Historical amphidromous species that has extremely limited access to the ocean or estuary which has been restricted by dams.
Limiting factors
No measurable recruitment has been observed in the John Day Reservoir for 11 of the past 12 years. This is an area of concern with prolonged periods of no new recruitment to the population, despite several water years of favorable conditions for spawning and recruitment during that time. It is evident that there are other factors in the Columbia River below Bonneville Dam, Willamette River, and John Day Reservoir that are contributing to low or no recruitment annually.
Data gaps
Life history, migration, and diet throughout ontogeny. Movements and habitat use in along with quality of habitat within the reservoir. Magnitude of
impact from illegal harvest. Potential impacts of thiamine and heavy metals in the environment on reproductive success.
Conservation actions
Use species-specific population assessments and habitat
requirements to guide management actions. Minimize incidental catch and handling of oversized sturgeon. Ensure that development and other non-fishery, human related activities do not occur in habitat (space and time) or result in direct mortality that may result in negative impacts.
Key reference or plan
WHITE STURGEON MITIGATION AND RESTORATION IN THE COLUMBIA AND SNAKE RIVERS UPSTREAM FROM BONNEVILLE DAM. 2023. Read here
