#201 - 197 Second Avenue North

Williams Lake, B.C. V2G 1Z5

Ph: (250) 392-7887

Fax: (250) 392-5887

Email: bioterra@wlake.com

Mr. Mike Parker, Fish and Wildlife Branch

Suite 400 - 640 Borland Street

Williams Lake, B.C. V2G 4T1

Ph: (250) 398-4530

Fax: (250) 398-4214

March 1998

An Overview Fish Habitat Assessment Procedure (FHAP) was requested by the Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks, under the Watershed Restoration Program of Forest Renewal B.C. for the Anahim Creek watershed. BioTerra Consulting was awarded the contract to perform the assessment. The delivering agent for the FHAP was the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks (MoELP) regional office in Williams Lake.

As per the specifications of the contract and the methodology outlined in Watershed Restoration (WRP) Technical Circular #8 Fish Habitat Assessment Procedures, an Overview Fish Habitat Assessment was performed on the Anahim Creek watershed. The purpose of the assessment was to 1) determine the target fish species 2) develop rehabilitation strategy(s) for the stream channel in each of the high priority (i.e., high fish value) sites when the impacts are linked to forest resource development.

The target fish species for the watershed was identified as rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The results of the Overview phase identified high fisheries values as primarily in the second reach of the mainstem and in each of the lakes (including the inlet and outlet streams) within the mainstem of Anahim Creek. High values were also assigned to the first reach of ILP 0001 due to it’s connectivity with the Chilcotin River and the presence of chinook fry.

A confirmed barrier (10m falls) to all fish species is located at the upstream boundary of reach 2 of the Anahim Creek mainstem. Potential barriers in the form of water control structures, culverts, beaver dams and diversion ditches are prevalent throughout the watershed.

This project was funded by the Watershed Restoration Program of Forest Renewal B.C. The project was under the auspices of the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks (MoELP) Cariboo Region. Mike Parker of MoELP was the scientific authority for the project. I would like to thank Peter Nicklin of BioTerra Consulting for his technical review. Mapping and database development was completed by Kathy Campbell and Richard Barry of Inland Timber Management Ltd.

Guy Scharf

Figure 1: Overview map illustrating the study watershed (1:300, 000 scale)..............................................8

Table 1: Summary of watershed information for the Anahim Creek watersheds...............................12

Table 2: Fish species profile of the study areas...................................................................................13

The Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks (MoELP), submitted a proposal to Forest Renewal British Columbia (FRBC) to undertake watershed restoration research within the boundaries of the Anahim Creek watershed located approximately 77 kilometers west of Williams Lake. Specifically, the proposal outlined the requirements of conducting an Overview (FHAP) to evaluate the current state of the fish and fish habitat resources values in the identified watershed. BioTerra Consulting (a division of Inland Timber Management Ltd.) was awarded the contract to conduct the FHAP. This report presents the results of the study.

Additional FRBC studies conducted in this watershed include an Interior Watershed Assessment Procedure (IWAP), Sediment Source Survey (SSS) and an Access Management Map (AMM) for the Anahim Creek mainstem watershed.

The purpose of this study is to qualitatively and quantitatively assess specific parameters of fisheries habitat within the identified sub-basins. Important components of this assessment include:

• identification of forest harvest related factors limiting target fish species production and

• identification of opportunities for fish habitat restoration and rehabilitation.

The study areas (Figure 1) were determined based on an evaluation of fisheries values and potential impacts to such. The specific areas consist of one main watershed (Anahim Creek mainstem) with an area of 46, 260 ha and two sub-basins: 1) South Anahim Creek (10 900 ha, northeast of Siwash Lake) and 2) ILP 00001 (425 ha, southeast of the Anahim Creek mainstem).

Anahim Creek (lineal stream length 76 km) is a 5th order tributary to the Chilcotin River, it’s confluence is located 9 km east of the Alexis Creek settlement. The headwaters of Anahim Creek are located northwest of Stum Lake (White Pelican Provincial Park). Anahim Creek flows through several lakes including Stum Lake in the headwaters and descends through Beaver Lake and Alex Graham Lake. The creek spills onto Anahim Flats located at the Anahim First Nation Reserve, before dispersing into the Chilcotin River. The Anahim First Nation people have a large settlement (approximately 400 people) located within the "Flats" portion of the watershed, northeast of Highway 20. Their reserve boundary encompass the entire watershed flood plain (downstream of Highway 20) with additional Reserve lands throughout the rest of the watershed and a small historic settlement within the Anahim meadow area near the upstream boundary of reach 4.

Pleas insert Figure 1: overview map here please

South Anahim Creek (lineal stream length 23 km), is a 4th order tributary to the east of Anahim Creek south of Alex Graham Lake. The headwaters are located east of the Palmer Lake Road (1300 Road) stream crossing. South Anahim Creek flows through several wetland/beaver dam type ponds.

The unnamed stream, ILP 00001 (lineal stream length 4.5 km) is a second order historic flood channel that splits from the east side of the Anahim Creek mainstem downstream of the Highway 20 bridge crossing. The stream flows south through the Chilcotin River flood plain and merges with Zenzaco Creek (HWC 150-2498) before emptying into the Chilcotin River.

The Anahim Creek watershed is located in the Central Interior Ecoprovince, within the Fraser Plateau Ecoregion and the Chilcotin Plateau Ecosection. It is characterized by a rolling drumlinized till plain dissected by deep valleys with isolated hills. The lower half of the study area lies in the Interior Douglas Fir (IDF) Biogeoclimatic Zone. The IDF zone has a continental climate characterized by warm, dry summers, fairly long growing season and cool winters. The upper portion of the watershed lies within the Sub-Boreal Pine-Spruce (SBPS) Biogeoclimatic Zone. The climate of the SBPS Zone is also continental and characterized by cold dry winters and cool dry summers. The area generally slopes from the northeast to the southwest from an elevation of approximately 1500m gradually descending to 700m in the Chilcotin valley at Anahim Flats. Most of the watershed is covered with glacial moraine sediments. It contains many enclosed depressions with organic deposits and wet soils as well as shallow valleys with glaciofluvial deposits, forming steep gullies and flat terraces. Many of the slopes along the Chilcotin Valley are located on these unstable unconsolidated deposits, (Klohn-Crippen, IWAP report 1997). Based on a query of the GIS mapping data there are 439 hectares of private land (0.8% of total watershed area) and 4177 hectares of First Nations Reserves (7.1% of total watershed area) within the watershed boundaries.

The majority of the watershed is accessible by 2-wheel drive vehicle due to the forest resource development and ranching related activities. Access to the area from the southern portion is made available via Highway 20 at two main locations. The first access point is located approximately 105km west of Williams Lake west of the Highway bridge crossing of Anahim Creek (local name; Tin-can Ranch Road). The second main access point is also via Highway 20 through the town of Alexis Creek 112km west of Williams Lake along the Stum Lake Forest Service Road. The upper portion of the watershed can be accessed from the Palmer Lake Forest Service Road (1300 Road), which begins on the north side of Highway 20 approximately 59km west of Williams Lake.

