During a recent appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Wyoming Game and Fish Department public information specialist Christina Schmidt warned residents that releasing pet goldfish or other small aquarium animals into local waterways can lead to expensive invasive‑species removal efforts. The department notes that once an unwanted goldfish is introduced to a stream, river or pond, it can quickly multiply, outcompete native fish, and create ecological damage that may cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to remediate.
Why goldfish become a problem
Goldfish, while popular as low‑maintenance pets, are hardy survivors. When they are discarded into the wild, they thrive in a variety of temperatures and water conditions. In Wyoming’s rivers and lakes, they can disrupt the natural balance by feeding on native plant life and competing with indigenous fish for food and habitat. The Game and Fish Department has documented several incidents where abandoned goldfish colonies required extensive removal and habitat restoration, incurring significant expense for the state.
What residents can do
Schmidt emphasized that the best solution is to avoid releasing pets in the first place. She encouraged owners who no longer want a goldfish to consider re‑homing the animal with a friend, family member, or local aquarium hobbyist. If owners are at their wit’s end and cannot find a new home, the department offers assistance. Reed, the agency’s aquatic invasive‑species specialist, is available to visit homes and provide guidance on safely emptying aquariums and disposing of fish in a manner that protects Wyoming’s waterways.
How to contact the department
Residents with questions or who need help can call the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s hotline. The agency will arrange for Reed to assess the situation and advise on proper removal techniques. This proactive approach aims to prevent costly clean‑up projects and preserve the health of Wyoming’s natural water resources.
Protecting Wyoming’s natural heritage
The reminder aligns with the department’s broader mission to safeguard the state’s wildlife and habitats. By educating the public about responsible pet ownership, the agency hopes to reduce the incidence of invasive species introductions and the associated financial burden on taxpayers. Schmidt concluded by urging listeners to think of the long‑term impact on families, communities, and the environment before making decisions about unwanted pets.
For more information, visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website or follow their social media channels for updates on invasive‑species prevention and wildlife stewardship.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
