This first contract year of the programmatic agreement between the BPA and the WDFW is a step toward making significant improvements in fish protection in the upper Columbia watersheds by bringing existing fish screen facilities into compliance with federal and Washington State fish screening and passage standards. The WDFW identified these seven projects (Buttermilk, MVID East, Skyline, Twisp Power, Maltais, Tandy, and Rocky reach pool pump screen inventory) as being at the top of WDFW's  list for correction based on observed O&M challenges, prioritization rank with the UCSRB project ranking metrics, and local expert opinion on their deleterious impact on Spring Chinook and steelhead populations and being in the best interest of BPA and in the best interest of The Upper Columbia (UC) Programmatic Habitat that will deliver BPA environmental compliance and immediate BiOp metrics for the the BPA Habitat Program and the Agency upon screen corrections & installations.

The sponsors will implement a phased approach to correcting the respective issues at each of these project locations using a logical, sequential, and strategized approach that includes diligent communication with BPA and local experts, not to mention thorough inclusion of the water users in the planning process. Of particular importance will be the partnerships WDFW will need to grow with the Colville Confederated Tribes (CCT) and the Methow Salmon Recovery Funding Board (MSRF). The Upper Columbia Salmon Recover Board (UCSRB) will also be updated regularly.

Under this agreement WDFW will provide 60% engineered drawings using in-house engineering staff for the Twisp Power, Maltais, Tandy, and MVID East as deliverables. WDFW will work with MSRF to produce 60% plans for the Skyline diversion. WDFW will complete the Buttermilk project in this first year of funding given its relatively small scale and because all work will occur in the dry and within the ditch boundaries after irrigation shutdown without and additional permitting being necessary (WDFW will provide the maintenance Hydraulic Project Approval if deemed necessary). WDFW will conduct a boat-based survey of the Rocky Reach pool to collect real-time diversion location information which will be cross-referenced with Ecology's databases in a collaborative effort to begin scoping landowner outreach. WDFW will work with local partners in the future to complete a prioritized correction plan based on likelihood of impact to fish life, diversion volume, location, and land owner willingness.