Conserving Oregon's native freshwater fish through science

Why native fish matter

Oregon is home to more than 80 species of non-anadromous native freshwater fish, most of which face conservation challenges. Six species are federally listed as threatened or endangered, and dozens more are identified as species of concern at the state or federal level. Non-native fish also demand attention, because of their well-documented impacts on native populations.

The Statewide Native Fish Investigations Section (NFI) is part of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's Inland Fish Science Program. Our team of scientists conducts applied research and monitoring to support the conservation of Oregon's native freshwater fish: tracking population trends, identifying causes of decline, and evaluating the effectiveness of management actions. This work has an impact: NFI's research contributed to the federal delisting of three Oregon fish species. Most projects are carried out in collaboration with ODFW district offices, state and federal agencies, tribal nations, non-profits, and citizen groups, and are supported by state lottery funds alongside federal grants and contracts.