Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Area Fishery Meeting

The meeting will begin with a presentation by CPW Aquatic Biologist Kendall Bakich, followed by an opportunity for attendees to ask questions about the presentation and provide input on the new fishery management plan for Gypsum Pond SWA.

The presentation will cover the changes and renovations that took place in the fall and are ongoing this year at Gypsum Ponds SWA. This includes improvements to the pond infrastructure, expanded parking options, and enhanced access trails to the ponds. 

Staff will share new management considerations and ideas for the fish populations in the ponds following the removal of nuisance fish species. Using the new Agri Drain infrastructure, CPW aquatic biologists expect the structures to inhibit the movement of fish between the two ponds, allowing them to develop distinct fish communities.

“Our goal is to create two distinct fishing experiences by utilizing the new infrastructure,” said  Kendall Bakich, CPW Glenwood Springs Area Aquatic Biologist. “By isolating and managing the two ponds separately, we will be able to maintain different fish populations that will maximize the growth potential of different fish species. This approach will cater to a variety of anglers and promote ecological balance for a more memorable fishing experience and quality harvests.”

CPW will begin restocking the ponds following the return of normal water levels. Initially, catchable trout will be harvestable for anglers. Some additional species being considered based on their desirability to anglers and lack of threat to the adjacent Eagle River include largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch, and black crappie. 

CPW reminds the public that moving live fish to other waters, including waters within proximity, is unlawful. Penalties for doing so can result in fines of up to $5,000 plus eradication and removal costs, which are often in the thousands of dollars. Not only is it costly, but illegally introducing fish into intensively managed ponds can cause significant population imbalances over a short period of time that will degrade the fishery and diminish angling opportunities.

On Sept. 11, 2024, CPW announced that it would begin fishery renovation of Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Area by draining the ponds to eradicate illegally introduced invasive fish and eliminate their threat to the adjacent Eagle River. 

Originally managed for catchable trout, the ponds were invaded over the years by multiple warm-water fish species, likely through illegal introduction. CPW staff first documented the presence of restricted invasive fish species in Gypsum Ponds during routine monitoring in 2010. In 2012, fish screens were placed to mitigate their potential for escape from the ponds. Annual monitoring and mechanical removals were unsuccessful in depleting the targeted fish species.