Before in-water work on city projects begins, Environmental Services fish biologists coordinate with contractors to capture and relocate fish from the project area with minimal handling. Staff uses the non-lethal methods backpack electro-shocking or seining to capture fish. They take an inventory of fish they collect and move them safely downstream of the project area.

Environmental Services staff regularly coordinates with regulatory agencies such as the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and NOAA Fisheries for scientific take permits to conduct fish salvages.