Habitat Manual for Use of Artificial
Structures in Lakes and Reservoirs



Compiled by the Southern Division AFS Reservoir Committee
Summarized by Kim Tugend, University of Florida


     The Reservoir Committee of the Southern Division of the American Fisheries Society conducted a survey of state agencies to identify: (1) agency goals of habitat enhancements, (2) preferences for different habitat enhancement methods, (3) advantages and disadvantages of various habitat enhancement methods; and (4) efforts to assess fish-population responses to habitat enhancements.  The survey began by identifying biologists within each state who have conducted numerous habitat-enhancement efforts for that agency.  Once these contacts were identified, they were sent written questionnaires.  The questionnaires asked respondents to evaluate each type of structure (e.g., brush piles, substrate modifications) that have been used by the state agency including advantages/disadvantages of each method, agency goals for habitat enhancements, and a summary of efforts to assess fish-population responses to habitat enhancements.  Aeration, fertilization, planting (e.g., aquatic vegetation and trees), and water level fluctuations were omitted from the survey.

    This online Habitat Enhancement Manual summarizes the results of the survey and includes the opinions of the respondents.  The purpose of this manual is to provide biologists, students, and other interested parties with information that can optimize habitat-enhancement efforts.  We reviewed references, including state reports, graduate theses, and peer-reviewed journal articles, for each structure type.

    We would like to thank all survey recipients and members of the Southern Division AFS Reservoir Committee for their efforts in compiling the survey data. The information contained herein does not reflect the opinions or views of the American Fisheries Society or the Southern Division Reservoir Committee.  Contact your state agency prior to placing any of these structures for information concerning specific permits or licenses required.

    To obtain information concerning particular structures, types of structures, an overall summary of survey results, please choose one of the links below.
 
 

Summary of Results

Cover
Shoreline Stabilization Structures
Spawning Structures
Substrate Modifications

 

We welcome any suggestions, concerns or comments you may have with regards to this manual.  You may direct your comments to Dr. Mike Allen at msal@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu.

Manual last updated on August 30, 2000