Middle Rogue summer-run, steady decline to near zero. Based on angler catch data through 1992, most non-Rogue River populations are declining. Zero natural populations at low risk of extinction. Universal and often dramatic declines since mid-1980s. Nineteen of 21 Washington populations depressed.
Hatchery transplants compromising local populations.
The only solution to steelhead recovery is a combination of federal, state, tribal, local and private steps, and NMFS will continue its work to collaborate with all parties on recovery. Such consultations ensure federal actions contribute to the survival and recovery of threatened steelhead in the California Central Valley and lower Columbia River. NMFS will soon issue tailor-made protections for steelhead in these two ESUs. As state, tribal, local and private initiatives develop that lead to steelhead recovery, NMFS will publish special rules exempting appropriate activities from ESA regulations.