Patterns of flow variability: consideration for river regulation and salmon management ...

• Main Author: Gray, Janina
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: University of Westminster 2015
• Subjects: Atlantic salmon; Salmo salar
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.34737/96v8w; https://westminsterresearch.westminster.ac.uk/item/96v8w/patterns-of-flow-variability-consideration-for-river-regulation-and-salmon-management

The natural flow paradigm is based on the assumption that aquatic organisms have adapted to a range of flows. However, flow variability is currently not represented in water resource management in England and Wales. This thesis addresses the need to incorporate seasonal and inter annual flow variability in managing rivers for migratory salmonids. This study explores the degree of inter- and intra-annual flow variability at different spatial and temporal scales across the UK, using a novel approach to analysing natural variations in flow regimes. Principle components analysis and cluster analysis, were combined with the Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration approach to analyse 850 years of station flow data from 17 rivers within 3 regions. The analyses focussed on functional flows of know/suspected influence on salmonid populations. Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is in decline throughout most of its range, yet as a protected species legally requires measures to improve populations. This thesis assembled ...