The Blue Ribbon/Habitat Council Joint Meeting held on March 20, 2025, focused on critical habitat restoration efforts for cutthroat trout in Utah's Bear Lake region. The meeting, organized by the Utah Department of Natural Resources, highlighted the need for improved fish migration routes and habitat restoration in North Eden Creek.

Key discussions centered around the challenges faced by cutthroat trout, particularly the impassable culvert on North Cisco Road, which blocks access to ten miles of upstream habitat essential for spawning and rearing. The proposed solution involves replacing the existing six-foot culvert with a bottomless arch culvert, allowing fish to navigate freely and access vital habitats. This modification aims to enhance fish populations in Bear Lake, benefiting both the ecosystem and local anglers.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the impacts of extensive grazing on local waterways and the importance of reconnecting floodplains. Participants discussed methods to restore sagebrush areas and improve overall habitat conditions through targeted restoration efforts. The collaboration with the Grazing Improvement Plan (GIP) was also emphasized, aiming to secure funding for these initiatives.

Jim Dorito, the Bear River Grama Director for Trout Unlimited, presented data showing the success of similar restoration projects in the area, which have significantly increased the population of wild fish in Bear Lake. The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to implementing these restoration strategies, underscoring their importance for both wildlife conservation and recreational fishing in the region.