BOISE — Idaho Power biologists have completed the first year of a three-year survey of white sturgeon and are pleased to report a diverse population of healthy fish in the Snake River between Hells Canyon and the Lower Granite dams.

    From mid-June to mid-October, biologists studied a 140-mile stretch of the Snake River to capture, tag, weigh and measure white sturgeon.

    The crew recorded more than 630 live captures across a wide range of weights and sizes.

    Moreover, the study yielded sturgeon as short as 1.8 feet, weighing 1.3 pounds, all the way up to a 9.3-foot fish, as well as one that tipped the scales at 344 pounds.

    “We ended up with fish in all size classes, from abundant small juveniles to large maturing adults,” said Idaho Power Biologist Brandon Bentz in a news release. “The wide range of weights and sizes indicates a diverse population. Overall fish condition also appears to be good and similar to other populations in the Snake River.”

    This is the second survey performed by Idaho Power biologists in Hells Canyon. It will also serve as an integral part of the company’s White Sturgeon Conservation Plan.

    Developed in conjunction with state and federal agencies, tribal interests, and other outside organizations, the plan serves as a “guidebook” for Idaho Power’s long-term monitoring program for Snake River sturgeon.

    “The public seems very interested and receptive to what we’re doing,” Bentz said. “Overall, the survey went really well.”

    Year two of the survey begins in June of 2013. Signs will once again be placed at area boat docks to alert the public.