Extensive restoration is planned for the Big Thompson River to help the trout population decimated by the 2013 floods.
The Loveland Daily Reporter-Herald reports that two parts of a massive river restoration are expected to begin by spring in Drake and on Sylvan Dale Ranch.
A Colorado Parks and Wildlife biologist says in order to help the trout population, which in some areas dropped from thousands of fish per mile to fewer than 100, the river has to be healthy.
The Big Thompson River Restoration Coalition's multimillion-dollar plan includes rebuilding fish habitat, improving channels to help future floodwaters flow and improving riparian zones.
Trout fishing attracts tourism to the area and is a staple of the economy.
