When the Stoner Mesa Fire started threatening a small population of rare native cutthroat trout, Colorado Parks and Wildlife biologists leapt into action, rescuing a portion of the population from the fire’s path. Working alongside state and federal partners, a team of dedicated biologists ventured into the backcountry to save a rare lineage of cutthroat — the “Uncompahgre” Colorado River cutthroat.

Even after a fire is extinguished, there can be long-lasting impacts on water quality. Chemical irritation, sedimentation, reduced water quality, and increased metabolic demands on fish can cause additional stress or even mortality.

The team was successful –– with 266 fish rescued. They plan to keep the cutthroat trout at the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery until after the fire incident is concluded and there’s no longer a threat to water quality that could hurt their chances of survival. Check out the full story below!

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Photos courtesy of Colorado Parks and Wildlife