(Soldotna) –The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is continuing a multi-year tracking and survival study of Kenai River king salmon smolt using juvenile salmon acoustic telemetry system (JSATS) technology. This study will investigate movement, behavior, and mortality of juvenile Kenai River king salmon as they migrate downstream and into Cook Inlet. Funding for this project is provided by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grant.

In the river, receivers used to track these tagged fish will be deployed in 15-20 locations from the upper river near Jim’s Landing, downstream to the Kenai River mouth. Some receivers will be marked with surface buoys; others may be completely submerged and anchored to ground lines.

In Cook Inlet, receivers will be deployed in an arc approximately one mile from the Kenai River mouth and marked with surface buoys spaced between 100 and 300 yards apart. Driving between these buoys will not damage or entangle propellers.

Receivers will be in place through mid-September. Please be aware of these buoys and do not move or alter buoys, lines, or anchors.

For more information, contact ADF&G Research Biologists Dan Donnelly or Tony Eskelin at (907) 262-9368.

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