Based on the forest cover information available from the IWAP assessment, approximately 18% of the Anahim watershed’s total area has been harvested since the 1960s. In excess of 27% of the watershed downstream of Alex Graham Lake has been harvested (Klohn-Crippen, IWAP report 1997) with most of the logged areas adjacent to stream channels.

Cutblock areas of the upper watershed have not fully recovered hydrologically (i.e., second growth <9m tall), (possibly due to the SBPS Biogeoclimatic Zone which has a shorter growing season, Klohn-Crippen, IWAP report 1997). In comparison some of the cutblocks in the lower portion of the watershed (downstream of Alex Graham Lake in the IDF Biogeoclimatic Zone) have a recovery rating of 75-90%, (Klohn-Crippen, IWAP report 1997).

The remaining mature old growth forest cover comprises less than 5% of the total watershed area (Klohn-Crippen, IWAP report 1997). Forest resource developers operating within the watershed include the following licensees, Lignum Ltd., (west and southeast portion of watershed), Timberwest Forest Ltd. (now Riverside Forest Products Ltd. (Soda Creek Division), northeastern portion of the watershed) and operators of the Small Business Forest Enterprise Program. A review of the Consolidated 5 Year Forest Development Plan maps indicated limited harvest planned for the next 5 years. None of the proposed blocks occur in potentially sensitive fisheries habitat within the riparian management areas (RMA).

Ranching development (primarily hay production and cattle grazing) has a long and extensive history within the watershed, dating back to the early 1900’s (pers. com. Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin, 1998). The majority of the haying is concentrated in the lowland areas downstream of Highway 20 and upstream of the 10m falls (top of the plateau escarpment) to the outlet of Alex Graham Lake. Cattle grazing is prolific throughout the entire watershed. Additional impacts associated with ranching include diversion/irrigation ditches, associated flow control structures and alteration of the normal flow regime.

The most important technical elements of the Watershed Restoration Program are; 1) hillslope restoration to control erosion/sediment input, 2) riparian restoration to restore function to streamside ecosystems and 3) instream restoration to improve habitat values for target fish populations.

Successful watershed restoration employs a "top-down" approach with hillslope and riparian restoration preceding instream habitat rehabilitation. As a result the above noted projects will require close coordination in order to provide a fully integrated restoration plan that will form the basis for restoring watershed function within the Anahim Creek watershed.

The spatial bounds for this project have been restricted to include one 5th order watershed (Anahim Creek mainstem), one 4th order sub-basin (South Anahim Creek) and one 2nd order sub-basin (ILP 00001). Stream order was determined using 1:20, 000 TRIM information. This deviation from the FHAP Technical Circular #8 protocol ("apply the assessment and restoration procedures to third and fourth order sub-basins") was based on an evaluation of the Overview phase information which revealed that the highest fish habitat values were restricted to the above noted streams. The flat terrain (i.e., low water levels limited fish habitat values for most of the tributaries) and limited impacts from forest harvest development narrowed the scope of the project.

The Overview phase methodology as outlined in Watershed Restoration Technical Circular No. 8 (Johnston and Slaney, 1996) was followed for this study.

The objectives of the Overview assessment are to:

• determine target fish species
• assess fisheries habitat from available background information, maps and air photo analysis
• identify forest related limiting factors to fish production and
• identify potential areas for higher level assessment(s) and potential fish habitat restoration opportunities.

BioTerra Consulting conducted a modified 1:20, 000 Fish and Fish Habitat Inventory Assessment Procedure (FHIP) for the Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks during the fall of 1997 in the Anahim Creek watershed. The information collected during the office planning phases and field portion of the FHIP assessment assisted greatly with the identification of high fish value areas that would benefit from the FHAP Overview phase. Other field based information included a helicopter overflight of the mainstem which recorded an aerial video (conducted for the FHIP on August 19, 1997) and another helicopter overflight with Troy Larden (MoELP Williams Lake Regional FRP Coordinator) on October 29, 1997 with 35mm photo documentation. The on-site data was used extensively to supplement the habitat evaluation and analysis portion of the FHAP Overview process. In addition, the Provincial Fisheries Branch Inventory internet site (MoELP, 1997a; MoELP, 1997b), Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ (DFO) internet site (DFO, 1998), five year consolidated development plans for watershed forest licensees and other fish data resources such as the Stream Information Summary System (SISS catalogues), MoELP regional fisheries staff (Rob Dolihan and Brian Chapman), First Nation representatives and the Fish Inventory Summary System (FISS) maps were also consulted during the background data review.

Watershed boundaries were established using the height of land (from the 1:20, 000 TRIM maps). Anomalies to the protocol are reflected in three locations. 1) The first area is located at the start of ILP 00001. Data from the FHIP assessment necessitated the movement of the natural boundary location as the stream flows east of the Anahim Creek mainstem and then joins Zenzaco Creek (at the upstream boundary of reach 1 in ILP 00001) before emptying into the Chilcotin River. 2) The second area is located at Siwash Lake north of the Alexis Creek settlement. Near the northeast corner of the lake there is an diversion/irrigation ditch (dry at the time of FHIP survey) which enters the lake. The ditch travels north from the lake and then east across the Stum Lake Road before entering the Anahim Creek mainstem. The natural drainage pattern excludes this area, but the watershed boundary was drawn to incorporate the diversion ditch and exclude Siwash Lake (as the ditch had been dry for a number of seasons). 3) The final area is located in the upper portion of the watershed north of Stum Lake. A review of the NTS 1:50, 000 FISS maps indicates a 170 watershed code sequence for the identified lakes/unchannelized wetlands. The difference in the coding sequence (i.e., 170 (West Road River) versus 150 (Chilcotin River)) is most likely the result of the "watershed code developer" assigning identification codes based on the interpretation of NTS 1:50, 000 series maps. After a review of the 1:20, 000 TRIMs and airphotos it is clear that this area should be included as part of the Anahim Creek watershed. The area has very little relief, (mostly non-channelized wetlands) as a result the drainage pattern was determined using the connectivity of the TRIM stream network.

Reach breaks were initially determined using 1:50, 000 NTS maps and 1:15, 000 scale air photos, then transferred and refined on 1:20, 000 scale maps (compiled using TRIM and FC1 data sets). Reach breaks were identified based on changes in channel form (e.g., from a single channel to a braided channel), channel confinement, discharge (e.g., at the confluence of tributaries that results in an increase of downstream order), gradient changes (>5% over 20 meters) and the presence of known upstream migration barriers. Reaches that had significant changes in riparian structure were further delineated into section breaks. Information collected during the FHIP assessment was used to consolidate the micro FHIP reaches into macro reaches to streamline the results of the Overview FHAP assessment.

Following the methodology outlined in the "Draft Lake and Stream Inventory Standards and Procedures" (MoELP, 1995), reaches were digitized to determine reach lengths. Numbering began with "1" at the stream mouth and ascended upstream. Each reach number was associated with a unique watershed code and gazetted/local stream name. Water bodies not identified with a watershed code were assigned an "interim locational point" number (ILP #) presented in Appendix D.

