COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE

CPW implements emergency fish salvage at Gypsum Ponds SWA ahead of improvement project

GYPSUM, Colo. - Colorado Parks and Wildlife has announced an emergency public fish salvage is in effect at Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Area (SWA), in Eagle County.

The salvage is being implemented to mitigate imminent fish loss, as the Gypsum Ponds are being drawn down in preparation for the Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Area improvement project set to begin later this fall. 

All bag and possession limits for the reservoir are removed for the duration of the salvage. Anglers can keep all of the fish they catch utilizing the lawful angling methods currently allowed at the lake. The collection, use, or possession of live fish is prohibited in all waters west of the Continental Divide. Anglers are also reminded it is illegal to transport live fish into other bodies of water. 

Anglers 16 and older must have a valid 2024 Colorado fishing license. 

In May 2024, CPW staff stopped diverting water from the Eagle River to the SWA and began drawing down the ponds. As the ponds are drawn down, anglers should be advised that they will experience changing conditions and a muddy approach to the water.

The emergency salvage was approved by CPW Director Jeff Davis on June 10, 2024. The salvage will continue until further notice. This action only pertains to the ponds located on the SWA. All existing regulations on surrounding water bodies, including the Eagle River, remain in effect.