1940s-1950s

White Mountain Apache Tribe initiated Apache trout conservation efforts when the only known populations existed on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. On March 24, 1955 the tribe closed all streams within the boundaries of the Mount Baldy Wilderness Area to fishing. Subsequently, other streams deemed important to Apache trout conservation were also closed to fishing.

Early 1960s

Intensive fishery surveys were conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Arizona Game and Fish Department in cooperation with the White Mountain Apache Tribe to determine the Apache trout status. A controlled propagation program was initiated as part of the federal and state Apache trout recovery effort. Apache trout stockings into streams began in 1963.

Starting in the early 1960s, fish barriers were constructed on several streams to prevent upstream migration of nonnative trout. Several streams were renovated to remove non-native rainbow trout, brown trout, and/or brook trout. Pure Apache trout were stocked into streams following renovations.

1966

Despite early conservation efforts, Apache trout were considered endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966. Apache trout became federally protected with passage of the Endangered Species Act in 1973.

1975

The Apache trout was one of the first species to be down-listed from endangered to threatened after re-evaluation of its status. The down listing included a 4(d) rule that allows the state to authorize selective angling opportunities. Hatchery reared fish were stocked to establish angling opportunities.

1979

The recovery team prepared an initial recovery plan for Apache trout. The plan was updated in 1983.

1994

The Arizona Game and Fish Department in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service developed a habitat improvement plan to install approximately 30 miles of riparian fencing to protect important stream segments from livestock and/or elk damage.

2000

The U.S. Forest Service in cooperation with the Arizona Game and Fish Department began the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process for implementing remaining recovery actions that would lead to delisting. The process was completed in late 2002.

2003

Some stream renovations started. Subsequent challenges by various stakeholders postponed most planned recovery actions. The remaining proposed actions are currently being re-evaluated with the goal of implementing recovery actions starting in May 2004.

2004-2007

Many fish barriers were constructed on streams to prevent upstream migration of nonnative trout.  Stream renovations and subsequent stockings of pure Apache trout continued.  The recovery plan was updated and was published on the Federal Register for public review in July 2007.  Recovery criteria may be met at the end of 2007.