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Rare Fish Assessment

TRIBAL WILDLIFE GRANT PROGRAM

May 31, 2020

Authored by Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Indian Reservation

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

FINAL REPORT

A FISH COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT IN STREAMS

WITH EMPHASIS ON RARE SPECIES

ON THE IOWA TRIBE OF KANSAS AND

NEBRASKA RESERVATION

Submitted to:

Tribal Wildlife Grant Program

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Region 6

Denver Colorado

Submitted by:

Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska

White Cloud, Kansas

May 31, 2020

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Table of Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 4

History and Background .......................................................................................................... 4

2.1 Causes of Habitat Loss ..................................................................................................... 4

3.2 Species of Concern ........................................................................................................... 5

3. Life Histories for Representative Fish Species........................................................................ 7

3.1 Sand Shiner (Notropis stramineus) .................................................................................. 8

3.2 Red Shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis) .................................................................................... 8

3.3 Suckermouth Minnow (Phenacobius mirabilis) .............................................................. 8

3.4 Brassy Minnow (Hybognathus hankinsoni) ..................................................................... 8

3.5 Blue Sucker (Cycleptus elongatus) .................................................................................. 9

3.6 Pallid Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) .......................................................................... 9

3.7 Short and Longnose Gar (Lepisosteus platostomus, L. osseus) ....................................... 9

3.8 Western Blacknose Dace (Rhinichthys obtusus) .............................................................. 9

3.9 Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) ........................................................................... 10

3.10

Sauger (Sander canadensis) ....................................................................................... 10

3.11

Topeka Shiner (Notropis topeka) ............................................................................... 10

4. Methods ................................................................................................................................. 10

4.1 Water Quality and Discharge ......................................................................................... 10

4.2 Riverine Habitat Assessment ......................................................................................... 11

4.3 Fish Community Assessment ......................................................................................... 12

5. Results and Discussion .......................................................................................................... 13

5.1 Water Quality and Stream Discharge of Select Reservation Streams ............................ 13

5.2 Site Habitat Descriptions................................................................................................ 15

5.2.1

Nemaha River ............................................................................................................. 15

5.2.2

Missouri River ............................................................................................................ 15

5.2.3

Upper Roy’s Creek ..................................................................................................... 15

5.2.4

Lower Roy’s Creek ..................................................................................................... 15

5.2.5

Lost Creek and No Hearts Creek................................................................................ 17

5.2.6

Elisha Creek ............................................................................................................... 17

5.2.7

Noland’s Creek ........................................................................................................... 17

5.3 Fish Community Assessments ....................................................................................... 17

6. Proposed Management of Each Species ................................................................................ 19

7. Assessed Threats to Biodiversity........................................................................................... 19

8. Adjacent Land Use Description and Improvements .............................................................. 22

9. General Recommendations .................................................................................................... 23

10.

Conclusions ........................................................................................................................ 24

11.

Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................ 25

12.

Literature Cited .................................................................................................................. 26

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

NCE tribal biologist, Jordan Kort representing Iowa Tribe of Kansas Reservation at the American

Fisheries Society and The Wildlife Society joint conference in Reno, Nevada, September 28 –October 4,

2019.

Executive Summary

The Iowa Tribe received their Tribal Wildlife Grant in July 2017 to assess common and unique fish

communities in various lotic systems on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation. This effort

focused on the diversity and abundance of common, rare and sensitive fish species, and notations of other

aquatic organisms. Streams that support a variety of habitats, such as runs, pools and backwater areas,

were prioritized and surveyed for fish presence and abundance.

Study sites included various perennial stream reaches located on the reservation, including Lost Creek,

Roy’s Creek (Upper and Lower), the Nemaha River, and backwaters of the Missouri River. The Iowa

Tribes rare stream fish assessment provided significant insight into reservation stream fishes. Our results

mimic state agency sampling efforts with the majority of the common species represented in our sample

size. Significant findings included documented populations or occurrences of western blacknose dace

(Rhinichthys obtusus) and starhead topminnow (Fundulus dispar), which were not reported on past state

distribution or documentation lists for this area in Kansas. The tribe sampled 6,006 fish totaling 44

species, within 13 families of fish from the spring 2018 to spring 2020. We also evaluated general habitat

conditions in these streams, where surrounding watersheds are greatly affected by agriculture.

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May 2020

Introduction

The Iowa Tribe initiated their Tribal Wildlife Grant in late 2017 to assess presence and abundance of

common and unique fish communities in select perennial stream segments on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas

and Nebraska reservation. This effort emphasized the documentation of presence, diversity and

abundance of common, rare and sensitive fish species.

Seven stream and river reaches on the reservation were identified for assessment of sensitive fish species

(i.e., threatened, endangered, rare, or general species of concern by state and federal agencies) at specific

sites believed to exhibit habitats representative on the reservation. Other streams were previously

determined to lack fish habitat (mostly flowing water) and were then excluded from the assessment.

Several streams contained to low flows to sample effectively or consistently during the study period.

New Century Environmental, LLC (Columbus, Nebraska) assisted the Tribe and has over 100 years of

fishery expertise in the Great Plains, including completion of numerous surveys for fish assemblages in

sand-bed prairie streams and maintains an excellent taxonomic staff to support the stream assessment and

survey process for the Iowa Tribe of Kansas Project. The purpose of this report is to provide results of

fish occurrence, diversity and abundance of species sampled along select reaches of streams and rivers

located on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation.

History and Background

The state of Kansas has 144 documented fish species inhabiting its waterways, as well as 27 others that

could possibly make their way to the state from nearby river basins. Of the 144 fish species, two are

threatened and two are endangered. The Neosho madtom (Noturus placidus) and the Arkansas River

shiner (Notropis girardi) are federally threatened.

The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation lies within Doniphan, Richardson (Nebraska) and

Brown counties. These counties do not support critical habitat for the two federally threatened species,

pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) and Topeka shiner (N. topeka). There is potential for habitat on

the reservation to support pallid sturgeon; however, none were collected during this study. The Topeka

shiner was believed to possibly exist on the reservation due favorable habitat and fish community

assemblage conditions identified within the study areas found to be in certain stream locations within the

study area, in general.

2.1

Causes of Habitat Loss

It was apparent that point- and non-point source pollution sources on the reservation streams likely impact

diversity and abundance of fish populations, especially the less tolerant species such as dace, darters and

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shiners. There is much effort needed for baseline establishment of fish population dynamics to identify

environmental limitations and restore habitats in some of the reservation’s riverine resources. Many fish

species now are threatened by habitat destruction, degradation, modification, and fragmentation resulting

from siltation, reduced water quality, tributary impoundment, stream channelization, and stream

dewatering. The species also are impacted by introduced predaceous fishes. Increased monitoring of the

reservation’s streams is required to assist with future management decisions. Roy’s Creek, No Hearts

Creek, and the Nemaha and Missouri Rivers should be the focus of major study areas. Other ponds,

wetlands and aquatic bodies were surveyed as they augmented the project’s species list.

Intensive land-use practices, maintenance of altered waterways, dewatering of streams, and continuing

tributary impoundment and channelization represent the greatest existing threats to rare fish species.

