An invasion of New Zealand mud snails has forced the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to place a quarantine on its Loa State Fish Hatchery, near Richfield.
The snails, which have been found in several western states, including Colorado, pose a threat to fish and other aquatic species by competing for stream nutrients. The tiny creatures were discovered in the Elevenmile Canyon reach of Colorado’s South Platte River and in Boulder Creek. Officials have called on anglers to disinfect boots and other fishing gear after wading in these waters.
Sage grouse protection. Funds provided by Great Outdoors Colorado, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Landowner Incentive Program and the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s Habitat Stamp Program have been used to secure the 3,140-acre Wolf Taussig conservation easement in Grand County. The property contains the largest sage grouse breeding areas in the county. The easement guarantees the property will remain in a natural state, free from development.
Meeting canceled. The Colorado Division of Wildlife is attempting to reschedule a Sportsmen’s Advisory Group meeting originally set Dec. 1 in Silverthorne. Poor road conditions forced postponement of a discussion that, among other things, targeted changes in the landowner preference program.
