The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and groups asking to list the coaster brook trout as endangered have agreed to extend the deadline for a decision on the groups’ petition. The Service now has until April 15, 2009, to decide whether endangered species status under the Endangered Species Act is warranted for the coaster brook trout, a form of brook trout found in the Great Lakes and its tributaries.
The Service’s status review began in March, with the aim of gathering more information about the coaster brook trout’s historical and current status; distribution; ecology; ongoing conservation; and threats to the species. Based on information gathered during the status review, the Service will decide by April 15 whether the coaster brook trout should be proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act.
Coaster brook trout are a form of brook trout that spend a portion of their life cycle in the Great Lakes. At one time, there were more than 50 runs in the U.S. waters of Lake Superior. They were also found in Lakes Huron and Michigan, where they are now extirpated. Today, there are four known populations in Lake Superior, all in Michigan: one in the Salmon Trout River in the Upper Peninsula and three on Isle Royale.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov
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