REGIONAL FRESHWATER FISH INVENTORY
Projects & Studies
Kenai Fjords Fish Inventory Project
This project aims to fill those information gaps by surveying streams and lakes across the park to document where fish are present and identify the species using these habitats. Understanding which fish occupy these waters helps resource managers recognize important habitat areas and ensure they are considered in future management and conservation decisions. leted.
Why This
Work Matters
In Alaska, state law provides special protections for waters that support migratory fish such as salmon. However, these protections typically apply only after fish use has been documented. Because many streams in Kenai Fjords National Park have never been surveyed, important habitats may currently lack formal recognition.
By documenting fish presence and distribution, this project provides the information needed for managers to better understand how fish use these freshwater systems and to ensure important habitats are identified and protected when appropriate.
Madeline Lee, Tribal Fish Biologist
Understanding
Hatchery Strays
A second objective of the project is to evaluate whether hatchery-origin salmon are straying into natural streams within the park. Hatchery fish are raised to support fisheries, but when they return to spawn in wild systems they can mix with naturally produced fish.
During field surveys, biologists collect small tissue samples and record identifying marks when fish are encountered. These samples help determine whether salmon originated from hatcheries and allow researchers to estimate how frequently hatchery fish enter park waters.
A Regional
& Collaborative
Approach
To sustain Sugpiaq knowledge about the Chugach environment and the application of that knowledge to daily life, cultural practices, language, scientific research, and natural resource management.
In 2025, this collaborative approach was already underway:
Field surveys were conducted in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service in Controller Bay.
Similar inventory efforts were carried out with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Kachemak Bay and the surrounding Lower Cook Inlet region.
By coordinating efforts across jurisdictions, this project helps strengthen the ability of agencies and Tribal partners to conduct fish inventories in remote areas throughout coastal Alaska.
Supporting
Future Stewardship
This work represents an important step toward improving our understanding of fish habitats in remote coastal watersheds and ensuring they are considered in future stewardship of the park.