SaveWildTrout.org’s mission is to conserve wild trout by protecting their habitat, educating the public about the importance of wild trout, and advocating for policies that support wild trout populations. (Joshua Bergan photo)
June 14, 2023
By Fly Fisherman Staff
SaveWildTrout.org , a new non-profit organization dedicated to protecting Montana’s wild trout populations, launched today. The organization’s mission is to conserve wild trout by protecting their habitat, educating the public about the importance of wild trout, and advocating for policies that support wild trout populations.
Recent reports of historically low trout populations and recruitment on the Big Hole, lower Beaverhead, Ruby, and Jefferson rivers have spurred an outpouring of concern over the health of these rivers.
According to the website:
“We have a multitude of troubling conditions–variable snowpacks and dewatered rivers, increased development pressure and pollution, noxious algal blooms, warming temperatures, under-studied diseases and mortality, and increased recreational pressure–but no clear answer to how, and why, SW Montana’s wild trout are suddenly at the brink.
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“It’s time to identify key causes behind this region’s population collapse, to think outside the box, and to ensure we quickly implement targeted solutions critical to restoring and protecting SW Montana’s cold-water fisheries.”
Recent reports of historically low trout populations and recruitment on the Big Hole, lower Beaverhead, Ruby, and Jefferson (shown here) rivers have spurred an outpouring of concern over the health of these rivers. (Joshua Bergan photo) SaveWildTrout.org will focus its efforts on three key areas:
Conserving wild trout habitat: Work to protect wild trout habitat by advocating for policies that reduce pollution, improve water quality, and protect streamside land.Educating the public: Educate the public about the importance of wild trout and the threats they face. The organization will produce educational materials, host events, and work with schools and other organizations to raise awareness of wild trout conservation.Advocating for policies that support wild trout: Advocate for policies that support wild trout populations. The organization will work with policymakers to develop and implement laws and regulations that protect wild trout habitat and promote sustainable fishing practices.In response, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (FWP) approved new emergency regulations for the Big Hole, Beaverhead, and Ruby rivers last week, effective immediately.
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SaveWildTrout.org invites concerned citizens, environmental enthusiasts, and organizations from around the world to join their campaign. Visit www.savewildtrout.org to learn more.
Click here to send a message to Montana’s Governor Greg Gianforte.
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