WestslopeCutthroat Trout   

    Using Ordinary Least Squares Regression Analysis I was able to create a six variable, best fit model to explain 64.5 % of the observed levels of hybridization amongst my study sites. 

    This model contained four human impact variables, which suggest that human activity is distrupting the system and enhancing hybridization in nearby habitats. From a conservation perspective, restricting the expansion of powerlines, railroads, access roads and rainbow trout stocking can help limit the spread of rainbow trout genes. 

    Properties of the stream environment also reflect levels of hybridization. Maximum stream depth and elevation were able to show an explanatory relationship based on my analysis. With this knowledge, we can predict which streams are more suceptible to hybridization. Knowing where possible hybridized locations may exist will allow us to focus our conservation efforts in these areas. 

    Further studies should include further exploration of possible explanatory variables across a larger sample set to isolate a strong relationship between key factors that can predict hybridization level. 

    One way to ensure the survival of westslope cutthroat trout is through breeding programs which release individuals back in to the wild.

    

For more information on westslope cutthroat trout recovery efforts in Alberta, please visit the Government of Alberta website or click on the image below: