Citizen Science: Nonnative Species Reporting App
MCWC developed a mobile app allowing anglers and boaters to report invasive fish, mollusks, and plants in real time, feeding data directly to Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The app is available in English and Spanish.
Why It Matters
Invasive species compete for resources, alter habitats, and disrupt food chains, but early detection makes mitigation possible before they become established. If you catch a smallmouth bass in the Middle Colorado or Roaring Fork watersheds, for example, reporting it helps CPW respond before it spreads further. Walleye near Rifle Gap Reservoir are a current area of special concern. The app turns every angler and boater into an active partner in tracking that threat.
How It Works
Identify a nonnative species while fishing, boating, or exploring
Report location details, a description and a photo through the app
Monitor CPW receives the data and tracks invasive species trends
Impact Numbers
Every report submitted becomes real-time data protecting the watershed's native species.
3 categories of invasive species tracked: fish, mollusks/invertebrates, and aquatic plants
5+ priority invasive fish species flagged: northern pike, smallmouth bass, walleye, burbot and striped bass
Budget
Developed by MCWC in partnership with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
Timeline
The app became available in spring 2025. It may be accessed at this link or the QR code below.
Connection to IWMP
This app advances MCWC's Aquatic & Riparian Habitat focus area, supporting early detection and management of invasive species across the Middle Colorado and Roaring Fork watersheds.
Beneficiaries
| Native fish populations | Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) | Anglers and boaters |
|---|---|---|
| Early detection helps CPW intervene before invasive species become established and threaten native populations. | Real-time, crowdsourced data helps CPW track trends and inform conservation strategies across two watersheds. | A simple, easy-to-use tool turns every trip on the water into a chance to protect it. |
Location
Middle Colorado and Roaring Fork watersheds
Status
Active, available for public use.
Funders & Collaborators
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW)
Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB)