Overgrazing of riparian zones (banks of a natural course of water) and the removal of riparian vegetation

to increase tillable acreage greatly diminish a watershed’s ability to filter sediments, organic wastes and

other impurities from the stream system. Irrigation drawdown of groundwater levels affects surface and

subsurface flows which can impact fish species.

3.2

Species of Concern

Table 1 summarize some fish species of concern (or rare) in number species potentially within reservation

boundaries. The Tribe is concerned about potential fish species occurrences and population conditions, as

well as the resources needed to sustain and enhance these fish communities.

Table 1. List of threatened and endangered and fish species of concern for Richardson County, Nebraska.

County /

Fish Scientific Name

Richardson Co.

Common name

Anguilla rostrata

Federal

Status

State

Status

Global

Rank

State

Rank

American eel

Tier II

SNR

Ictiobus niger

Black buffalo

Tier II

Rhinichthys atratulus

Blacknose dace

Tier II

Pimephales notatus

Bluntnose minnow

Tier II

Amia calva

Bowfin

Tier II

Cycleptus elongatus

Blue sucker

Tier I

G3G4

Acipenser fulvescens

Lake sturgeon

Threatened

G3G4

Scaphirhynchus albus

Pallid sturgeon

Endangered

Fundulus sciadicus

Plains topminnow

Tier I

Macrhybopsis meeki

Sicklefin chub

Candidate

Tier I

G3G4

Notropis topeka

Topeka shiner

Endangered

Macrhybopsis gelida

Sturgeon chub

Candidate

Endangered

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Table 1. Continued.

County /

Fish Scientific Name

Doniphan Co.

Common name

Federal

Status

State

Status

Global

Rank

State

Rank

M. gelida

Sturgeon chub

Candidate

Threatened

M. hyostoma

Shoal chub

S. albus

Pallid sturgeon

Endangered

M. meeki

Sicklefin chub

Candidate

Endangered

H. argyritis

Western silvery minnow

SINC

H. placitus

Plains minnow

SINC

Platygobio gracitus

Flathead chub

SINC

M. storeriana

silver chub

SINC

N. blennius

River shiner

SINC

C. elongatus

Blue sucker

SINC

Luxilus cornutus

Common shiner

SINC

H. hankinsoni

Brassy minnow

SINC

Threatened

These important studies are a critical first step in expanding the Tribe’s capacity for restoration and

conservation of these important fish communities within valuable ecosystems of the reservation (see Fig.

1). Knowing how habitat plays a significant role in fish community sustainability is equally important.

These resources have significant biological and cultural value to the Tribe.

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Figure 1. Illustration of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation’s land base, as it continues to grow,

resulting in a significant need for greater natural resource management.

The Tribe’s conservation officer, Mr. Scott Elrod has done an excellent job in assisting tribal biologists

with collecting field data during the study. Tribal biologists provided scientific expertise (according to

American Fisheries Society guidelines) required to conduct this important study. The most “undisturbed” locations noted for natural resource integrity were sampled, when possible or where access

was feasible. Some disturbed sites were surveyed as well. All tribal, state and federal files were

reviewed for pertinent historical information, current program data, and related reports. Very minimal

information was available.

Life Histories for Representative Fish Species

Nebraska and Kansas together support 110 and 144 fish species, respectively. In both states, cyprinids

(i.e., minnows) comprise the majority of species observed and sampled. Eight out of 10 of the most

common species sampled over the last 60 years in Nebraska are fish that would be considered small fishes

or minnow species.

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3.1

Sand Shiner (Notropis stramineus)

A member of the Cyprinidae (minnow and carp) family, this common shiner is typically 2-3 inches long,

though it can get up to 3.5 inches. They are a small silvery minnow with usually seven anal fin rays.

Sand shiners differ from mimic, channel and ghost shiners by having a rather distinct stripe down the

center of their back. Its diet is made up of immature aquatic insects, small crustaceans, and plant material

that is on the bottom of the stream. This is one of the most common fish found on the reservation and

throughout both states.

3.2

Red Shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis)

This shiner is able to colonize a very diverse habitats across the states of Nebraska and Kansas. The red

shiner can be found in open channels of large rivers and streams. However, they are also very commonly

found in deep pools, backwaters, and areas where the banks are vegetated. Red shiners are very pollution

tolerant, when compared to other small fishes of Nebraska and Kansas. This fish species was the most

common fish species found during the study, nearly accounting for half of all fish species sampled. This

is not uncommon in similar fish studies (S. Schainost, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, pers.

comm. 2016).

3.3

Suckermouth Minnow (Phenacobius mirabilis)

This minnow gets its name from a distinctly sub-terminal (ending below tip of snout) mouth. This gives

it the appearance of a small sucker. These minnows are found in freshwater streams and rivers with

permanent flows. They are most commonly found in mixed, sand-gravel substrate habitat, but can also be

found in agriculturally degraded streams. They feed on plankton, small invertebrates with chironomid

larvae, and chironomid pupae. This species was commonly observed in No Hearts and Roy’s Creeks on

the reservation.

3.4

Brassy Minnow (Hybognathus hankinsoni)

The brassy minnow is designated as a species of concern for Doniphan County in Kansas. Their habitat

primarily consists of cool, slow moving streams and creeks that have either a sandy or gravel bottom,

overlaid with organic sediment. They can also be found in flooded ponds near rivers, as well as flooded

ditches with weedy bottoms. This type of habitat is found throughout the reservation on Roy’s and Lost

Creeks, where this species was sampled during the study. Brassy minnows are omnivorous eating algae,

plankton, and aquatic invertebrates. They are susceptible to predation and do better in habitats with

minimal predators.

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May 2020

3.5

Blue Sucker (Cycleptus elongatus)

Blue suckers are very rare today, due to habitat segmentation resulting from construction of numerous

dams since Euro-American settlement. They are a Tier 1 species in Richardson County as well as a

species of concern in Doniphan County. These fish live in river systems with fast flowing currents. They

forage for food off the bottom of rivers, which includes aquatic insect larvae, plant material and algae.

This species averages between 4-6 pounds and measuring near 25-30 inches in the in the Missouri River

on the reservation.

3.6

Pallid Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus)

In 1990 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service placed the pallid sturgeon on the endangered species list due to

low numbers of sightings and interactions. At present, these fish are rarely seen in the wild due to their low

population numbers. They average between 30 - 60 inches and roughly weigh 80 pounds when they reach full

maturity. Pallid sturgeons are primarily bottom feeders, as well as opportunistic feeders. Little is known

about their precise eating habits, but some studies have found they feed on insects, fish and plant material.

This study documented occurrences of shovelnose sturgeon (S. platorynchus) in fair numbers using shortperiod-set gill net sampling along the Nemaha River.

3.7

Short and Longnose Gar (Lepisosteus platostomus, L. osseus)

Short and longnose gar are in the family, Lepisosteidae and are found in North America. Though from

the same family, they both have traits that set them apart. Longnose gar have dark spots on the caudal

and other fins, with some also on the body and head. The longnose gar gets its name by its relatively

longer snout, which is at least 10 times the minimum width.

The shortnose gar is much smaller, rarely reaching five pounds in weight. Its mouth is broad and flat

(some compare it to a duck bill) and lined with razor sharp teeth. Both gar species inhibit the same

habitat, mostly in creeks and rivers and some ponds. Shortnose gar prefer faster flowing waters in larger

rivers but can be found in confluences with smaller creeks. Longnose prefer slower currents, commonly

with shallow weed beds.

