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Structured decision making can help identify realistic objectives and management alternatives to species reintroduction using a quantitative modeling framework.

USGS and USFWS researchers applied structured decision making to evaluate reintroduction of Bull Trout in the lower Pend Oreille River in northeastern Washington. They engaged stakeholders from Tribal, municipal, county, state and federal agencies to specify fundamental objectives, formulate feasible reintroduction decisions, and conceptualize a modeling framework. The process revealed important considerations for reintroduction success, including identifying the best recipient stream and release strategy, and ensuring connectivity to facilitate fishes’ expression of migratory life history. This strategy can be adapted to similar decisions regarding fish reintroduction or translocations in other systems.

 

Benjamin, J.R., Brignon, W.R., Dunham, J.B., 2019, Decision analysis for the reintroduction of Bull Trout into the lower Pend Oreille River, Washington: North American Journal of Fisheries Management, https://doi.org/10.1002/nafm.10334

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