History and Status of Fish Conservation on the Upper Muddy River, Nevada

Authors: Michael R. Schwemm, Brandon L. Senger, David J. Syzdek

Year: 2018

Abstract

The headwaters of the Muddy River, Clark Co., Nevada, is formed by discharge of numerous thermal springs and seeps, and the sole habitat of the endangered cyprinid, Moapa coriacea. The species was common when described, but early reports indicate its decline in the middle 1960s, a result of the combined threats of habitat modification and exotic invasive species. When the USFWS acquired several springs in 1979 to establish the Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge, much the habitat had been converted to modified channels and swimming pools used for aquatic recreation. The process to return the habitat to natural flowing channels and reduce non-native fishes is ongoing, and a story of gradual success. Here, we review the history of research, major management actions, and the recovery program that established partnerships central for the recovery of habitat and species. Particularly noteworthy for the recent accomplishments in the upper Muddy River is the role of biologist Lee Simons (USFWS, Las Vegas). His leadership provided the coordination responsible to direct and fund an extensive series of fish barrier construction projects, monitoring, salvage operations and stream renovation efforts. Today, the working group and partnerships enhanced by Lee’s work continue to benefit the resource.