3.8

Western Blacknose Dace (Rhinichthys obtusus)

The western blacknose dace is a member of the Cyprinidae family. This species exhibits very small

scales and is different from the closely related longnose dace (R. cataractae) by having a much shorter

snout, larger eyes, and a very distinct mid-lateral stripe that is prominent along its entire body length. Its

diet mainly consists of amphipods and dipteran larvae. They can be found in small, cool, gravelly streams

of high to moderate gradient. The blacknose dace population we documented on the reservation appears

to be a small remnant population in Kansas. The status of this population on the reservation was unclear;

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May 2020

however, it was believed that it was generally stable.

3.9

Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)

The channel catfish is the most popular sport fish in North America. Its average size is between 2-4

pounds with some reaching 40-50 pounds. Channel catfish are commonly found in a majority of

watersheds. They inhibit large reservoirs, lakes, rivers, streams and ponds. They are a very hardy fish

and can handle various environmental conditions. Channel catfish are commonly identified by their

indistinguishable barbels, which give them their name. Young of year channel catfish were sampled in

reservation streams, indicating reproduction and recruitment occurred in many reservation streams.

3.10

Sauger (Sander canadensis)

The sauger is a freshwater fish from the Percidae family, closely related to and commonly mistaken for

the walleye (S. vitreus). Sauger have a fusiform body structure, and as a result they are a well, adapted

predatory fish, and are capable of swimming into fast currents with minimal drag. They are different

from walleye by their distinctly spotted dorsal fin. They don’t have a white spot on the tip of their caudal

fin and their color is generally more of a brassy-darker color, depending on the region. They also do not

grow as large as walleye, as adult sauger typically weigh from 10-15 ounces. Reservation streams

appeared to be important to sauger populations, in terms of localized reproductive and life history strategy

for growth of critical life stages.

3.11

Topeka Shiner (Notropis topeka)

The Topeka shiner is a small minnow native to prairie streams of the Great Plains. It was named after the

town near which it was first discovered (Topeka, Kansas). In 1998, the Topeka Shiner became a federally

endangered fish species threatened by habitat destruction, degradation, modification, and fragmentation.

It is easily mistaken for the sand shiner, a common minnow found throughout much of Kansas, they have

a few distinguishable traits. The Topeka Shiner can be identified by a dark stripe in front of its dorsal fin

and a distinct wedge-shaped spot at the base of its tail. It is still not clear whether our reservation still

maintains this species. More sampling is needed.

Methods

4.1

Water Quality and Discharge

Temporal temperature (ambient and water) and stream discharge data were collected from select stream

reaches, using field meters. These systems included the Nemaha-Missouri River confluence, and No

Hearts, Upper Roy’s and Noland’s Creeks. Water samples were also collected from these sites in 2018 to

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May 2020

describe water quality in general. Water quality samples were processed and analyzed by an independent

laboratory.

4.2

Riverine Habitat Assessment

To compliment the fishery assessment, we used a simple, straightforward approach to evaluating and

scoring habitats. This method allowed for identification of limiting factors, which can be used in future

stream restoration and monitoring efforts.

This rapid stream restoration monitoring protocol can be applied to almost any stream restoration design

approach (i.e. regenerative storm conveyance, sand berm seepage systems, Natural Channel Design,

valley restoration, among others). It uses visual observations to evaluate functional stability of stream

restoration projects and focuses on vertical stability, lateral stability, riparian condition and instream

structures (i.e. log vane, w-weir). The method does not evaluate any physicochemical or biological

functions. The parameters used to evaluate vertical stability, lateral stability, and riparian conditions were

based on Harman et al. 2012. It was believed that the fish community assessment could be correlated in a

general way to the snapshot habitat condition this protocol afforded us.

The rapid methodology used function-based parameters to identify restoration success and recommend

future actions. Recommended future actions will always include the rapid assessment protocol, at least

through the required monitoring period, but may also include two other recommendations. The first

recommendation can be for intensive survey monitoring. Intensive survey monitoring involves detailed

measurements at the location of stream adjustment to determine the stability trend of these adjustments.

If the results of the intensive survey monitoring show the stream is trending towards degradation, then

remediation and/or repair is required. The second recommendation can be for remediation and/or repair.

Remediation and/or repair is required if the rapid survey shows that there are widespread stream

adjustments that will cause further damage and contribute to other structural or functional problems.

Table 2 presents the habitat scores from streams where fishery surveys were conducted in during 2018

and 2019.

Our habitat assessment was conducted in both 2018 and 2019 to identify short term habitat changes and

measure two different temporal scoring events to reliably evaluate lotic habitat conditions, in general.

When necessary, we conducted stream measurements and calculated dimensionless stream relationships

(e.g. bankfull width, belt-width, radius of curvature) to determine whether restored stream characteristics

and conditions were within ranges of the restoration design criteria. Discussed below are is a discussion

of each of the stream reaches sampled during the study period.

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4.3

Fish Community Assessment

In relatively small, low gradient reservation streams, Tribal biologists sampled each study site,

specifically to document presence or absence of special-status fish species, other species of concern, and

establish a baseline of fish species present on the reservation, in general. Streamflows were variable

during the study period which made sampling challenging at times.

Fishery and habitat surveys were conducted 150 ft both upstream and downstream of bridge crossings, in

each one the streams or rivers sampled, totaling 300 ft for each stream site. Tribal biologists sampled

each study site multiple times throughout the two-year study. At each site (other than the Nemaha, and

Missouri Rivers) an entire upstream electrofishing pass (i.e., along the entire 300-ft site was conducted

where permissible). Electrofishing surveys were conducted using a Coffelt Mark-10 backpack unit.

When electrofishing was difficult or impossible (i.e., with rocky and coagulated stream bottom

substrates), fish survey data were complimented using seine capture data. All identified microhabitats

(e.g., pools, open water, vegetated shoreline, etc.) were attempted to be sampled in each stream. In spring

2019, high flows due to flooding prevented effective sampling efforts for these streams.

In the larger rivers, trammel and gill nets were drifted along sample reaches of the Nemaha and Missouri

Rivers, which encompassed approximately 985 ft. High flows and depths made seining and

electrofishing not feasible for these river reaches. Trammel nets were 6 ft deep and 50 ft (TN50) or 75 ft

(TN12) long. On the Missouri and Nemaha Rivers, sturgeon and other larger fish were measured for total

length (TL; mm) and weighed (g). All other fish species were measured for TL and other important

native (e.g., river carpsucker Carpiodes carpio and shorthead redhorse Moxostoma macrolepidotum),

sport fish (e.g., channel catfish, sauger and walleye), and invasive fish species were weighed when

sampled.

Trotlines were deployed in April, July, and August 2018 in the Missouri River. Flooding in 2019

prevented safe and effective sampling across the reservation and in the larger rivers. The smaller streams

were too high much of 2019. Trotlines were variable in length and were anchored along overhanging

bank vegetation or stable substrate on shore. Twenty octopus circle hooks, size 1/0 baited with

earthworms and various cyprinids were attached to the line. Trotlines were only deployed in the first two

bends downstream of Nemaha River into the Missouri River confluence.

