World Fisheries Day

Protecting Alberta’s Native Trout: A Call for Conservation on World Fisheries Day  

Every year, World Fisheries Day reminds us of the vital role aquatic ecosystems play in sustaining biodiversity and communities worldwide. Here in Alberta, we are fortunate to have cool, fast flowing streams that are home to unique trout species. However, three of Alberta’s native trout are at risk: Athabasca Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout, and Westslope Cutthroat Trout.

Athabasca Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Status: Endangered

Endemic to Alberta, the Athabasca Rainbow Trout is a subspecies found only in the Athabasca River system. These trout are particularly sensitive to habitat degradation caused by sedimentation, deforestation, and industrial activities. Climate change adds another layer of threat, as warming waters can limit their ability to thrive.

Image above: captured Rainbow Trout in a viewing window.

Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus)

Status: Threatened (federally and provincially)

Known as Alberta’s provincial fish, the Bull Trout is a symbol of wild rivers and pristine habitat. These apex predators rely on cold, clean water to spawn and survive. Habitat loss, overfishing, and barriers like improperly designed culverts have caused significant population declines.

Image above sourced from the Government of Canada website: two adult Bull Trout.

Westslope Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi)

Status: Threatened (federally and provincially)

A native of the eastern slopes of the Rockies, the Westslope Cutthroat Trout is renowned for its vibrant colors. Unfortunately, this species has been pushed to the brink by habitat fragmentation, competition with non-native species, and hybridization.

Image above sourced from the Government of Canada website: Westslope Cutthroat Trout.

Conservation

The species at risk act (SARA) was created as a means to protect Canada’s wildlife. Species are ranked on a scale of varying risk levels, from species of special concern, threatened, endangered and extirpated (no longer in the wild). Necessary recovery measures like SARA provide safety and protection to wildlife populations vulnerable to human activity.

At Poseidon, our work revolves around minimizing human impact on the landscape.

Graphics from the Government of Alberta website (left to right): Athabasca Rainbow Trout, Westslope Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout