tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-243626682024-03-13T14:32:39.554-04:00Cross Current FishingSome fishing talk, environmental and fishery issues, articles and the like...Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.comBlogger682125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-73745113076248286742020-01-14T10:14:00.000-05:002020-01-14T10:14:06.560-05:00NY DEC Announces Adoption of New Deer and Moose Feeding Regulation<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;">Measure Prevents Unnecessary Feeding of Wild Deer to Prevent Spread
of Disease and Other Negative Effects on Wildlife and Habitat</span></i></h3>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></i></h2>
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the adoption of a regulation
to reduce problems caused by wildlife feeding and establish strict
procedures for the use of tick-control devices designed to treat deer.
Prohibiting the feeding of wild deer and moose is a best management
approach to reduce risks associated with communicable wildlife diseases
like <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7191.html">chronic wasting disease</a>, minimize conflicts with deer, and protect wildlife habitat.<br />
<br />
"Feeding deer and moose can artificially increase populations and
change behavior, causing harm to people, wildlife, and the environment,"
Commissioner Seggos said. "These new requirements strike a necessary
balance between preventing the negative effects of deer feeding while
recognizing the increased public health threat posed by tick-borne
diseases and make an exception to allow the use of certain devices
designed to kill ticks on deer."<br />
<br />
DEC first <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7197.html">prohibited deer feeding</a>
in 2002 in response to the threat of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
because concentrating deer or moose at feeding sites increases the risk
of disease transmission. However, there are many other negative impacts
associated with deer feeding that necessitate a broader regulation.<br />
<br />
Following a public comment period earlier this year, DEC adopted the
new regulation to provide a clearer definition of what does and does not
constitute illegal feeding of deer or moose. For example, the
requirements provide exemptions for wildlife plantings, bona fide
agricultural practices, livestock husbandry, and research and nuisance
abatement actions permitted by DEC. It clarifies that incidental feeding
such as the attraction of deer or moose to a birdfeeder will only be
considered a violation if DEC has previously issued a written warning to
the person responsible for the incidental feeding. This will allow
nuisance situations to be appropriately addressed without limiting bird
feeding in general.<br />
<br />
To reduce the sale and marketing of products that are illegal to use
and to protect consumers from being misled, the new regulation requires
retail products packaged for sale as food or edible attractants for wild
deer or moose to carry a label clearly stating that such use is illegal
in New York.<br />
<br />
The regulation also establishes procedures for the legal use of
4-PosterTM Tickicide and devices used to dispense it. 4-PosterTM
Tickicide is a pesticide registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency and DEC to kill ticks on deer. It is dispensed via four rollers,
or "posts," attached to bait stations filled with corn. As deer eat the
corn, the rollers deposit pesticide on their heads and necks.<br />
<br />
In parts
of New York with high tick-borne disease rates, there is considerable
public interest in using these devices. The application procedures and
permit issuance conditions specified in the new regulation are designed
to allow such use while limiting negative impacts of deer feeding on the
surrounding community and environment.
<br />
The <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/34113.html#Feeding">full text of the new regulation</a> is on the DEC website.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-19910996459677168022019-11-11T16:34:00.000-05:002019-11-11T16:34:23.619-05:00Floating plastics pervade Pacific fish populations, larval fish are eating our trash<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Researchers
from Hawai‘i Pacific University, NOAA, and other agencies release study
that includes evidence ‘fish are dominated by plastics’</span></strong></em></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">A
new study on the Pacific Ocean’s floating trash indicates not only a
significant accumulation of microplastics in the Hawaiian Islands, but
that larval fish are eating the debris. </span></span> <br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The
research, conducted in partnership with Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s
Center for Marine Debris Research (CMDR), centered on waters off the
Kona coastline of Hawaiʻi Island. The area is found to accumulate
microplastic pollution at a rate higher than the North Pacific Garbage
Patch itself, and the larval fish living in this nursery habitat are
eating the trash that surrounds them.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The findings are published in the journal, <em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em>. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sampled surface
waters near West Hawaiʻi using plankton tows with the intention of
learning about the larval fish community in that nursery habitat. It
was no surprise that the researchers found young fish of many different
types, including species that are gathered for commercial or
recreational fisheries and that also play vital roles in ecosystems,
such as Hawaiian coral reefs. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">“But
we were shocked to find that so many of our samples were dominated by
plastics,” said Jonathan Whitney, a marine ecologist for NOAA and
co-lead of the study. Within the slicks—small-scale convergence zones
that look like ribbons of smooth water—plastic particles outnumbered
larval fish seven to one. The concentration of plastic per square
kilometer in the surface water slicks off of West Hawai‘i was eight
times greater than in the North Pacific Garbage Patch. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">“The <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222;"><em>North
Pacific Garbage Patch is known as one of the most plastic-polluted
marine waters on earth. It is deeply concerning that concentrations in
these hotspots in Hawai‘i exceed those in the Garbage Patch</em></span></span>,”
said Jennifer Lynch, research biologist with the National Institute of
Standards and Technology and co-director of the HPU CMDR.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">HPU’s
CMDR determined the chemical composition of the plastic found in the
tows, outside of the fish, to be mostly polyethylene and polypropylene.
Next, the researchers dissected the digestive tracts of the tiny fish
under a microscope. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> “We
found tiny plastic pieces in the stomachs of commercially targeted
pelagic species, including swordfish and mahi-mahi, as well as in coral
reef species like triggerfish,” said Whitney. Most of the particles
were microfibers. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Lynch
identified the chemical composition of the fibers to prove that they
were man-made. Two different types of chemical spectroscopy,
Fourier-transform infrared and Raman, revealed that some were polyester,
nylon, or rayon, and most were dyed cellulose, which could come from
cotton fabric. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> “The
fact that larval fish are surrounded by and ingesting non-nutritious
toxin-laden plastics, at their most vulnerable life-history stage, is
cause for alarm,” explained Jamison Gove, a research oceanographer for
NOAA and co-lead of the study.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">“The
multiple, disturbing discoveries in this study spotlight the negative
impact humans are having on our planet. We can make changes to reduce
our impact, and these changes are needed now,” said Lynch. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The
CMDR’s goal is to help eliminate plastic waste from the ocean, and the
team is deeply committed to diving into this issue, right here in
Hawaiʻi. The Center continues to strive to move conversations forward
about creating a trash-free ocean environment while investigating the
impacts of marine debris and distributing the knowledge of clean ocean
awareness initiatives and stewardship. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">The publication is titled “Prey-size plastics are invading larval fish nurseries” and is published in <em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em>.</span></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-45241318314582189802019-03-14T11:22:00.003-04:002019-03-14T11:22:46.491-04:00Pennsylvania DEP Announces Statewide Surveillance of Ticks<div class="nrPreviewBody">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Five-year study to assess risk of tickborne illnesses in Pennsylvania </i></b></div>
<br /> <br />
</div>
<strong></strong>The Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced that it is
conducting a five-year environmental surveillance of ticks to assess the
risk of tickborne illnesses across Pennsylvania. Funding for this
project is being provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
<div>
</div>
<div>
The survey, which started in July 2018 in coordination with county
governments, is part of the Pennsylvania Lyme Disease Task Force
recommendations for combatting the growing incidence of Lyme and other
tick-borne diseases. It is funded annually through the state budget.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
“Lyme disease affects thousands of Pennsylvanians every year, but
ticks are also known to carry other pathogens that could infect humans.
