Clear Creek Cleanup Project a Resounding Success

Clear Creek Cleanup Project a Resounding Success

September 12, 2013

By:  Allen Adinoff

On September 7, the Cutthroat and Cherry Creek Anger Chapters teamed up for our annual Clear Creek Cleanup project in Idaho Springs.  A record number of volunteers (32 strong!) participated in the event.  For several of the volunteers, it was their first experience with a TU conservation project.  It was a beautiful day, and everyone enjoyed the experience.

Ten miles of stream were cleaned of litter and trash.  One of the more interesting items found was an unbroken champagne glass and bottle, unfortunately, the bottle was empty.

Breakfast and lunch were provided by local merchants: Starbucks Coffee and Beau Jo’s Pizza.  After lunch a raffle (officiated by long-timer Ray Carney) distributed prizes provided by the two chapters and also donated by local Idaho Springs merchants, Clear Creek Outdoors, Mile-Hi  Rafting , Argo Gold Mill, and Colorado Adventure Center.

“This project is a great opportunity for TU Chapters, not only to further our mission of stream conservation, but also to develop relationships with the local community of Idaho Springs”, says Jim Klug, Director of  Conservation projects for CCTU.  “The local businesses with which we have developed affiliations really have come to appreciate our efforts, and demonstrate that with their support as well.  It’s really a win win for everyone”.

There is one more CCTU conservation project scheduled for 2013.  The date is Saturday, October 12th; we will be doing mine rehabilitation at the Orange Fence mine near Alma.  Please check out the details on the web, look for it in out next Newsletter, or please call Jason Agin at 303-653-6057.

These projects are a great way to fulfill the mission of TU, and also give folks an opportunity to get to know other members of the Chapter.  Not surprisingly, the topic of fly fishing is a common focus of conversation.  On most of the projects, we also enjoy a few hours of fishing after the work is completed.

  

Please remember that participation in these projects makes you eligible to win great fishing oriented prizes in our Conservation Volunteer Awards Raffle.  A Colorado River float trip with Ray Carney and six dozen flies tied by Richard Pilatzke, among others, are waiting for you!  Come out and enjoy the conservation experience!

Thank's to Allen Adinoff, our photo journalist for this project!

Clear Creek Clean Up Project, September 7, 2013

CUTTHROAT AND CHERRY CREEK ANGLERS CHAPTERS

ANNUAL

CLEAR CREEK CLEAN UP PROJECT

At

Idaho Springs

September 7, 2013 (SATURDAY)

The project starts at 9AM at Courtney-Ryley-Cooper Park located at 2331 Colorado Blvd. in Idaho Springs.Come a little early as coffee and doughnuts will be served!Clean up teams will be formed, clean up areas and instructions will be assigned.The work usually takes two to three hours. We will have lunch at noon provided by the two chapters and a great prize raffle!We plan to cover 8--10 miles of stream and we need 30-40 volunteers to make this project a success! WE NEED YOUR HELP!Please call Ray Carney @ 303-972-2976 Jason Agin @ 303-653-6057 or Jim Klug @ 303-565-7504 to sign up and/or request additional information.Directions:Take I 70 West to exit #241A.Proceed on Colorado Blvd. to the red and green shelter on the Right , Courtney-Ryley Cooper Park.Hope to see you there!Jim KlugConservation DirectorCutthroat Chapter Trout Unlimitedjjklug1@comcast.net 

