Implementation of Coregonine population viability analysis within the Coregonine restoration framework – Year 2
Contributing Authors
Laura Lee (USFWS, Laura_Lee@fwss.gov), John Sweka (USFWS), Brian Weidel (USGS), Andrew Honsey (USGS), Cory Brant (USGS), Karen Alofs (University of Michigan), Andrew Muir (GLFC), Amanda Ackiss (USGS), David Bunnell (USGS)
Executive Summary
Development of both structured and unstructured population viability analysis (PVA) models for Cisco (Coregonus artedi) occurring in Lake Erie was initiated. The unstructured models were used to estimate historical population size and exploitation rates. Structured PVA models are being explored to evaluate management alternatives (stocking and habitat enhancement) to aid in restoration. The methodologies used can serve as a template to explore restoration opportunities for other coregonine species.
Outcomes
2024 USFWS Region 5 Lake Trout/Coregonine Meeting—March 2024, presented preliminary results of the unstructured and structured PVA models
Coordination of expert panel workshops to define model structure and life history parameters for structured PVA model for Lake Erie cisco
Application of a data-limited stock assessment model to understand the historical population of cisco in Lake Erie | Journal of Great Lakes Research