This survey will provide important data that will help us better
understand these arachnids in our environment and inform Pennsylvanians
on how, when and where to avoid getting bitten by a disease-carrying
tick,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “We want everyone to enjoy
the outdoors and take the proper precautions to avoid contact with
ticks, and we are proud to support the Lyme Disease Task Force’s efforts
to protect Pennsylvanians.”</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
“Lyme disease is a major public health concern in Pennsylvania,”
Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Many people believe that
Lyme disease, and the ticks that carry the disease, can only be found in
wooded areas. However, I know personally, as do many others, that ticks
can be found in your backyard, where you walk your dog, or the local
park. These surveillance efforts will help us to share with all
Pennsylvanians the importance of taking steps to protect yourself.” </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The survey is taking place in every county in Pennsylvania to track
ticks’ habitats, life stages and peak activity levels and to test them
for human pathogenic diseases. Additionally, 38 counties are conducting a
specific survey of nymphal blacklegged (Ixodes scapularis) ticks, which
can transmit <a href="https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/Pages/Lyme-Disease.aspx" target="_blank">Lyme Disease</a> to humans.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Ticks are collected using white felt drags that sample low-lying ground cover and understory vegetation for questing ticks.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Fall and winter surveillance focused on analyzing adult blacklegged
ticks for emerging and changing disease burdens in public use habitats
across Pennsylvania, such as parks, playgrounds or recreational fields.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The spring and summer surveillance will focus on collecting three
tick species: the blacklegged tick in its immature nymphal stage, when
it most often infects humans with Lyme disease, as well as human
babesiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis; the adult American dog
(Dermacentor variabilis) tick, which transmits Rocky Mounted Spotted
Fever and Tulameria; and adult lone star (Amblyomma americanum) tick,
which transmits Ehrlichiosis and Tularmeria.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The nymphal stage of the blacklegged tick causes the most tickborne
illness in Pennsylvania due to its size and activity period. It is
significantly smaller — about the size of a poppy seed — than the adult
and therefore less likely to be discovered on the human body. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
“The nymphal stage of the blacklegged tick’s lifespan overlaps with
people enjoying the outdoors in the spring and summer,” McDonnell said.
“Tracking and testing them at this stage is extremely important because
it will allow us to more accurately pinpoint when and where risk of
human illness is most prevalent and help prevent cases of Lyme disease
in the future.”</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Since July 1, 2018, DEP collected 3,663 adult black-legged ticks for testing.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-30231517580507002122019-01-30T16:20:00.002-05:002019-01-30T16:20:32.397-05:00PA FISH AND BOAT COMMISSION RECRUITING WATERWAYS CONSERVATION OFFICERS The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is recruiting the
22nd class of Waterways Conservation Officer (WCO) Trainees at its H.R.
Stackhouse School of Fishery Conservation and Watercraft Safety.<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEVearTiuIg/XFIUwzfMfOI/AAAAAAAAAYM/El2MVi410ugF5aZJMG4xt3Hth07LeiBVQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot%2B%252853%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="800" height="277" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEVearTiuIg/XFIUwzfMfOI/AAAAAAAAAYM/El2MVi410ugF5aZJMG4xt3Hth07LeiBVQCLcBGAs/s320/Screenshot%2B%252853%2529.png" width="320" /></a><br />
The State Civil Service Commission (SCSC) will begin accepting applications January 30 until February 19, 2019.<br />
<br />
The class of up to 20 trainees is expected to report for training in
the summer of 2019 and graduate in the summer of 2020. The most recent
previous academy was held in 2015-2016.<br />
<br />
Trainees will undergo an extensive 52-week training program
encompassing all aspects of conservation law enforcement. Following
civil service testing and selection, trainees will first complete a
22-week Municipal Police Officers Basic Training conducted by
Pennsylvania State Police at its Northwest Training Center in Meadville,
Crawford County. An additional 30 weeks of training is conducted at the
Stackhouse school located in Bellefonte, Centre County and includes
field training alongside seasoned WCOs. Trainees will assist with
investigations, patrol regions, participate in public outreach events
and stock waterways.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Applicants must meet the following basic criteria:<br />
<br /> • Pennsylvania residency<br /> • Possess a valid driver’s license<br /> • Be at least 21 years of age<br /> • High School Graduate or GED<br /> • Pass a criminal history background check<br />
<br />For more information on the position, visit the <a class="" href="https://www.fishandboat.com/Zone3/Documents/WCO-Recruitment-Poster.pdf">recruitment page</a> on <a class="" href="http://www.fishandboat.com./">www.fishandboat.com.</a> <br />
Applications will only be accepted online. To view the announcement
and apply, please visit the SCSC website on or after January 30, 2019
at: <a class="" href="http://www.employment.pa.gov/">www.employment.pa.gov</a>. <div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-58211725036767794802018-03-23T14:56:00.000-04:002018-03-23T14:59:02.232-04:00More Than $1.1 Billion for Sportsmen & ConservationThis revenue is generated by the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration (PRDJ) acts from excise taxes paid by the hunting, shooting,
boating and angling industries on firearms, bows and ammunition and
sport fishing tackle, some boat engines, and small engine fuel<br />
<br />
The funds, which are distributed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
support critical state conservation and outdoor recreation projects. To date, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has distributed more than
$20.2 billion in apportionments for state conservation and recreation
projects.<br />
<br />
You can find apportionment by individual states here: <a href="https://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/GrantPrograms/WR/WR_Funding.htm" target="_blank"> https://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/GrantPrograms/WR/WR_Funding.htm</a><br />
<br />
The recipient state wildlife agencies have matched these funds with
approximately $6.7 billion throughout the years, primarily through
hunting and fishing license revenues.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-10622107373465391892018-01-12T10:53:00.000-05:002018-01-12T10:53:07.399-05:00Army Corps announces Francis E. Walter Dam water release schedule<span black="" color:="" style="color: black;">The U.S. Army Corps Engineers’
Philadelphia District released the Flow Management Plan for the Francis E.Walter Dam in White Haven, PA. </span> <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://media.defense.gov/2017/Jul/13/2001777376/260/200/0/130717-A-EO314-882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Francis E. Walter Dam was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1961 and has prevented more than $212 million in flood damages. It also supports recreation in the Lehigh Valley with planned fishing and whitewater rafting water releases. " border="0" itemprop="image" src="https://media.defense.gov/2017/Jul/13/2001777376/260/200/0/130717-A-EO314-882.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Francis E. Walter Dam </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: black;"> </span>
<br />
<span style="color: black;">The multi-year plan is based upon past
program performance as well as input received through stakeholders. In
2018, water will again be allocated to ensure whitewater releases from
July to late August and fisheries releases from July to early September.
