Department of Fish & Game's Initial Fall Survey Shows Delta Smelt Population Up

Department of Fish & Game's Initial Fall Survey Shows Delta Smelt Population Up

Sacramento, CA—The Department of Fish & Game has released data from the initial fall trawl, a population survey used to determine the abundance of Delta smelt and other fish species. Three additional surveys will be conducted in 2011, but this initial data shows that Delta smelt numbers are up significantly from prior years.  

The Delta smelt’s population has been impacted over the years by a number of factors, such as pollutants that impact the Delta food web and invasive species. Although the state’s water operations have also been listed as a factor, no Delta smelt were found at the State Water Project entrainment facilities this year. At the same time, water agencies were able to export high levels of water for storage and reservoir replenishment given the extremely wet year.

“While three additional surveys will take place later in the fall, the September numbers for Delta smelt are an encouraging sign. The State Water Project was able to deliver healthy levels of water this year to farms and communities throughout the state without detecting any smelt in the entrainment facilities. It is further evidence that pumping levels are not the primary driver of the health of key fish species, and that a comprehensive approach addressing all stressors via the Bay Delta Conservation Plan is necessary for a long-term solution.”

Terry Erlewine
General Manager
State Water Contractors 

CONTACT:
Fiona Hutton
Ann Newton
(818) 760-2121