All captured fish were identified to species, enumerated, examined for anomalies and released. We

vouchered specimens for each species of captured fish where field identification was difficult. These

voucher specimens were identified in the laboratory. Sampled species of concern were identified,

photographed and safely released. Results from these analyses provided species lists and estimates of

relative abundance by species and sites. Mean relative weight analyses were not performed for the most

common large-bodied fish sampled in the Nemaha and Missouri Rivers; however, some meristic data

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were collected and archived for future fishery management needs. Those fish included flathead catfish

(Pylodictis olivaris), blue catfish (I. furcatus), short and longnose gar, common carp (Cyprinus carpio),

channel catfish, river carpsucker, sauger, shorthead redhorse, and shovelnose sturgeon. Larval fish were

not sampled during the study. Juveniles were identified and enumerated when possible in spring and

early summer.

Tribal biologists maintained all proper collecting permits necessary for the survey and collection of fish

and other aquatic species for the states of Nebraska and Kansas.

Results and Discussion

5.1

Water Quality and Stream Discharge of Select Reservation Streams

Water temperatures of select reservation streams (i.e., Nemaha-Missouri River confluence and No Hearts,

Upper Roy’s and Noland’s Creeks) tracked closely with ambient air temperatures due to the streams’

shallow depths. No significant differences were found between air and water temperatures among months

that were sampled. Multiple comparison tests demonstrated that air temperature was significantly lower

(Midwest Labs; P < 0.10) than river temperatures during the months of April, May, and August 2018.

Stream discharges were variable, especially during spring and early summer months. Relatively high

precipitation events were evident with peaks in the hydrograph throughout the sampling period.

Sampling was not possible in the spring and early summer due to flows being too high to safely enter the

streams (S. Elrod, pers. comm. 2019). Streamflow changes reflected on the hydrograph due to additional

water withdrawals would likely have had adverse impacts on the fish community. Decreased discharge

and the timing of such may have reduced spawning success and rearing habitat.

Water quality results of these stream sites are provided in Table 2. Most parameters were within expected

and acceptable levels. The Missouri-Nemaha River confluence exhibited higher concentrations of some

parameters to those measured in the smaller streams. These included, in general, sodium, sulfate, TDS

(except Noland’s Creek), SAR, potassium (except Noland’s Creek), chloride, and turbidity (except

Noland’s Creek). Results were indicative of water quality conditions expected for streams and rivers

within this ecoregion, as well as those influenced by long term agricultural practices.

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Table 2. Summary of water quality results analyzed from sampled collected along select stream and river reaches on

the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation, summer 2018.

Parameter

Nemaha-Missouri

No Hearts

Upper Roy’s

Noland’s

Sodium (mg/L)

25.7

12.6

Calcium (mg/L)

78.4

55.9

Magnesium (mg/L)

20.2

11.8

12.9

8.12

7.92

8.07

8.12

Nitrate nitrogen (mg/L)

3.1

9.9

8.8

9.2

Sulfate (mg/L)

Conductivity (μS/m)

0.616

0.427

0.653

Total dissolved solids (TDS) (mg/L)

400

278

424

Sodium absorption ratio (SAR)

0.7

0.4

0.2

Phosphorus (mg/L)

0.29

0.21

0.22

0.28

Potassium (mg/L)

3.46

1.73

1.68

3.61

Bicarbonate (mg/L)

244

150

157

315

Chloride (mg/L)

Boron (mg/L)

0.05

Iron (mg/L)

1.45

1.71

1.62

3.51

Manganese (mg/L)

0.264

0.211

0.138

0.399

Copper (mg/L)

<0.01

Zinc (mg/L)

<0.01

0.01

Carbonate as CaCO3 (mg/L)

1.2

1.7

3.9

Turbidity (NTU)

Chlorophyll a (mg/m )

--.

Settleable solids mg/L)

0.2

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May 2020

5.2

Site Habitat Descriptions

5.2.1

Nemaha River

The Nemaha River habitat rating (Table 3) scored an average of 108.5, as certain categories scored well,

including epi-faunal substrate, pool variability and substrate in the upper portions (Table 3). The direct

connection to the Missouri River was a positive attribute as well. The riparian buffer contained several

species of Salix, Populus deltoides, Amorpha fruticosa, Fraxinus pennslyvanica, and other shrubs and

grasses. In our sample reach there was a large scrub shrub and palustrine wetland to the north of the

riparian fringe. Steep canyon walls bordered the south side of the river in our inventory reach.

5.2.2

Missouri River

The Missouri River scored an average of 98. The habitat condition categories that lowered the overall

score related to channel alteration, sinuosity, vegetative cover protection and riparian zone. The riparian

fringe is highly altered with agriculture on both sides. Channelization of the river channel (for barge

traffic) has eliminated many shallow pool and riffle areas necessary for foraging of young and adult fish.

Flooding was a factor and limited any sampling during 2019 as river levels were above flood stage

throughout most of the sampling season. Vegetative borders in our study reach adjacent to the reservation

were very thin and contained the typical assemblage of the more common trees, shrubs, forbs and grasses.

5.2.3

Upper Roy’s Creek

The average score for Upper Roy’s Creek was almost 110. This score was generally reflective of general

disturbances associated with agriculture. The riparian buffers varied among locations on the stream, with

row crop agriculture adjoining riparian areas in many locations. Erosion appears to have been prominent

for quite some time. Some of the more common riparian flora observed was Juglans nigra, Xanthium

strumarium, Acer saccharinum, Morus alba, Echinocystis lobata, Ablution theophrasti, Gleditsia

tricanthos, Artesmia trifida, Setaria sp., and Toxicodendron ryebergii.

5.2.4

Lower Roy’s Creek

The average score for the Lower Roy’s Creek site was 92.5, which was reflective of disturbances related

to agriculture, housing, roads and some apparent channelization on the Nemaha River floodplain. As the

stream gradient decreased, pools with increased sediment deposition were apparent. The riparian flora

assemblage was similar to that observed on Upper Roy’s Creek.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Table 3. Results of stream habitat values for select riverine segments on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska

Reservation, 2018-19 (adapted from USFWS 2014).

Habitat

Parameter /

Date

Survey Stream / River

Nemaha

Missouri

Upper

Roy's

Lower

Roy's

Lost/No

Hearts

Elisha

Noland’s

1. Epifaunal substrate

2. Pool substrate

3. Pool variability

4. Sediment deposition

5. Channel flow

6. Channel alteration

7. Channel sinuosity

8. Bank stability

9. Vegetative protection

10. Riparian zone

Total

108

109

132

103

1. Epifaunal substrate

2. Pool substrate

3. Pool variability

4. Sediment deposition

5. Channel flow

6.Channel alteration

7. Channel sinuosity

8. Bank stability

9. Vegetative protection

10. Riparian zone

Total

109

110

136

107

Average of both years

108.5

109.5

92.5

134

105

10/29/2018

7/31/2019

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

5.2.5

Lost Creek and No Hearts Creek

The Lost and No Hearts Creek system had the highest average habitat score at 134 (Table 3). Even

though there likely were agricultural impacts along this watershed, they appeared to be minimized by

wider stream buffers and in some cases, excellent tall grass parcels on tribal land that eliminated erosion

and chemical conduits to the stream in a stream section with good to excellent in-stream habitat features.

