Evaluation of a high-velocity induction/release system for turbine-related injuries to juvenile salmonids at hydroelectric projects Evaluation of a high-velocity induction/release system for turbine-related injuries to juvenile salmonids at hydroelectric projects : report of research

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) was contracted to test the induction/release portions of a high-velocity induction system during fall 1998. The system was designed for a 1999 U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers study to monitor the condition ofmigrating juvenile salmonids after they pass through the turbines at McNary Dam. The system was tested at NMFS Pasco Field Station, where the induction/release portions ofthe system were installed. During late October and early November 1998, we released and monitored a total of 99 juvenile hatchery fall chinook salmon. We saw no indication of descaling or other injury to any ofthe test animals. We also monitored the fish with an underwater video camera as they exited the system. We determined that fish exited the system in a variety of orientations, either head or tail first, and that a few ofthe fish appeared to be tumbling rather than swimming at exit. Contract no. W68SBV82443526