Alternative Analysis for the North Fork Battle Creek Winter-run Chinook Salmon Fish Culture Facility

In preparation for the completion of the Battle Creek Salmon and Steelhead Restoration Project and with the recognition that SRWCS have not naturally colonized in Battle Creek, ICF International under contract with CDFW, developed the Winter-run Chinook Salmon Reintroduction Plan (Reintroduction Plan; ICF International 2016). A key component to this reintroduction approach ensuring that fish will adapt to North Fork Battle Creek and will return to this section of the stream when returning as adults. In an effort to maximize the likelihood of juveniles imprinting on North Fork Battle Creek water, the Reintroduction Plan called for the use of a rearing and imprinting facility located on North Fork Battle Creek. Currently there are no Service facilities located in North Fork Battle Creek, therefore, the purpose of this agreement is to assess potential options (including already existing facilities and locations for new facilities), develop alternatives, and select the preferred alternative.