Tribes unite to save endangered Clear Lake hitch fish

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the urgent need to protect and restore the Clear Lake hitch, a fish species vital to local tribal communities. Tribal representatives emphasized the historical significance of the hitch as a food source, noting that its population has drastically declined over the past few decades, with some areas reporting extinction.

A tribal elder highlighted the connection between natural indicators, such as the calling of the bittern waterfowl, and the seasonal movements of the hitch, underscoring the importance of traditional ecological knowledge in monitoring fish populations. The meeting revealed that the Robinson Rancheria has been at the forefront of efforts to address the hitch's decline, initiating research and restoration projects through collaborative grants with other tribes and state agencies.

The Clear Lake hitch population has faced significant challenges, particularly a lack of juvenile recruitment since 2018, leading to concerns about the species' survival. Data presented showed a stark decrease in hitch numbers, with surveys revealing a drop from 77 adult fish caught in 2018 to just six in 2022. This alarming trend raised fears of potential extinction, prompting intensified conservation efforts.

However, 2023 brought unexpected hope, as surveys indicated a sudden resurgence in hitch numbers, prompting questions about the factors contributing to this recovery. The tribal representatives expressed a commitment to ongoing monitoring and restoration efforts, emphasizing that a healthy fish population is intrinsically linked to the overall health of the lake's ecosystem.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for continued collaboration among tribes, state, and federal agencies to ensure the sustainability of the Clear Lake hitch and the preservation of cultural practices tied to fishing. The overarching goal remains clear: to restore Clear Lake to its former ecological health and ensure that tribal communities can continue to rely on its resources for generations to come.