Work to remove non-native fish will shut down parts of Rocky Mountain National Park later this month.
The effort, called the Poudre Headwaters Project, involves the removal of all non-native fish from the 14.3-mile Grand Ditch system as well as tributaries upstream and downstream inside the park. In their place, Greenback cutthroat trout will be reintroduced to its native range in the headwaters of the Cache la Poudre River.
The work will close some areas on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Aquatic biologists will apply a piscicide, or fish pesticide, called rotenone which is commonly used by state and federal land management agencies. The project will be led by U.S. Forest Service biologists in conjunction with partners including Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Additional funding support is provided by Trout Unlimited and the Rocky Mountain Conservancy.
Their target is fish that are not native to the park, including brook trout, that could move into greenback recovery areas.
All areas and trails within the project zone will be closed to all uses from Aug. 25 through Aug. 31, including the Colorado River Trail and the Grand Ditch will be closed.
The following trails will remain open in the Kawuneeche Valley: East Inlet Trail, North Inlet/Tonohutu Trail, Green Mountain Trail, Coyote Valley Trail, Onahu Trail, and Timber Lake Trail. The Holzwarth Historic Site and Harbison Meadows Picnic Area will also remain open.
Fishing access will remain open in all areas along the Colorado River south of the Colorado River Trailhead, including near the Holzwarth Historic Site and Coyote Valley. Water in the Colorado River may appear brown in color due to the treatments upstream. This water is safe for people and fish.
Waterways that have been treated with rotenone may appear red in color. People should not pick up dead fish, consume fish, or drink water that has been treated with rotenone. These areas will be clearly marked with signs.
Visitors should check the park website or call the park information office at 970-586-1206 for additional information.
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