Biologists Rescue Rare Uncompahgre Cutthroat Trout from Colorado Wildfire
In response to the Gold Mountain Fire threatening the Uncompahgre National Forest in Colorado, biologists from Colorado Parks and Wildlife undertook a mission to save the last known population of the Uncompahgre cutthroat trout. The fire, which began on June 27, 2026, spread rapidly, endangering the habitat of this rare fish species. Eric Gardunio, an aquatic biologist, led a team to Nate Creek, where they successfully rescued 103 trout using electrofishing techniques. The fish were then transported to a quarantined hatchery, ensuring their survival amidst the ongoing wildfire. This effort was crucial as the Uncompahgre cutthroat trout is a unique genetic variant, only found in this specific region. 
