Non-native salmonids are impacting native salmonid populations throughout the Pend Oreille Subbasin. Competition, hybridization, and predation by non-native fish have been identified as primary factors in the decline of some native bull trout and cutthroat trout populations. Therefore, the goal of this project is to implement actions to suppress or eradicate non-native fish in areas where native populations are declining or have been extirpated. These projects have previously been identified as critical to recovering native bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout (WCT).

Lower Graham Creek was invaded by non-native rainbow and brook trout after a small dam failed in 1991. By 2003, no genetically pure WCT remained in the lower 700 m of Graham Creek. Further invasion upstream is currently precluded by a relatively short section of steep, cascade-pool stepped channel section that will likely be breached in the near future. In 2007,  a fish management structure will be constructed at the mouth of Graham Creek to preclude further invasion of non-native fish into Graham Creek.  The construction of the barrier,will be followed by intensive electrofishing 700 m upstream to remove and relocate all captured fish.  

Westslope cutthroat trout have recently been extirpated in Cee Cee Ah Creek due to displacement by brook trout. We propose treating Cee Cee Ah Creek with antimycin to eradicate brook trout. Once eradication is complete, cutthroat trout will be translocated from nearby watersheds.  A proposed antimycin treatment within the subbasin has been met with public opposition in the past.  However,  little public education or involvement in the planning process was conducted prior to the planned implementation.  Therefore, much of the effort in 2007 will made towards public education and involvement in implementing antimycin and other native fish recovery actions.