Western Native Trout Initiative

The information about the Western Native Trout Initiative - who we are, what we do, how you can help - has been refreshed and updated. We hope that the information provided here will be helpful to you, and that you will leave your visit here with a greater understanding of the opportunities and challenges that confront western native trout and those who seek to improve their status.

The Mission of the Western Native Trout Initiative (WNTI as we call it) is to serve as a key catalyst for the implementation of conservation or management actions, through partnerships and cooperative efforts, that result in improved western native trout status, improved aquatic habitats, and improved recreational opportunities for native trout anglers.

We would love to have you as a partner. Please browse our web page tabs, and sign on as a WNTI Partner to help conserve these beautiful fish of the West.

Apache trout in Silver Creek, AZ

The 15 native trout species currently addressed by the Western Native Trout Initiative have declined in abundance and distribution in most western states as a result of habitat degradation and competition from introduced non-native fish species.

The Western Native Trout Initiative is a collaborative effort working to stop these declines and improve the status of fish populations. WNTI's cost-effective, on-the-ground projects address habitat and distribution issues and span across federal, state and tribal boundaries.

Beginning in late 2006, the Initiative began an extensive review of the status of the 15 species the WNTI is working with. The outcome of that effort was 15 individual species assessment reports, and a comprehensive report describing the status, threats , and opportunities that will be addressed by the Western NativeTrout Initiative. These reports are available on the web site for your use and review.