Utah’s 1990 record rotenone killed 99% fish, now 715K catches a year

In an ambitious effort to rejuvenate the ecosystem, Utah wildlife officials undertook the removal of nearly all fish from Strawberry Reservoir in 1990. This strategic chemical operation was designed to halt the deterioration of the lake’s environment. Following the fish removal, biologists introduced native trout to reinvigorate the food web and support recreational fishing. Enhanced barriers and regulations now safeguard this restored aquatic habitat, exemplifying effective freshwater management.