Rhode Island

Rhode Island is home to a stronghold population of native Eastern brook trout persisting in the cold, spring-fed waters of the Wood River and its tributaries. Part of the National Wild and Scenic River system and among the least developed ecosystems between New York and Boston, the Wood winds its way through the 14,000 acres of the state’s Arcadia recreational area. In small, coastal waters of the Ocean State, remnant populations of salter brook trout continue their migrations from river to sea.

Threats & Opportunities

Dozens of small dams throughout the Wood River watershed block brook trout from reaching critical habitat and significantly warm the water as the shallow ponds behind the dams absorb the hot rays of the summer sun. These barriers compound and magnify the warming temperatures caused by climate change. Two additional threats are stormwater runoff from suburban development and invasive species.

Across Rhode Island, we are reconnecting streams, restoring degraded habitat and protecting wild brook trout populations, including coastal salter brook trout. Working with local partners, we are improving watershed health while supporting resilient communities and healthy fisheries.

Reconnecting Streams for Fish and Communities

We are improving fish passage by advocating for dam removals and replacing failing culverts. These efforts reconnect habitat for native brook trout, including coastal salter populations, while helping reduce flood risks to roads and communities.

Restoring Healthy Streams and Habitat

We are restoring streambanks, improving trails, planting native trees and adding wood structures to create more complex habitat. This work reduces erosion, improves water quality and supports healthy trout populations and Rhode Island’s outdoor recreation economy.

Protecting Rhode Island’s Wild Brook Trout

We are identifying streams that support salter brook trout and monitoring population health to guide conservation priorities. By documenting these unique coastal populations, we can better target restoration and protection efforts to sustain wild trout for future generations.