Another illegal fish stocking has led to another rotenone treatment in Utah.
This time, the water is Kolob Reservoir in southern Utah. Details are available in the DWR news release that's pasted below.
NOTE: Richard Hepworth, aquatic manager in our Southern Region, can supply you with photos to accompany the release. He'd also be happy to do an interview with you and answer any questions you have.
You can reach Richard at 435-691-2205 or richardhepworth@utah.gov.
Illegal fish stocking leads to chemical treatment at Kolob Reservoir
Rotenone treatment scheduled for Oct. 15 and Oct. 16
Kolob Reservoir -- During the summer of 2018, biologists with the Division of Wildlife Resources found three illegally introduced fish species (yellow perch, bluegill sunfish, and green sunfish) in Kolob Reservoir in southern Utah.
All three species pose a threat to the fish that already live in Kolob, particularly the wild trout. The illegally stocked fish will compete with trout for food, which will reduce the growth rate of the trout, leading to smaller fish for anglers to catch. The overall number of trout in the lake will also decrease as the illegally stocked fish prey on younger trout.
Due to competition for food, predation on young trout and downstream threats to native fish species, the DWR has been working with the Washington County Water Conservancy District (WCWCD) to lower the water level in the reservoir in preparation for a rotenone treatment. The treatment, which will remove the illegally stocked fish, is scheduled for Oct. 15 and Oct. 16.
Increased trout limit
To allow anglers to take fish that will be lost when the treatment occurs, in September the DWR lifted fishing gear restrictions and liberalized the trout limit at Kolob Reservoir. Anglers can keep up to eight trout a day until the treatment occurs. The reservoir will be closed to the public from Oct. 14 to Nov. 1. Trout will be restocked into the lake in spring 2019.
$3,000 reward
The DWR, sportsman organizations and the WCWCD are offering a reward of up to $3,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the conviction of the person(s) who introduced these fish into Kolob. If convicted, consequences could include paying the cost to treat the lake. The treatment will likely cost between $15,000 and $20,000.
Similar challenges at Gunlock and Quail Creek reservoirs
In 2015, the DWR dealt with a similar issue at Gunlock Reservoir in southwestern Utah. Biologists conducted a rotenone treatment to remove illegally introduced smallmouth bass, which threatened native species downstream in the Virgin River. Today, Gunlock is recovering. It’s currently a thriving sport fishery for largemouth bass, bluegill sunfish and black crappie.
In addition to treating Gunlock and Kolob, the DWR and the Virgin River Program have been contending with illegally introduced smallmouth bass in Quail Creek Reservoir in southern Utah. Fortunately, through the removal efforts of sportsman groups and various agencies, the smallmouth bass population in Quail Creek does not seem to be expanding. The possibility of a rotenone treatment still remains, however.
Illegal fish stocking
Regarding the upcoming treatment at Kolob Reservoir, Richard Hepworth, regional aquatics manager for the DWR, says it’s unfortunate biologists are having to deal with another illegal fish stocking. “When fish are stocked illegally,” he says, “there are tremendous costs and consequences for water users, anglers and visitors. Fish that are stocked illegally also harm the fish habitat and the ecosystems in the waters in which they’re placed.”
According to Ron Thompson, general manager of the WCWCD, this is the second district-owned reservoir—in three years—that will be treated to remove illegally stocked fish.
“Visitation to our reservoirs has increased significantly,” he says, “and we’re happy to see so many guests using and enjoying the reservoirs for a variety of recreational purposes. But we have to remember that the primary purpose of a reservoir is to store the water that’s needed for our residents and businesses. Actions that interfere with this primary purpose are disconcerting.”
If you have questions about the rotenone treatment at Kolob Reservoir, call the DWR’s Southern Region office at 435-865-6100.
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MEDIA ADVISORY
DIY Network Star Mikes Holmes celebrates partnership with Utah company Holmes Homes
TV Host and Contractor to host exclusive event with Holmes Homes on Oct. 18 in Daybreak
WHO: DIY Network Star Mike Holmes enters into partnership with Holmes Homes
WHAT: The media is invited to an exclusive event with Mike Holmes, star of DIY Network’s home renovation show “Next Generation.” Mike will be offering tips to homeowners for how to avoid purchasing a poorly built home, fixing up dysfunctional homes and doing house renovations the right way. Mike specializes in rescuing homeowners from dysfunctional homes, shady contractors and do-it-yourself projects gone wrong
WHERE: Brand new community in Daybreak
10933 S. Lake Island Drive
South Jordan, Utah
*Follow Holmes Homes signs for directions
WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
WHY: Mike Holmes has partnered with Holmes Homes because they share the same values and Build It Right philosophy, using quality materials and the best installation practices. Being part of the program means that each Holmes Home will go through a unique inspection process conducted by Mike’s third party inspection partners - Quality Built. The program is selective, and Holmes Homes has been chosen as the exclusive Mike Holmes Approved builder in Utah.
QUOTE: Mike Holmes, TV Host and Contractor, DIY Network
Jason Holmes, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Holmes Homes
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For the last 120 years, Holmes Homes has built more than 16,000 quality homes across the state of Utah. For five generations, they have used the most innovative construction technologies and techniques. Holmes Homes received the “Builder of Integrity” Award from the Quality Builders Warranty Corporation in 2007, and most recently, was honored with the Number One Award at the 2017 QB Builder Awards. Co-owners and brothers Patrick Holmes and Spencer Holmes construct beautiful homes in communities across Utah, including Daybreak, Herriman Towne, Park City, Juniper Bend and Terrace Hills.
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