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Stories and topics in this issue:
Fraser Flats Section Now Open for Fishing: Learning by Doing
Greenback Recovery Projects Announced for 2018
ANGLERS ALL & BELOW THE CANOPY PRESENT: TRUCHON
Behind the Fin with John Aaron
BRISTOL BAY PUBLIC COMMENT
"HOOKED" a film about youth in Bristol Bay
A note from National TU Staffer, Kurt Fesenmyer:
"One great way to take the pulse of your local river is by monitoring stream temperatures. Inexpensive data loggers offer the opportunity to record water temperatures every hour for several years, providing easy access to important information on seasonal patterns, short-term trends, and the impacts of restoration projects or other activities in a watershed.
TU’s Science Team has spent the past few months test driving a new data logger for monitoring stream temperatures. We’re happy to report that the new loggers work very well and should make monitoring your local stream even easier. The new loggers — the Onset TidbiT MX series — are the latest iteration of the reliable Tidbit product line. We are recommending the Tidbit MX2203, which cost just over $100 each.
The new model includes several features that will prove very useful for long-term stream temperature monitoring—they have a four-year battery life under normal conditions and a replaceable battery; they can be launched and their data downloaded using a Bluetooth connection and the free Onset HOBOmobile app; and they have a ‘water detect’ feature that can be used for monitoring stream drying and patterns of intermittency. For more information about the loggers, including basic instructions on calibrating, setting up, and launching loggers, as well as details on how to receive a discount Onset is kindly offering TU volunteers, check out the newly updated Version 3 of TU’s Stream Temperature Monitoring handbook.
The handbook contains some basic guidance on "Why," "Where," and "When" to monitor and is a great starting place for chapters thinking about stream temperature monitoring. Additional resources are available on TU’s stream temperature monitoring resources webpage."
If you are interesting in citizen science opportunities in Colorado. Contact Grassroots Coordinator Dan Omasta, DOmasta@tu.org
Project site during construction from upper adit levels on McClellan Mountain. (Photos: Jason Willis)
By Jason Willis
Abandoned mines pose a serious threat to headwater streams in the West, because they seep toxic heavy metals such as zinc, lead and copper into streams and watersheds, undermining water quality and poisoning aquatic life. Trout Unlimited's Abandoned Mine Land program works across the West on projects to clean up abandoned mine sites and restore watershed health.
Difficult, remote, unpredictable, jarring—four adjectives that come to mind when I think about the Santiago Mine and Mill, perched at roughly 12,110 feet near Argentine Pass and the Continental Divide. The abandoned mine site sits in the headwaters of Leavenworth Creek, which ultimately flows into South Clear Creek, a drinking water source for the town of Georgetown. Trout Unlimited and USFS had been working together in the watershed since 2014 on various abandoned mine land (AML) reclamation projects when the idea for cleanup at the Santiago was conceptualized. With the site being listed on the state’s historical register, and eligible for the national register, proposed cleanup posed a unique challenge: How to mitigate high levels of lead, arsenic, and iron while simultaneously preserving the buildings as important relics of Colorado’s mining history?
NEW fly fishing film! Presented by Anglers All and Below the Canopy Media, this destination angling film is set in Chilean Patagonia. The Greenbacks of Colorado Trout Unlimited screened the film at their Field Season Kickoff party back on May 31. Don't worry if you missed it, because you can watch the full feature below.
Picture taken January 2017.
Join us "behind the fin" with John Aaron. John has been a local chapter president, Vice President of CCTU, Board member of two chapters, and a fund raiser for both local chapters and the State council as well as a behind the scenes advocate for trout and clean water for years.
How long have you been a TU member?
Since 1979.
What chapter are you involved with?
Originally, with Wild Trout chapter which became the Denver chapter, then with Cutthroat Chapter.
What made you want to be involved with TU?
Was looking for a group that was flyfishing oriented and might know where to catch them.
What is your favorite activity or project you have done with TU?
Too many to account for, but a couple that stand out, fighting the building of the proposed Two Folks dam, and the establishment of the South Platte restoration program with Todd Fehr, resulting in the restoration of miles in in town fisheries.
I know you won’t tell me your favorite spot, but what is your second favorite place to fish or favorite fishing story?
