Native Fish Moved to UNR Manzanita Lake
The Nevada Department of Wildlife relocated dozens of native suckers from the Truckee River to campus on Wednesday.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Fishing
Live Poll
Should universities actively host conservation projects like fish repopulation on their campuses?
Dozens of native fish from the Truckee River have a new home at the University of Nevada, Reno. The Nevada Department of Wildlife moved the fish, primarily suckers, to Manzanita Lake as part of a conservation partnership.
Why it matters
The relocation aims to bolster conservation efforts for native fish species within our local ecosystem. This initiative highlights the ongoing collaboration between state wildlife officials and the university to protect regional biodiversity.
The project involves the transfer of dozens of native suckers between two local bodies of water. The total number of fish relocated and the specific survival goals for this population remain unknown.
The players
Nevada Department of Wildlife
The state agency responsible for the management and conservation of Nevada's wildlife resources.
University of Nevada, Reno
The local public university providing the site for the fish conservation project.
Brian Sandoval
The President of the University of Nevada, Reno who participated in the release ceremony.
The details
Wildlife personnel completed the move on Wednesday to improve conservation outcomes for native species. University of Nevada, Reno President Brian Sandoval participated by releasing the first bucket of fish into the campus lake. The effort formalizes a partnership between the university and the Nevada Department of Wildlife.
Timeline
Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The Truckee Meadows View
This effort follows the established pattern of regional conservation programs focused on protecting native fish populations within the Truckee River. The move extends these protections by establishing a secondary habitat at Manzanita Lake.
Visitors to the University of Nevada, Reno campus can now observe these native suckers in Manzanita Lake. No changes to public access or water use in the area are expected as a result of this conservation work.
The takeaway
This project highlights how local urban water features serve as critical sanctuaries for native species. Keep an eye on future updates from the Nevada Department of Wildlife regarding the health and population counts of these transferred fish.
Further reading
Learn more about local habitat management and aquatic species preservation on our Fishing page.
Live Poll
Should universities actively host conservation projects like fish repopulation on their campuses?