The elevation of each stream reach was determined using 1:20, 000 TRIM maps with contours at 20m intervals. Elevation was recorded at the highest and lowest points of each reach. Gradient was obtained as a percentage by dividing the change in elevation by the length of the reach and multiplying by 100.

Air photo analysis of fish habitat conditions was completed for all sections of the above mentioned study areas (Anahim Creek mainstem, South Anahim and ILP 00001). Due to the scale of the air photos (1:15, 000), and narrow channel morphology complete habitat condition information was not always obtainable. Habitat condition information was supplemented with information collected during the field portion of the FHIP assessment. All data was reviewed and the results of the assessment as well as the major impacts on salmonid habitat within the selected reaches was summarized on the Overview data forms.

Based on the methodology outlined above the following streams were identified as significant and require a detailed Overview assessment (Table 1). 1:20, 000 map sheets summarizing the results of the overview (compilation of TRIM and FC1 streams) are presented in Appendix A (accompanying report).

Table 1: Summary of watershed information for the Anahim Creek watersheds

The following section describes the data collected during the literature search, aerial photo interpretation, helicopter overflights and review of the unpublished fisheries information collected from the MoELP sponsored FHIP inventory project conducted during the fall of 1997. Results of the fish distribution overview are detailed in Overview Assessment - Fish Distribution Summary Form 1 (Appendix A). The habitat evaluations are presented on the Overview Assessment - Habitat Condition Summary Form 2 (Appendix B) and the Overview Assessment - Preliminary Habitat Evaluation Form 3 (Appendix C). A summary of the habitat concerns for the study area with the associated priority for FHAP Level 1 field assessment is presented in each of the individual reach descriptions.

The target species identified for restoration efforts is rainbow trout. The low gradient nature of the watershed with 3 supply lakes in the mainstem system 1) Alex Graham, 68.6ha, 2) Beaver Lake, 259.0ha and 3) Stum Lake 824.5ha suggest a large area of historical and available habitat for this species. Table 2 summarizes the fish species confirmed within the three study areas with salmonid species highlighted. Fish habitat values in each of the reaches overviewed will be qualified and quantified based on their importance for the target species (i.e., game fish, regionally important specie(s)). Reaches with confirmed fish presence (any species) will also be identified in the individual reach descriptions.

Table 2: Fish species profile of the study areas, (shading denotes salmonid species)

There is a moderate amount of fisheries data available for this system including the recent modified 1:20, 000 FHIP assessment conducted during the fall of 1997. Due to budget constraints the FHIP inventory protocol did not follow the site sampling design process (i.e., random computer generated site selection with additional sites selected to address biased concerns) developed for the 1:20, 000 FHIP. The FHIP inventory only sampled sites based on the following criteria 1) access and 2) the requirement to sample watershed wide and any potential impacts as identified from the FHIP regimented planning phases.

The rainbow trout (target species) populations must compete with a presumed dominance of non-game species (primarily lake chub) in this system (based on a review of FHIP data and habitat values). Anahim Creek is dominated by extensive, monotypic habitat which includes primarily sloughs with low gradient (average 0-1%) glides and pools with a meandering channel pattern, instream vegetation (both vascular and non vascular), limited large woody debris (natural occurrence due to the wetland type riparian structure, excluding reach 2) and extensive beaver activity. Ideal habitat for coarse fish.

Rainbow trout and sport species generally prefer habitat that typically includes complex channel types with LWD, riffle-pool sequences, riparian cover and the associated spawning gravels. Reaches matching these requirements are limited within the Anahim Creek watershed, (due to the wetland type morphology i.e., no visible channel and grasses for riparian cover). The Overview identified reach 2 as containing the most area with these primary stream characteristics and was assigned high fish values. Other areas of high fish values are limited to the lakes within the mainstem and their associated inlet and outlet tributaries (where habitat is available). The majority of the habitat has moderate fisheries values due the large extent of wetland complexes (extensive beaver activity). In summary, target species (game fish) habitat is available wherever there is adequate water flow and riparian shrub or conifer/deciduous cover (due to the low gradient nature of the watershed).

Management and enhancement activities for fisheries values have been limited to beaver dam removal, stream clearing and the stocking of eastern brook trout into Siwash Lake in the early 1980’s (per. comm. Chapman, 1998). In subsequent years the fish were reported to have escaped and taking up residence within the Anahim Creek system (pers. comm., Chapman 1998). No eastern brook trout were captured during the FHIP assessment and it is felt that they may have been out competed by the resident rainbow trout population (pers. comm., Chapman 1998).

The results of the Interior Watershed Assessment Procedure (IWAP) were also evaluated. Each of the 24 photos of wetland and environmentally sensitive areas (ESA’s) identified as being impacted (from an IWAP perspective) were reviewed regarding impact to fisheries habitat values. All of the impacts identified by the IWAP occurred in areas of low fisheries values. The high scores for road density and stream crossings is a concern and will be addressed through the Access Management Plan (AMP) process (slated for completion early 1998, pers. comm. Haley, 1998). This plan (developed through WRP) will deactivate a large percentage of the roads and crossings, minimizing continuing impacts through sedimentation and unrestricted access to sensitive areas. The impacts from forest harvest to the riparian areas are very limited as; 1) the wetland nature of the stream precludes conifer tree growth within the sensitive zones paralleling the stream channel and 2) the logged areas have a high level of hydrologic recovery (>80%, Klohn-Crippen IWAP, 1997). Impacts to fish values within the riparian zone are more related to anthropogenic activities including cattle grazing, haying, flow control structures and water diversion/usage. Fish strandings are also a concern as fish exclusion screening on water intakes (diversion ditches/irrigation pumps) is not used anywhere within the watershed. Water quality may also be impacted by these activities.

A confirmed barrier and several potential barriers to fish migration are present within the mainstem of Anahim Creek. The confirmed barrier to upstream fish migration is a 10m falls at the upstream boundary of reach 2 (Figure 2). Reach 3 has a cement and stop log type dam at the southeast end of the Anahim Meadow which is used to flood the meadow for haying. The dam was in disrepair and no control structure was in place (i.e., natural flow at time of survey) during the FHIP survey and it is uncertain whether or not it is still functional. At the upstream boundary of reach 9 there is also a recently constructed (summer 1997) low level dam with a fishway incorporated into the design (Figure 17). The dam may become a barrier if the fishway is not maintained and/or monitored during the peak out migration of adults for spawning (late winter, early spring) and in-migration (late spring, early summer) of the juveniles back into the lake. Beaver dams are another source of potential migration barriers (evaluated as temporary barriers only), as beaver activity was observed in each reach of the mainstem.

Reach Descriptions

This reach was divided into three sections based on a review of the FHIP field data (i.e., change in confinement, morphology and pattern). The first section of the stream flows through a shallow, confined gorge (approximately 3m deep) dominated by riffles and cascades with shallow gravels over a clay and silt bed (Figure 3). The banks contain highly erodible soils which explains the cutting down effect directly below the flow moderating beaver dams at the start of section 2.

