Changing the Definition of Brook Trout in NH
“Under state law, Fis 401.03, the definition of “Brook Trout” is “…brook, rainbow, brown and golden trout, Loch Leven trout and all their hybrids.” This lumps three species of “trout”, in the generic sense, one locally extirpated species of trout, a trout strain, and hybrids under a single definition.”
For a the last couple of years, the New Hampshire Chapter of Native Fish Coalition has tried to get the definition for “brook trout” changed in NH. The definition is in statute (which can only be changed through amendment,) as well as in rule (F&G print rulebook and online rules).
Making matters more difficult is the fact that there was a bill submitted from outside NFC that attempted to group species and status (wild or stocked,) as well as codifying the Wild Trout Management program, changing it from a voluntary program to a law. While we could not oppose it, we could not fully support it as it was too complicated to work, and very likely to fail.
Currently a multi-species definition that includes brook, rainbow, brown, and golden (locally extinct Arctic charr) trout, as well as Loch Leven trout (a brown trout strain,) and their hybrids; NH NFC would like to see a generic definition for “trout,” as well as a species-specific definition for “brook trout”.
The original bill appears to be dead in the water as it should be. Attempts to salvage something out of it are being led by New Hampshire State Representative Ellen Read, Clerk for the Fish and Game and Marine Resources Committee, with the help of NH NFC.
The most recent amendment proposal looks to remove, rather than redefine, the definition of “brook trout” in law. A pragmatic and simple to enact position, it would clear the legislative slate of what was a dangerously complicated and confusing bill, while clearing the way for F&G to address the definition on their end, which cannot be done legislatively, at least easily.
NFC recently submitted an OpEd on the issue and status to the NH media. We have also posted a short presentation that outlines where we are at, what the problems are, and what we believe is the best way to address them.
