Trout Unlimited

Overview

Trout Unlimited is a US-based non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of freshwater streams, rivers, and associated upland habitats, focusing on cold-water fisheries. Founded in Michigan in 1959, the organization has grown into a national entity with over 300,000 members and supporters, making it one of the largest and most influential conservation organizations in the country.

History

Trout Unlimited was established by a group of 16 anglers on the banks of Michigan's Au Sable River. Its founding members included notable figures such as Art Neumann and George Griffith, known for creating the popular fly pattern Griffith's Gnat. The first president of Trout Unlimited was Dr. Casey E. Westell Jr., with Art Neumann serving as the first vice president. Initially formed as "Trout, Unlimited," the organization later dropped the comma from its name.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Trout Unlimited is to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so future generations can experience wild and native trout and salmon. Its vision includes engaging communities across America in repairing and renewing waters critical to human well-being.

Activities and Programs

Trout Unlimited undertakes various projects and advocacy campaigns at both local and national levels. These activities include stream restoration, citizen science projects, education, and advocacy on environmental issues affecting trout habitats. The organization partners with government agencies, such as the US Forest Service and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, to ensure that restoration efforts are informed by scientific research.

Trout Unlimited is known for its strong stance on environmental issues, opposing projects that threaten trout habitats, such as mining operations in Alaska's Bristol Bay and the Keystone XL pipeline. The organization supports policies aimed at environmental protection, including the removal of dams that block fish migration and the promotion of climate change legislation.

Structure and Funding

The organization has nearly 220 staff members, with about 25 based in its national office and others working in regional offices across the US. Trout Unlimited operates through several departments, including Volunteer Operations, Science, Conservation, Government Affairs, Development, and Marketing.

Trout Unlimited receives significant funding from environmentalist foundations and organizations, including the Nature Conservancy, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Wyss Foundation. Additionally, it has received federal grants for environmental remediation projects.

Leadership

The president of Trout Unlimited is Christopher Wood, who previously worked with the U.S. Forest Service during the Clinton administration. Bernard C. Bailey serves as the chairman of the board of trustees.

Impact

Trout Unlimited's work spans nearly a million miles of cold-water streams across America. It has local chapters in nearly every state, engaging volunteers in conservation efforts. Members contribute hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours annually to projects like stream restoration and advocacy campaigns. The organization is recognized for its efficient use of resources, with a high rating from Charity Navigator.