Hartsel Conservation Project

Another really well done Conservation Project Saturday, August 10th! We had 13 volunteers + 2 CUSP. Right in Hartsel is the old train depot that is being worked on by the local historical group. All around the depot and down to the river were Canada Thistle. Our group removed most of the thistle, then raked dirt and spread wild flower seeds for things like Corn Flower, Yarrow, Columbine and others. Unfortunately we ran out of time to get all the thistle, but we still filled a truck bed with garbage bags. I kept waiting for a passerby to yell at us for cutting wildflowers because Canada Thistle produces pretty pinkish purple buds.Straight up Noon and we gain new energy to trot across the road where the cafe fed us a nice lunch a hamburgers fresh off the grill, chips, drink, and brownie. The owners have lived there something like 42 years and were there when the original hotel serviced guests for their hot springs. Unfortunately the area has high radon emissions so the government shut down the hot springs. Jim Klug gave the cafe owners and the lady from CUSP shirts. Great TU advertising! The locals were very thankful that we would come and help them and told us we are welcome back anytime.After lunch folks split different directions to go fishing. Bruce led Jim Klug, Jerry, Bob Melcher, and myself out behind town to Badger Gap SWA. The stream meanders through the huge meadow; the "famous" place where the buffalo were shot. Around every corner we got more bites (fish, not mosquitos). When we hooked up, we found the fish were on the small side (see photo). This is the area that Greg Spohn wants funding to track fish movement. We also checked out Tomahawk SWA on the way in. It was looking just as nice and we saw a guide there with 2 guys. Does not show on Google maps but the parking area for Badger Gap is at N 39° 2' 4", W 105° 47' 36" if you want to get there.There are only 2 Conservation Projects left this year so don't miss out. After several projects I am seeing that we really are making a difference and people notice. See our other article on this web page for the September 7th Clear Creek Outing.

CCTU Annual BBQ August 20th

We're having our Annual BBQ on Tuesday, August 20th from 4-9PM. The hours are only a guideline (like an open house). So if work keeps you a little late, feel free to show up late. As we've done in the past, CCTU will provide the meat, hamburgers and hot dogs. We only ask that you consider bringing a side dish or dessert to share with everyone. Also, if you desire it, you can bring an 'adult beverage' (beer only, please, per SSPRD rules). But mostly, just bring yourself and any guests you think might enjoy listening to overblown fish stories.In August, we hold our Annual Picnic in lieu of an inside meeting. It will still be held on the third Tuesday of August, the 20th, like all the other monthly meetings. But instead of the usual meeting place, the picnic will be at Reynolds Landing (same location as last year) at 6745 S. Santa Fe Drive, just north of the Aspen Grove Shopping Center and the Mineral Avenue Light Rail station. Folks can start to arrive about 4pm, and the food should be ready by 5pm or 6pm. We usually stick around until 8pm or later, depending on the weather.The Chapter will provide the hamburgers and hot dogs, along with buns, cheese, and condiments. PLUS, we'll have soft drinks, water, plates, utensils, napkins, someone to do the cooking, and a wealth of good companionship and many legendary fishing stories.Consider bringing a side dish to share. Something simple like potato salad, slaw, beans, dessert, tomatoes, lettuce, or (for you culinary-challenged individuals) a bag of chips is always welcome. But don't let that stop you from dropping in after work. We'd rather have you come empty-handed than not at all!And bring the spouses and kids if you can, or even a neighbor. The SSPRD site offers plenty to do before and after dinner. You can walk off your meal with a sunset stroll or a bike ride along the South Platte river.Reynolds Landing is located just north of the Aspen Grove Shopping Center on Santa Fe Drive. From the south, go north on Santa Fe from Mineral and it's the first left-hand turn lane north of Aspen Grove. From the north, go south on Santa Fe from Bowles Ave, past Santa Fe Sand & Gravel, and take the next right at the entrance to the nursery and the Meadowood Village Mobile Home Park. Bear left, passing along the nursery and the park is at the end of the road.

Directions to Reynolds Landing

View MapGoing north on Santa Fe, take the first left after Aspen Grove. Yes, there is a left hand turn lane in the barrier.Going south on Santa Fe from the end of Arapahoe Community College, take a right two tenths of a mile turning on the same road as Silver Sage Nursery. Do not go into the trailer park, next road. Follow road past nursery to parking lot.  Covered area sitting 75 with electricity and restroom facilities.  Hours: 4:00 to 8:00 Bring some food stuffs (side dishes) to share.  Casting lesson, instruction from 4:30 5:30 for those humble enough to do it.

