Cle Elum/Waptus Population(s)

Overview

This population group includes bull trout spawning in the Cle Elum River and its tributaries. Historic records show bull trout as widespread in the watershed.

Population Information

Population Distribution and Life History

Connectivity and thus the potential for genetic exchange with other populations in the Yakima River fluvial system was eliminated by the construction of Cle Elum Dam in 1933. Actually, likely by first dam in 1900s...

Population Genetics

No genetic samples have been collected from bull trout in the Cle Elum watershed. Collection of samples for genetic analysis would be a priority if bull trout are encountered in the Cle Elum watershed.

Population Status and Trend

The USFWS (USFWS 1998) considered the Cle Elum/Waptus population depressed, decreasing, and at risk of stochastic extirpation. WDFW rates the status of this stock as unknown (WDFW 2004). For the purposes of this document the status of the Cle Elum River population should be considered unknown.

Population Monitoring

Redd Survey Data

Regular bull trout redd surveys are not conducted in the Cle Elum watershed due to the lack of a significant known spawning population and the lack of easy access to likely spawning areas. Note any past exploratory surveys?

Other Distribution Data

Occasional reports of bull trout sightings by biologists and anglers indicate that some bull trout may still be present in the watershed. Add table of known reports?

eDNA surveys conducted by ?? in 202? detected likely bull trout eDNA at? sample sites in Spinola Creek, a tributary of the Waptus River above Waptus Falls and below Waptus Lake.

Habitat

Habitat Monitoring

The Forest Service completed habitat surveys on the Waptus River in 1995 and 2003 using Hankin and Reeves protocol (Hankin and Reeves 1988; USFS 1995). In these surveys, data was collected on pool/riffle frequency, riparian and channel condition, substrate, LWD, and temperature.