Seasonal precipitation and water accumulation will be used for releases
later in the season (late August through mid-October).</span><br />
In 2018, planned dates (22) for fishing releases (target 400 cubic feet per second)* are:<br />
<ul>
<li> <b>March: 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 </b></li>
<li><b> April: 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29</b></li>
<li> <b>May: 5, 6, 13, 20</b></li>
<li> <b>October: as provided by end of year release around the weekend of 6-7 October</b></li>
</ul>
* Release will be set to match inflow with a target release up
to 400 cfs. Inflow will not be augmented by use of storage to satisfy
the 400 cfs target.<br />
<br />
In 2018, planned dates (24) for whitewater releases are listed
below. All other dates during the recreation season, until the weekend
of October 6-7 have a planned fisheries augmentation release of at least
50 cubic feet per second if sufficient water is available.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>May: 12, 19, 26, 27</b></li>
<li><b>June: 9, 10, 23, 24</b></li>
<li><b>July: 7, 8, 21, 22, 28, 29</b></li>
<li><b>August: 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25*, 26*</b></li>
<li><b>September: 1*, 2*</b></li>
<li><b>October: as provided by end of year releases around the weekend of 6-7 October</b></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: black;">*Releases will depend on seasonal precipitation and water accumulation.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">**The 6-7 October weekend release is
intended to provide a means of releasing any excess water that may have
accumulated during the recreation season. This is the last added
increment for the 2018 recreation plan. Fisheries releases through the
season will be accommodated before the final weekend (6-7 October)
release will be considered.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">In 2018, the Army Corps will hold a total
of 22 fishing releases and 24 whitewater release dates (four of which
are dependent on additional precipitation along with fisheries
enhancement releases on all other days during the recreation season).
All dates are dependent on hydrologic conditions and the absence of the
need for flood control operations. <a href="http://www.nap.usace.army.mil/Portals/39/docs/Civil/Walter/2018_F_E_Walter_Rec_Plan.pdf?ver=2018-01-12-084703-983" target="_blank">View plan details, including 2019 and 2020 fishing release and whitewater release dates, here. </a></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-32141857429661617152017-12-26T18:21:00.000-05:002017-12-26T18:21:26.430-05:00Pennsylvania's Wildlife Conservation Officers Are Now Officially Game Wardens<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>For the first time in its 122-year history, the Pennsylvania Game
Commission will call its law-enforcement officers “state game wardens.”</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Effective on January 1, 2018 Pennsylvania will have game wardens. Not that they didn't before, they just called them something different.</div>
<b> </b><br />
“The job titles previously used to describe our field officers – game
protector and wildlife conservation officer – didn’t fully identify
their unique and diverse responsibilities,” explained Pennsylvania Game
Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans. “The goal here is to more
clearly identify our officers and their purpose. We believe ‘state game
warden’ will help communicate this.<br />
<br />
“In addition, this title already is well understood by the public,”
Burhans said. “The word ‘warden’ is America’s oldest title for the men
and women who serve wildlife in this capacity.”<br />
<br />
Since the recodification of the state’s Game and Wildlife Code in
1987, field officers were titled wildlife conservation officers. Prior
to that, they were called district game protectors. But neither title
resonated with the public. Many never associated them with Game
Commission officers<br />
.<br />
Game wardens are known by many different titles depending upon the
state wildlife agency for which they work. The titles reflect the
varying sets of broad duties they fulfill. Most wardens share a basic
duty to enforce the laws that regulate hunting, protect wildlife and the
environment. However, their duties extend into education, research and a
host of conservation programs.<br />
<br />
For example, Pennsylvania game wardens coordinate and supervise
Hunter-Trapper Education programs. They also represent the agency at
conservation and sportsmen’s club meetings, respond to nuisance wildlife
complaints, and deal with injured wildlife and suspected rabid-animal
calls. Warden work also includes wildlife surveys, wildlife
trap-and-transfer, field research and providing programs to civic groups
and public schools.<br />
<br />
“It was the variety of work, which has accompanied the position since
game protectors were defined by law in 1895, that inspired the former
titles our officers have had,” Burhans said.<br />
While wildlife law-enforcement is a core responsibility, fulfillment
of an officer’s full range of duties requires significant training and
responsibility.<br />
<br />
Burhans noted that the public often wonders what our game wardens do outside of the hunting season.<br />
<br />
“There is no “off” season for our officers,” he said. “The breadth of
responsibilities is what sets game wardens apart from other traditional
law-enforcement professionals. Being a game warden requires a very
unique person willing and able develop a diversity of skills in support
of the agency.”<br />
Burhans said renaming full-time agency officers ‘game wardens’ immediately will help the public know what these officers do.<br />
<br />
It’s important to point out, though, that game wardens are sworn
peace officers with statewide law-enforcement authority. They are highly
trained and equipped as well as any police officer. They are expected
to know and follow standards for protecting civil rights, gathering
evidence that will hold up in court and prosecute violations of many
different laws.<br />
<br />
“As one of the most familiar faces of our agency, it is critical that
that game wardens are recognized for who they are and what they do,”
emphasized Burhans. “Anything less is unacceptable.”<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-24884400875246655052017-12-11T20:41:00.001-05:002017-12-11T20:41:35.048-05:00Underwater Insects Aid Pennsylvania's DEP in Water Quality Checks<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Macroinvertebrates tell DEP researchers about water pollution and stream health </b><br />
</div>
<br />
To the non fly angler they might be considered creepy, but they’re an excellent indicator of
water quality– they’re the aquatic insects and animals that live in
Pennsylvania’s rivers, lakes, and streams. The Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection (DEP) is for the first time <a href="http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroinvertebrate/index.html" target="_blank">visualizing benthic macroinvertebrate sampling results from across the state</a>. The data is now publicly available in a <a href="http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroviewer/index.html" target="_blank">GIS viewer with downloadable data sets</a> for the first time as well.<br />
<br />
Benthic macroinvertebrates are the insects and animals that spend most,
if not all, of their lives underwater. They can be mayflies or midges,
crayfish or clams, or one of many other underwater species, and are one
of the most important parts of the food chain that fish, birds, and
other animals depend on. <br />
<br />
“Because they spend almost their entire lives in the water, benthic
macroinvertebrates are especially attuned to water quality,” said Dustin
Shull, Water Program Specialist for DEP. “They are an excellent way to
gauge how healthy a particular section of stream or river is, and help
DEP meet our obligations for monitoring water quality. This kind of
biological assessment helps DEP see and assess long-term, cumulative
effects of stressing factors on an ecosystem.”<br />
<br />
Not all streams and rivers are created equal, and DEP has developed
unique macroinvertebrate collection methods for freestone streams,
limestone streams, and low-gradient streams. DEP uses these differing
