Colorado wildlife authorities have approved emergency “fish salvages” at three reservoirs facing drainage, some of which is the result of low snowpack and drought conditions.

An emergency public fish salvage means the usual fishing restrictions or limitations have been lifted at the three reservoirs.

In a statement, Colorado Parks and Wildlife said the emergency action would mitigate fish loss by giving anglers more opportunity before the water conditions deteriorate.

Under the plan, bag and possession limits would be lifted and all “legal methods” of taking would be permitted, state authorities said.

Commercial fishing, casting a net and seining — the use of vertical nets with floats — will still not be allowed, authorities specified.

Authorities also noted that it remains illegal for anglers to transport live fish from one body of water to another.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said the fish salvages are in immediate effect in the following areas:

• Wahatoya Reservoir at the Wahatoya State Wildlife Area in Huerfano County: The reservoir is a fishery located east of La Veta. The City of Walsenburg is drawing down the reservoir to meet municipal water needs. Under the emergency action, its reservoir’s artificial fly and lure regulation has been lifted to allow all kinds of bait, excluding live baitfish.

• Mountain Home Reservoir State Wildlife Area in Costilla County, a fishery near Fort Garland: Because of drought and low snowpack, the Trinchera Irrigation Company is draining the water for irrigation purposes. Soon, the boat ramp there will be unavailable.

• Douglas Reservoir State Wildlife Area in Larimer County, a fishery located west of Wellington: The water will be drawn down primarily to meet irrigation demand.