The Stoner Mesa Fire in southwest Colorado has burned around 7,300 acres so far, and biologists are working to protect wildlife in its path.

The terrain around the fire is rugged and can be difficult to navigate, but Colorado Parks and Wildlife and San Juan National Forest staff were determined to rescue native species in the area. Both the fire and the retardant used in suppression efforts can pose a risk to local wildlife.

Southwest Region Senior Aquatic Biologist Jim White said, "We have seen the impacts fire can have on our rivers, streams and this important fish habitat firsthand. When you've got a rare or unique lineage of fish thriving in an area and suddenly they are threatened by a wildfire, we feel it is important to Colorado's natural heritage to step in and do something to tr

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