methods to get a complete picture of how many, what type, and how
healthy the invertebrates are in any given habitat. <br />
<br />
“DEP and partners have collected thousands of samples, and collect
hundreds more every year to continue to deepen our knowledge base on the
health of Pennsylvania’s waters,” said Shull.<br />
<br />
See examples of the different streams types, the methods used to sample them, and results of the sampling by visiting <a href="http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroinvertebrate/index.html" target="_blank">Looking Below the Surface</a>, DEP’s interactive story map on benthic macroinvertebrates. <br />
<br />
“This type of research is vital to decision-making that goes on at DEP,”
said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “We use the data collected and
analyzed by program staff when we’re looking at how to clean up
watersheds and improve water quality in backyards and communities across
Pennsylvania. And we want to make sure that Pennsylvania residents can
see the data we’re collecting, so they can know more about what is
happening in their own area.”<br />
<br />
To learn more about benthic macroinvertebrates, sampling, and water quality, please visit <a href="http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroinvertebrate/index.html" target="_blank">http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroinvertebrate/index.html </a><br />
<br />
To retrieve sampling data, please visit <a href="http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroviewer/index.html" target="_blank">http://www.depgis.state.pa.us/macroviewer/index.html </a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-65090724674415779382017-11-27T18:59:00.000-05:002017-11-27T18:59:06.131-05:00New Jersey Becomes the 47th State to Join The Interstate Wildlife Violator CompactThe New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife will have a new tool to
use in its ongoing efforts to enforce wildlife laws as the state joins
the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, Department of Environmental
Protection Commissioner Bob Martin announced today.<br />
<br />
The compact, first developed in western states in the
mid-1980s, recognizes the importance of deterrence through the
suspension of hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and privileges in
all member states resulting from violations concerning the pursuit,
possession or taking of a wide range of wildlife, including mammals,
birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, mollusks, shellfish, and
crustaceans. New Jersey’s membership will begin on December 1.<br />
<br />
“This cooperative and proactive interstate strategy will greatly
enhance our Division of Fish and Wildlife’s ability to protect and
manage our wildlife resources,” said Commissioner Martin. “Any person
who has their license privileges suspended in one member state may now
also have them suspended in all other member states. In addition, the
compact prevents convicted poachers who are under revocation in one
state from hunting, fishing, or trapping in other states.”<br />
<br />
For the purposes of the compact, the term “license”
means any license, permit, or other public document which conveys to
the person to whom it was issued the privilege of pursuing, possessing,
or taking any wildlife regulated by statute, law, regulation,
ordinance, or administrative rule of a participating state.<br />
<br />
In New Jersey this definition includes but is not
limited to: all-around sportsman, firearm hunting, trapping, bow and
arrow, freshwater fishing, recreational crab pot, non-commercial crab
dredge and shellfish licenses, various hunting and trapping permits,
pheasant & quail and New Jersey waterfowl stamps, striped bass
bonus tags, and saltwater registry certificates.<br />
<br />
License and privilege suspensions resulting from
wildlife violations committed on or after December 1, 2017 in New
Jersey may result in the reciprocal suspension of license privileges in
member states. If a person plans to hunt, fish, or trap in another
state, and has a license privilege suspension in New Jersey, it is
their responsibility to contact the other state to verify if they may
legally hunt, fish, or trap there.<br />
<br />
New Jersey residents who fail to comply with the terms
of a citation or summons issued for a wildlife violation in another
member state may face a $50 fine and the suspension of all privileges
to take or possess wildlife in New Jersey until the citation has been
satisfied. Failing to appear in court or to otherwise answer a ticket or
summons issued for such violations will also result in license,
permit, and privilege suspension.<br />
<br />
“Our agency has been charged with managing New Jersey’s
wildlife resources for 125 years and we take this responsibility very
seriously,” said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Larry
Herrighty. “Joining the compact protects New Jersey’s wildlife
resources and that of member states by deterring violators from
continuing their illegal activities and sends a clear message to all
that such behavior will not be tolerated.”<br />
<br />
The concept of a wildlife violator compact was first
advanced in the early 1980s by member states in the Western Association
of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. In 1985 draft compacts were developed
independently in Colorado and Nevada. Subsequently, these drafts were
merged and the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact was created.<br />
<br />
More information on the Compact, including which states are members and
which violations with prescribed suspensions will be recognized in New
Jersey and shared with member states is available on the Division of
Fish and Wildlife website at: <a href="http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/violators_compact.htm">www.njfishandwildlife.com/violators_compact.htm</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-88029520568040539232017-11-21T12:48:00.000-05:002017-11-21T12:48:45.735-05:00New York DEC Announce $50,000 to Study Livingston Manor Flooding<h1 style="color: #2c5234; font-family: Arial, Helvitica, sans-serif; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc;">Flood Study Could Help Advance Resiliency Projects
</span></span></h1>
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
Commissioner Basil Seggos announced that the State will provide up
to $50,000 for a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study in the Sullivan
County hamlet of Livingston Manor. Funds will be used to undertake the
Livingston Manor Flood Control Feasibility Study. The funding was
secured with assistance from Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther.<br />
<br />
"As climate change fuels more intense and frequent storms that
threaten communities and infrastructure across the state, DEC experts
are on the frontlines everyday assisting local governments in planning
for and advancing important flood resiliency projects," said DEC
Commissioner Basil Seggos. "The Livingston Manor Flood Control
Feasibility Study will not only protect this community, it will also
improve the natural resources in the Catskills, which are critical to
the economic vitality of the region."<br />
<br />
"The people who live in Livingston Manor have worked so hard to
rebuild and repair flood damage time and time again," Assemblywoman
Gunther said. "This study will help find a solution that works for
everyone."<br />
<br />
"It is with great satisfaction and anticipation that we have been
waiting for such needed support from our state agencies. I can't say
enough about our Assembly Women Aileen Gunther, who has witnessed
first-hand, the devastation of flooding to our communities. Time and
time again. We have been working with the ACOE and the DEC for some time
now to develop a plan to reduce flooding in our area. Our small town
atmosphere is a driving force for many new businesses, and the
assistance from our state agency will help bring about positive change,
and continued growth for those who look for a more healthy lifestyle and
quality of life," said Rob Eggleton, Supervisor, town of Rockland.<br />
<br />
A joint effort by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, DEC, the town of
Rockland, the Livingston Manor Flood Control Feasibility Study was
originally initiated in 2009. In 2016, the study was re-envisioned to
