Genetic Diversity and Steelhead

Re “Genetics May Save Trout from Extinction,” Nov. 30.

Statements in this article prompt the following comments:

* The genetic diversity discussion of Southern California steelhead trout is largely conjecture, as readers will note from the liberal use of words such as “may,” “perhaps,” “probably” and “could mean.”

* As to the silt-choked Rindge Dam blocking steelhead migration upstream, this is true for only a few hundred yards as natural waterfalls blocked migration to the upper Malibu Creek watershed.

* The Rindge Dam is reinforced with historic steel rails, not railroad ties.

* The Army Corps of Engineers currently estimates the cost of removing Rindge Dam at $40 million, not $4 million to $17.5 million.

* As to the 5-inch juvenile steelhead trout reported in Topanga Creek last August, this is conjecture as it is not possible to visually identify a 5-inch trout as a steelhead--it might just as easily have been a rainbow trout.

* Sending steelhead up tainted urbanized stream waters is out of priority. First, the waters must be purified to historic pristine qualities.

* Finally, there is great hope that a current study to reintroduce steelhead to Solstice Creek in Malibu will succeed in maintaining the wild stock of steelhead. If the project succeeds--and if and when Southern California marine and coastal stream waters are purified to sustain steelhead in their natural habitat--these noble fish will still be around to increase and multiply.

RONALD L. RINDGE, Moorpark