Impacts are limited to eroding banks and the loss of riparian shrub species due to the burning of the land for agricultural grass enhancement.

Fish habitat values are very limited in this section. The reach is acting primarily as a migration corridor to and from the Chilcotin River. Migratory movement is very limited between the first and second sections due to the extensive beaver dam network upstream of the first section break.

The second section is 315m in length with a riparian stand structure of mature deciduous and coniferous trees. This section of the stream flows through a large agricultural region as part of the Chilcotin River flood plain. It is protected from impacts (other than cattle watering and crossings) by the wide (50m) riparian vegetation zone. The morphology is very slough like (low gradient, limited water movement, instream vegetation) primarily due to the extensive beaver activity (damming), therefore; impacts associated with peak flows are a non-issue.

Fish habitat values in this section are limited to overwintering opportunities. The substrate is primarily fines (due to extensive beaver ponding), small woody debris and instream vegetation. The habitat is therefore more conducive to coarse fish production.

The third section ends at the Highway 20 bridge crossing (Figure 4). It has a slough like morphology with a meandering pattern and several relic and active stream channels. The stream flows through the agriculturally modified Chilcotin River flood plain. The Anahim First Nation people use the flood plain area adjacent to the stream extensively for cattle grazing, haying, gravel extraction, sewage treatment, recreation and cultural pursuits.

Serious impacts are limited to land based agricultural modifications to the riparian zone (i.e., cattle grazing, trampling, watering, stream crossings, vehicle fords and haying). Excavation of the stream channel to create low-level substrate dams in an effort to divert water into three different channels for irrigation has also occurred downstream of the Highway 20 bridge crossing. These channels have created a number of overland flow (shallow channels) opportunities that empty into hay fields. Strandings and predation of vulnerable fish populations are a concern when these areas dry due to flow manipulation and/or periods of low flow.

The fish habitat values are low in this section due to the poor habitat (i.e., more conducive to coarse fish requirements), riparian impacts and flow manipulation.

This reach flows through a confined narrow valley which begins just upstream of the Highway 20 bridge crossing. The morphology is primarily riffle-cascade sequences with some glides and pools. The corresponding substrate is predominantly cobble (average reach gradient 4%) with gravels and boulders. The riparian cover has mature conifers with shrub species along the channel banks. Forest harvesting has stopped at the gradient break above the stream.

Minimal impacts are related to cattle free range grazing in the lower gradient areas and are not of concern at the time of survey. The steep valley wall topography has protected the area from anthropogenic disturbances.

Fish habitat values (when based on a reach wide basis for the watershed) were the highest in this reach. Rainbow trout are present in this reach at a high bio-mass density (per. comm. Chapman, 1998). A barrier to upstream migration (10m falls) is present at the upstream reach break boundary (Figure 2).

An irregular meander channel pattern dominates this reach. The morphology flattens out into a regular pool-slough with riffles and multiple channels (beaver related). Beaver activity has broadened the stream channel (through damming/flooding of low lands)and created a riparian zone dominated by woody shrubs.

Minimal impacts are limited to those associated with beaver activity and free range cattle grazing within the riparian area. There is a flow control structure (stop logs removed) at the upstream boundary of the reach break which may be a migration barrier during operation.

Fish habitat values are moderate for rainbow trout in this reach with confirmed presence of lake chub.

This reach is typified by a low gradient meandering slough-like channel morphology. It has a monotypic pattern with fines for substrate material. The riparian area is primarily swamp grass with wetland shrub species occurring upstream of the Anahim reserve settlement (north of the stream crossing).

The impacts are similar to those discussed in reach 1. The area has been extensively modified by anthropogenic activities (i.e., haying to the stream edge, loss of riparian function, grazing, and water diversion/irrigation). Recent stream crossing work has occurred at the upstream boundary of the reach where three separate sets of culverts have been installed within 75m of road length (Figure 5 and 6). The stream flow is diverted into three separate channels at this crossing using plywood sheets on the upstream side as a flow control mechanism. Channel 1) flows west into Siwash Lake which was dry during the FHIP assessment. This is the suspected route of introduction of eastern brook trout into Anahim Creek from Siwash Lake. Channel 2) The center culvert passes water into the mainstem which is then partially siphoned off into another diversion/irrigation ditch approximately 1300m downstream (Figure 7) which then crosses a road at a recently excavated crossing (500m downstream). The culvert was passing water at it’s maximum capacity during the FHIP assessment. Channel 3) the most eastward diversion also channels water into an irrigation/diversion ditch. At approximately 1700m downstream (at a recently worked road crossing Figure 8) the stream is split into two more channels. The culvert at this site was flowing at >50% capacity during the FHIP assessment. Both channels flow south with the west channel irrigating the lower meadow. The other channel flows into a recently dug (August 1997) diversion ditch which parallels the north edge of the meadow and drains water off the meadow to allow another haying as it does not re-enter the mainstem until downstream of the meadow (below the dam, Figure 8-10).

At the time of the FHIP assessment the channel was running at >50% of it’s carrying capacity and fine substrate material was discharging into the Anahim Creek mainstem.

Fish habitat values are poor in this reach as the anthropogenic channel and flow modifications have negatively impacted the habitat values and will continue to do so until modified and controlled to address the requirements of the target fish species and the ranchers. The low gradient slough morphology, suspected higher temperatures (due to limited riparian cover), instream vegetation and fine substrates are habitat qualities more conducive to non target fish species. Upstream migration may be impeded during low flows at the culvert crossings. Strandings and predation is also a concern in the extensive diversion channels. Lake chub presence is confirmed in this reach.

These reaches have a repetitive stream morphology (riffle, glide, pool, beaver pond), pattern (irregular, tortuous meanders), confinement (unconfined) and gradient (<1%). Reach 5 was established to separate out the influence of South Anahim Creek (largest tributary to Anahim Creek, Figure 11). The riparian structure is wetland in nature, (beaver activity has expanded the wetland area) with shrubs providing the primary influence and grasses/conifers as secondary vegetation.

Isolated impacts to the riparian zone and stream channel (i.e., grazing, eroding banks due to watering/crossings and loss of vegetation function) are related to ranching activities. These impacts are a low priority for further assessment given the wetland and slough type morphology. Timber harvesting has occurred within the reach but it is outside of the riparian zone due to the large wetland buffers.

Fish habitat values are only moderate for target species due to the wetland morphology (beaver related) and high percentage of fines in the substrate. Rainbow trout presence is confirmed.

The morphology, pattern, confinement and gradient of this reach is very similar to that of reach 5 and 6. The primary difference is that the stream channel is flowing through narrower wetland complexes, (i.e., <75m wide versus >200m wide in reaches 5, 6). The riparian zone remains wetland in structure (shrubs and grasses) although the serial structure is less developed/complex (i.e. more grasses).

Impacts to fish habitat values are limited, associated primarily to cattle free range grazing (loss of riparian function) and stream crossings. Timber harvest has also occurred but impacts are outside of the riparian zone as the buffer strips are >50m in the pre FPC harvesting.

Fish habitat values are moderate due to the wetland nature of the stream.

