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A. Stable Stocks. All naturally sustaining stocks • will be managed to prevent losses of genetic diversity that may result from management interventions or lack of action. Genetic conservation requires the maintenance of similar genetic diversity among wild and captive-reared fish so that the risk of genetic loss or alteration is prevented or minimized (Lichatowich and Watson 1993). A systems approach incorporating four basic planning steps will be used (See Box 3). All proposed introductions will be thoroughly evaluated to ensure that they will not disrupt genetic diversity in remaining wild stocks and monitor and evaluate their success. Habitat enhancement activities will be implemented before any reintroduction program is initiated. Experimental introductions will be used to evaluate the responses of fish to different habitat types and conditions. These introductions should be limited in order to evaluate benefits and avoid potential adverse effects on genetic diversity of wild stocks (Kapuscinski et al. 1993; Philipp et al. 1993; Riggs 1990). Lichatowich and Watson (1993) emphasized that stocking of captive-reared fishes may be a useful management tool but should not be used as a substitute for the protection and restoration of habitat. Management must emphasize protection, preservation, and enhancement of natural habitats needed by all life stages. B. Declining Stocks. Declining species will be managed using the same systems approach as Stable Stocks IV.A (See Box 3). It is important to identify limiting factors and actions needed to remove or significantly reduce those factors responsible for population declines. Emphasis will be placed on • habitat and natural propagation of wild stocks so they can become self- sustaining. The relationship of captive propagation and stocking to natural propagation is outlined in Figure 1. All fish reared in captivity for experimental, augmentation or restoration stocking will be propagated using procedures outlined in Section V (Genetics Management of Captive Stocks) C. Stocking of larval or juvenile wild fish into protected habitats has been suggested as a strategy to increase natural recruitment. Naturally spawned larvae which have been collected in the wild are a form of extensive propagation since humans have intervened. The genetic risks associated with this type of activity are uncertain because you don't know the number of spawners, differential survival of early collected larvae vs.later collected larvae. Before using this type of management, opportunities and alternative strategies should be carefully considered to reduce potential genetic risks. For example, stocking equal numbers from all family lots of captive-reared fish into protected habitats should be considered.Sections IV.C.2. and IV.C.3.. provide guidance for stocking larval fishes into protected habitats and comparing the genetic characterization of these fish with wild stocks prior to release. 10 •