In response to the significant drop in water levels at Two Buttes Reservoir, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has initiated an emergency fish salvage beginning today, Thursday, October 30th, as reported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The drastic measure addresses the concern that the reservoir may soon be unable to support its fish population due to the ongoing drought, with insufficient rain forecasted to replenish the lake.
CPW Wildlife Technician Brian Marsh explained, "Two Buttes Reservoir relies solely on heavy precipitation events to create flow into the lake." As obtained by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Marsh continued, "dropped to the point that the reservoir could likely be unable to support a fishery in the near future." The salvage aims to prevent wasting the resource, allowing the public to collect fish without adhering to the standard bag and possession limits.
Anglers looking to participate in the salvage must possess a valid 2025 Colorado fishing license, as commercial fishing is prohibited. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the currently permitted angling methods will be allowed during this time, with anglers legally authorized to use up to two rods. However, transporting live fish from Two Buttes to other bodies of water is against the law.
CPW Aquatic Biologist Jim Ramsay warned about the potential for an ice cover following a sudden cold snap that could deplete oxygen levels and pose grave risks to the fish. Ramsay told Colorado Parks and Wildlife, "This could create a situation of significantly depleted oxygen levels under the ice that creates a great risk to the fish." As such, the emergency salvage helps to utilize the fish before natural conditions threaten their survival.
