Trout Unlimited, Pikes Peak Chapter

This population of Cutthroat Trout were discovered in 1997. This chapter funded a barrier two miles below the natural barrier that protected this population from invasive species. This invasive species was than removed from this two miles to provide additional habitat in which they could grow and prosper. Water quality is continually monitored for degradation from heavy metals, low flows, sedimentation. In addition macro-invertebrates are collected annually as another means to monitor water quality. In 2006 we were able to have this water designated "High Quality" under the clean water act.

In 2012 a genetic study was published (Metcalf) that identified Six original lineages of Cutthroat Trout found in Colorado when European immigration began. Two of these lineages were previously unknown. In 2016 a population of one of these new lineages was rescued from Hayden creek, following the Hayden Pass fire, and placed in a hatchery. This particular population of what is known as the Green Lineage has a unique haploid in it's mitochondrial DNA. In 2021 these rescued Cutthroats were placed in Ruxton Creek, on Pikes Peak. It has become our responsibility to protect and advocate for these trout.

The Pikes Peak Chapter has funded three Trout in the Classroom programs in area public schools. In addition, the chapter has funded one set up that we call "Trout in the Community". Each year fertilized eggs are provided to the programs and provide an opportunity to students and the public to watch these eggs hatch and the fry grow. Once grown, these trout are tested for disease and if clean, released into area lakes and streams. The chapter support the creation of curriculum for this program and covers the ongoing expenses involved. As part of this program the chapter has created a game that can be used to educate the students about the hazards of growing up in a cold water stream. This game has been provided to schools located all over the globe.
In addition, this chapter provides volunteers to the school program via discussion with students in classrooms about conservation, clean water and the protection of species.

In an attempt to educate the public about the "Threatened" species of Cutthroat Trout located so very close to the community and the importance of their protection, the chapter created a scavenger hunt. The cooperation of the business community, Colorado College and the City of Colorado Springs were obtained and the Scavenger hunt became a reality. A Set of clues can be obtained by going to the Old Colorado Public Library. A set of trout created by Colorado College students are then attempted to be found in and around various businesses in Old Colorado City. During this hunt, information about the Greenback Cutthroat Trout is learned. Upon completion of the hunt the participants can return to the public library and receive a commemorative coin and a flyer about the trout. Community members and tourists can learn about the Greenback and the Scavenger hunt by reading an informational sign paid for by the Chapter and installed by the City in Bancroft Park in Old Colorado City.

Historically, Fountain Creek has been an urban stream which was viewed as a flood control problem. In the 2005 -2007 time period this chapter worked with the City of Manitou Spring to improve the habitat in Fountain Creek in the section that ran through that city. The goal was to improve the habitat for the trout as well as address flood control issues. These improvement and the design proved worthy after the Waldo Canyon fire in 2012. The mud flows and flooding came through the section of Fountain Creek in which the improvements were made. These improvements worked as designed and continue to do so today. The chapter has now chosen to move down stream and work with the City of Colorado Springs to improve this section of Fountain Creek to make is an urban fishery.