Tree, shrub and grass diversity was the highest at this location. Additional flora species like Quercus

macrocarpa, Acer saccharinum, Tilia americana and Laportea canadensis and prickly ash encompass the

fringe on tribal property properly securing the sediments and inputs from the surrounding land base.

5.2.6

Elisha Creek

This creek’s habitat rating scored 105 and the greatest limitation of the stream was believed to be reduced

flows. It was believed the primary limiting factor to fish diversity was restricted migration due to

presence of fish barriers in the form of log jams and falls. Vegetative cover was generally good and

species observed were found to representative of the reservation and stream habitats in general.

5.2.7

Noland’s Creek

This site had was the lowest habitat score at 70 (Table 3). Sedimentation and high nitrogen inputs were

believed to be the primary stressors on the stream. Lower stream flows and absent vegetative cover

within the riparian corridor raised concerns about adequate protection from the surrounding watershed

and all the pollutants nearby.

5.3

Fish Community Assessments

Fish sampling commenced in April 2018, we expected that fish community assessment would reveal no

significant differences of abundances and diversity among stream study reaches. There were few

differences in species richness among the stream sites in 2018-19, particularly between Roy’s Creek and

No Hearts Creek. Fish that were not sampled included pallid sturgeon, blue sucker, bigmouth buffalo,

smallmouth buffalo, bluntnose minnow, northern pike (Esox Lucius), and pumpkinseed (Lepomis

gibbosus).

A total of 6,006 fish were sampled during the entire study, which included 44 species (Appendix Table

A1). The dominant species sampled included were red shiners (Cyprinella lutrensis), sand shiners

(Notropis stramineus), flathead chubs (Platygobio gracilis), gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum),

channel catfish, and river carpsuckers.

Use of trammel nets predominately captured large-bodied adult fish while electrofishing captured smallbodied and young of year fish. Presence of young fish indicated a stream’s support of suitable spawning

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

and rearing habitat. Short- and longnose gar were the most abundant fish captured in the Nemaha and the

Missouri Rivers, ranging in length from 27-565 mm. Channel catfish ranged in length from 23-765 mm

and sauger ranged 137-482 mm. Another native fish, the shorthead redhorse, ranged in length from 39408 mm. Common carp ranged 77-746 mm in length. Shovelnose sturgeon were only captured by

trammel net and ranged in length from 548- 658 mm, which was similar to that reported for the Nemaha

River during the study.

The most abundant species captured with trammel nets were river carpsucker, channel catfish, sauger, and

shorthead redhorse. Large amounts of small and large woody debris made drifting trammel nets in May

2018 difficult and substantially increased sampling time for each sampling unit. After June, less woody

debris made drifting trammel nets more manageable, which resulted in increased sampling effort.

Studies in other riverine habitats in the Great Plains (Appendix Table A2) used trammel netting and tote

barge electrofishing. We did not have access to a tote barge electroshocker. In the Niobrara River as an

example, several fish species were captured that were not detected in previous studies that used

electrofishing, seining, primacord, and a fish kill to sample fish in the last 30 years (Hesse et al. 1979;

Hesse and Newcomb 1982; Gutzmer et al. 2002). However, studies prior documented 13 other species

that were not detected in our study. Partial explanation of this may be due to the fact that Hesse and

Newcomb (1982) and Gutzmer et al. (2002) both sampled sites upstream of Spencer Dam. Interestingly,

our study documented the first records of bigmouth (Ictiobus cyprinellus) and smallmouth buffalo (I.

bubalus), blue sucker, and bluntnose minnow (Pimephales notatus) in the Niobrara River (Schainost

2008).

Our goal for sampling tribal waters, in part, was to document presence of blue sucker, paddlefish

(Polyodon spathula) and orange-throated darter (Polyodon spathula), which all fell short during the study.

The Missouri is a popular sport fishery for channel, blue and flathead catfish and those species were well

represented in the study.

Fishery survey results during the 2018-19 study indicated d on the three separate calendar years of study,

our results reflected the highest catch per effort using seining in the smaller streams. Given the diverse

size and habitat conditions of the reservation’s riverine resources, we determined that multiple gear types

(e.g., trammel nets, seines and electrofishing) are needed to accurately measure fish communities in terms

of relative abundance and size structure. Trammel nets were effective at capturing large-bodied fish

while electrofishing captured juveniles and young fish, as well as small-bodied fish and difficult to

sample fish. Although channel catfish were collected with trammel nets, baited hoop nets may be more

effective and easier to deploy. Our results showed that large-bodied fish generally used the entire water

course of the Missouri River up the Nemaha River, and then into reservation streams. The streams on the

reservation tended to support small-bodied and young of the year fish species and appeared to be more

spatially and temporally variable.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Proposed Management of Each Species

The tribe proposes to conduct periodic fish community monitoring on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and

Nebraska Reservation; based on information reported during our two-year study. Remnants of these

historic fish community assemblages are worth protecting and doing everything we can from a habitat and

stream protection perspective going forward (see recommendations).

The Tribe has documented over the course of this study that there are different fish species which are in

need of conservation concern and periodic monitoring will help establish trends of their population status.

Without further study and habitat management, fish assemblages in these streams can become threatened

without proper monitoring and management.

Assessed Threats to Biodiversity

It is apparent agriculture is the number primary threat to upland and wetland habitats on the reservation.

Small silt laden prairie streams such as Roy Creek are generally stable, with plant communities that

fluctuate periodically due to altered, high, low, or no flow conditions.

Flora species vary from location to location depending on soil type, moisture requirements, elevation,

nutrient reserves and sunlight. Generally, aquatic (riparian and wetland) plants are very similar within

large regions that have common characteristics related to geology and climate. The major requirement for

riparian plants is that water be present either all or most of their life cycle and this explains the presence

of many wetland and aquatic species in river floodplain environments. There are many exceptions that

come into play when investigations begin into wetland, wet meadow and riparian habitats and what floras

are present.

Our reservation is experiencing recent growth and expansion all the time, increased farming activities and

loss of CRP lands combined are adversely affecting habitats and especially rare and sensitive plant

communities. Anticipated climate change impacts, energy development and continued agricultural threats

all seem imminent on the reservation. There appears to be an ever-growing need to establish baseline

information regarding these important natural communities within our tribal ecosystem.

Some observations of habitat degradation with on the reservation include:

1) Loss of extensive riparian flora along the Missouri River. Highway encroachment and farming

have eliminated all but a small fringe of vegetative growth along the corridor.

2) Rulo Bluffs. Even though somewhat isolated, is at risk for continued acreage loss and invasive

conversion.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

3) Roy Creek. Lack of adequate buffer strips throughout much of its reach, is contributing to point

and non-point source run-off from adjacent agricultural ground.

4) Nohearts Creek. Lack of adequate buffer strips throughout much of its reach, is contributing to

point and non-point source run-off from adjacent agricultural ground.

5) Nemaha River. Loss of instream habitat and excessive run-off.

Historic and current land use practices have significantly impacted many native species in the ecoregion

of the reservation. It is evident with large mammals such as bison and other large herbivores have been

extirpated across much of the Great Plains since the 1870s, as have a number of large predators. More

recently, other grassland species have begun to demonstrate widespread declines and this is evident in our

wetland areas as well. The Tribe is very concerned about threatened, endangered and rapidly

disappearing plant species on our lands.

