The Whirling Disease Initiative is a national research program. Its purpose is to conduct research that develops practical management solutions to maintain viable, self-sustaining wild trout fisheries in the presence of the whirling disease parasite.

The Whirling Disease Initiative is a project of the Montana Water Center. The Water Center advances water research, information, education, and problem-solving partnerships throughout Montana and beyond. It is one of 54 Centers in the nation collectively known as Water Resources Research Institutes.

Is the Whirling Disease Initiative the same as the Whirling Disease Foundation?

No. The Whirling Disease Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit corporation established in May, 1995 with a mission to raise the funds needed for researched solutions to the damage caused by whirling disease, the leading threat to wild trout populations.