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Volunteers sought to gather salmonid data

Join the Sonoma Ecology Center, Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration (CEMAR), and the Southern Sonoma Resource Conservation District (SSCRCD) in studying fish species and fish populations in Sonoma Creek.

Volunteers are needed to assist in collecting field data, which will be used to evaluate the status of salmonids (primarily steelhead trout) in the Sonoma Creek Watershed, and to formulate management and future monitoring recommendations.

The Sonoma Creek Salmonid Monitoring Program is one of a number of watershed studies being conducted around the San Francisco Bay Area, with the intention of better understanding watershed health and its impacts on resident and migrating fish populations. Volunteers have a unique opportunity to work with veteran fish biologists in monitoring current conditions in Sonoma Creek, and to help develop a model for a regional fish-monitoring program.

The primary responsibility of volunteers will be to assist scientists in monitoring fish traps along Sonoma Creek and its tributaries. Volunteers will sign liability waivers, may work in wet conditions with variable temperatures, and will walk on uneven terrain. Some volunteers who are able will be asked to occasionally carry heavy loads. Interested volunteers must also commit to participate in the study a minimum of one day a week, for a minimum of three weeks during the project duration (the three weeks need not be contiguous). Experienced fish handlers are desired but not required for this project. Outdoor gear (rainwear, boots, and chest waders) also is recommended but not required.

Potential volunteers can call Cassandra Liu at 996-0712, ext. 104, or cassandra@sonomaecologycenter.org for more information.

Current students are invited to discuss the option of working with the Ecology Center or SSCRCD under an internship program for the duration of this project.