Wisconsin DNR Launches Brook Trout Reserves Conservation Effort

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — The future of fishing is the reason for a new state effort.  The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced the implementation of the Brook Trout Reserves program, a new initiative aimed at protecting the state’s native brook trout populations from environmental impacts. 

Cold water streams, essential for brook trout, cover approximately 22,000 miles in Wisconsin. However, a statement says rising stream temperatures threaten the habitats, with projections indicating that two out of every three miles of the areas could become too warm to support brook trout within 30 years.

To solve this problem, the DNR’s fish experts have found 205 areas with cold streams that will still be good for brook trout even if the climate changes. These areas have healthy brook trout populations, more brook trout than usual, and at least two miles of streams that should still be suitable for brook trout by 2050.

The program encourages people to help preservation by doing a few things. You can join the Streambank Easement Program, volunteer to help take care of the fish habitats, plant trees near the streams, and use proper land practices.

For more information on the Brook Trout Reserves program, people can check out the DNR’s StoryMap and the Brook Trout Reserves webpage. You can also contact a local fishery to get involved in conservation efforts.