This reach has a repetitive stream morphology and pattern that includes portions of the stream that flow through large grassy wetlands (slough morphology, irregular meanders, instream/surface vegetation, no riparian cover and fine substrate) with smaller sections of habitat with a riffle-pool morphology, sinuous pattern, conifer/shrub riparian cover and gravel/fines/cobble substrate. The upstream third of the reach flows through Alex Graham Lake.

The Palmer Lake Road (1300 Road) stream crossing (double culvert) has been identified as having a potential forest harvest related impact to the stream in the form of sedimentation input and aggradation from the road fill and surface material (Figures 12-14). Impacts to the stream channel (as identified from the FHIP assessment site established downstream of the crossing) were exemplified by the high level of substrate interstices in-filling and deposition recorded throughout the 184m long site. The FHIP assessment reported this area as having "excellent rearing and spawning habitat that is currently being impacted by sedimentation and aggradation". The degree of sediment input was described by referencing the "Russell" type fence that parallels the stream of the northeast side of the channel approximately 15m upslope of the channel. The FHIP assessment reported that the lower rail of the fence was no longer visible as road fill material had completely buried it (Figure 14).

Sediment impacts to the crown land from the stream crossing appear to be localized due to the wetland "sediment trap" 500m downstream of the crossing. This perceived "impact" has elevated the site to a high priority for FHAP Level 1 field assessment status. Preliminary impacts from forest resource development have been identified and they require further evaluation to determine their extent and possible restoration opportunities. Sediment input rehabilitation techniques prescribed from the Sediment Source Survey (i.e., replace culverts with open bottom type (elliptical), install to Forest Practices code specifications and revegetate side slopes) of the site (watershed assessments were performed in the summer of 1997, prescriptions will be available in 1998, pers. comm. Haley, 1998) will mediate any further impacts to fish habitat. Once the existing sediment input sources are eliminated the fines will be washed downstream in freshet/flood events and settle out in the wetland filter. It is important to address this problem in a expedient manor due to the site’s high value as spawning habitat for the target fish species residing in Alex Graham Lake 400m upstream. The culverts also require inspection as they may be a low flow barrier to juveniles migrating upstream to Alex Graham Lake.

Secondary impacts are related to ranching, with cattle grazing impairing the riparian zone function (rated as a low impact). Three separate dwelling sites are also located in this reach. Two of the dwellings (one downstream of Alex Graham Lake and one upstream with a ford, Figure 15) are related to ranching activities and the third is a recreational cabin located on the north side of the lake. A stream crossing culvert associated with ranching activities (re-installed summer of 1997, to allow access across the mainstem Anahim Creek to grazing/haying fields in the west) 200m upstream of the first dwelling may be a barrier to upstream migration at low and high flows (Figure 16). As a result this site has been assigned a moderate impact rating but will not be addressed (mapped) under the WRP envelope. Beaver activity/impacts related to damming are also prevalent in this reach.

Fish habitat values are high due to the close proximity of Alex Graham Lake, which has a population of rainbow trout. Potential spawning habitat is also available downstream of the lake outlet to the first large wetland (approximately 900m downstream). Lake chub presence is confirmed in this reach.

This reach also has a tributary (Watershed Code 150-2593-653, map 093B.025, Photo 30BCC93045 No. 035) which flows south and enters Alex Graham Lake near the northwest tip. This system received a lower level of evaluation during the Overview procedure due to the low fish values attributed to the available habitat. Four lakes were assessed within the system. Three of the four were water quality surveyed by MoELP and found to experience winter kill conditions (FISS data, 1994). When the FHIP assessment was performed in October 1997 a site was established on the downstream side of the Palmer Lake (1300) Road stream crossing. There was no water flow (although Anahim Creek was flowing at >50% capacity), the substrate was fines with isolated pockets of spawning gravel source from road material used to cross the stream). Approximately 50m downstream of the crossing the riparian area opened up into a wetland/pond scenario and the channel was no longer visible.

Minor impacts are related primarily to free range cattle grazing.

Fish values are thought to be limited to marginal pockets of spawning habitat and rearing opportunities downstream of the Palmer Lake Road stream crossing due to the limited flows and poor channel definition. A second FHIP site was established at the first stream crossing upstream of the lake, (on the access road to the cabin and second dwelling, Photo # 30BCC93045 No. 035). Habitat conditions were similar to those from the first site. Upstream of the road there was an active beaver dam pond and the downstream area was flowing through a channelized wetland with swamp grass for riparian structure and predominantly fine substrate with pockets of gravel. A lake chub was captured upstream of the stream crossing.

This reach has similar morphology, pattern and riparian structure (more conifer influence because of greater topographic relief in this reach) as found in reach 7.

Impacts are minimal due to the extensive wetland/slough morphology. The limited impacts to fish habitat values are related to free range cattle grazing (i.e., loss of riparian function, watering and uncontrolled crossings). The low level dam at the outflow of Beaver Lake was replaced with an upgraded structure during the summer of 1997 (Figure 17). A fishway was installed to facilitate fish migration. The dam may become a barrier if the fishway is not maintained and water levels/flows through the fishway are not monitored during the migration periods. The operating pattern of the dam may also impact downstream fisheries values as it was installed primarily to supply the watering needs of the ranching community downstream. Beaver activity is also present throughout the reach. There is a culvert crossing on the mainstem 2.5km downstream of Beaver Lake which is a potential upstream migration barrier at low flows (Figure 18).

The fish habitat values are moderate to high based on the site data collected during the FHIP and as a result of the increased gradient and coniferous tree presence within the riparian zone. Rainbow trout and lake chub are confirmed present in this reach.

The morphology of this reach is comprised mainly of low gradient (<1%), wetland slough complexes with an irregular meander pattern. The reach flows though Beaver Lake in the south and Stum Lake to the north. The substrates are suspected to be fines with isolated pockets of gravel in the gradient riffle areas. The riparian zone is dominated by grasses with limited areas of shrubs (predominantly upstream of Stum Lake). Aquatic surface and subsurface vegetation cover a large proportion of the reach between Beaver Lake and Stum Lake.

The minimal impacts to fish habitat values are limited to non-forest harvesting related issues such as cattle grazing (fenced and free ranging), two ranching residences (one is approximately 100m north of the outlet of Stum Lake and one is approximately 150m east of the inlet to Stum Lake), excavation of the mainstem through the first wetland downstream of the Stum Lake outlet, (evidenced by mounds of soil on north side of channel observed during the overflight), damming of the outlet from Stum Lake and a water diversion channel (ranching related, plywood and plastic dam debris observed during the FHIP assessment and overflight, Figure 19) and beaver activity.

Fish values are high in this reach due to the habitat available in Beaver Lake (confirmed rainbow trout presence) and Stum Lake (suspected rainbow trout presence). Spawning habitat is the limiting factor for the target species due to the high percentage of fine substrates within the dominant slough and wetland pond type morphology.

