This proposal describes database improvements that are very likely to be useful to the Basin. The ISRP noted the need for this type of information in the previous review process (systemwide/provincial). All anadromous and resident fish would likely benefit from an improved information base. However, not enough detail is presented in the proposal about how this will be done. The sponsors should provide additional detail to better describe exactly what is planned.

The sponsors propose to increase the quantity and consistency of hatchery release data by capturing more detailed release data than is currently done and expanding data coverage to all water bodies and species of fish. The proposal provides a good description of the data issues and the utility of taking a more comprehensive approach. Some efforts along these lines are documented in the proposal, but it notes that without further resources progress will remain slow. This raises the question: what cost and time savings are expected to result from this project?

The proposal makes reference to some potential problems in getting the level of cooperation that is necessary from various agencies. It would be helpful to know the nature of the potential constraints and how the sponsors intend to address them. Is there continuing resistance among states to standardizing data? Are the tribal agencies part of this project?

The project would seem to have clear rationale. The significance of this project is summarized as a bulleted list. These seem reasonable, but it would be useful to have more explanation under each bullet. There is no citation of how this work has been prioritized by the Fish and Wildlife Program, the BiOp, or other planning documents. The proposal is clearly tied to the core StreamNet effort. It would be helpful to demonstrate how the data provided by this project will assist or tie in with other projects in the Basin. The methods seem reasonable but are not presented in great detail. As an example, for automated data exchange, the statement is made that "we are not certain how much progress is possible at this time." It would be helpful to identify the likely constraints and the approach to removing them. Similarly, "acquire data" deserves more detailed explanation of approach than is provided.

It is not clear how to determine the success of the project because no description of monitoring and evaluation is provided. Surely quality assurance / quality control (QA/QC) monitoring would be relevant here as would be setting performance targets and assessing the extent to which they are being met?

Information transfer is through data dissemination. Data compiled by this project will be incorporated into the StreamNet database and made available via the StreamNet on-line query system. There is the potential in a project like this to also learn about the process and challenges of data coordination. The sponsors should identify strategies to summarize lessons learned for the benefit of other efforts.