Procedure for classifying Montana streams : fall 1979

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MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF FISH, WILDLIFE & PARKS
PROCEDURE FOR CLASSIFYING MONTANA STREAMS
FALL 1979 *
GENERAL
Six value classes were established:
Value Class Class Definition
1 Highest-valued fishery resource
2 High priority fishery resource
3 Substantial fishery resource
4 Moderate fishery resource
5 Limited fishery resource
6 Not yet classified
Each stream reach was placed in a value class for each of the two criteria
below. The final classification, the fishery resource value, was the higher
class given for criterion 1 or 2.  In accomplishing this, data for each
stream reach were entered in a computer file and a computer program used to
check the attributes and assign the class for each reach.
Criterion 1 - Habitat and Species Value of Stream Reach
The class of each reach was determined by a point system in which most
points were awarded for important habitats of fishes of special concern
(native fishes found in limited numbers and/or limited waters). Fewer
points were awarded to less important habitats of fishes of special concern
and for the occurrence of widespread species found in substantial numbers.
Least points were awarded for occurrence of non-indigenous species
considered of minimal value. Additional consideration was given streams
that are important sources of trout recruitment. Points were also given for
spring streams; outstanding esthetics; and for local community value where a
stream, being one of few or the only one in the immediate area, is important
to a community for scientific study, nature study, and/or recreation.
Criterion 2 - Sport Fishery Potential of Stream Reach
The class of each reach was based on a point system in which points were
awarded for (1) fish abundance as indicated by biomass or numbers and sizes
of game or sport fish, (2) ingress (legal rights of the public to fish the
reach or willingness of landowner to permit fishing), (3) esthetics and (4)
use by fishermen (fishing pressure).
A listing naming each stream reach, describing its upper and lower boun¬
daries, and giving its classification is available, as is a detailed account
of how each reach met the requirements of its class.
*Slightly Revised June 1980