August 10th. CCTU CONSERVATION PROJECT at the South Platte at Hartsel

Trout Unlimited Cutthroat Chapter

Noxious Weed and Reseeding Project, South Platte River

Gold Medal Water at Hartsel Depot

 Workday: Saturday, August 10th, 2013Project Location:  Hartsel Depot, directions below. Project Times: 9:00 am to 12:00 pmVolunteers Needed:  up to 20 Workday Description: Work will include mitigating noxious weeds and re-seeding native wildflowers along the Gold Medal water at Hartsel Depot, a former depot for the Midland Narrow Gauge Railway.Check out:   http://hartseldepot.weebly.com/the-history.htmlWork will be easy to moderate in nature.   Important Notes:

• BBQ Lunch will be provided by CCTU at The Highline Café in Hartsel
• All necessary tools and materials to complete project will be provided
• Portable restrooms will be available on site
• A safety review and work demonstration will precede the project work
• Weather which could create hazardous conditions may cause the project to be canceled or rescheduled; you will notified of any changes at: www.uppersouthplatte.org/Volunteer
• Parking space is limited; carpooling is strongly encouraged
• Lots of places to fish in the afternoon!

 Requirements of Volunteers:   Prior to the project each volunteer must submit a completed Liability Release Form.  A Volunteer Sign-up Sheet will also be initialed by individuals.  A CCTU Liability Waiver is also required. Jim Klug will provide copies of these forms to complete on Saturday morning.  If you signed one of these at a prior 2013 project, you will not have to sign again this year. 

• You may register by contacting Jim Klug at 303-953-8046, jjklug1@comcast.net or Jason Agin at 303-653-6057, jagin2023@msn.com

  Please Bring:Any applicable medicines (including epi-pens, insulin and inhalers)SunscreenSun glasses or safety glassesWork glovesWork boots with ankle supportLong pants and long sleeved shirts are recommendedWater containers, the use of reusable containers is encouraged – water refills will be provided From Fairplay to Hartsel Depot:

• Take Hwy 9 south to Hartsel
• Turn  east (left) onto Hwy 24
• Meet at the east end of the Hartsel Depot, on the south (right) side of Hwy 24 (pull onto the street across the highway from the Highline Café (formerly known as the HOB)

• We will be carpooling from the Dad Clark RTD Lot in Highlands Ranch at University and Dad Clark right off 470.  Please be there by 6:15am as we will leave at 6:30am sharp.  Please let Jim or Jason know if you want to carpool.

For additional information or car pool arrangements please contact Jim Klug or Jason Agin, Cutthroat Chapter TU at the above numbers.    Hope to see you there, 

• Jim Klug, Director for Conservation, Cutthroat Chapter, Chapter, TUCell:  303-565-7504 Email:  jjklug1@comcast.net

Please print two sided

Coalition for the Upper South Platte

Post Office Box 726

Lake George, Colorado 80827

719.748.0033

www.uppersouthplatte.org  

CCTU 2013 Conservation Auction

SAVE THE DATE!! Tuesday, November 12th, 6:00PM 2013We only do it once a year so it has to be BIGPlease join us and support the Trout Unlimited mission to: "To conserve, protect and restore Colorado’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds"Not only does this include the grass roots conservation projects primarily on the South Platte River watershed, but we support Youth Camp, Trout in the Classroom, and Trout in the Community. Come to the auction to learn more.Live Auction with Auctioneer Gary DeBus from The Wildlife Experience.Silent Auction, Bucket Raffles, Door PrizesIncredible Wildlife Experience foodCash BarThis is your chance to bid on great trips to public and private waters with Colorado's best guides from your favorite Fly Shops and Guides. New Fly Fishing gear including rods & reels. As always there will be many choices of Flies for you to bid on.This year The Wildlife Experience is the venue for the event as we outgrew our previous location. Big screens for viewing slide shows of CCTU Conservation Projects, Youth Camp, and Trout in the Classroom. Better automation for checkout and picking up your auction items too.Auction items include non-fly fishing items such as trips, memorabilia, salon treatments, art items by well-known artists, and moreBring your friends; they will thank you. Everybody enjoys the Live AuctionWatch this space for ticket purchase details coming soon.

