Fish Creek has races of trout who have been brought in by humans.  And how is the park "restoring" the ponds to "native" fish populations?  By giving the "invasive" fish Parkinson's disease.  This is animal cruelty.

Fish feel pain, and Rotenone kills all the fish and other animals in the pond.

Fish Creek in Banff has always been a place of personal solace and wonder for me. A place where the melody of the gently flowing water combined with the vibrant colors of the trout swimming beneath the surface created a serene oasis, unrivaled in beauty and tranquility. It is heartbreaking to know that efforts are being taken to poison the non-native trout in this beloved stream, causing immense suffering to these exquisite creatures.  https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/bulletins/870264fd-0bde-4df6-82a9-4b39ffa9b726?fbclid=IwVERDUAT6aklwZG9mBWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHgAGOdK36LpqOEKE_Sr_8OE2zhb4K-9Nqf4HekJV4ZINnkGzg5Fr4FxKnzfz_aem_hmqAozCmMZEsThz_7cNjmw​

First, non native fishes are all destroyed using cruel poisons like Rotenone. These are not natural in high concentration. Next, native fishes are killed for their gametes and artificially incubated eggs are pumped into the now empty ponds. This is not natural.  

Yes, rotenone causes physical distress and physiological suffering in animals, fish, and humans before leading to death or severe neurological damage. [1, 2]

How Rotenone Causes Suffering
Cellular starvation: It blocks cellular energy production by inhibiting mitochondrial complex I, cutting off ATP production and creating toxic free radicals. [1]
Physical distress in animals and fish: Poisoning leads to severe muscle tremors, clonic convulsions, nausea, vomiting, gasping, and chaotic locomotor activity or loss of coordination before cardio-respiratory failure. [1, 2, 3]
Neurological damage: Chronic or high exposure damages dopamine pathways, causing Parkinson’s-like motor symptoms, muscle stiffness, and progressive nerve degeneration.

The decision to poison the trout in Fish Creek stems from a well-intentioned yet misguided attempt to restore native fish populations such as the Bull Trout and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. However, this method of handling the situation runs counter to the very ethos of conservation. There are humane alternatives that can achieve the same goals without inflicting unnecessary suffering on wildlife. For instance, capturing the non-native trout and relocating them to suitable habitats can allow for the thriving of native species without harm.

Furthermore, the ripple effects of poisoning could extend far beyond the target species, impacting the ecosystem in unforeseen ways. Predator species, scavengers, and even the water quality might suffer, potentially compromising the natural balance further. It is paramount that we find a solution that respects all forms of life within the ecosystem.

The tragic impact of poisoning methods has been documented in similar conservation efforts elsewhere, resulting in public backlash and minimal success in restoring native species. It's time that Parks Canada re-evaluates their approach to managing fish populations to prevent such negative outcomes.

We must recognize that as stewards of these beautiful landscapes, we have a duty to implement the most ethical and effective conservation practices. Let us urge Parks Canada to halt the poisoning and consider more sustainable and compassionate alternatives.

Join me in speaking out against this inhumane practice. Stand with me, standing for the life and beauty of Fish Creek, by signing this petition. Let us protect both native and non-native species with dignity and respect. Your signature can help redirect conservation efforts towards a more humane and environmentally sound solution. Sign today and be a voice for the voiceless.