Conservation of the aparique trout

Authors: Jose Luis Montes, Jenny Zapata-López, Mauro Ramos Gómez

Year: 2008 (xl)

Abstract

A 10-minute video documentary, targeted to local communities and visitors at the rio Conchos headwaters, was produced by WWF as an educational tool to inform local communities and visitors of the importance of the aparique trout and basic recommendations for conserving the species and its habitat. The video is based on the Conchos Trout Management Plan, developed by the “Truchas Mexicanas” group in collaboration with the Ejido Panalachi and the Sierra Tarahumara Forest Conservation Program implemented by WWF and USAID. The Management Plan outlines three main strategies for conservation and enhancement of Conchos trout: (1) those that must be addressed to prevent extinction of the species, (2) those actions needed to improve its status, and (3) those commitments that will ensure its future as a sustainable natural resource. The people of Panalachi agreed to exclude a stretch of stream for protection of the trout; restoration of aparique habitat where considered necessary was also agreed, as well as the suspension of any fishing or poisoning in the area. A participatory committee was created for the protection of natural resources with support from the Attorney for the Protection of the Environment (PROFEPA). Other agencies continue to pool resources and funding towards the recuperation of the aparique trout and the social processes implied. The Chihuahua State Government has included these messages in their statewide news releases and weekly TV program; the National Commission for Protected Areas (CONANP) continues to consider the Conchos headwaters in their priority areas, providing funds to the ejido for habitat restoration projects; and the Secretary for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (SAGARPA) is hosting 22 Conchos trout individuals at the Guachochi Aquaculture Center, for future reproductive stock.