Movement of bull trout in Mill Creek, Walla Walla County, Washington 2005-2012 Summary Report

In 1998, the Columbia River Distinct Population Segment of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act due to the declining abundance, primarily brought on by anthropogenic factors (USDI 1998a). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Bull Trout Draft Recovery Plan (USFWS 2002a) identifies four main objectives for recovery of the species: 1) Maintain current distribution of bull trout within core areas as described in recovery unit chapters and restore distribution where recommended in recovery unit chapters, 2) maintain stable or increasing trend in abundance of bull trout, 3) restore and maintain suitable habitat conditions for all bull trout life history stages and strategies, and 4) conserve genetic diversity and provide opportunity for genetic exchange. Research and monitoring of bull trout populations is required to assess the status of the species and recommend actions for recovery.