Studies designed to evaluate the effects of different streamflow releases on trout habitat were conducted in the North Fork Feather River between Rock Creek Diversion Dam and Powerhouse and in Hat Creek between Hat Creek No. 2 Diversion Dam and Powerhouse. Physical habitat characteristics (depth, velocity, and substrate) were measured under select streamflow releases along transects at representative stations in each stream. Relative values of three important trout habitat parameters (resting microhabitat, food producing habitat, and spawning habitat) were calculated for each measuring point under each streamflow release through the use of weighting factors assigned to the measured habitat characteristics. The relationships between streamflow release and available resting microhabitat, food producing habitat, and spawning habitat for trout were derived and expressed quantitatively for each transect, station, and stream section. The resulting relationships, which showed considerable variation between stations and between habitat parameters, are discussed in relation to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licensing process for hydroelectric power projects.
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