MESA, AZ — Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland recently announced the delisting of the Apache trout from the federal endangered species list, marking the first time a sportfish and trout have been delisted due to successful recovery. This notable accomplishment reflects over five decades of concerted efforts by federal, state, and Tribal partners, fueled by $5.1 million from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda.
The Apache trout, native to the White Mountains of eastern Arizona, faced severe threats due to habitat loss and competition from non-native species, which led to its initial listing as endangered in 1973. Its recovery journey has been a testament to the power of collaborative conservation, drawing on Indigenous Knowledge and the strategic resources of the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Significant funding and efforts under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have been pivotal in this success. The law has provided a singular opportunity to revitalize the nation’s natural ecosystems, yielding projects such as the Apache Trout Recovery Fish Passage Infrastructure Project and the Crooked Creek Route 55 Culvert Fish Passage Project. These initiatives, led by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, have reopened over 60 miles of critical habitat, reinforcing the species’ resurgence.
The restoration of the Apache trout was celebrated in Mesa, Arizona, with dignitaries including Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and White Mountain Apache Tribe Chairman Kasey Velesquez acknowledging the species’ return as a substantial victory for both people and wildlife.
Secretary Haaland emphasized the broader implications of this achievement, stating, “The incredible recovery of the Apache trout reminds us of the transformational power that collaborative conservation efforts can have on fish and wildlife.”
Today, Apache trout populations occupy 175 miles of habitat, a striking increase from the 30 miles recorded in 1979. This success underscores the importance of continuous management efforts to maintain conservation barriers and prevent hybridization with other species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with partners such as the Arizona Game and Fish Department and Trout Unlimited, will continue to implement a cooperative management plan to ensure the species’ long-term sustainability.
The delisting of the Apache trout not only highlights an exemplary conservation success but also sets a precedent for similar efforts nationwide. It demonstrates the efficacy of federal investment in preserving biodiversity and serves as a model for future conservation strategies, where collaborative partnerships and robust funding can lead to the recovery of imperiled species. This achievement underscores the enduring value of the ESA and the continued need for innovative conservation solutions.
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