Agricultural practices and farm policy have long affected the welfare of fish and wildlife communities in

much of the United States. Impacts associated with conversion of natural habitats to crop and livestock

agricultural production has historically been a primary cause of natural ecosystem degradation and fish

and wildlife habitat loss (Noss et al. 1995; Tewksbury et al. 2002). These agricultural advances can place

further stress on biodiversity, potentially damaging ecosystem services associated with native biota, such

as pollination. We are intent on preserving and sustaining any tall grass prairie remnants as well with

possible locations remaining within the reservation.

In order to properly manage any wildlife or plant species, biologists and program managers must have a

good understanding of the life history, current status and management goals for each species and/or

complex. Without an outside funding source, we will probably never be able to conduct these important

studies and our unique habitat resources will continue to suffer from neglect along with lost opportunity

for our people to appreciate and utilize these resources. We have very limited information regarding

biological studies, and annual surveys to identify species composition, relative abundance, overall

population status and health of our local flora and other animal species in those habitats and we propose

to actually preserve and manage properly what we have remaining.

Other potential threats include:

•

Habitat Conversion: Agriculture: Conversion of natural vegetation to either annual cropland or

tame hay land and other forms of agriculture.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

•

Habitat Conversion: Strip Mining: Destruction of natural vegetation as the result of surface

mining. This threat is primarily the result of large-scale operations (i.e., coal, bentonite), rather

than removal for gravel. Sand and gravel extraction may be more common on the reservation.

•

Habitat Conversion: Oil and Gas: Conversion of natural vegetation associated with oil or gas

development. Impacts include drill pads, roads, storage facilities, and pipelines.

•

Habitat Conversion: Logging: Logging practices that eliminates historic stand structure (i.e.,

high-grading or clear-cut of some community types). Sustainable logging practices may remove

large or old growth trees but retain structure. This will be minimal the reservation.

•

Exotic Species: The presence and spread of non-native species capable of invading undisturbed

habitats and altering species composition and potentially processes (i.e. increased fire frequency

associated with cheat grass). Includes both plants and animals.

•

Poor Grazing Management: Management practices that cause natural communities to

deteriorate. This may include continuous over-utilization or under-utilization. Patches comprised

of various grazing intensities were considered beneficial for maintaining biodiversity.

•

Loss of Fire Regime: Exclusion of fire. Loss of this disturbance may promote expansion of

woody species, stabilization of sand hills, and altered ecological composition.

•

Hydrologic Alteration: Damming or dewatering of streams or tributaries.

•

Recreational Use: Activities that displace species, promote spread of exotic species, or destroys

natural communities (i.e., off-road vehicle recreation).

•

Pesticide Drift/Application: Misapplication of pesticides, especially around sensitive species, or

application for large-scale nonselective control of pests (i.e., aerial application for grasshopper

control).

•

Wetland Drainage/Filling: Degradation of wetland hydrology through manipulation of basins.

Overall, we will depend on proven procedures and techniques in developing our final work plan and

biological investigations which will include: managing for a biologically diverse, balanced, and a healthy

ecosystem that; meet Tribal strategic objectives, implement a monitoring strategy and develops

supporting databases, identifies and protects critical habitats, identifies the causes of habitat loss or

degradation and recommends corrective actions, ensures that fish populations are protected from

exploitation caused by unregulated commercialization and other unlawful activities, identify and

implement strategies to buffer the effects of rural residential development (mainly tribal scattered home

sites) and identify opportunities to protect, enhance or restore threatened ecosystems.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

We know we will have to address habitat losses and subsequent improvement and development in the

coming years. Human encroachment has resulted in numerous resource impacts.

Pursuant to 16 USCS & 3772 (4), [Title 16. Conservation; Chapter 57B. Partners for Fish and Wildlife]

“The term for habitat improvement means “restoring, enhancing, or establishing physiographic,

hydrological, or disturbance conditions necessary to establish or maintain native plant and animal

communities, including periodic manipulations to maintain intended habitat conditions on completed

project sites.” As stated by Partners for Fish and Wildlife we need to focus our attention on habitat

improvement in order to keep the rare species alive and well on the reservation for generations to come.

Habitat can be created and maintained by placing gravel, rocks, and cement, into streams to improve

spawning areas. Real and artificial trees can also be placed in strategic locations in different streams

which will be used for cover and safety. Another improvement that works well for protecting existing

species is to make deep pools where possible. In doing so will create better habitat, ensure water during

dry years, and protect them from siltation for years to come.

An Iowa Tribe Stream Habitat Plan should be developed with funding from all those who will benefit

from improved water quality.

Adjacent Land Use Description and Improvements

The land around our stream study sites is mainly agriculture with the exception of a few sites being

rangeland and livestock pasture. These streams have become degraded, eroded and silted in due to

decades of land use practices needing a conservation perspective. Most of our sample sites were difficult

to sample due to the heavily silted soft bottoms. Streams that were adjacent to pasture ground typically

had natural rocky and gravel substrates.

Some streams were impacted by livestock and agriculture more so than others. Streams located next to

farmland need immediate attention and improvements to ensure fish assemblages continue to survive.

One major improvement to most streams would be to provide and enhance stream buffers extending 2050 ft along stream corridors creeks and tributaries. A buffer would act as a barrier and collect runoff,

debris, and silt from entering the streams, and thus helping them regain their natural forms. Degradation

is also a problem and can be improved by leaving trees along the streams as a barrier to hold the banks in

place, thereby protecting bank integrity and strength. Other bank stabilization measures can be

implemented as well (e.g., riprap, rock cribs, etc.).

Cross and Moss (1987) attributed the general decline of several prairie fish species to unstable water

levels, loss of aquatic vegetation, and increasing temperatures and turbidity resulting from agricultural

development of the Great Plains. We know that accelerated erosion has added a larger and more

continuous sediment load to most prairie streams than they experienced when bison were the chief

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

contributor to sediment loading. We also know that small streams of the Great Plains frequently become

intermittent during the low-flow period of late summer. In pre-agricultural times, pools in these streams

were maintained by groundwater percolation and presumably. Topeka shiners and several dace species

were adapted to this type of flow regime.

Many human activities now compete for both ground and surface waters in our prairie states, leaving

many small streams nearly too dry in late summer. Because Topeka shiners prefer pool habitats, they

may become trapped during low flows and die from anoxia or exposure. Kerns (1981) noted that high

mortality of Topeka shiners in Kansas from just these conditions, despite this species' exceptional drought

resistance. Gutzmer and Luce (1996) found chemical residues to be a possible limiting factor in prairie

streams near the Platte River in Nebraska. Farm chemicals could be factor on the reservation as well.

The general decline of aquatic plants in streams could also be a factor in habitat quality (Gutzmer 2004)

and contribute to fish community composition on the reservation. Few, if any, aquatic macrophytes were

noted in reservation streams. In addition, it has been speculated that further habitat alteration from

activities such as ditching, channelization, and impoundment may be contributing to the documented loss

of Topeka shiner populations (Tabor 1989). We also know that in stream reaches where largemouth bass

have been introduced, Topeka shiners are rare to non-existent.

