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1 1 1 ?I CONSERVATION STRATEGY COLORADO RIVER CUTTHROAT TROUT (Oncorhynchus clarki pleurificus) PROCESS SUMMARY This Conservation Strategy was initiated by the Colorado Division of Wildlife and developed in cooperation with the Utah Division of Wildlife, Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the appropriate Federal agencies within each state. It is an interagency approach designed to reduce threats to Colorado River cutthroat trout, to stabilize its populations, and to maintain its ecosystems. The primary purpose is to conserve this species through interim. conservation measures under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The first draft was reviewed by the members of the interagency, cutthroat trout workgroup that was established as a result of a workshop on native cutthroat management issues held in Denver on September 22, 1993. The draft was also sent to US Fish and Wildlife Service representatives for each state. Names and affiliations of reviewers are in Attachment A. Comments were received from three reviewers.' The need for quantifiable objectives, which was highlighted at the beginning of the°review process, remains unresolved, and should be a top priority for continuing work by the Conservation Team. Other major questions concern the interpretation and use of genetics information and the need for standard methodologies for inventory, protection, restoration and monitoring. The definition of "balance" between native fish and habitat protection and non-native sportfishing and other land uses also remains contentious. CONTENT SUMMARY Distribution and abundance of Colorado River cutthroat trout have declined dramatically during the last century. Historic range of the species and the distribution of the remaining known populations in each of the cooperating states is shown in Attachment B. Although controversy persists about the number and status of remaining populations, there is no doubt that significant conservation actions must be implemented to prevent further decline of this fish. This document summarizes the situation and presents a blueprint for action. The primary goal of the Conservation Strategy for Colorado River cutthroat trout is To use human management as a tool to restore Colorado River cutthroat trout ecosystems to. a condition where they can "manage" themselves in perpetuity. The cooperators envision a future where Colorado River cutthroat trout swim freely and reproduce