Using Management Strategy Evaluation to optimize a trapping strategy to control invasive sea lamprey

Session: 08b. - Restoration of Native Fishes

Heather Dawson, University of Michigan-Flint, [email protected]
Michael Jones, Dept. of Fisheries & Wildlife, Michigan State University, [email protected]
Norine Dobiesz, Michigan State University, Quantitative Fisheries Center, [email protected]
Scott Miehls, USGS, Great Lakes Science Center, [email protected]
Nicholas Johnson, USGS, Great Lakes Sci Center, [email protected]

Abstract

Increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of sea lamprey control by capturing adult and juvenile sea lamprey is a priority highlighted in the strategic vision of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC). The GLFC allocates resources among pesticide (lampricide) control, non-lampricide control methods, population assessment, as well as research and development to improve control practices. We used a Management Strategy Evaluation simulation model to explore the potential for trapping adult sea lamprey as a complement to lampricide control that would allow reduced reliance on lampricide. We found that trapping strategies that targeted streams with relatively low spawner densities were most effective, relative to targeting other stream types, but will require low costs (<$5,000 per trap) and high capture rates (> 50%) to justify spending funds currently allocated for lampricide control on adult trapping. Simulations specific to Lake Michigan revealed that targeting large, relatively productive rivers, with low spawner densities, resulted in the best performance outcomes; these rivers are expensive to treat with lampricide, and if trapping strategies reduce the frequency with which these streams are treated, the benefits are substantial. 

1. Keyword
invasive species

2. Keyword
management

3. Keyword
modeling

4. Additional Keyword
sea lamprey

5. Additional Keyword
Management Strategy Evaluation