NEWSS salmon recovery projects eDNA research
Mar 1, 2025

Document: 

Introduction
This summarizes the methodology, site selection, results, and key lessons learned from our 2023 environmental DNA (eDNA) fieldwork in the Nechako watershed. The project focused on monitoring fish populations and evaluating stream conditions while training high school students in field research techniques.

Hiring and Training Summer Field Crew
In collaboration with Nechako Valley Secondary School (NVSS) and School District 91 (SD 91), we recruited three grade 11 students for summer fieldwork. Interviews were held on June 21, 2023, with participation from NVSS staff and Barry Booth from the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). Training sessions began on June 29, led by Dr. Brent Murray (UNBC) and other project staff. The students gained hands-on experience in water sampling, minnow trapping, fish handling, and data recording throughout the summer.

Site Selection and Sampling Process
Since 2020, our eDNA sampling in the Nechako watershed has expanded each year. In 2023, we collected samples from 39 different water bodies, including 11 core sites monitored annually. New locations were selected based on input from project partners, including:

• Six creeks in the Chilako watershed suggested by BC Ministry of Environment hydrologist Chelton van Geloven.
• 17 creeks sampled by riverboat along the Nechako River.
• The Endako River and Shovel Creek, in partnership with the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC)
• Additional sites associated with the Nechako Environment and Water Stewardship Society (NEWSS) restoration projects.
• New sampling along Murray Creek to assess the impact of beaver dam complexes on salmon migration.

Results and Data Integration

• Minnow Trapping: Conducted at selected eDNA sites, with detailed results provided in Appendix 2.
• eDNA Sampling: Data analysis is ongoing, with final results expected in June 2024. Interactive maps will be available via the Nechako Watershed Portal, developed in partnership with Scott Emmons (Geoborealis)

Key Challenges and Lessons Learned

• Riverboat Sampling: Partnering with Mr. van Geloven allowed us to reach previously inaccessible sites, significantly improving our data collection.
• Drought Impacts: Many creeks had extremely low water levels, reducing the number of viable sampling sites. Some streams, including Swanson, Twin, and Knight Creeks, experienced interrupted flow.
• Access Difficulties: Dense vegetation and proximity to the CN railway made some creeks, such as Cheskwa and Four Mile, difficult to sample. Future efforts will involve working with community partners to improve accessibility.

Future Sampling Plan (2024-25)
The next phase will build on 2023 results, with sampling at:

• NEWSS restoration sites (Saul’s Creek, Clear/Eden Creek, Murray/McIntosh Creeks).
• Core monitoring sites (Twin, Greer, Swanson, Ormond, Tatsutani, and others).
• Expanded sites on Swanson and Greer Creeks.
• Potential new sites in Vanderhoof and the Endako River watershed.
• Beaver dam complex on Murray Creek, including possible minnow trapping.
• Additional riverboat sampling along the Nechako River.

Conclusion
The 2023 field season provided valuable data on fish populations and habitat conditions while engaging local students in scientific research. Continued partnerships and adaptive strategies will ensure ongoing improvements in data collection and conservation efforts in the Nechako watershed.

Read the complete report here

Supporting document here