Steelhead are an important and valued resource to California's citizens and are an important component of the vast biodiversity of the State. Like many of California's anadromous fish resources, steelhead are declining. Decline of steelhead populations is but one aspect of the present statewide decline in biodiversity, caused by California's burgeoning human population and the ever-increasing demand on natural resources.
This plan focuses on restoration of native and naturally produced (wild) stocks because these stocks have the greatest value for maintaining genetic and biological diversity.