This second contract year of the programmatic agreement between the BPA and the WDFW is continuing 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 eight projects (Buttermilk, MVID East, Skyline, Twisp Power, Maltais, Tandy, Rocky reach pool pump screen inventory, and the Entiat River Pump Screen) as being at the top of WDFW's list for correction to protect Spring Chinook and steelhead populations.

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.

WDFW completed the Buttermilk project in the first year of funding. Under this agreement WDFW will provide 100% engineered drawings using in-house engineering staff for the Twisp Power, Maltais, Tandy, and MVID East diversions as deliverables. WDFW will work with MSRF to produce 100% plans for the Skyline diversion. Construction for the Skyline and MVID projects will begin summer 2024 and be completed after irrigation shutdown fall 2024. The fish screen portion of the Maltais project (Phase 1) and Tandy are anticipated to go to construction during this contract period. Twisp Power is expected to go to construction after irrigation shut down fall 2024. WDFW will analyze the diversions identified while conducting a boat-based survey of the Rocky Reach pool and cross-referenced with Ecology's databases in a collaborative effort to begin scoping landowner outreach. WDFW will purchase a compliant 400gpm Riverscreen and components to install at the Entiat River irrigation diversion prior to irrigation startup spring 2024. 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 landowner willingness.