Two Steelhead Groups Listed by NMFS

Central Valley and lower Columbia River steelhead populations were listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act March 14 by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Three populations in Northern California and Oregon were not listed -- thanks to state conservation efforts.

These two listings are in addition to the five steelhead listings and several salmon listings already in place, as well as the recent announcement of 13 proposed listings for other populations of West Coast salmon. A decision on a proposed listing must be made within 12 months, and NMFS staff say it is likely more listings are on the way.

This is only the third time NMFS has held off listing a species due to state efforts. Commerce Assistant Secretary Terry Garcia noted California's efforts include implementation of a $43 million habitat restoration and watershed planning project and review of forest practice rules based on NMFS recommendations. For more information, check the NMFS Web site.