Background
Long Live the Kings (LLTK) is a nonprofit protecting and restoring salmon and steelhead populations in the Pacific Northwest. These fish species, including the threatened juvenile steelhead, face significant challenges during their migration due to various natural and man-made barriers. The Hood Canal Bridge has been identified as a major barrier to migrating fish, particularly during early life stages. In response to this threat, LLTK launched a groundbreaking project to improve fish passage through this vital area.
The Problem
The Hood Canal Bridge, a vital crossing in Washington State, is a known barrier for juvenile salmon and steelhead migrating through the region. The bridge’s concrete pontoons obstruct fish passage, causing disorientation and increasing vulnerability to predators like harbor seals. Studies have shown that up to 50% of juvenile steelhead do not survive the passage through this area. This creates a critical need for innovative solutions to guide fish safely around the bridge and improve their survival rates.
The Solution: A Floating Fish Guidance System
To address this issue, LLTK partnered with various stakeholders to create an innovative fish guidance system. This system was designed to guide juvenile steelhead and other salmonids safely past the dangerous corners of the Hood Canal Bridge. The proposed solution was a floating fish guidance structure, known as a “fillet,” strategically placed at the southeast corner of the bridge. This structure directs fish away from hazardous areas and into safer waters.
Pacific Netting Products’ Role
Pacific Netting Products (PNP) is a leading provider of netting and fabricating solutions based in Kingston, Washington. They were selected to design this fish guidance system and take the lead in creating the floating structure. They leveraged their expertise in custom fabrications and environmentally-friendly solutions. The fillet was designed to be both durable and effective to withstand the harsh marine conditions of the Hood Canal.
PNP’s design is highly functional for guiding fish with advanced materials that ensured the fillet would remain stable. The fillet measured over 20 feet high and 85 feet long, with an innovative wedge shape to effectively channel fish toward safer passages. The materials were selected to minimize environmental impact while reducing disorientation and predator exposure for migrating fish.
Fabrication and Installation
Once the design was finalized, Pacific Netting Products began fabrication of the structure in their state-of-the-art facilities. They worked closely with engineering firms, including Kleinschmidt Associates, to meet all specifications and environmental considerations. After fabrication, the fillet was transported to the Hood Canal Bridge, where it was carefully installed.
Researchers are monitoring fish movement before, during, and after installation. This involved a collaborative effort with NOAA, the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, and other partners. They used acoustic tracking and underwater video to observe the fish’s behavior and determine the system’s effectiveness.
Results and Monitoring
The first phase of the project began in April 2023, and early results have been promising. Researchers are closely monitoring how the juvenile steelhead and other salmonids interact with the guidance system. Preliminary data will be analyzed to assess whether the fillet significantly improves fish passage and survival rates. Specifically, the use of acoustic and video tracking technology will help researchers determine the fish’s movement patterns. They are still evaluating the results.
Future Plans
If proven successful, this pilot project could lead to the installation of additional guidance systems at other vulnerable points along the Hood Canal. The success of this initiative would mark a significant step forward in efforts to restore wild fish populations in the region. Additionally, it could pave the way for similar projects in other locations facing fish passage issues.
Conclusion
The Hood Canal Bridge fish passage project represents a significant collaboration between Long Live the Kings, Pacific Netting Products, and several other partners in the region. By designing and fabricating an innovative fish guidance system, Pacific Netting Products addressed a critical environmental challenge. The project’s success will be a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and local expertise in preserving the future of salmon and steelhead populations in the Pacific Northwest.
For More Information
To read more about this innovative project, visit Hood Canal Bridge Assessment via Long Live the Kings