Deckers Conservation Clean UP Project Completed!

Cutthroat Chapter Trout Unlimited, South Platte River Conservation Clean Up Project: by Jocelyn Mertens July 13, 2013 I headed out very early, as it serves no purpose to resist an opportunity to fish. Why is it the human condition, when we are deep in our “serious” lives to forget all the sensory beauty that coats us when we stand at or in the river?  When we see an old friend, a true friend, we seem to be able to pick up where we left off and we wonder why we haven’t stayed in touch more.  Each time I at the water, I have that feeling.  The sun was shining on the very tops of the cliffs and trees, and underneath that horizon, mysterious mist tumbled and uplifted, creating wispy pillars and sky waterfalls of changing shapes.  The road was wet from desperately needed rains, and every corner conjured a slight thrill on the slippery slope to Nighthawk.  I wound past Deckers and way up top to the Wigwam Club fence where evermore eager men already cast their hopeful lines on the cool steamy river.  After an annoying long tippet extravaganza, I waded in and cast, and felt my chest expand to breathe, the harmonies of terrestrials as my metronome.  “The moment, the moment, the moment,” they seemed to hum.All too soon (and fishless), my time was over and I raced down to meet the people who care about the same things I’ve described. Twenty-four men and women met at the Deckers store where Jim Klug and Jim Rasmussen collected all the necessary paperwork on each sunscreen smeared volunteer.  Jason Agin handed out green CCTU Conservation Volunteer T shirts.  Trash bags were distributed, maps examined, and the cars set out for their respective clean up areas.  As we drove to the first stop I interviewed many trash mates on what they had found in the water and on shore throughout the years. One of them had a found a rusted motorcycle chassis, most had found dinosaur fossils of an automotive nature.  All admitted to searching for man made flies hooked on willows and conifers but expressed disappointment at the result.  One CU student actually pulled out his current collection of found trash from a few hours before and posed for a proud portrait.          We walked the roads and shores, we laughed, and we talked, mostly about fishing for some reason, and headed back to the Deckers store for more camaraderie. Volunteers made short work of bountiful lunch of fresh sub sandwiches, chips, cookies, and candy flown in from Denver by Jim Klug.  Tickets to the Fine Arts Center in Colorado Springs were awarded to Jerry Bredahl for finding the most unusual trash….one and a half dozen brand new golf balls…..is there a Deckers course we don’t know about????          The group had collected a pickup load ( 27 bags!) of trash, not as much as the year before, but we also got some good amounts of bad weeds.        Lisa Patton, Colorado Coalition for Upper South Platte (CUSP) Volunteer Coordinator provided information on invasive species, with hands on examination of the plants that crowd out the natural grasses and plants. The noxious weeds of the day were Musk Thistle, Canada Thistle, Toadflax and Mullen.  Lisa gave an optimistic update on the native grasses happily sprouting as the result of the reseeding project at the Dream Stream site that CCTU helped with earlier this year. She gave thanks and accolades to the people who keep showing up and making a positive difference to the South Platte Watershed. She even provided a home-made cake for Jason’s birthday.               Many thanks again to all of our 24 volunteers who did an outstanding job of cleaning up 10 miles of South Platte River corridor along the road to Deckers.  Each participant earned one raffle ticket making them eligible to win great fishing prizes at our Conservation Volunteer Awards Raffle at our October membership meeting Remember, you too can be eligible for prizes…come out and help with our next project, August 10^th at Hartsel Depot.  Keep an eye on our Web Site for unfolding details. A special "Thank You" to our photo journalist, Jocelyn Mertens for covering this project and producing this article..  Well Done!!!!!!!  

Summer Trout Release and Handling Techniques

The following guidelines for properly landing and releasing trout in summer weather and warmer water temperatures are provided here with the permission of Rainbow Falls Mountain Trout.

I know we are all experienced and aware of how to release trout, however, I thought I would pass these guidelines along. Please read, there are some great tips we can learn and use to keep out trout healthy and alive for the next angler.

Summer Handling and Release Techniques!

