Professional Services – A Watershed-scale Stream Sampling Protocol for salmonids in the Northwest Territories

The objective of this project is to develop watershed-scale stream sampling designs, using a Geographic Information System (GIS) and integrated Database, in order to detect salmonids in the Northwest Territories.One of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s mandates is to maintain Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems. Arctic Grayling, Bull Trout, and Dolly Varden are sensitive stream salmonids found across the Northwest Territories, which are good indicators of ecosystem health. By improving our knowledge of habitat requirements and distribution of these species in the northern watersheds, our department can better manage populations and their habitat to maintain the integrity of aquatic ecosystems in the region.Since early 2014, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans has been working to expand the draft protocol that was developed over the past few years for use in a new northern Canadian watershed with different fish species (e.g., Arctic Grayling, Dolly Varden). This undertaking is now being mandated to further developments.By developing a standardized stream sampling protocol our department will be able to use data collected with this protocol to identify key habitats occupied by juvenile and adult stream salmonids. This information will support future survey and monitoring programs, designed to maintain the integrity of the aquatic ecosystems in which these fishes occur. Additionally, this information will be used to develop predictive models, which can be used to map the extent of critical habitat of sensitive salmonids in watersheds across the region.From contract award to March 31st, 2016, with option to extend the contract for three (3) additional one (1) year periods.Project ObjectiveBackground StatementObjectives of the RequirementContract Period