Rocky Mountain National Park is launching the Poudre Headwaters Project today, which will involve the removal of non-native fish species.

According to an Instagram post from RMNP, the project will involve the removal of all non-native fish from the Grand Ditch and upstream and downstream tributaries inside RMNP.

After the native Greenback cutthroat trout are removed, they will be reintroduced into their native range in the headwaters of the Cache la Poudre River.

Aquatic biologists will use a piscicide called rotenone on the 14.3-mile Grand Ditch system and its upstream and downstream tributaries to remove the non-native fish. According to RMNP, rotenone is routinely used by fish and wildlife managers to restore native fish populations.

Some areas on the west side of RMNP, such as the Colorado River Trail and Bowen-Baker Trailhead, will be closed to all uses, including hiking and fishing access.

Find more information on the project here.

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