This reach also has a tributary (150-2593-758, map 093B.025-026 Photo 30BCC93120 No. 093) which flows west and enters Beaver Lake at the southeast tip. This system was only partially evaluated as part of the Overview procedure due to the low fish values attributed to the available habitat. The tributary has one large lake (local name Gravel Lake) and one secondary lake (unnamed) both are shallow (i.e., <2m deep for >50% of surface area). Gravel Lake was surveyed for water quality by MoELP and found to be predisposed to winter kill (per. comm. Rob Dolihan, 1998). During the FHIP assessment a site was established at the ford stream crossing in the mature conifer riparian area upstream of the first large wetland area. There was no water flow (although Anahim Creek was flowing at >50% capacity) at the time of survey. The substrate was primarily cobble with small boulders and pockets of gravels. The larger substrates were also covered in a layer of moss. The large size of the substrates and moderate channel size (1.7m average channel width) indicates high flows (given the topography), tempered by the moss which indicates an intermittent flow regime.

Fish values are suspected to be limited to marginal pockets of spawning habitat and rearing opportunities directly downstream of the lake outlet (approximately 300m long, upstream of Beaver Lake). The habitat (based on air photo interpretation) has a riffle-pool-cascade morphology with gradients <4% and a conifer riparian zone. The habitat upstream is limited to rearing as it flows (water visible in the channel on air photo) for 1000m through a wide (approximately 150m) slough-like wetland with a grass riparian zone (limited cover). Based on the FHIP site data (located upstream of this wetland) the habitat between this large wetland and Gravel Lake (approximately 600m long) also provides rearing opportunities, limited spawning and acts as a migration corridor between the two lakes. The habitat values were downgraded due to the intermittent nature of the flow pattern. Beaver activity is suspected in the area between the two lakes.

The morphology of this reach is wide (>300m) unconfined wetland (no visible stream channel, based on air photo interpretation) with two ponds and two lakes (all shallow). The riparian area is primarily grasses with patches of shrubs.

Impacts (rated as minimal, given the low to moderate fish habitat values) appear to be associated with grazing and haying within the grassed riparian zone.

Fish values are low in this reach due to the lack of complex habitat types (100% wetland, fine substrates and minimum riparian cover). MoELP has surveyed (water quality) the largest lake near the northwest end of the reach and determined that it is prone to winter kill (FISS, 1994).

Stum lake has a tributary that flows east and enters the lake on the northwest side (confluence UTM’s 496600 easting and 5793000 northing, map # 093B025, Photo 30BCC93082 No. 007) that may offer rearing and limited spawning habitat for resident and lake target species populations. A FHIP site was located at a bridge crossing approximately 1300m upstream of Stum Lake. The surveyed area had rearing and some spawning habitat with a substrate mixture of fine, gravel and cobble. There was excellent riparian cover (shrub and conifer/deciduous mix) and good water flows (compared to other tributaries of this size surveyed). Impacts appear to be limited to free range cattle grazing and beaver activity.

Fisheries data is limited to the recent MoELP modified 1:20, 000 FHIP assessment conducted during the fall of 1997.

The rainbow trout (target species) populations must compete with a presumed dominance of non-game species in this system (based on a review of FHIP data and habitat values). South Anahim Creek has very similar habitat found in the mainstem Anahim Creek. The habitat is dominated by extensive, monotypic wetlands which include primarily sloughs with low gradient (average 0-1%) glides and shallow pools (<0.5m). It has a meandering channel pattern, with instream vegetation (both vascular and non vascular), naturally limited LWD, (due to the wetland type riparian structure) and extensive beaver activity. Habitat matching target fish species requirements is limited to the reaches that have predominantly tree and shrub riparian cover. Based on this criteria the Overview has identified the east half of reach 1, reach 3 and reach 6 as having high fish values. In these areas the increase in gradient has cleared the substrate of fines and created a complexing of habitat types (riffle, pool, glides with LWD) away from the wetland slough type morphology which is more conducive to coarse fish production. Other areas of high fish values are limited to the ponds (wetland and beaver dam related) within the mainstem which may provide seasonal rearing opportunities during periods of low flows. There is a small (1.5ha) shallow wetland type lake in the headwaters (reach 6) that may support a resident fish population and offer recruitment opportunities for the mainstem.

The majority of the habitat has moderate fisheries values due the large extent of wetland complexes (extensive beaver activity, slough type morphology and only moderate riparian vegetation function). In summary, due to the low gradient nature of South Anahim Creek, rainbow trout target species (game fish) habitat is available wherever there is adequate water levels and riparian cover (shrubs and/or trees). Confirmed fish presence is limited to lake chub (for FPC management purposes not a recognized fish species) caught in the upper portion of reach 2 during the FHIP assessment.

The impacts from forest harvest to the stream channel are regarded as minimal as only limited riparian zone logging has occurred. The natural wetland nature of the stream precludes conifer tree growth within the riparian management area (RMA) and the low gradient (<1%) slough type stream morphology minimizes impacts to the channel. The Overview Assessment in conjunction with information collected during the FHIP has determined that the impacts to the fish habitat values are minor and more related to ranching activities; primarily cattle grazing (free range/fenced) and riparian haying. Due to the limited discharge flows within the system, site specific water quality concerns may also be an issue at the critical stages of rearing and spawning.

Potential barriers are limited to beaver dams (suspect beaver activity in each reach) and a "poorly installed" (per. comm. Sytsma, 1998) mainstem culvert crossing in reach 4 (Figure 20).

Reach Descriptions

This reach was divided into two sections based on a change in confinement, pattern and riparian species composition. The first section of the stream flows through a meandering wetland dominated by shallow riffles and glides. The riparian structure has a dense cover of wetland specific shrubs (salix spp.).

Minor impacts are limited to eroding banks (cattle watering and crossing) and the loss of riparian shrub species due to free range cattle grazing.

Fish habitat values are suspected to be limited (moderate) in this section, providing rearing, marginal spawning and high water refuge from flow events in the mainstem Anahim Creek.

The second section begins where the riparian stand structure changes from wetland grass and shrub species to mature coniferous vegetation. The morphology is suspected to be low gradient (<2%) riffle-pool in nature with a sinuous pattern.

Impacts are limited to selective harvest of the riparian buffer (entire section length (1500m) on north side of stream) and free range cattle grazing and watering. This section has been given a moderate rating for Level 1 assessment. This designation is contingent on follow-up sampling confirming target species presence, moderate to high habitat values and forest harvest related impacts to target species habitat.

Fish habitat values in this section are suspected to be similar to those in the first section (moderate) due to the beneficial effects of increased gradient (i.e., conifer riparian cover, LWD input, habitat complexing and flushed coarser substrates).

This reach has an irregular meandering stream pattern dominated by slow moving slough like morphology with predominantly fines as a substrate medium. The riparian structure is dominated by shrubs and grasses.

Direct impacts (minimal) are related to cattle grazing and indirect impacts are associated with timber harvesting along 1700m of the northern side of the stream channel. Impacts to the riparian zone and stream channel from timber extraction (i.e., loss of LWD input and temperature regulation) is not apparent from the overview due to the wide (30m+) band of wetland buffer paralleling the stream.

