WWRC 85-04
Modeling Trout Standing Stock in Small Wyoming Streams Based Upon Easily
Measured Habitat and Geomorphological Characteristics
Abstract
The need to assess fishery quality in mountain streams is
associated with development of water resources, timber harvest,
and recreational use. Available methods to estimate trout
standing stocks in streams are labor intensive. A goal in
stream habitat assessment is to develop a method that requires
little field work, but accurately predicts trout abundance.
This report presents regression modes which predict trout
abundance in forested mountain areas and in rangeland areas of
Wyoming. Independent variables include easily measured instream
habitat and geomorphological variables. The models have been
validated using field data. The best forest model accounted for
51 percent of the trout standing stock, while the best rangeland
model accounted for 64 percent of the variation. A multivariate
link was established between instream habitat and geomorphology.
Rapid data collection and a mechanism for quick, reliable
preliminary decision making should make these models attractive
to managers.
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