Wind River in Wyoming and the Conejos River in Colorado. Did I mention Belize?
What does being a part of TU mean to you?
Enhancing the living places of fishes no matter the species.
What else do you do in your spare time or work?
Working on additional restoration efforts through non-TU projects, teaching new comers, Fly tying and attempting to raise the awareness of politicians to environmental concerns.
Canyonlands National Park, UT 2018
Hi there! My name is Andrea Smith, but you can call me Annie. I am so excited to be a part of the Colorado Trout Unlimited team as the new Communications and Membership Coordinator. I've been working here for about 4 months now and have met quite a few of your already at various events, board meetings, and most recently the 2018 Western Regional Rendezvous! A little bit about me: I am originally from the Chicago area having lived there for 18 years until moving out to Colorado with my family. I attended the University of Colorado, Boulder and completed my Bachelor of Arts and Science in Environmental Studies with a minor in Geology. During my summers at college, I interned with multiple non-profits in the area. I once worked at the Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center with a focus on the care of injured or orphaned waterfowl and songbirds. I saw first hand the dangers that wildlife face in a human world and assisted the licensed rehabilitators in administering medical treatments.
I also interned and later worked for the Inland Ocean Coalition (formerly the Colorado Ocean Coalition) a project of the Ocean Foundation, nonprofit. There I was the Lead in Operations and Public Outreach, but also wore many hats and became exposed to the inner workings of a non-profit which included development and growth through volunteer projects, trainings, programming, fundraisers, communications, outreach, and legislative activism.
I've also been a Girl Scout my entire life and loved summer camp to the point that I also worked a summer up at Red Feather Lakes, CO (sadly closed now) as a Staff Counselor.
Water has been a continuous theme in my life. I grew up near the Great Lakes and loved going swimming at the Illinois Beach State Park, camping in the Upper Peninsula in Michigan, and going on family road trips to some of the best outdoor places across the US. Some other hobbies I enjoy include: painting, hiking, photography, videography, kayaking, and playing my ukulele.
Lake San Isabel
I come from a family of fishermen and women, but I still haven't caught the fishing bug yet like my older sister has (she ties some great flies by the way). Whenever my dad goes fishing on Lake San Isabel, I'm the one in the kayak or hiking around the area collecting lost hooks or bobbers. I've had a lesson or two recently and am excited to find some great spots to practice my cast. Feel free to send me your recommendations for a beginner angler like me!
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is dedicating the first weekend of June as free fishing days for everyone. Anyone can fish for free, regardless if they have a fishing license or not. This is a great opportunity to head outside for some fun on our rivers, lakes, or streams across Colorado. If you're a seasoned angler - this would also be a great opportunity to take out a beginner and hopefully get them "hooked". CPW wants all to enjoy getting outside with friends and family this weekend.
All across Colorado's public lands, anyone can drop a line in from June 2-3, 2018. You can read more about the event and access some free resources such as fishing reports or places to take kids fishing here. See if your local state parks have their own events happening near you!
Flyfishing Demo's with Rocky Mtn Flycasters
Join the Rocky Mountain Flycasters Chapter of Trout Unlimited for ongoing demos of how to fly cast. A little rusty? The gang at TU can help you tune up your casting skills so come by their booth for on demand demos during the Poudre River Fest.
Poudre RiverFest is a free, family-friendly festival that restores, celebrates and educates people about the Cache la Poudre River. Learn about conserving the Poudre River and its resources through kids’ activities. Connect with local groups that work to improve and maintain the health of the river. Volunteer to help with river cleanup and restoration projects in the coming year. Dance to live music. Enjoy beer from New Belgium Brewing Co. and food from local eateries.
Free Get Outdoors Day Colorado Springs - Prospect Lake
Prospect Lake will be lined with families fishing using free poles from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The water will be filled with rafts, canoes and paddleboards. Kids can shoot air rifles and .22s, throw hatchets, learn archery, try the climbing walls, crawl all over our "Touch a Truck" display and much more. Check it out here!