Fish habitat values are suspected to be moderate due to the high percentage of wetland. The reach contains two beaver ponds that may provide overwintering and rearing opportunities for the target species.

This reach is unique for the watershed as it flows through a predominately coniferous structured riparian zone. The morphology is suspected to be riffle, pool and glide in nature with a relatively straight pattern and low gradient (<2%). This area would have a higher velocity and a corresponding gravel-fine-cobble substrate.

Impacts are limited to a potential barrier to fish passage created from a poorly installed culvert stream crossing near the upstream reach boundary (per. comm. Sytsma, 1998, Figure 20). Minor forest harvesting has also occurred adjacent to the riparian zone near the upstream boundary of the reach on the south side (suspected impacts are limited as the riparian structure is intact). This site has been rated as moderate priority for follow-up Level 1 assessment due to the potential culvert migration barrier at the stream crossing

Suspected fish habitat values were rated high in this reach due to the confined channel pattern (which creates a riffle and pool morphology, habitat complexing, gravel recruitment) increase in gradient (substrate flushing) and a high density of conifers in the riparian (LWD input and temperature regulation).

Reaches 4 and 5 are very similar in nature due to their wetland morphology. The division between reaches was based primarily on the width of the wetland riparian zone and the definition of stream channel (based on air photo interpretation, Appendix B). Reach 4 has an average riparian area of 150m wide and a defined stream channel. Reach 5 has an average riparian width of 750m with sections of the channel not visible from the air photo review. The morphology is low gradient (<1%) and slough like with an irregular meander pattern and wetland grasses and shrub riparian structure.

Impacts are minor in reach 4. They are limited to timber harvesting paralleling the riparian buffer on both sides of the channel and free range cattle grazing. Reach 5 has limited timber harvest within and along the riparian management area and the wide (>500m) wetland buffer negates channel impacts. Minor impacts from cattle are related to grazing/watering and haying. Upstream of the Palmer Lake Road Forest Service Road (1300 Road) the air photo (30BCC93077 No. 063) depicts anthropogenic channelization activity in a suspected attempt to drain the wetland and divert the mainstem drainage flow to the north of its natural location. The FHIP assessment established a site on the downstream side of the road where the mainstem was thought to cross under the road (Figure 21). Based on the field review of channel size and flow volumes the site was placed north of the beaver pond downstream of the 1300 Road crossing (the portion of the road that appears to be flooding on Photo 30BCC93077 No. 064). A review of the air photos depict the natural stream crossing occurring 400m to the south, yet in the field there is only a small drainage culvert (with moderate flow) 1/2 the size of the beaver control structure used at the FHIP field site. Based on this information it is apparent that the natural flow pattern is being modified. Beaver activity and the associated impacts are prevalent throughout this portion of the mainstem.

Fish habitat values are moderate due to the extensive area of wetland complexes. Two beaver ponds are located in reach 5 (100m downstream and 1100m upstream of the 1300 Road) that may provide rearing and overwintering habitat.

A FHIP field site was established on the upstream side of the deactivated stream crossing (ford). This reach flows through an area of steeper gradient (1-4%) with a riffle and shallow (<0.5m) pool type morphology. The pattern is sinuous in nature with a conifer, deciduous and shrub riparian zone structure. The increase in gradient has narrowed the riparian zone in this reach (<50m) and complexed the substrate into a mixture of fines and cobbles with a smaller percentage of gravel.

Impacts are limited to minor free range cattle grazing/watering and the stream crossing which has been deactivated to a ford crossing with no fish passage concerns.

Fish habitat values are moderate to high compared to the wetland type reaches in the system due to the good stream cover, suitable flows, gradient increase and coarser substrate composition. There is one beaver pond near the center of the reach that may offer rearing and overwintering habitat.

This reach is wetland (non channelized and channelized as per air photo interpretation) in nature with a 3ha beaver pond/lake (25% of it appears to be >2m deep) near the upstream boundary of the reach. The morphology is slough like in nature with an irregular meander pattern and grass throughout the riparian zone.

Minor impacts are limited to those associated with free range cattle grazing/watering.

Fish habitat values are moderate due to the limited riparian cover and slough/wetland morphology. Overwintering and rearing habitat may be available in a small (20m x 20m) beaver pond at the downstream boundary of the reach and in the beaver pond/lake near the upstream reach boundary.

It is not apparent from the Overview assessment what the stream morphology is for this reach due to the dense canopy cover and lack of visible stream channel. Flow is suspected to be intermittent and seasonal. The riparian structure is predominantly open coniferous with patches of shrubs and grasses.

Suspected impacts are limited to minor free ranging cattle grazing and watering.

Fish habitat values are suspected to be low in this reach due to the limiting low flow pattern and lack of visible channel structure.

Fisheries data (field based) is limited to the recent MoELP modified 1:20, 000 FHIP assessment conducted during the fall of 1997.

The rainbow trout (target species) populations must compete with a presumed dominance of non-game species in this system (based on a review of FHIP data and habitat values). ILP 00001 is very similar to reach 1 of the Anahim Creek mainstem. This system is primarily a historic overflow channel from the Anahim Creek mainstem that ranchers have manipulated using soil berms below the Highway 20 crossing and an irrigation water pump connected to the stream channel (reach 2 section 2-2) to benefit cattle grazing and hay production on the surrounding flood plain. The stream is dominated by monotypic habitat; primarily sloughs with low gradient (average 0-1%) glides and pools with limited complexing. ILP 00001 has a meandering channel pattern, with instream vegetation (both vascular and non vascular), limited LWD, (due to the wetland type riparian structure) and extensive beaver activity. There is a perennial spring at the upstream boundary of reach 2 section 1 that is an important water source for downstream fish values.

High fish values (primarily rearing with limited spawning) were identified in reach 1 due to its connectivity to the Chilcotin River, extensive beaver activity, (creating a stable flow regime and habitat complexing) and the presence of the small spring water source upstream in reach 2 section 2.

Confirmed fish presence is limited to chinook fry (captured in reach 1), long nose sucker caught in the lower portion of reach 2 and lake chub captured in reach 3 during the FHIP assessment. It is suspected that all the fish species found within the Chilcotin River may be present within the lower reaches at some point during their life cycles. These species include bull trout (BT, blue listed), minnows general (C), chinook (CH), chiselmouth (CMC), coho (CO), dace, general (DC), lampreys general (L), leopard dace (LDC), longnose dace (LNC), longnose sucker (LSU), mountain whitefish (MW), northern squawfish (NSC), rainbow trout (RB), redside shiner (RSC), sockeye (SK), steelhead (SH) and suckers, general (SU), whitefish, general (WF).

There are no visible impacts from forest resource development to the stream channel in this system. Impacts to fish habitat values within the riparian zone are as a direct result of the extensive ranching activities described above, primarily cattle grazing, haying, crossings, irrigation and water diversion. Due to the limited flows (minimal substrate flushing) within the system site specific water quality concerns may also be an issue. These impacts were given a moderate to high rating. Further assessments (i.e., Level 1 surveys) and restoration suggestions are not addressed in this report as these non-forestry related fish habitat impacts are outside the WRP mandate.

