The Division of Wildlife Resources is conducting Colorado River cutthroat trout restoration activities across the trouts native range and two Basin creeks are considered a priority. Reader Creek and Lynn Creek have both experienced dramatic decline in the cutthroat population due to competition and breeding with non-native trout. The decline has been so severe that the species’ future has been called into question and the DWR will chemically treat both streams with rotenone from late July through early fall to address the problem. “The activities will protect the species while providing people with opportune areas to fish for these native fish,” shares DWR biologist Bryan Engelbert. “Not only are we focused on helping the fish, but we know the restoration project can provide anglers with a chance to catch larger cutthroats. Unlike other bodies of water that take time to recover after being treated, these streams will bounce back quickly as both juvenile and adult fish will be placed into the streams immediately after the treatment is over.” The treatment is considered a win for the cutthroats and anglers. For more information, call 435-781-9453.
