OurWork
Organizing
We engage with local communities, activists, organizations, and other peoples and groups committed to protecting the unique character and recreation opportunities of Hot Creek.
Building Awareness
Through outreach and education, we raise awareness and encourage action regarding the threat of industrial mining near Hot Creek.
Political Advocacy
We are working closely with sportsmen’s conservation groups and other interests to advocate for designation of Hot Creek as an Outstanding National Resource Water (ONRW).
Adventure Advocacy
We organize outdoor adventures and encourage supporters to share their own adventures that help publicize the unique character and values of Hot Creek.
Outstanding National Resource Water
The federal Clean Water Act authorizes states to regulate water quality in all waters within their boundaries that qualify as “jurisdictional.” The Clean Water Act further authorizes states to permanently protect their highest quality waters as ONRWs, which can be designated through state and regional water boards. The Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board is responsible for regulating water quality in Hot Creek.
ONRW’s are defined as “high quality waters that constitute an outstanding national resource” including waters of “exceptional recreational or ecological significance.” Under this designation, no new activities would be permitted that would permanently degrade water quality in Hot Creek (legal existing land uses of the area, such as grazing and fishing, would not be affected).
What is an ONRW?
Protecting Hot Creek
In 2024, Trout Unlimited launched a campaign to permanently protect the unique water quality and famous trout fishing of Hot Creek through designation as an Outstanding National Resource Water (ONRW). In October 2025, the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board authorized staff to work on how this designation could be established and implemented.
