The development and application of a computer simulation model for evaluating and predicting the effects of reservoir development and hydro operations on four fish species in Manitoba, Canada

Abstract

Predicting the potential impacts of a proposed or existing hydroelectric development on fisheries resources is a complex process. The tool developed in this research incorporates physical and biological information and is offered as an aid towards making the "best" decision possible, consistent with the level of knowledge and time available. A computerized simulation model that can be used to simulate the effects of reservoir development and hydro operations on four fish species common to hydroelectric reservoirs in Manitoba was developed in this research. The model framework incorporated four levels. Physical features of the reservoir (level 1), abiotic features of the reservoir (level 2), biotic features of the reservoir (level 3) and fish (level 4). Four species of fish were included in the model: northern pike ('Esox lucius'), lake whitefish ('Coregonus clupeaformis'), longnose sucker ('Catostomus catostomus') and walleye ('Stizostedion vitreum'). Since reservoir operations may affect each fish species differently, depending upon age of the fish, seven life-cycle phases comprised level 4 of the model, ranging from the egg life phase to the mature adult life phase. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)