Western Native Trout Initiative

Proposed Accomplishment Summary
Increase the occupied range of Gila trout by 6 miles, increase public angling opportunities in the Gila Wilderness, support de-listing criteria identified in Recovery Plan, and support continued development of partnerships between US Forest Service and NM Department of Game and Fish, through WNTI.

The importance to the Resource
Protection and range expansion of the South Diamond lineage replicated elsewhere in the Mogollon Creek drainage.

The problem
Limited distribution of South Diamond lineage caused by nonnative salmonid introductions and wildfire impacts.

The Method
Stream habitats will be treated with piscicide to remove nonnative salmonids. After successful completion South Diamond lineage Gila trout and native speckled dace will be introduced.

Further description
The upper portion of Mogollon Creek supports a replicated population of the relict South Diamond lineage. Re-establishment of Gila trout within the West Fork Mogollon Creek will provide for a metapopulation of South Diamond lineage Gila trout and increase security of this lineage. This project will remove nonnative salmonids from the West Fork Mogollon Creek, total of 6 stream miles. Once removal of nonnative salmonids is complete, Gila trout and native speckled dace will be reintroduced. This is a multi-year project in which environmental compliance will be obtained in year 1, piscicide application year 2, and stocking year 3. This project satisfies the WNTI Joint Venture's goal of building, funding, and implementing collaborative conservation efforts. This is consistent with the Service's Fisheries Program Vision for the Future and the NFHI. It has been ranked as highest priority by New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Nonnative salmonids have caused the extirpation of and continue to threaten Gila trout populations through hybridization, competition, and predation.