CDFW Steelhead Observation and Rescue Surveys
Steelhead & Rainbow Trout Surveys
The “Trout and About!” observation survey can be used by staff or members of the public to document their trout sightings, interesting behavior witnessed, or even colonization of new streams. This can help CDFW develop a heat map of trout observations across the landscape and a citizen science dataset to better understand how the public interacts with Rainbow Trout/steelhead. While we are most excited about steelhead, we also welcome observations of other anadromous species and resident trout.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has created a new method for reporting Rainbow Trout/steelhead observations and for reporting situations where trout populations might require intervention, such as excessive drying or isolation. This comes in the form of two online surveys, the “Trout and About!” observation survey and the “Help a Trout Out!” rescue survey.
The “Help a Trout Out!” rescue survey can be used to report situations where Rainbow Trout/steelhead might require intervention and/or relocation due to deteriorating habitat conditions. The information included in the survey can help CDFW assess the urgency of the rescue during the busy summer and fall seasons and respond in a timely manner.