In lakes artificially stocked, the diatom communities changed dramatically when non-native fish were introduced about 80 years ago. In lakes where non-native fish were removed, the diatom communities had not yet recovered. I think we're fooling ourselves to believe that we can recreate a perfectly natural system. The Park Service's principal fish-removal program has received sharp criticism from anglers used to fishing introduced species throughout the West. Nevertheless, the Park Service's mission is to preserve natural resources in pristine condition.
National parks are there to preserve the tiny remnants of what existed before European colonization.
This study shows that by stocking fish you change the ecology of a lake and go against that mission. There are many multiple-use lakes on Forest Service land and other federal land that can be used for stocking fish. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Read our privacy guidelines .