focus solely on flood control, which required additional funding. In
October 2017, DEC committed to providing up to $50,000 to finalize the
study.<br />
<br />
DEC is currently working with the U.S. Army Corps to finalize a
contract for the project. The study is anticipated to be completed in
2018. Following completion of the study, the U.S. Army Corps will begin
the design and construction phase of the project with federal, State and
local funding.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-32783712595128946062017-11-18T07:09:00.001-05:002017-11-18T07:09:31.388-05:00NYC DEP Statement on the Long-term Agreement for Delaware River Flow Management Program<span class="bodytext"></span><br />
The New York City Department of Environmental Protection released the following statement from Deputy Commissioner Paul Rush.<br />
<br />
“New York City is pleased that the Decree Parties today committed to a
long-term agreement that balances the myriad interests connected to the
Delaware River. The 10-year program protects public health for millions
of Americans by sustaining their supplies of high-quality drinking
water. The agreement also expands efforts to enhance flood attenuation
and support the outdoor recreation economy of the upper Delaware River
through the protection of its natural ecology and wild trout fishery.<br />
<br />
“Importantly, the new agreement was built upon untold hours of
scientific work and data analyses that aimed to advance the interests of
all stakeholders without detriment to any of them.<br />
<br />
“That work does not end here. The new agreement requires the Decree
Parties to pursue a number of scientific studies related to salinity
intrusion in the lower Delaware River, the calculation of water
available to be released downstream of New York City’s reservoirs, and
other topics related to the natural resources of the basin.<br />
<br />
“New York City will approach the work ahead with the same spirit of
collaboration that yielded the new flow-management program today.”<br />
<br />
More information about the Flexible Flow Management Program will be available on the website of the <a href="https://water.usgs.gov/osw/odrm/">Office of the Delaware River Master</a>.<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-19521581920370314812017-11-10T10:00:00.000-05:002017-11-10T10:05:22.572-05:00Record Number of Americans Support Menhaden Protection<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>150,000 Public Comments in Support of Menhaden Protection Announced; Most Public Comments Ever Delivered to ASMFC!</b></div>
<b> </b>
<br />
(New York, NY Nov. 10, 2017) A record number of Americans are urging
the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Council (ASMFC) to support
protection of Atlantic Menhaden in their upcoming decision. Over 150,000
Americans sent public comments in favor of strong Menhaden protections
during the recently completed public comment period. The ASMFC will meet
November 14<sup>th</sup> to decide on Amendment 3—a proposal to provide
stronger protections for Atlantic Menhaden that takes into
consideration the important role the “<a href="http://email.prnewswire.com/wf/click?upn=c-2Ba3iFMwtue6VmXL7Z2xkVjcgGXi3Me-2FB-2FNYaqrHxXOCLT00zfNzlJZaW7V9DbUh7y3AsPRRXqOQr8EdTaJ-2FGXJ1PU-2BtZkTu0fdnS8c61MaCc0Et9t-2B69q9YkYRkPt0xstpNbcxaLPyPc4ut8RB6mO1V2t0j8brDe7hWuVkvhMMYWgtDz1dwlJ0VGWn7I-2FzloExe3eeFKXzesGAf7zRMtK5Y8BujLP5g7ge4leueXYyC1D9kSDa1b7Y3LypBjOUH_0gM-2BLFR0ikb9QyWHa-2BlW1oN1-2BJSQPcundaZh9kyy7pxR2nxmn68eYDuCy9dAvIjKGyfgXnAh6fi38xqwJqOv68DgNh78VKsbie-2BAzWY92kA0ONXPVfoIhRUcNDwdqMkWF-2FO4Nq0OXolBAx-2FHfa-2FQ-2BBLGMnxId8qZ4-2FRPNucI08vLi25ufMaUnSwaz-2F5A9F0ALbJhmT-2FxD9n4hHXdCAz97rcJpE3qbM7YtWMMtOh-2BWHls6ud650dOEzB3v7Bq1gT4jDkJ-2FCQ-2BE8ZBpE4ShTyCn2wN2J2c2ZLDETvr9jXctwPrktDFXwUu-2BKAtTB5evtMO" target="_blank">most important fish in the sea</a>” plays as both a source of food for other species and filterer of water.<br />
<br />
“From striped bass anglers and fishing captains to whale watchers and
bird enthusiasts, the varying interests across the east coast that
support managing menhaden to account for their importance to ocean
ecosystems shouldn’t come as a surprise. Anyone who pays close
attention to life in the water has seen first-hand just how important
this fish is, and wants to see the species conservatively managed,” said
Zach Cockrum, Northeast Regional Representative for the National
Wildlife Federation.<br />
<br />
The Commission’s Atlantic Menhaden Management Board will meet
November 13‐14, 2017 to consider approval of Amendment 3 to the
Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden and set
specifications for the 2018 fishing season.<br />
<br />
Atlantic menhaden (<i>Brevoortia Tyrannus</i>) play a central role
in the ecological and economic vitality of the Atlantic coastal
ecosystem as an essential food for whales as well as important
commercial and game fishes (striped bass, bluefin tuna, bluefish,
weakfish, tarpon, sharks), and a host of other marine wildlife. Menhaden
play a key role in the regulation of regional water quality by
filtering phytoplankton; its food source and a major cause of algae
blooms and brown tides.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-38344564468791269562017-10-10T20:11:00.000-04:002017-10-10T20:11:10.085-04:00101.6 Million Americans Participated in Hunting, Fishing & Wildlife Activities<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Survey Preliminary Findings Show Importance of Increasing Access to Public Lands</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>T </b>he U.S. Department of the Interior announced a new report by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service that shows that 101.6 million Americans—40
percent of the U.S. population 16 years old and older—participated in
wildlife-related activities in 2016, such as hunting, fishing and
wildlife-watching.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
The survey illustrates gains in wildlife watching—particularly
around the home—and fishing, with moderate declines in the number of
hunters nationally. The findings reflect a continued interest in
engaging in the outdoors. These activities are drivers behind an
economic powerhouse, where participants spent $156 billion—the most in
the last 25 years, adjusted for inflation.<br />
<br />
“This report absolutely underscores the need to increase public access to public lands across the United States,” <strong>said U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke</strong>. “Hunting
and fishing are a part of the American heritage. As a kid who grew up
hunting and fishing on public lands who later took my own kids out on
the same land, I know how important it is to expand access for future
generations. Many folks east of the Mississippi River rely on friends
with large acreages or pay high rates for hunting and fishing clubs.
This makes access to wildlife refuges and other public lands more
important.”<br />
<br />
On his first day in office, Secretary Zinke reversed an order
that would have banned lead ammo and fishing tackle on National Wildlife
Refuge lands, and he began the process of expanding hunting and fishing
opportunities on public lands across the Department.<br /> <br /> In
August, the Secretary announced a proposal to expand hunting and fishing
opportunities at 10 national wildlife refuges, and he announced the
initial stages of a plan to acquire land to make the Bureau of Land
Management Sabinoso Wilderness Area accessible for the first time ever
to hunters, hikers and wildlife watchers.<br />
<br />
In addition, Secretary Zinke recently made recommendations to
President Trump on 27 national monuments that call for changes to some
that, while still protecting the land, would also protect and expand
public access to that land for citizens who want to hunt, fish and hike
and experience the joy and beauty of these special places.<br />
<br />
The survey, the 13th in a series conducted nearly every five
years since 1955, shows that the most substantial increases in
participation involve wildlife-watching—observing, feeding and
photographing wildlife. The report indicates these activities surged 20
percent from 2011 to 2016, from 71.8 million to 86 million participants
during that time. Expenditures by wildlife watchers also rose sharply—28
percent—between 2011 and 2016, from $59.1 billion to $75.9 billion.
