its implementation. This section updates the socio-economic impacts associated with implementation of the action plan.
As per section 49(1)(e) of SARA, the action plan included a socio-economic evaluation of costs of the action plan and benefits to be derived from its implementation (section 2 of the 2017 action plan and section 3 of the 2020 amended action plan). Many of the economic costs associated with implementation of recovery actions have been, and will continue to be, borne by government agencies such as DFO. These were evaluated as a reallocation of existing government funds and are not considered additional costs to society. There have also been opportunity costs associated with these government funded actions; however, these are not easily quantified. This evaluation considers the economic costs and benefits of recovery activities that have taken place over the reporting period.
A large part of the economic costs borne by the federal government for Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker recovery are provided via the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk (AFSAR), Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk (HSP), and Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk (CNFASAR) funding programs. Between 2016 and 2021, 9 projects that included Nooksack Dace and/or Salish Sucker received funding through these programs. Projects funded by HSP, AFSAR, and CNFASAR must have dollar and in-kind costs fully or partially matched by recipients receiving the funding. Furthermore, additional costs borne by the federal government for Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker recovery are incurred through collaborative agreements between DFO and BC. These projects are vital to the recovery of the 2 species and fulfilling the performance indicators from the action plan.
There are also socio-economic benefits that have come from implementation of the action plan, including positive impacts on biodiversity and the value individuals place on preserving biodiversity (Federal, Provincial, Territorial Governments of Canada, 2014). These recovery actions have provided broader ecosystem and non-market benefits.
3.3.4 Recovery feasibility
Based on the best current available information, recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker is determined to be feasible (DFO 2020a, b). No new information has been gathered that would suggest that Nooksack Dace or Salish Sucker populations no longer meet the feasibility criteria laid out in the recovery strategy.
4 Concluding statement
Within the reporting period of this progress report (2016 to 2021), through the implementation of activities identified in the recovery documents (the recovery strategies and action plan), a foundation has been built towards the successful recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker.
Many studies have been completed and are underway to assess population abundance and distribution, monitor habitat quality, and identify and refine critical habitat. Many habitat restoration activities have been implemented in partnership with landowners and community members, as a significant portion of critical habitat for these species is located on or adjacent to private properties. Public outreach has been conducted to foster species awareness and community stewardship.
Despite advances in knowledge about both species, as well as advances in understanding and addressing threats to the species survival and recovery, none of the performance indicators identified in the recovery strategies have been met. These 2 species continue to face severe threats that will require large-scale mitigation efforts in order to achieve recovery.
While progress has been made towards implementing recovery measures, continued efforts will be necessary to ensure long-term viability and recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker in British Columbia. These include, but are not limited to:
- ongoing surveys to determine population abundance estimates and trends as well as distribution of both species
- ongoing habitat restoration and enhancement to improve habitat access and habitat quality
- continued public outreach and watershed stewardship, particularly within the agricultural community
- exploration of short-term and long-term options to address cumulative effects of local and watershed-scale threats, such as nutrient loading, sedimentation and seasonal water availability, in areas with known Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker presence and critical habitat
- engagement with interested agencies, groups and individuals to develop and negotiate stewardship agreements under SARA or other conservation agreements that support recovery of Nooksack Dace and Salish Sucker
DFO remains committed to the survival and recovery of the Nooksack Dace and the Salish Sucker. The work underway and completed to date has built a strong foundation for continued research, recovery, and management of these species over the next reporting period.
References
- COSEWIC. 2007. COSEWIC assessment and update status report on the Nooksack dace Rhinichthys cataractae ssp. in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. vii + 27 pp.
- COSEWIC. 2012. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Salish Sucker Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. xi + 36 pp.
- COSEWIC. 2018. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Nooksack Dace Rhinichthys cataractae in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. xii + 38 pp.
- DFO. 2008. Recovery Potential and Potential Critical Habitat for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae sp.). DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2008/031.
- DFO. 2015. Recovery Potential Assessment for the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp.) in Canada. Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat Science Advisory Report 2008/046.
- DFO. 2016a. Recovery Strategy for the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus ssp.) in Canada. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Vancouver. ix + 64 pp.
- DFO. 2016b. Report on the progress of recovery strategy implementation for Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) in Canada for the period 2008 – 2015. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Report Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa iii + 18 pp.
- DFO. 2017. Action Plan for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) and Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada. Species at Risk Act Action Plan Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa. v + 22 pp.
- DFO. 2020a. Recovery Strategy for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) in Canada. 1st amendment. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa. vii+ 47 pp.
- DFO. 2020b. Recovery Strategy for the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada. 1st amendment. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa. vii + 71 pp.
- DFO. 2020c. Action Plan for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) and the Salish Sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) in Canada. 1st amendment. Species at Risk Act Action Plan Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa. v + 21 pp.
- Pearson, M. 2004. The ecology, status, and recovery prospects of Nooksack dace (Rhinichthys cataractae ssp.) and Salish sucker (Catostomus sp.) in Canada. PhD Thesis, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
- Pearson, M.P., T. Hatfield, J.D. McPhail, J.S. Richardson, J.S. Rosenfeld, H. Schreier, D. Schluter, D.J. Sneep, M. Stejpovic, E.B. Taylor, and P.M. Wood. 2008. Recovery Strategy for the Nooksack Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae) in Canada. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Vancouver. vi + 29 pp.
- Pearson, M. 2018. In draft: A Practical Guide to Creating and Enhancing Habitat for Nooksack Dace.
- BC-WA Nooksack River Transboundary TCG. 2019. Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group 2018-2019 Annual Report.
- BC-WA Nooksack River Transboundary TCG. 2020. Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group 2019-2020 Annual Report.
- BC-WA Nooksack River Transboundary TCG. 2021. Nooksack River Transboundary Technical Collaboration Group 2020-2021 Annual Report.
- Rosenfeld, J. S., M.P. Pearson, J. Miners, and K.R. Zinn. 2021. Effects of landscape-scale hypoxia on Salish sucker and salmonid habitat associations: implications for endangered species recovery and management. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, (ja).
- Stewardship Centre for British Columbia. 2018a. Agricultural Waterways: Drainage Maintenance and Stewardship. Stewardship Practices Series. Available at:
- Stewardship Centre for British Columbia. 2018b. Lands Near Water: Riparian Restoration and Enhancement. Stewardship Practices Series.
- Zinn, K. R. 2020. Effects of flow, water quality, and hypoxia on threatened Salish sucker (Catostomus sp. cf. catostomus) and juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) (Doctoral dissertation, University of British Columbia).