During the summer of 2008 Trout Unlimited undertook a large-scale stream enhancement project at the Buffalo Peaks Ranch State Wildlife Area north of Hartsel. This project was designed to reduce bank erosion, increase suitable trout habitat, improve fishing conditions, and re-establish native vegetation along the banks of the Middle Fork of the South Platte River.
Along with the City of Aurora and Colorado Division of Wildlife, The Park County Land & Water Trust Fund was a financial partner in the Buffalo Peaks Ranch habitat project. The project area is now part of the ongoing Middle Fork Habitat Study .