Help Shape Alberta's Bull Trout Recovery Plan

Official title: Bull trout recovery plan engagement

Closed Policy & Studies Environment & Climate Natural Resources
Alberta asked for public input on a plan to protect bull trout, the province's official fish. Once common across Alberta, bull trout populations have been declining for decades. The species was listed as Threatened in 2014. The recovery plan identifies the biggest threats and focuses conservation efforts where they're needed most.

Why This Matters

Fish in Alberta rivers? This affects anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who cares about local ecosystems. Bull trout are an indicator species—when they struggle, it signals broader problems with water quality and habitat. If you've ever fished Alberta's streams or want healthy rivers for future generations, this matters.

What Could Change

The final recovery plan will guide conservation efforts across Alberta's watersheds. It ranks threats to bull trout, which determines where funding and protection measures get directed. Fishing regulations, habitat restoration projects, and land use decisions near streams could all be influenced by this plan.

Key Issues

  • What are the biggest threats to bull trout recovery in Alberta?
  • Where should conservation efforts be focused across local watersheds?
  • How can recovery efforts balance conservation with recreation and industry needs?

How to Participate

  1. This consultation is now closed. Albertans provided feedback through an online survey from May 11 to June 13, 2021.
  2. Read the final Alberta Bull Trout Recovery Plan that was developed based on public input.

What Happened

Public input helped finalize an innovative recovery plan that supports bull trout recovery while considering the needs of all Albertans. The plan was developed over 4 years with input from an advisory committee of conservation, recreation, and industry representatives.