In 2024, the state of Idaho is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich outdoor recreation opportunities. One of the most iconic symbols of Idaho’s natural heritage is the cutthroat trout, which has been featured on the state’s specialty license plate since 2003. Recently, the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) unveiled a new design for the cutthroat trout license plate, which is now available to the public.
The Cutthroat Trout: Idaho’s State Fish
The cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) is a species of salmonid fish native to the western United States and Canada. In Idaho, the Yellowstone cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii bouvieri) is the state fish, and it is found in many of the state’s rivers, streams, and lakes. These beautiful fish are known for their vibrant colors, which include a yellow belly, olive-green back, and distinctive red or orange slash marks under their jaws.
The History of the Cutthroat Trout License Plate
The cutthroat trout license plate was first introduced in 2003 as part of Idaho’s Wildlife License Plate program, which also includes the mountain bluebird and Rocky Mountain elk plates. The program was established in the early 1990s as a way to raise funds for wildlife diversity programs in the state, with a focus on species that are not hunted, fished, or trapped.
Since its introduction, the cutthroat trout plate has been one of the most popular specialty plates in Idaho. In 2022, there were over 30,000 cutthroat trout plates registered in the state, generating hundreds of thousands of dollars for wildlife conservation efforts.
The New Cutthroat Trout License Plate Design
In 2024, the Idaho DMV unveiled a new design for the cutthroat trout license plate, which features a more realistic and detailed depiction of the fish. The new plate showcases a cutthroat trout swimming against a backdrop of the state’s iconic mountains and rivers, with the words “IDAHO” and “CUTTHROAT TROUT” prominently displayed.
The updated design is sure to please anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, as it captures the beauty and importance of the cutthroat trout to Idaho’s natural heritage. The plate is available for purchase at any Idaho DMV office, with an additional fee of $35 for a new plate and $25 for renewal. A portion of each plate purchase or renewal goes towards supporting wildlife diversity programs in the state.
The Importance of Wildlife Conservation in Idaho
The cutthroat trout license plate is more than just a symbol of Idaho’s natural beauty – it is also a tangible way for residents and visitors to support wildlife conservation efforts in the state. The funds generated by the plate help to support research, habitat monitoring, preservation, and rehabilitation projects for a wide range of species, including the cutthroat trout.
In a state like Idaho, where outdoor recreation and natural resources are so important to the economy and quality of life, supporting wildlife conservation is crucial. By purchasing a cutthroat trout license plate, Idahoans can show their support for the state’s natural heritage and help to ensure that species like the cutthroat trout will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Whether you are an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of Idaho’s natural landscapes, the cutthroat trout license plate is a great way to show your support for wildlife conservation in the state. With its new and improved design, the plate is sure to be a popular choice for Idahoans in 2024 and beyond.