Brook Trout Reserve 41
Peshtigo and Oconto Headwaters
What is the Brook Trout Reserve 41 Project?
Brook Trout Reserve 41, located in the Peshtigo and Oconto river headwaters of northeast Wisconsin, is the state’s largest brook trout reserve.
Despite its abundant populations and high levels of public land ownership, the reserve faces growing threats from climate change and habitat fragmentation. Undersized and aging road-stream crossings currently inhibit brook trout from accessing spawning areas, nursery habitat, feeding grounds, and thermal refuges ─ barriers that will become even more problematic as temperatures rise.
To address this, the Brook Trout Reserve 41 Fish Passage Team ─ a collaboration among state, federal, tribal, county and nonprofit partners─ is developing a 10-year Aquatic Connectivity Strategic Plan. The team will analyze stream crossing inventories, establish prioritization criteria, and identify key replacement projects to restore connectivity across 23 subwatersheds. This proactive, collaborative approach will ensure brook trout have the ability to move freely, improving their resilience in the face of rapid environmental change.
Project Partners
This project is proud to be a collaborative effort made possible by the dedication and expertise of our valued partners. It thrives through the support of conservation organizations, government agencies, research institutions, and local community groups—all united by a shared commitment to protecting native brook trout and their habitats. Together, we’re restoring ecosystems, improving infrastructure, and ensuring the long-term health of these vital watersheds.
