Aechemophorus occidentalis is not endangered or threatened. They are however are affected by oil spills and insecticides found in their food. The insecticides affect their breeding. Another danger to this bird is the reduction in habitat. Lakes and marshes that A. occidentalis occupies are being taken over by human development. At this time A. occidentalis hasn't been affected very much by these threats.

US Migratory Bird Act: protected

US Federal List: no special status

CITES: no special status

State of Michigan List: no special status

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: least concern