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Southeast RAC approves pilot introduction of white sturgeon to two reservoirs
Summary
The RAC voted 6–1 to approve a DWR pilot to introduce white sturgeon into Grantsville and Hobbs reservoirs under catch-and-release rules; supporters cited angling diversity, while at least one member raised concerns about introducing nonnative species given reservoir vulnerabilities.
The Southeast Regional Advisory Council approved a pilot proposal to introduce white sturgeon into Grantsville Reservoir (Tooele County) and Hobbs Reservoir (Davis County) with catch-and-release regulations.
Craig Walker, participating remotely, framed the introductions as a limited pilot to increase angling diversity in waters where sturgeon would not interact with native recovery areas: "We're seeking board approval for catch and release regulation for white sturgeon in both of those waters," he said, noting the proposal comes from a conservation partner and a local grower willing to provide fish for the effort.
Supporters said the change would broaden angling opportunities in reservoirs that have limited species diversity. "We are the partner in this who is excited to be a part of it," said Troy Justenson of Sportsman Fish and Wildlife.
Some RAC members expressed reservations about introducing a nonnative, long-lived species into reservoirs that face water-level and environmental stresses. "I'm not a big proponent of nonnative species period," Trish Hadina said during discussion, citing reservoir stability and the experimental nature of the pilot.
The RAC voted 6–1 to approve the introduction; the chair said the motion passed with Trish Hadina dissenting. The division emphasized measures intended to mitigate escapement risk and that chosen waters are outside native sturgeon recovery areas.
What happens next: the RAC recommendation will be forwarded to the wildlife board and division for final approval and implementation planning, including escapement mitigation, monitoring, and catch-and-release regulation drafting.
