Karen Talbot (1972- ) Brown Trout (Salmo trutta), 2009. Watercolor on natural white, 300 lb., acid free; 11 x 15 in. (27.94 x 38.1 cm). Framed. Unsold July 2009.

Artist's Notes. July 2009. Laguna Beach, California - Brown trout were introduced to North America in 1883 and to California a decade later. They are now widespread throughout nearly all suitable trout habitats in California due to systematic stocking and the species’ natural ability to outcompete and prey on other trout. The brown trout hybridizes with brook trout resulting in the tiger trout. Browns are largely responsible for the eradication of indigenous species such as the bull trout and the Paiutu cutthroat from their native ranges in California.

Today, more than 100 years after the first introduction of the brown trout to California waters, the negative effects of introducing a non-native species greatly outweigh the recreation benefit for many. For example, the California golden trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita), is now seriously threatened, largely as a result of invasive species of fishes such as the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), the brown trout (Salmo trutta) and the brook trout. Indiginous to a tributary to the Kern River (Golden Trout Creek) and the South Fork Kern River, the native habitat of the California golden trout (as well as areas to which it has been introduced) has been invaded by non-native species that either outcompete the golden trout or directly prey on it. To add insult to injury, both the brook trout and the brown trout spawn in the fall, which gives the young fish a significant advantage over spring-spawning goldens. The end result is that the California golden trout's genetic integrity is very much in jeporardy.

Many organizations are working hard to save the California golden trout, and I suggest you check out the following sites to learn more:

• www.caltrout.org
• www.tucalifornia.org

If you are an angler in the Eastern Sierras of Califonia, you may choose to do as my husband and I do: When appropriate, enjoy brown trout for dinner knowing that you are doing your small part to help save the California golden trout! Cheers!