Around-the-home wildlife-watching increased 18 percent from 2011, from
68.6 million in 2011 to 81.1 million participants in 2016. More modest
gains were made for away-from-home wildlife watchers: 5 percent increase
from 2011 to 2016, from 22.5 million to 23 million participants.<br />
<br />
More Americans also went fishing. The report indicates an 8
percent increase in angling participation since 2011, from 33.1 million
anglers to 35.8 million in 2016. The greatest increases in
participation—10 percent—were seen in the Great Lakes area. Total
expenditures by anglers nationwide rose 2 percent from 2011 to 2016,
from $45 billion to $46.1 billion.<br />
<br />
Hunting participation dropped by about 2 million participants but
still remained strong at 11.5 million hunters. Total expenditures by
hunters declined 29 percent from 2011 to 2016, from $36.3 billion to
$25.6 billion. However, expenditures for related items such as taxidermy
and camping equipment experienced a 27-percent uptick, and hunting
trip-related expenses increased 15 percent.<br />
<br />
Regarding the decrease in participation in hunting, Zinke said:
“Hunters and anglers are at the backbone of American conservation, so
the more sportsmen and women we have, the better off our wildlife will
be. Some of our wildlife refuges have great mentored hunting programs.
I'd like to see these programs replicated and expanded across the
country and reach into areas where kids don't traditionally get the
opportunity to hunt, fish and? ?connect with wildlife. Some of my best
family time growing up and raising my own kids was hunting an
elk, enjoying a pheasant, or reeling in a rainbow. These are the
memories and traditions I want to share with future generations.”<br />
<br />
“No one does more for our wildlife and or wild places than
hunters. Any decline in hunting numbers, real or perceived, is of great
concern since hunting provides the lion’s share of funding for
nationwide conservation work thanks to excise taxes on firearms,
ammunition and archery equipment that garner more than $1.6 annually,” <strong>said David Allen, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation president and CEO.</strong> “The
RMEF remains committed to growing and ensuring the future of our
hunting heritage as well as elk, other wildlife and their habitat.”<br />
<br />
This year’s survey also gathered two new categories of data:
archery and target shooting. Findings show there are more than 32
million target shooters using firearms and 12.4 million people engaged
in archery, not including hunting.<br />
<br />
“Hunters and anglers form the foundation of wildlife conservation
in the United States, consistently generating more funding for habitat
and wildlife management than any other source,” <strong>said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Principal Deputy Director Greg Sheehan</strong>.
“Industry, federal and state fish and wildlife agency initiatives that
focus on hunter and angler recruitment, retention and reactivation are
crucial to sustaining these conservation dollars and ensuring the next
generation of wildlife enthusiasts have the opportunity, access and
awareness to pursue these time-honored American traditions.”<br />
<br />
“I praise Secretary Zinke for his support of hunting and land
access. The hunting and shooting sports community is grateful for an
administration that recognizes the economic, recreational and
traditional values of hunting and target shooting,"<strong> said John Frampton, President and CEO of the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports.</strong> "Although
the numbers of hunters have declined, we are optimistic they will
rebound as a result of Secretary Zinke's leadership, state wildlife
agencies, non-government organizations and industries working together.
Hunting in this country is not only part of our national heritage, it is
an important to our country’s economy, as indicated by the expenditures
in the survey.”<br />
<br />
As a partnership effort with states and national conservation
organizations, the survey has become one of the most important sources
of information on fish and wildlife recreation in the United States.
Federal, state and private organizations use this detailed information
to manage wildlife, market products, and look for trends. Conducted by
the U.S. Bureau of the Census, the survey is based on a 22,416-household
sample surveyed through computer-assisted telephone and in-person
interviews.<br />
<br />
For more information about the survey and to view the preliminary report, please visit <a href="https://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/NationalSurvey/National_Survey.htm" target="_blank">https://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/Subpages/NationalSurvey/National_Survey.htm</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-24719755716789262322017-10-06T20:46:00.000-04:002017-10-06T20:46:27.796-04:00New Invaders Found in Pocket Field Guide<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://img-ak.verticalresponse.com/media/2/2/d/22d970db3b/da1f360eab/01a0c3657d/library/20171003_093547_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="286" src="https://img-ak.verticalresponse.com/media/2/2/d/22d970db3b/da1f360eab/01a0c3657d/library/20171003_093547_0001.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
The <i>Clean Drain Dry Initiative</i>
(CD2), in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, National Professional Anglers Association and the
Great Lakes Commission, printed over 10,000 copies for distribution
throughout the Great Lake states. Since 2013, 57,000 copies have been
printed and distributed through Wildlife Forever’s national partnership
network.</div>
<br />
White Bear Lake, MN - Wildlife Forever is proud to release the second edition of <i>Invaders of the Great Lakes</i>.
The highly popular field guide booklet has been a powerful tool to help
identify invasive species and prevent their spread. This<sup> </sup>edition
features new species such as Starry Stonewort and European Buckthorn,
both highly destructive to fish and wildlife habitat.<br />
<br />
<br />
“New species continue to invade and threaten our nation’s resources. We
felt it was critical to highlight these new invaders to help educate and
inform recreational users of the need for Clean Drain Dry prevention,”
said Pat Conzemius, Conservation Director for Wildlife Forever.<br />
<br />
Targeting anglers, boaters and hunters to prevent invasive species
remains the most cost-effective means for slowing the spread. Resources
such as the <i>Invader</i> book and CD2’s comprehensive media and
marketing approach, are fundamental to implementing on-the-ground
behavior change. Unfortunately, funding cuts to educational programs
like the CD2 threatens to erase nearly a decade of educational efforts
and progress made through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.
Concerned sportsment and women are encouraged to contact <u>their</u> natural resource agency and managers to voice support of invasive species conservation education.<br />
<br />
The <b>Clean Drain Dry Initiative™</b> is the national
campaign to educate outdoor recreational users on how to prevent the
spread of invasive species. Coordinated messaging drives best management
practices content, marketing communications and tools on how to
prevent. To learn about services available and how you can participate,
contact Pat Conzemius, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"><span class="wt_Email" style="background-color: white; border-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-style: dotted; border-width: 1px; padding: 0px 2px;">PConzemius@WildlifeForever.org</span></a> or visit <a href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?WildlifeForever/da1f360eab/2ac2d38e55/212834a3a5/WildlifeForever/b95dc94792/TEST/02bd6fa9e0" target="_blank">www.CleanDrainDry.org</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>Wildlife Forever (WF):</b> Wildlife Forever’s mission is to
conserve America's wildlife heritage through conservation education,
preservation of habitat and management of fish and wildlife. For 30
years, WF members have helped to conduct thousands of fish, game and
habitat conservation projects across the country. Recent audit results
reveal a 94% to mission rating. To join and learn more about the
award-winning programs, including work to engage America’s youth, visit <a href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?WildlifeForever/da1f360eab/2ac2d38e55/9becb5dab6/WildlifeForever/b95dc94792/TEST/cae59441c8" target="_blank">www.WildlifeForever.org</a><u>.</u> <div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-22219501971210190612017-10-06T20:24:00.002-04:002017-10-06T20:24:58.605-04:00Why Aren’t Millennials Buying Boats?<br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<a href="http://www.boatus.com/pressroom/previewImg/hiRes/1329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="213" src="https://www.BoatUS.com/pressroom/previewImg/hiRes/1329.jpg" width="320" /></a> Both boaters and those who rely on boating to make a living lament
that there doesn’t seem to be as many younger boaters these days. The
statistics back that up. According to the recently published <i>BoatUS Magazine</i> feature “<a href="https://www.boatus.com/magazine/2017/october/why-arent-millennials-buying-boats.asp" target="_blank">Why Aren’t Millennials Buying Boats?</a>”
(October 2017), approximately 41 percent fewer 20- to 39-year-olds
owned boats in 2015 than in 2005. And while millennials may boat about
as much as their parents did, the data confirms they are far less likely
to own a boat.
