Designating Waters for Native Char Protection

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Introduction

Bull trout are at risk of extinction throughout the Northwest. Bull trout and Dolly Varden (also known collectively as char) require very cold water. Water temperature is often cited as the most important environmental variable associated with the protection of bull trout.

The Department of Ecology is adopting a system to protect streams used by char for spawning and early tributary rearing. These water bodies are listed in the Surface Water Quality Standards.

For more information:

Map showing the streams that Ecology is protecting for native char spawning and early tributary rearing.
Factsheet on Bull Trout and Dolly Varden (WA State Department of Fish and Wildlife)
Management plan for Bull Trout and Dolly Varden (WA State Department of Fish and Wildlife)

Next: Detailed Maps of Native Char Protection

Last updated July 2003