Higher water temperatures bring an increased risk to Trophy Trout. (And any sized trout)

Release methods that work well earlier in the year will (and do) kill larger trout. These casualties, usually occur after anglers move on, are typically victims of these 3 common mistakes:

1. Playing the trout too long, leading to exhaustion.
2. Lack of taking time to properly release the trout. Even when using the right methods, releasing the trout too early means it will simply swim off and die.
3. Lack of attention after release. Do not fail to observe the fish after release.

Here are some Guidelines to Practice:

Retrieve Trout Quickly

- Use size 3x or larger tippet. Bring trout in a quickly as possible, do not overplay the fish. Large Trophy Trout can be played to exhaustion resulting in loss of the fish.

Keep Trout IN the Water

- Keep trout in the water as much as possible. Netting and fly removal in the water is the preferred method. If Trout is removed from the water for pictures etc, a good rule to follow is-

Hold your breath when the fish is out of water. When you need air, so does the trout.

If for any reason additional time is required, keep trout netted in the water and upright.

Proper Release

- If Trout is netted, Do NOT simply roll out of net. Hold net so that trout is upright and breathing. When it struggles to get out of net, then release. When net release is not practical, hold trout by the tail, upright, and (A) Still Water: gently move forward and back, with back motion very slow, not forcing water backwards through gills. (B) Moving Water: Hold trout with nose upstream, use gentle side-to-side motion, allow current to revive the fish. Wait until fish struggles to swim on it's own to release.

Take your Time

- Be prepared to take 5-15 minutes to properly release a Trophy Trout. The larger the fish and/or longer the retrieve, the more time necessary to properly release. Warmer water temps dramatically increase the release time.

Follow - Up

- Observe Trout after release. If trout is still sluggish, or begins to roll to one side, retrieve again with net or hand and spend additional time for a proper release.

We appreciate the fact that you are as concerned and conscious about this as we are. Following these guidelines will ensure quality fishing both here at Rainbow Falls and everywhere there are large Trophy Trout waiting for your fly!

THANK YOU, RAINBOW FALLS MOUNTAIN TROUT!

Fishing Trip to Silver Dollar Lake July 27th

The lawn can wait, the fish are calling

Call Richard Pilatzke at 303-979-8425 with questions.Silver Dollar lake on Guanella pass is our next Chapter Fishing Trip destination this Saturday, July 27th. Richard Pilatzke will lead all interested fishers with his still water expertise this weekend.Silver Dollar lake is a 1.6 mile hike from the trailhead just off Guanella Pass. We will depart the South Metro Denver Realtor Association parking lot (off Broadway and Mineral) at 7:00am on Saturday July 27th.Bring your lunch, hiking stick, water and grab your favorite day pack to carry your waders, boots, camera, and equipment. Favorite files for this lake include Beatles, black ants, chronomids and (if you attended Richard's presentation last week, you already know what's next) dragons and damsels. By the way, the water is very cold and wet wading is not recommended.Checklist: Your walking stick, sun block, hat, polarized sun glasses, bug spray, WATER and/or filter, lunch, waders and boots, and 3X or 4X leader and tippet.Again, call Richard Pilatzke at 303-979-8425 with questions.

July Meeting: Richard Pilatzke on Damsels and Dragons

Richard Pilatzke (rhpiscator@aol.com) is an expert on all things still water: beetles, ants, hoppers, frogs, damsel flies, dragon flies, dries, nymphs --- you name it.At the July 16th meeting Richard will focus on Damsel flies and Dragon flies. The presentation is guaranteed to improve your fishing and fly tying skills. Richard is an expert fly tier who organizes our annual fly tying demonstration in February. He is particularly skilled with foam flies. Check out his article on Frankenfly.Richard knows many places in Colorado well and has the numbers of fish caught to prove it. Come and learn a few new tricks and join us for another fun evening. Richard may also announce another fishing trip for you to practice what you learn. DO NOT MISS OUT!Please join us at the South Metro Denver Realtor Association building on July 16th to hear Richard's presentation. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the meeting starts promptly at 7:00 PM.