But it’s not as simple as translocating this species into the park. In order to create an environment for these fish, NPS first needs to get rid of the non-native trout that currently inhabit that lake.

The plan proposed by the park, which, if approved, would begin September 2023, recommends using a long-used pesticide and rat poison called rotenone. Despite being a naturally derived compound, it has been banned for use on rodents since 2005. While it is still a widely used fish toxin, or piscicide, as well as a widely used pesticide, researchers have unearthed strong epidemiological links with Parkinson’s Disease.