Steelhead are a key member of the coastal watershed community, spending most of their lives in the ocean and spawning in freshwater rivers and streams. Uniquely adapted to the seasonal streams of our arid climate, steelhead once thrived in all the major watersheds in Southern California. “Runs” of steelhead from the ocean to local rivers like the Santa Ynez River and the Ventura River were once reported in the tens of thousands, and these areas were once renowned steelhead fishing destinations.

Today, however, steelhead populations throughout Southern California are at dangerously low and unstable levels. Habitat loss and degradation is a major cause. The construction of major dams, water diversions, and other barriers have blocked steelhead from 90% of their historic spawning and rearing habitat and also dewatered rivers and streams. In addition, urban and rural development has caused water pollution and introduced non-native fish and other animals into the watersheds, which outcompete steelhead and the food sources they need to survive. 

The precarious status of the steelhead is representative of the health of the coastal watersheds on which it depends. EDC is working to restore the steelhead’s home base in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties and re-establish this once vital member of our community.