Westslope cutthroat trout are an economically important fish that have evolved to the unique landscape of the Pacific Northwest for millions of years. The range of westslope cutthroat trout has substantially decreased due to impacts from climate change, nonnative species and habitat degradation and fragmentation. Many of the remaining westslope cutthroat trout populations are isolated by barriers, often occurring only in small stream segments. Small, isolated populations face increased extinction risk from genetic defects and the inability to adapt to climate change. Restoring genetic connectivity into these populations by translocating individuals can reverse these problems and is gaining support as an important conservation action as human impacts on the environment increase. However, restoring genetic connectivity is rarely attempted, in part due to concerns that negative effects may occur. Careful consideration of both genetic factors and environmental conditions is needed to minimize risks and maximize benefits of restoring genetic connectivity.

This project aims to prioritize the westslope cutthroat trout populations that are most in need of restored genetic connectivity and to identify sources for translocations that will maximize benefits. Along with an experimental test of genetic rescue in wild westslope cutthroat trout populations, this project will help managers determine when, if and how they should restore genetic connectivity. Our goal is to help managers smoothly transition into this novel conservation strategy, with the potential to reduce extinction risk for many populations.