Canyon Lakes Ranger District Kids Free Fishing Fest
The U.S. Forest Service, Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Canyon Lakes Ranger District along with our partners; is hosting a fun, FREE, family, day of fishing at West Lake Day-Use Area. The whole family is invited, but it's geared specifically for kids (15 and under) to learn about the basics of fishing, aquatic and terrestrial biology, and outdoor ethics on the National Forests and other public lands. Our mission that day is to get kids and familys' excited about fishing, the outdoors, recreation, and their public lands #itsallyours. Red Feather Lakes, CO
Evergreen Youth Outdoor Skills Day
Sign up the whole family for the Evergreen Outdoor Skills Day and enjoy time outdoors in beautiful Evergreen. Youth are encouraged to participate in fishing, tying flies, shooting sports, learning about hunter education, macro-invertebrates, Colorado wildlife, and much more.
Prize drawings, free fishing poles, and a free grilled lunch while food and supplies last.
Please register for the whole family, youth and adults. Youth must be accompanied by adults. This is a free event that falls on Free Fishing Weekend. Participants do not need a fishing license to participate. Register here.
This free clinic fishing clinic, sponsored and run by Volunteers from Bennett Fish and Tackle, begins at 9:00 am at Mead Ponds. 8:00-9:00 am FREE clinic 9:00-11:00 am Fishing Derby 11:00-11:30 am Lunch & Prizes It's free and fun for the whole family! Kids will receive a free fishing pole and anyone over the age of 16 must have a valid Colorado fishing license. Email Janet Torres (janettorres@townofmead.org) with any questions.
Family Fishing Clinic at a High Mountain Lake
Where: CR 37 Jefferson, CO 80456
We will meet at the parking lot at the end of the road. Class will start promptly at 9:00 am, please be respectful of others and arrive on time. All Participants 16 years old and older have to have a valid fishing license. Licenses are not available at the lake. You can buy them on-line or any place that sells fishing equipment. All equipment will be provided or bring your own and we will help you set it up. Please bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen and a lunch. The Forest Service also has a $10 per vehicle fee to access Jefferson Lake. Please register for this event here.
38th annual Yampa River Festival
9 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Charlie's Hole near the Bud Werner Memorial Library, 1289 Lincoln Ave. Steamboat Springs Boaters and anglers descend on the Yampa River each spring to achieve greatness in their respective sports. Whether you kayak, raft, tube, canoe, SUP, packraft or float another craft, the Yampa River Festival has something for everyone. Jumping into the water not your thing? There are plenty of opportunities to spectate and support the Yampa River. The festival also features vendors and a beer garden.
June 2, 2018 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Dry Creek Park, 513 S. Poplar St. Hayden, CO Go back to those childhood memories of reading about Huck Finn's adventures or introduce the stories to your kids by attending the Hayden Huck Finn Day, which includes a Fishing Derby starting at 9:30 a.m. at the Dry Creek Pond. You can fish with your own gear or use gear provided by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A cornhole tournament will start at 1 p.m. There will be educational stations, awards presented in a Huck Finn and Becky Thatcher look-a-like contest and Learn something new at one of the educational stations and a free hotdog lunch provided by Hayden Parks and Recreation. Contact tammie.delaney@haydencolorado.org for more information.
June 3rd, 2018 9 to 10 a.m. | Stagecoach State Park, 2550 Routt County Road 14 Oak Creek, COThis one is for the kiddos. Not only is the clinic free, but on June 2 and June 3, no fishing permits are required due to Colorado's free fishing weekend. Join park rangers at Keystone Cove to learn the basics of knot tying, casting and safe fish handling. Fishing equipment is provided. Valid park entry permit is required on all vehicles.
Comment below if we missed one! Have a great weekend everyone and tight lines!
Emma and Heather both received the Outstanding Volunteer Award.