In Kansas, at least, the presence of largemouth bass in a reach and the number of ponds or impoundments

in the area correlates highly with Topeka shiner absence (Schrank et al. 2001). The presence of northern

pike, yellow perch and smallmouth bass could also be limiting Topeka shiner presence in reservation

streams as they were noted at several viable stream sites.

Determining fish species richness is difficult to obtain without numerous sampling efforts and rapid

assessments may limit our effectiveness at these sites. If additional funding is available, repeated fish

sampling in the top five streams is highly recommended using an electroshocker unit as well as additional

seining. Seasonal variation in sampling could also determine species not previously sampled. Gutzmer et

al. (1996) found seasonal and man induced environmental effects can significantly affect fish diversity

and abundance at any given stream or river location.

General Recommendations

1) Conduct future fishery investigations of the top three sites revealed in this study effort in

2018-2020. There is no doubt additional species will be documented that could justify

introduction or propagation plans to be developed in coming years concerning the Topeka shiner

and other rare or sensitive species found in reservation streams. Additional life history and

critical life stages data could enhance management of these fish species.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

2) Facilitate electrofishing surveys that will collect hard to seine habitats and species and

embellish our species list for future use and management of these unique resources. Populations

continually change and this data is significant.

3) As a result of this study other concepts for investigation include a thorough investigation of

headwater streams throughout the reservation. Roy’s Creek and No Hearts Creek, along with

other streams in the bluffs region of the reservation should be evaluated for fish,

macroinvertebrates, algae, periphyton and aquatic macrophytes. It is apparent these fish

communities are still generally misunderstood. Hydraulic and hydrological components should

also be assessed where possible.

4) A reservation wide land-use guidance document, in addition to Iowa Tribe Stream Habitat

Plan should be prepared for lands adjacent to sensitive water bodies, wetlands, lakes and streams.

Numerous land use issues were noted during study that could be rectified with further

documentation and remediation. In a separate study, a habitat development and improvement

plan should be developed.

5) As more fish diversity and abundance data is collected and archived, conservation and

species introduction programs can be considered and potentially implemented and put into place

with greater confidence in the coming years as agricultural pollution and global climate changes

occur at an increasing rate.

6) At a minimum fish sampling regimen should continue in Roy’s and No Hearts creek to

formally document presence of the Topeka shiner and other rare species that we suspect could be

present there.

10.

Conclusions

A total of 6,006 fish totaling 44 species (in 13 families) were sampled on the Iowa Tribe Kansas and

Nebraska Reservation during 2018-19. The study demonstrated that only the continuously flowing

streams maintain generally stable fish communities after decades of agriculture impacts and encroaching

farmland.

The unique species we encountered will eventually be extirpated by habitat destruction, degradation,

modification, and fragmentation resulting from siltation, reduced water quality, tributary impoundment,

stream channelization, and stream dewatering. Many species also are impacted by introduced predaceous

fishes. Without question there are stream habitats found on the reservation that can support Topeka

shiner and other rare fish populations. We hope to prevent that from occurring as much as possible.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Intensive land-use practices, maintenance of altered waterways, dewatering of streams, and continuing

tributary impoundment and channelization represent the greatest existing threats to the Topeka shiner and

other rare fishes. Overgrazing of riparian zones (banks of a natural course of water) and the removal of

riparian vegetation to increase tillable acreage greatly diminish a watershed’s ability to filter sediments,

organic wastes and other impurities from the stream system. Irrigation draw-down of groundwater levels

affects surface and subsurface flows which can impact the species.

Historically, populations of Topeka shiners, western blacknose dace and numerous darters were

considered to be the most stable range-wide, due to their occurrence in the watersheds dominated by high

quality prairie with generally very good grazing management and land stewardship. The two streams,

Roy’s and No Hearts are certainly candidates for these criteria as well as several other streams found on

the reservation.

Habitat condition is failing with high amounts of increased sediment loads in all streams. Water quality

conditions are generally stable, but with certain improvements could mean population stability for many

declining species.

The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska’s rare stream fish assessment has provided significant insight

into reservation stream fishes. Our results mimic, and in some ways surpass state agency sampling efforts

with the majority of the common species represented in our sample size. We have documented some dace

and topminnows which are not found on state distribution or documentation lists. We would like to

continue periodic monitoring and protect our remaining aquatic resources long into the future.

11.

Acknowledgements

We wish to thank the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through the Tribal Wildlife Grant Program for the

award of the project as it has provided the funding and assessment platform to protect these common and

rare species and their diminishing habitats on our reservation. Tribal staff were helpful with

administration and coordination of major deliverables review and comment periods. We thank Rita

Plasterer and the UPS Store in Columbus, Nebraska for their design and layout guidance for production of

the poster. We thank Tony Byrne and Kurt Tooley for their valuable review of this manuscript. We also

thank Kelli Cheek for her earlier administration support in first getting the grant. We graciously thank

Scott Elrod for his help in orientation and our boat trip sample sessions during the course of the study.

We also appreciate the effort on hot, sticky and cold and frozen sample days put forth by Wyatt Gutzmer,

Tony Byrne, Hunter Smith, Merrick and Spencer Kort, Sam Wallick, and Chase Newman.

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

12.

Literature Cited

Cross, F.B., and R.E. Moss. 1987. Historic changes in fish communities and aquatic habitats in plains

streams of Kansas. Pages 155-165 in W.J. Mathews and D.C. Heins, editors. Community and

evolutionary ecology of North American stream fishes. University of Oklahoma Press, Norman.

Gutzmer, M.P., et al. 2002. Fish species richness below Spencer Hydro Power Project in the Niobrara

River, Nebraska, 1993-2001. Transactions of the Nebraska Academy of Sciences 28:57-63.

Gutzmer, M.P. 2004. Small fishes of Nebraska. Museum Notes. August 2004, Number 119. University of

Nebraska State Museum, Lincoln.

Gutzmer, M.P., J.W. King, and D.P. Overhue, 1996. Environmental impacts in the vicinity of Spencer

Hydro during routine flushing activities in the Niobrara River, Nebraska. Transactions of the

Nebraska Academy of Sciences 23:1-8.

Gutzmer, M.P., and D.G. Luce. 1996. Chemical residues in representative fish species surveyed from

locations within the North and South Platte River systems in Keith and Lincoln Counties,

Nebraska. Transactions of the Nebraska Academy of Sciences 23:59-64.

Hesse, L.W., and B. Newcomb. 1982. On estimating the abundance of fish in the upper channelized

Missouri River. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 2:80-83.

Kerns, H.A. 1981. Unpublished field notes. Division of Ichthyology, Natural History Museum and

Appendix B-3 Biodiversity Research Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence.

Noss, R.F., E.T. LaRoe, and J.M. Scott. 1995. Endangered ecosystems of the United States: a preliminary

assessment of loss and degradation. Biological Report 28. USDI National Biological Service,

Washington, D.C.

Schainost S. 2008. Fish collections in the Niobrara River basin, Nebraska 1893-2005. Nebraska Game

and Parks Commission, Alliance.

Schrank, S.J., C.S. Guy, M.R. Whiles, and B.L. Brock. 2001. Influence of instream and landscape level

factors on the distribution of Topeka shiners Notropis topeka in Kansas streams. Copeia

2001:413-421.

