Population surveys conducted in September on South Fork Big Wash and Strawberry Creeks revealed that Bonneville cutthroat trout are reproducing and growing well.

In 2000, 56 Bonneville cutthroats were reintroduced into South Fork Big Wash. Our
2003 survey found 10 adults and 8 young of the year in a 100m section. Adults averaged almost nine inches (221.7mm) in length, longer than the average length of brown, brook, or rainbow trout in Baker and Lehman creeks.

In 2002, 34 Bonneville cutthroats were moved into Strawberry Creek. Just one year later, six adults and 12 young of the year were found in one 100m section. The average length for adults was six and a half inches (165mm).

Both of these populations appear to be dispersing throughout the stream, which we anticipate continuing for several years. These populations, along with others in the park, will continue to be monitored to ensure that the Bonneville cutthroat trout are thriving. Within a few years, these Bonneville cutthroat trout populations should be large enough to provide good fishing opportunities for a unique trout.

Gretchen Schenk is the park's ecologist.