Driftless brown trout. (Jake Dahlke)
Driftless
Overview
The 24,000-square-mile Driftless Area in the heart of the Upper Mississippi River basin is a natural resource treasure. Its scenic landscape of steep hills and rocky bluffs is home to one of the country's most remarkable freshwater resources: more than 600 coldwater, spring-fed limestone creeks supporting world-class trout fisheries. More than 5,700 miles of mineral-rich spring creeks wind through the region, supporting abundant trout populations and attracting tens of thousands of anglers each year. TU-commissioned studies show that trout fishing generates hundreds of millions of dollars in annual economic benefits across the four-state region. Our work in the Driftless is rooted in partnerships with counties, state and federal agencies, conservation districts, nonprofits, community organizations and businesses. Together, we have brought more than $65 million to the region and restored more than 350 miles of streams.
Reconnecting Floodplains and Reducing Sedimentation
Weister Creek restored. (Trout Unlimited)
TU is reconnecting and restoring floodplains and their hydrologic function, protecting wild and native trout habitat while reducing the risk of flood damage. We’ve completed more than 100 significant projects addressing entrenched stream channels, promoting regenerative agriculture, and installing practices that slow flows and reduce sedimentation.
Protecting Cold Water
Conway Creek. (Trout Unlimited)
We’re evaluating protections for the springs and groundwater seeps that feed the trout streams of the Driftless Area, working with landowners to protect springs on their properties, supporting monitoring to measure flow and discharge, and using vegetation and tree planting to keep streams cool.
Collaborating on Conservation
The Driftless Area Restoration Effort is one of 20 partnerships comprising the National Fish Habitat Partnership. Since 2022 TU has been the lead coordinator, developing and implementing a strategic plan, conducting education and outreach, managing partnership governance, and conducting a grant proposal process for projects funded by DARE. Additionally, TU has enlisted a robust cohort of volunteers, both anglers and everyday citizens, to conduct water quality testing throughout the Driftless using the WiseH20 platform. Results will inform restoration priorities throughout the Driftless Area. Volunteers have also played key roles in fundraising for projects. Additionally, we are working with state fish and wildlife agencies to ensure best management practices for trout fisheries.
