Goose Lake redband trout

The Goose Lake Basin in Oregon is a unique, desert valley straddling the Oregon-California border. This basin is home to several endemic fish species, including the Goose Lake redband trout, Goose Lake lamprey, Goose Lake tui chub, and Goose Lake sucker. These species, which inhabit the lake and surrounding rivers, marshes, and riparian zones, coexist with both native and non-native fish populations. Increased drought and other stressors pose a serious threat for these species, potentially reducing habitat availability and quality for native species and placing further pressure on these vulnerable populations. 

This study, led by the USGS Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Oregon State University, is timely. Surveys of high desert basins in Oregon have been inconsistent for over a decade, leaving gaps in our understanding of population trends and ecosystem health. The updated abundance and distribution estimates will enable state and federal managers to make informed decisions regarding the status and management needs of these at-risk species. Additionally, population risk assessment will serve as a foundation for targeted management actions to help protect and sustain Oregon’s native desert fish species amidst mounting environmental challenges.