Measuring water velocities during historic low-flows

The health of freshwater fish populations is tied closely to competing demands and uses for this resource. Patuxent scientists are applying mark-recapture science and other methods developed for the adapative management of waterfowl to help manage freshwater fish and their habitats.

Our nation’s rivers have many uses. People have altered the flow of some rivers through diversions, dams, and water use. Such changes can affect fish populations and our scientist work to understand these effects by answering such questions as “How is survival of young fish affected by streamflow patterns?” and “How do fish communities respond to changes in water management?”