Potential barriers are limited to beaver dams (beaver activity in reach 1 and 2) and failed culverts (two confirmed during the FHIP assessment).

Reach Descriptions

The upstream reach break boundary was established at the highest (northern most) upstream confluence with Zenzaco Creek (HWC 150-2498, Zenzaco creek splits into two channels at the ford crossing, not visible on the map, Figure 22) and is characterized by slough type morphology as result of extensive beaver activity (3 channel spanning >15m wide beaver dams within the first 200m upstream of the Chilcotin River, Figure 23). The main channel has a straight pattern with a cobble and gravel substrate covered in fines (predominantly in the areas behind the beaver dams that have a bankfull wetted width which allows the fines to settle out). There are numerous off channels and back water areas in this reach as it is within the active flood channel of the Chilcotin River (Figure 24). Riparian vegetation is a mixture of deciduous trees, woody shrubs and grasses.

Suspected impacts are limited to minor cattle grazing and watering. The extensive beaver damming, periodic flooding from the Chilcotin River and natural topography (which has confined the bench type land preferred for cattle grazing to outside the riparian zone) has prevented most of the anthropogenic impacts which are related to ranching from occurring. There is road access to the confluence area (with the Chilcotin River) and it is used heavily for recreational activities by the members of the Anahim First Nation. The beaver dams may only be barriers to migration at specific low flow levels as the FHIP assessment captured chinook fry 400m upstream of the Chilcotin River, upstream of several large dams.

Fish habitat values are very high in this reach due to the confirmed presence of chinook juveniles and the extensive habitat created by beaver activity. The damming has created a stable flow pattern, overwintering habitat, high water refuge and off channel habitat. The flooding has also prevented the land from being colonized for ranching interests. This reach plays a key role in maintaining the fisheries health of the many fish stocks within the Chilcotin River and must be protected.

Fish habitat values are very high in this reach due to the confirmed presence of chinook juveniles and the extensive habitat created by beaver activity. The damming has created a stable flow pattern, overwintering habitat, high water refuge and off channel habitat. The flooding has also prevented the land from being colonized for ranching interests. This reach plays a key role in maintaining the fisheries health of the many fish stocks within the Chilcotin River and must be protected.

This reach was divided into two sections based on a review of the air photos and FHIP field data (i.e., change in confinement, morphology, pattern and riparian structure). The first half of the section flows through a wide deep channel (approximately 15m wide and 1m deep) with a slough type morphology and thick mats of instream vegetation. Riparian structure is limited to grasses with moderate shrub cover. The upper half (upstream of a stream ford/cattle crossing) shallows up and the morphology changes to beaver dam ponds at the start with riffles and shallow pools upstream to the section boundary (beginning of the spring water source, see map 093B.005).

Impacts are limited to minor bank erosion and the loss of riparian shrub function due to cattle grazing, crossing and watering, (Figure 25).

Fish habitat values are moderate in this section, due to the monotypic morphology and fine substrate which is more conducive to coarse fish production. Migratory movement is limited between the first and second reaches due to the extensive beaver dam network throughout reach 1. It is important to protect this area from impacts as it is directly upstream of the high fish values identified in reach 1.

The second section was established upstream of where the spring starts. The stream channel narrows (approximately 20m down to >10m) and the mixture of deciduous trees and shrubs in the riparian stand are replaced with shrubs and grasses. The channel was dry at the time of the FHIP survey but had flowing water during the October 1997 overflight (the blocked culverts were creating shallow ponds on the upstream side of the crossings, Figure 26). Based on the substrate composition and general channel form this area would have a slough-like morphology with a meandering channel pattern.

The stream flows through a large agricultural region as part of the Chilcotin River flood plain. The extensive anthroponenic impacts are related to 1) cattle ranching (grazing, haying, watering and crossings), 2) irrigation (a water pump and pond structure installed in-stream, Figure 27) 3) stream crossing culverts that have failed acting as potential barriers and 4) stranding of fish that have migrated into the section during periods of accessible flows. These impacts to the channel were assigned a moderate to high level of priority (outside the WRP mandate to restore) due to the resultant flooding, strandings and water flow manipulation associated with the above described disturbances.

Fish habitat values in this section are limited to marginal rearing opportunities due to the fluctuating flow regime (manipulated to serve ranching interests, not fish) and agricultural impacts. The habitat values are more conducive to coarse fish production.

The natural topography (i.e., low gradient, wetland/slough morphology and meandering stream pattern) of the Anahim Creek watershed negates many of the impacts commonly associated with forest harvest activities (primarily increased sediment input).

One site was identified from the Overview process as a high priority for the establishment of a Level 1 field assessment site. The site is located in reach 8 of the Anahim Creek mainstem (map # 093B.025). The Level 1 field site designation is a result of the impact(s) observed during the FHIP assessment (on Crown Land) and their direct link to forest resource development (Palmer Lake Road Anahim Creek crossing sediment source).

Two moderate priority sites (associated with forest resource development) were identified in the mainstem of the South Anahim Creek sub-basin. The first site is the entire length of section 2 in reach 1 where the riparian vegetation function of the stream may have been negatively impacted (loss of cover, nutrient and LWD input) by harvesting along both sides of the stream channel. The second site is in the upper portion of reach 3 in the mainstem where a recently installed culvert (Small Business Forest License) may be a potential migration barrier.

The extensive forest harvest and ranching activities within the watershed has resulted in a high number of stream crossings (IWAP, Klohn-Crippen 1997). These structures may be barriers to target fish habitat (i.e., failed stream crossing structures). A Fish Passage Culvert Inspection Procedure (FPCIP) should be performed (in conjunction with Access Management Procedure road deactivations) to measure the degree of impact and identify areas of concern.

Summer low flows are a concern for many Chilcotin Plateau streams. Associated flow problems within the Anahim Creek mainstem could be addressed by augmenting the flows during this critical period through the effective manipulation of the storage dam at the outlet of Beaver Lake. Impacts from forest resource development are believed to be less significant when compared to those occurring from private land use (i.e., ranching) which are outside the primary mandate of WRP. Beaver activity is prevalent throughout the entire watershed affecting the target species ability to migrate and possibly limiting the spawning habitat available through substrate sedimentation behind impoundment ponds.

Spawning habitat is concluded to likely be the limiting factor for the target species (rainbow trout) within the watershed. It would be valuable to identify and map the extent of spawning areas (presently and historically available) within the mainstem and use this information to assess the need of conducting a maintenance program to clear beaver dams which maybe impacting upon the high valued spawning areas.

Chapman, B. 1998. Personal communication. Fisheries Zone Supervisor, MoELP, Cariboo Region.

Department of Fisheries and Oceans Stream Information Summary System. 1994

Dolighan, R. 1998. Personal communication. Fisheries Inventory Technician, MoELP, Cariboo Region.

Eleven map sheets in total:

92O.095

93B.004

93B.005

93B.006

93B.014

93B.015

93B.016

93B.024

93B.025

93B.026

93B.035.