</div>
<br />
Why? Author and millennial Fiona McGlynn, who is a professional management consultant, may have some answers.<br />
<br />
Lower incomes, student debt, lack of technical knowledge or
mechanical experience, and a culture shift that eschews conventional
ownership in favor of renting take their toll on millennial (born
between 1982 and 2000) boat ownership. “Young people are not giving up
on boating, just going about it in a different way: chartering,
borrowing, and riding along,” says McGlynn, a live-aboard who recently
finished her first South Pacific crossing along with her husband, Robin.<br />
<br />
While owning a boat can be pricey, McGlynn reports, “I’ve met a
number of young boaters finding creative ways to get out on the water
without breaking the bank, such as millennials who are participating in
cooperatives, who share a boat among friends, or who live aboard a boat
instead of renting pricey apartments in major American waterfront
cities. Several boaters interviewed for the story mentioned the
increasing popularity of wake boats, in part because they carry more
people and they’re fun.”<br />
<br />
McGlynn ultimately writes that, in general, millennials prefer the
sharing economy. She asks, why would you buy a ski house, when all you
have to do is Airbnb it? She suggests it’s the same with boats. “20- to
39-year-olds love boating for the same reasons their parents did. They
see it as an opportunity to socialize, create family memories, and
adventures, and unplug from work. Boating has the potential for a
watershed moment among millennials.”<br />
<br />
The <i>BoatUS Magazine</i> feature also includes creative tips on how young people with no boating, sailing, or fishing experience can get on the water.<br />
For the full story, go to <a href="http://boatus.com/millennials">BoatUS.com/millennials</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-33458046985451940322017-07-27T11:34:00.000-04:002017-07-27T11:34:37.495-04:00Fishing Participation up 1.5 Million According to 2017 Special Report on Fishing<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span><i>Report also reveals participation trends and motivating factors</i></span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span><i> </i></span></span></b>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) today
announced the release of its 2017 Special Report on Fishing. Most
significantly, the report shows fishing participation has increased by
1.5 million over the previous year. Additionally, several trends and participation increases among key segments are highlighted in
the report. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Fishing is still the number two adult outdoor activity, but it's gaining ground on jogging</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">2.5 million participants tried fishing for the very first time</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">New participants accounted for 5.3% of the total participant base and tended to be young and female</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">3.8 million Hispanics participated in fishing (an 11% increase)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Hispanic anglers go on 6 more outings per year than their general market peers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Youth participation increased 3% to 11 million total participants </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">Americans took 855 billion total fishing trips, equating to 18.8 trips per participant</span></li>
</ul>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;">
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">
</span>
"These findings energize us and provide some validation for the work we
are doing on a daily basis," said RBFF President and CEO Frank Peterson.
"Our efforts to recruit new audiences and bring families to the water
are certainly paying off. 60 in 60 is off to a great start, and
effective R3 (recruitment, retention and reactivation) programs will
only grow the participant base and secure funding for conservation
programs for years to come."<br />
<br />
The Special Report on Fishing is the product of a partnership between
RBFF and the Outdoor Foundation and looks into participation trends,
barriers to entry, motivating factors and preferences of key groups of
anglers.<br />
<br />
"Research shows that fishing is an essential piece of America's outdoor
tradition, and it often leads children to pursue outdoor activities and
healthy living into adulthood," said Ivan Levin, deputy director of the
Outdoor Foundation. "This report aims to help the fishing industry, and
the entire outdoor industry, understand fishing participation in order
to engage even more people in recreational fishing and create the next
generation of lifelong anglers and outdoor enthusiasts."<br />
<br />
The full report and an accompanying infographic is available in the <a href="http://click.email.rbff.org/?qs=624a55de37fac55ecf20fea083f11fa89c2a144fde101928bf0881fb39df68ad833abf2a1a7ec6d2ad732250041b44f0" target="_blank" title="RBFF Resource Center">RBFF Resource Center</a>.
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-59313516401545805612017-07-27T10:49:00.001-04:002017-07-27T10:54:04.774-04:00NY DEC Confirms First Infestation of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid in AdirondacksA minor infestation of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae)
was confirmed on Forest Preserve lands in the town of Lake George in
Warren County on July 18, the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) announced. This is the first known infestation
of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) in the Adirondacks.<br />
<br />
"To track and prevent the spread of this invasive pest, Hemlock
Woolly Adelgid, DEC has surveyed 250 acres of forest in the
Adirondacks," said DEC Commissioner Seggos. "Preventing the spread of
invasive species is the most effective way to fight and address the
damage these species can cause to our natural resources. DEC encourages
hikers, campers, boaters, sportsmen, and others recreating on or along
forestlands in northern Schenectady, Saratoga, and southern Warren
counties to check Eastern Hemlock trees and report any HWA
infestations."<br />
<br />
A small cluster of early stage HWA was detected on one branch of an
old-growth Eastern hemlock tree on Prospect Mountain during a field trip
by a Senior Ecologist from the Harvard Research Forest.<br />
NYDEC immediately dispatched a survey crew to the site and was
joined by staff from Cornell University's New York State Hemlock
Initiative. HWA was located and confirmed on a number of branches on the
tree by a Cornell scientist and later by DEC's DEC Diagnostic Lab. The
mature tree had no visible sign of crown thinning.<br />
<br />
The crews surveyed 250 acres of forest and
found only one other tree, a small Eastern hemlock near the original
infested tree, that contained one branch with a small cluster of early
stage HWA.<br />
<br />
This is the first recorded infestation of this invasive, exotic pest
in the Adirondacks. Previously, it has been detected in 29 other
counties in New York, primarily in the lower Hudson Valley and, more
recently, in the Finger Lakes region. Seventeen other states along the
Appalachian Mountain range from Maine to Georgia also have HWA
infestations. HWA is a listed prohibited species under DEC's invasive
species regulations.<br />
<br />
DEC is evaluating means to eradicate this infestation and prevent it
from spreading. This will not include cutting down trees, which is not
an effective means for controlling HWA as it is with other invasive
forest pests.<br />
<br />
The most effective treatment method for control of HWA is the use of
insecticides. The insecticide is applied to the bark near the base of
the hemlock tree and are absorbed and spread through the tissue of the
tree. When HWA attaches itself to tree to feed, it receives a dose of
the pesticide and is killed.<br />
<br />
In the past three years DEC has treated infested hemlock trees with
insecticides at a few select locations where the control is likely to
slow the spread of HWA, or where the hemlocks provide a significant
public value. New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic
Preservation has treated many hemlocks trees at a number of State Parks.