Image credit: Emma Brown www.instagram.com/emmabrowntrout
Each year, CTU recognizes individuals and chapters that have shown great leadership in Trout Unlimited across the state. This year, they had 11 awards presented on Sunday April 29, 2018 up at Keystone, CO. Congratulations to everyone who was recognized, your hard work was noticed! The awardees are as follows:
Josh Anaya – for his leadership in strengthening communications for the Southern Colorado Greenbacks Chapter and spearheading the Frostbite Fishoff
Emma Brown –for her work with The Greenbacks in leading youth education and trout conservation projects including the Outdoor Mentors program
Anna Drexler-Dreis –for her Grand County community leadership including developing and implementing riparian restoration efforts with the Fraser Flats project
Dick Shinton –for his work with long-time dedication to youth education including the Colorado TU youth camp, chapter fly tying programs, and mentorship for young anglers
Jason Groves – for his leadership in revitalizing the Ferdinand Hayden Chapter as a viable, active local TU presence in the Roaring Fork Valley
Heather Sees- for her vision and leadership in strengthening The Greenbacks and programming for native trout, youth education, and partnerships including with the Mayfly Project
Rocky Mountain Flycasters – for its diverse youth offerings including a summer day camp, multiple Trout in the Classroom partnerships, and community education partnerships
Grand Valley Anglers – for their exemplary newsletter and online engagement efforts with both their membership and the local community
Gore Range Chapter – for its Blue River Explorer Hike program to educate and engage local and visiting youth with the river
Colorado River Headwaters Chapter – for the Fraser Flats Project, the first partnership effort under the “Learning by Doing” program, dramatically improving the local fishery
Collegiate Peaks Anglers – for its strong community-based partnerships promoting youth education and trout conservation in the Arkansas basin
Fifth grade students from Lyons Elementary School released around 60 fry back into the wild in collaboration with the St. Vrain Anglers TU Chapter, Colorado Trout Unlimited, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The release was part of their ongoing Trout in the Classroom (TIC) Program where students are engaged in trout biology and environmental sciences. Students raised trout from egg to fry - monitoring their growth, tank environment, and life cycle. Along with raising adorable trout, students gain an appreciation for water resources, conservation ethics, and become involved in their local watershed!
The Leo Gomolchak Conservation Grants Program, named for Leo Gomolchak, a longtime CTU staffer and volunteer who worked tirelessly to promote wild and native trout restoration in Colorado helps benefit conservation efforts and organizational development at the chapter level by providing seed money which can be used as a starting point in financing grassroots conservation and/or education activities. This year at the 2018 Western Regional Rendezvous on Sunday, April 29, Keystone, CO, six projects across Colorado were awarded each $1300. Below are those recipients and their corresponding projects. Congratulations!
Boulder Flycasters: Trout in the Classroom and Watershed Education. The chapter, in collaboration with Lefthand and Fourmile Watershed groups, will establish four new Trout in the Classroom locations as part of a broader watershed education program to engage Boulder County students in watershed education and conservation.
The Greenbacks: Rock Creek / Black Canyon native trout. The Greenbacks are part of a multi-agency partnership to restore native greenback cutthroat trout in Rock Creek and its tributary Black Canyon (located in the upper Tarryall drainage). These funds will be part of the matching resources for construction of the final permanent barrier at the bottom of the total project. The Greenbacks will be holding a fall 2018 fundraiser with 100% of proceeds going toward this project, as additional matching resources for this grant.
Gunnison Angling Society: Adopt-a-Trout 2.0. Building on the well-received adopt-a-trout program conducted with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Gunnison area students on Tomichi Creek, this project will involve area students in a similar monitoring effort to assess fish migration among Tomichi, Cochetopa and Quartz Creeks.
Southern Colorado Greenbacks: Trout in the Classroom. The Southern Colorado Greenbacks will help launch a new Trout in the Classroom site with a Pueblo-area middle school, where the partner teacher would use the program to engage her students with hands-on learning about nature including the understanding of water quality. The chapter will match Gomolchak Grant funds with proceeds raised through their Frostbite Fishoff.
St. Vrain Anglers: Trout in the Classroom. The St Vrain Anglers are will be bringing Trout in the Classroom to a Lyons elementary school. The Gomolchak Grant will help cover the initial capital costs for equipment, with the chapter than providing annual support to cover site operating costs as a match on this grant.
West Denver: RiverWatch. The West Denver Chapter is tackling a water quality monitoring project with RiverWatch on three sites along Clear Creek, including not just basic water chemistry but also macroinvertebrate sampling. One of the sampling events would be conducted in partnership with a Forest Service kids day education event on the Forest.
Contact David if you have any questions (dnickum@tu.org, or 303-440-2937 x1).
