Parks Canada has achieved a significant milestone in the recovery of a threatened fish species within Banff National Park. Following over ten years of dedicated efforts, the federal agency announced that westslope cutthroat trout are now naturally spawning and re-establishing themselves in Hidden Lake, near Lake Louise.
Shelley Humphries, an expert in aquatics working for Parks Canada’s Lake Louise, Yoho, and Kootenay field unit, expressed her excitement at the self-sustainability of the fish population. She highlighted the success of the reintroduction project, drawing parallels to similar endeavors in the United States that have led to the removal of species from endangered lists.
The initiative to restore the habitat of westslope cutthroat trout involved attempts to eliminate brook trout through natural means starting in 2011, which proved unsuccessful. Subsequently, the use of rotenone, a natural fish toxin, effectively eradicated brook trout from the lake in 2018 and 2019. Beginning in 2021, the introduction of trout eggs into Hidden Lake for four consecutive years resulted in successful spawning and the presence of fully grown fish in the current year.
While continuing to monitor the situation closely, Humphries expressed optimism about the fish utilizing streams and creeks beyond Hidden Lake. She emphasized the overall positive population trend and the importance of observing spawning activities in streams to ensure the species’ long-term recovery.
Historically, westslope cutthroat trout inhabited a vast area from the northern reaches of Banff National Park to the southern tip of Alberta. However, the introduction of recreational fishing and non-native species like brook trout in the 1900s significantly impacted their habitat, reducing their presence to just 10% of their traditional waterways.
Humphries acknowledged past mistakes and highlighted the correctable nature of the situation, emphasizing the potential for the species’ conservation. Parks Canada’s efforts extend beyond Hidden Lake, encompassing projects in locations such as Helen Lake, Cascade Creek, Katherine Lake, and Corral Creek, with plans underway for the restoration of threatened bull trout populations.
In addition to aiding the recovery of westslope cutthroat trout, these conservation initiatives have broader ecological benefits, supporting other wildlife species such as birds of prey and bears. Humphries underscored Parks Canada’s commitment to protecting endangered species, emphasizing the agency’s determination to safeguard these populations against further decline.
