Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout Plan Available for Review

Anyone interested in the management of Yellowstone cutthroat trout in Idaho has 30 days to review and comment on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's management plan. Yellowstone cutthroat trout are one of three types of cutthroat trout in Idaho, and, like their relatives the Bonneville and westslope cutthroat trout; they have declined in abundance across the state. Yellowstone cutthroat trout are found in drainages in south-central and eastern Idaho, including the South Fork Snake River, which supports an important sport fishery that generates more than $8 million annually for local economies. A number of factors affect the health of Yellowstone cutthroat trout populations, including hybridization with non-native trout, water management and habitat degradation. The department's management plan describes actions that will increase the range and enhance the population health of Yellowstone cutthroat trout in Idaho. The department plans to work with other agencies, private landowners, irrigators and fish conservation organizations to improve fish habitat. The Yellowstone cutthroat trout management plan is available for review and comment at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/. Public meetings or open houses to discuss the plan are planned at Fish and Game regional offices in Jerome, Pocatello and Idaho Falls. Comments will be accepted until February 28. Questions should be directed to Scott Grunder, native species coordinator, at 208-287-2774.