The Canadian population of Dusky Grouse is monitored to a limited extent by both the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) and the Christmas Bird Count (CBC). Few individuals are detected by the BBS, as there are not many routes within the range of the species, and the peak of territorial vocalizations is in April, long before the survey period. The species is also sampled by relatively few CBC circles, but the number of individuals detected annually is considerably higher than for the BBS, and the CBC is therefore likely to be more indicative of the Canadian trend.  Although there is considerable uncertainty around annual estimates, the national trend shows a persistent long-term decline, amounting to over 90% since 1970. In contrast, the limited BBS data indicate a decline of only 15% over the same period. Although confidence in the large decline is low, the available data at least agree that it seems very unlikely that the population has increased over time.

The goal for Dusky Grouse is to increase the population to the level it was at in the early 1970s, based on the Christmas Bird Count. Trend data show that Dusky Grouse is far below its goal range and its population decline is ongoing. The trend will need to stabilize before the population can begin to rebound, and it is not realistic for the goal to be met by 2050. Based on analysis of the historical population loss and potential growth rates, the interim target is to reach 25% of the goal by that year. Achieving this target, and ultimately reaching the national goal for this species, will require ambitious and long-term conservation action.