The Whirling Disease Initiative was established by Congress in 1997 to conduct research that will lead to practical methods of managing wild trout fisheries. To date, the Initiative has funded more than 120 projects conducted by university members, public agency scientists, and private firms with great success. Researchers have investigated the parasite's complex life cycle and factors that influence its spread and severity. Because eradication of whirling disease is unlikely, the Initiative focuses on research that develops practical management solutions to maintain viable, self-sustaining wild trout fisheries in the presence of the whirling disease parasite.