Digging up Trends in Coos Bay Clam Abundance: A Comparison of Historical and Recent Survey Methods and Data

Identification Information

Citation

Originator: Hutmacher, Amy M., Anthony D'Andrea, Stacy N. Galleher, Kelsey L. Adkisson, Natalie A. Amoroso, and Jennifer C. Boyer

Publish Date: 2011

Online Link: None

BPA Project #:

Contact Information

Agency: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Name: Cedric Cooney

Job Position: Natural Resources Data and Systems Manager

Telephone: 503-947-6094

E-Mail Address: cedric.x.cooney@odfw.oregon.gov

Description

Abstract: In 2008 and 2009 the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Shellfish and Estuarine Assessment of Coastal Oregon (SEACOR) program conducted the first comprehensive clam abundance and habitat survey in Coos Bay since the 1970s (Hancock et al 1979). Multiple methods were developed for the 2008-2009 study to yield an unbiased estimate of clam abundance and distribution throughout the estuary, and to replicate the methods used in the 1970s. Comparisons of historical to contemporary Coos Bay data proved challenging because the sampling technique employed in the 1970s was intended to identify areas with harvest potential. This method comparison highlights the limitations inherent in comparing data from studies with different designs and intents and the need for unbiased methods for determining accurate clam abundances throughout Oregon estuaries.

Purpose:

Time Period of Content: 2008-2009

Geographic Extent: Coos Bay, Oregon

Status: Final

Use Constraints:

Format: PDF

Data Quality Information

Lineage-Source: Pacific Estuarine Research Society Conference Poster

Data Information

No data information was supplied.

Entity and Attribute Information

Attributes Description: Field attribute information is available in the attached file(s).

Is a physical copy maintained for reference at Headquarters? Unknown