In 2006, Grand Canyon began a major trout-reduction effort in Bright Angel Creek; native fish populations increased by more than 400%

At least five of the Grand Canyon's eight species of native fish were historically found in Bright Angel Creek. However, these species that are uniquely adapted to the characteristics of the Colorado River and its tributaries have suffered serious declines over the years due to human-caused changes to their habitat. The creek once supported a large number of native fish, including the endangered humpback chub. Humpback chub were first scientifically described from specimens collected in or near Bright Angel Creek. But over the years, it became the main spawning site for non-native brown trout, which are predators of the native population.In 2006, the National Park Service began a multi-year project to reduce the number of non-native brown and rainbow trout to benefit the native fish population. The project was funded by the Bureau of Reclamation and National Park Service, with staff contributions by the University of Missouri and volunteers provided by the Grand Canyon Trust.Humpback chub translocationAlongside efforts to suppress non-native trout, conservationists have also worked to establish and protect humpback chub populations in other parts of the Colorado River system. The e...