Protecting Fish and Wildlife Habitat: Alaska's Instream Flow Program

Authors: Larquier, Ann M.; Ellis, Leah M.; Klein, Joe P. Alaska Department of Fish and Game

Video Presentation

Abstract

The demand for water is increasing and continued wise management of water resources is essential to the overall economic and social well-being of Alaskans. The mission of Alaska Department of Fish & Game's (ADF&G) Instream Flow Program is to ensure that aquatic-dependent species have sufficient amounts of good quality water to thrive in Alaska's rivers, lakes, estuaries, and wetlands. This is accomplished primarily through three program areas: Reservations of Water, Hydroelectric Projects, and Alaska Clean Water Actions (ACWA).

By determining the amount of water available (hydrologic investigations) and how much should remain in the river or lake to sustain fish and wildlife (reservations of water), ADF&G can help promote wise development and conservation that benefits all Alaskans. The Instream Flow Program serves as the department lead in the FERC hydropower licensing process, coordinating and providing comments to FERC and the project applicant. Staff also assist the applicant with the licensing process and in developing study plans on fish, wildlife, and water resources in the project area. The Alaska Clean Water Actions Program (ACWA) brings Alaska's three resource agencies together to manage Alaska's waters in a holistic manner by sharing data, expertise, and other information.

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