Apache Trout Thrives Again: Tribe and Allies Turn the Tide

In a significant victory for conservation, Arizona’s state fish, the Apache trout, has been removed from the Endangered Species list, marking it as the first sport fish and trout to achieve this recovery milestone. This decision follows over 50 years of collaborative efforts among tribal, state, federal, and non-governmental organizations.

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland emphasized the value of these partnerships, stating, “The incredible recovery of the Apache trout reminds us of the transformational power that collaborative conservation efforts – grounded in Indigenous knowledge – can have on fish and wildlife.”

On Wednesday, Haaland made the announcement during a visit to Arizona, joined by Governor Katie Hobbs and leaders from the White Mountain Apache Tribe. “The Apache trout is the first fish species in Arizona to be delisted,” Hobbs said, highlighting the species’ historical significance as one of the first federally listed endangered species in 1967.

Hobbs called the event a historic day, attributing the success to decades of teamwork and commitment. “The preservation of the Apache trout is a testament to what is possible when leaders work together toward a common goal,” she said.

The recovery efforts were significantly championed by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, which implemented conservation measures as early as the 1950s. Haaland underscored the tribe’s crucial role, noting their early initiatives to protect the trout from extinction.

“Our tribe has played a crucial role in saving the only impacted trout species in the world,” said Kasey Velasquez, Chairman of the White Mountain Apache Tribe. He recognized the collective efforts that led to this important milestone, while stressing the ongoing need for vigilance to ensure the trout’s future. “The Apache trout will continue to be reliant on our vigilance and our earnest commitment,” Velasquez added.

Known for its sacred significance to the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the Apache trout is native to the eastern Arizona streams of the White Mountains. The tribe actively works to manage and protect this precious species, reflecting their cultural philosophy on sustainability.

The Apache trout’s recovery comes after decades of targeted conservation efforts, firstly prompted by habitat loss and the introduction of non-native species. Initially listed as endangered in 1975, it was later reclassified to “threatened.” Over the years, conservationists have successfully increased Apache trout populations from 14 to 30 across 175 miles of habitat.

Essential actions, such as the removal of non-native trout species and the reintroduction of Apache trout into their habitats, have fueled this recovery. “Today, the Apache trout is alive and thriving under the Cooperative Management Plan,” Haaland stated, ensuring the species has a sustainable future.

The recovery initiative involved multiple agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which highlighted the profound ecological value of the Apache trout and its surrounding habitats. “The restoration of the Apache trout is a unique success story that has a great deal to teach us as we double down on our conservation efforts nationwide,” Haaland remarked.

Two key conservation projects funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law focus on enhancing Apache trout habitats. The 2022 Apache Trout Recovery project aims to remove barriers that hinder trout movement, thus reopening access to approximately 52 miles of habitat.

The 2023 Crooked Creek project will address similar concerns by replacing a culvert that currently obstructs fish passage. “As climate change impacts freshwater streams, this habitat will be stable for Apache trout in the future,” officials stated, underlining the health of this species as a reflection of broader environmental changes.

The momentum from these projects supports the White Mountain Apache Tribe’s commitment to maintaining a robust native fish population, essential for both cultural and ecological balance.