Tabor, V.M. 1989. Unpublished field notes. Division of Ichthyology, Natural History Museum and

Biodiversity Research Center, University of Kansas, Lawrence.

Tewksbury, J.J., D.J. Levey, N.M. Haddad, S. Sargent, J.L. Orrock, A. Weldon, B.J. Danielson, J.

Brinkerhoff, E.I. Damschen, and P. Townsend. 2002. Corridors affect plants, animals, and their

interactions in fragmented landscapes. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the

United States of America 99:12923–12926.

Appendix A

Fish Result Summary Tables

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Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Table A1. Summary of total number of fish sampled at select riverine study sites on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation, 2018-19.

Family

Name

Acipenseridae

Catostomidae

Centrarchidae

Clupeidae

Cyprinidae

Fundulidae

Hiodontidae

Ictaluridae

Pylodictidae

Lepisostidae

Moronidae

Percidae

Sciaenidae

Total No.

Scientific Name

Common Name

Scaphirhynchus platorynchus

Carpiodes carpio

Catostomus commersonii

Ictiobus bubalus

I. cyprinellus

Moxostoma macrolepidotum

Lepomis cyanellus

L. macrochirus

L. humilis

Micropterus salmoides

Dorosoma cepedianum

Campostoma anomalum

Cyprinella lutrensis

Cyprinus carpio

Hybognathus hankinsoni

H. argyritis

Notropis atherinoides

N. stramineus

N. dorsalis

Phenacobius mirabilis

Pimephales promelas

Rhinichthys cataractae

R. obtusus

Semotilus atromaculatus

Hypophthalmichthys molitrix

Macrhybopsis storeriana

Luxilus cornutus

Fundulus dispar

Hiodon alosoides

Ictalurus punctatus

I. furcatus

Noturus lavus

N. gyrinus

Ameiurus melas

A.natalis

Pylodictis olivaris

Lepisosteus osseus

L. platostomus

Morone chrysops

Etheostoma nigrum

Sander canadensis

S. vitreus

Aplodinotus grunniens

Shovelnose sturgeon

River carpsucker

White Sucker

Smallmouth buffalo

Bigmouth buffalo

Shorthead redhorse

Green sunfish

Bluegill

Orangespotted sunfish

Largemouth bass

American gizzard shad

Central stoneroller

Red shiner

Common carp

Brassy minnow

Western silvery minnow

Emerald shiner

Sand shiner

Bigmouth shiner

Suckermouth minnow

Fathead minnow

Longnose dace

Western blacknose dace

Creek chub

Silver Carp

Silver chub

Common shiner

Starhead topminnow

Goldeye

Channel catfish

Blue catfish

Stonecat

Tadpole madtom

Black bullhead

Yellow bullhead

Flathead chub

Longnose gar

Shortnose gar

White bass

Johnny darter

Sauger

Walleye

Freshwater drum

Roy’s

Lower

Roy’s

Upper

Lost

Creek

182

1317

108

217

734

520

2,323

Missouri

State

Total

330

2854

240

1567

244

6,006

129

2,917

Nemaha

320

1276

595

201

Noland’s

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Table A2, Fish species sampled by the on the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Reservation (2018-19) and during previous studies (Hesse et al. 1978; Hesse

and Newcomb 1982) (X = species present; O = Absent).

mmon Name:

Shovelnose sturgeon

River carpsucker

White sucker

Smallmouth buffalo

Bigmouth buffalo

Shorthead redhorse

Green sunfish

Orangespotted sunfish

Bluegill

Largemouth bass

American gizzard shad

Central stoneroller

Red shiner

Common carp

Mirror carp

Brassy minnow

Western silvery minnow

Emerald shiner

Sand shiner

Bigmouth shiner

Suckermouth minnow

Fathead minnow

Longnose dace

Western blacknose dace

Creek chub

Silver carp

Silver chub

Common shiner

Starhead topminnow

Goldeye

Channel catfish

Blue catfish

Stonecat

Tadpole madtom

Black bullhead

Yellow bullhead

Longnose gar

Shortnose gar

White bass

Johnny darter

Saugeye

Walleye

Flathead chub

Freshwater drum

Family Name

Acipenseridae

Catostomidae

Centrarchidae

Clupeidae

Cyprinidae

Fundulidae

Hiodontidae

Ictaluridae

Lepisostidae

Moronidae

Percidae

Pylodictidae

Sciaenidae

Scientific Name

Scaphirhynchus platorynchus

Carpiodes carpio

Catostomus commersonii

Ictiobus bubalus

I. cyprinellus

Moxostoma macrolepidotum

Lepomis cyanellus

L. humilis

L. macrochirus

Micropterus salmoides

Dorosoma cepedianum

Campostoma anomalum

Cyprinella lutrensis

Cyprinus carpio

C. carpio (variation of common)

Hybognathus hankinsoni

H. argyritis

Notropis atherinoides

N. stramineus

N. dorsalis

Phenacobius mirabilis

Pimephales promelas

Rhinichthys cataractae

R. obtusus

Semotilus atromaculatus

Hypophthalmichthys molitrix

Macrhybopsis storeriana

Luxilus cornutus

Fundulus dispar

Hiodon alosoides

Ictalurus punctatus

I. furcatus

Noturus lavus

N. gyrinus

Ameiurus melas

A. natalis

Lepisosteus osseus

L. platostomus

Morone chrysops

Etheostoma nigrum

Sander canadensis

S. vitreus

Pylodictis olivaris

Aplodinotus grunniens

No. Sampled

330

2854

239

1567

244

Nebraska

Kansas

Tribe

Appendix B

Fish Photo Voucher Collection, 2018-2020

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Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 1 – Emerald shiner Notropis atherinoides; red shiner below.

Photo 2 – Juvenile common carp, Cyprinus carpio

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 3 – Emerald shiner Notropis atherinoides

Photo 4 – Female suckermouth minnow, Phenacobius mirabilis

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 5 – Blue catfish, Ictalurus furcatus

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 6 – River carpsucker, Carpiodes carpio

Photo 7 – Suckermouth minnow, Phenacobius mirabilis

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 8 – Green sunfish X bluegill hybrid

Photo 9 – Starhead topminnow, Fundulus dispar

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 10 – Yellow bullhead, Ameiurus natalis

Photo 11 – Juvenile bluegill green sunfish hybrid

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 12 – White sucker (Red shiner and sand shiner also)

Photo 13 – Longnose gar, Lepisosteus osseus

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 14 – Bigmouth buffalo, Ictiobus cyprinellus

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 15 – Shovelnose sturgeon, Scaphirhynchus platorynchus

Photo 16 – Gizzard shad, Dorosoma cepedianum

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 17 – Shorthead redhorse, Moxostoma macrolepidotum

Photo 18 – Western blacknose dace, Rhinichthys obtusus

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 19 – Bluegill on the right of photo

Photo 20 – More dace

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 21 – Goldeye, Hiodon alosoides

Photo 22 – Freshwater drum, Aplodinotus grunniens

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 23 – Flathead catfish, Platygobio gracilis

Iowa Tribes Fish Report

May 2020

Photo 24 – Channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus

Photo 25 – Male red shiner, Notropis lutrensis, in breeding colors

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.