Both chemical and biological control options are important in the
long-term fight against HWA.<br />
<br />
Dispersal and movement of HWA occur primarily during the first life
stage ("crawler") as a result of wind and animals that come in contact
with the sticky egg sacks and crawlers. Isolated infestations and
long-distance movement of HWA, most often occur as the result of people
transporting infested nursery stock.<br />
<br />
DEC monitors the distribution and spread of HWA by annual aerial and
ground surveys as well as reports from partners and the general public.
DEC has been involved in biological control efforts against HWA since
the 1990s, and has released several approved natural enemies of HWA at
locations in the Finger Lakes and Catskills regions.<br />
<br />
HWA, a tiny insect from East Asia first discovered in New York in
1985, attacks forest and ornamental hemlock trees. It feeds on young
twigs, causing needles to dry out and drop prematurely and causing
branch dieback. Hemlock decline and mortality typically occur within
four to 10 years of infestation in the insect's northern range.<br />
<br />
Damage from the insect has led to widespread hemlock mortality
throughout the Appalachian Mountains and the southern Catskill Mountains
with considerable ecological damage, as well as economic and aesthetic
losses. HWA infestations can be most noticeably detected by the small,
white, woolly masses produced by the insects that are attached to the
underside of the twig, near the base of the needles.<br />
<br />
Eastern hemlock trees, which comprise approximately 10 percent of the
Adirondack forest, are among the oldest trees in New York with some
reaching ages of more than 700 years. They typically occupy steep,
shaded, north-facing slopes and stream banks where few other trees are
successful. The trees help maintain erosion control and water quality,
and the hemlock's shade cool waters providing critical habitat for many
of New York's freshwater fish, including native brook trout.<br />
<br />
Survey efforts by DEC and Cornell's New York State Hemlock Initiative
will continue to determine if other infestations are present in the
surrounding area. As the closest known infestation of HWA is 40 miles
away in Schenectady County, DEC is asking hikers, campers, boaters,
sportsmen, and others recreating on or along forestlands in northern
Schenectady, Saratoga, and southern Warren counties to check Eastern
Hemlock trees and report any HWA infestations.<br />
<br />
New York is particularly vulnerable to invasive species due to its
rich biodiversity and role as a center for international trade and
travel. Rapid response and control is a critical line of defense in
minimalizing the establishment, and ultimately permanently removing, an
invasive population.<br />
<br />
More information on <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTcwNzI3Ljc2MzY4MzUxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE3MDcyNy43NjM2ODM1MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE3MjI2MDQ2JmVtYWlsaWQ9Y3Jvc3NjdXJyZW50QG9wdG9ubGluZS5uZXQmdXNlcmlkPWNyb3NzY3VycmVudEBvcHRvbmxpbmUubmV0JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&103&&&http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/82617.html" target="_blank">HWA</a>, including identification, control techniques, and reporting possible infestations can be found at <a href="http://links.govdelivery.com/track?type=click&enid=ZWFzPTEmbWFpbGluZ2lkPTIwMTcwNzI3Ljc2MzY4MzUxJm1lc3NhZ2VpZD1NREItUFJELUJVTC0yMDE3MDcyNy43NjM2ODM1MSZkYXRhYmFzZWlkPTEwMDEmc2VyaWFsPTE3MjI2MDQ2JmVtYWlsaWQ9Y3Jvc3NjdXJyZW50QG9wdG9ubGluZS5uZXQmdXNlcmlkPWNyb3NzY3VycmVudEBvcHRvbmxpbmUubmV0JmZsPSZleHRyYT1NdWx0aXZhcmlhdGVJZD0mJiY=&&&104&&&http://www.nyshemlockinitiative.info" target="_blank">Cornell's New York State Hemlock Initiative</a> (link leaves DEC's website) or DEC's website. You can also call DEC's toll-free Forest Pest Information Line at <span class="wt_Phone" style="background-color: white; border-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-style: dotted; border-width: 1px; padding: 0px 2px;">1-866-640-0652</span> to ask questions and report possible infestations.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-87897644403178061752017-07-18T10:19:00.000-04:002017-07-18T10:19:07.288-04:00Pennsylvania to Host Wild Trout Summit<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will host a wild trout summit open to the public at its Centre County
regional office on Saturday, Aug. 26 beginning at 9:30 a.m.</span></span></span>
<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">“This
is the first time the agency has hosted a meeting to discuss wild
trout,” said Andy Shiels, Director of the PFBC Bureau of Fisheries.
“This will bring agency, academic and Trout Unlimited experts together
to present and discuss the past, present and future of Pennsylvania’s
wild trout resources.”</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">The
event will be held at the PFBC’s newly renovated Centre Region Office
Building, located at 595 East Rolling Ridge Drive in Bellefonte, PA
16823. This Centre County location can be easily reached via I-99 by
taking the Bellefonte/Route 150 North exit. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. The program will start at 10:15 a.m. and conclude at 4 p.m. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Speakers will present information on the history of wild trout management in Pennsylvania, the Unassessed Wild Trout Waters </span></span><a href="http://m1e.net/c?48313982-5aAgY/5Ps034k%40391168956-U3kSrtUqI53Hk" style="color: #6c8b9e; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Initiative</span></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">, special regulations for wild trout, and how environmental permit review affects wild trout protection.</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">In
addition, there will be presentations on the potential impacts of
climate change, the PFBC’s wild trout stream habitat improvement
priorities, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Wild
Trout Management Plan, and Implications of Genetics on Wild Trout
Management. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">New information on several Penn State University trout radio-tracking studies will also be provided. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Finally,
there will a panel discussion at the end of the day to bring the
presenters together for a question and answer session with the
attendees. A tentative </span></span><a href="http://m1e.net/c?48313982-QcVPepntVEV6I%40391168957-Hj.dr0Opklmgs" style="color: #6c8b9e; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">agenda</span></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;"> can be viewed on the PFBC website.</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">The Wild Trout Summit is open to the public, but registration is required. Attendees may register </span></span><a href="http://m1e.net/c?48313982-Wn/Jg9DQlhvt6%40391168958-9pMJYyBZx3A.s" style="color: #6c8b9e; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">online</span></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">“This
will be an informative event and an opportunity for wild trout
enthusiasts and supporters to spend a day learning about a truly unique
Commonwealth aquatic resource,” added Shiels.</span></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-28262995170862694452017-07-13T17:59:00.000-04:002017-07-13T17:59:16.953-04:00Public Lands Spur Local Economies<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Joint Economic Committee Democrats released state
</span><a href="https://www.jec.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/7c1c8204-b272-40f3-ae31-46c340e64ff9/economic-impact-of-public-lands-final.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">fact sheets</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
today on the economic impact of public lands on their neighboring
communities. Our nation’s public lands are a cherished aspect of
American heritage and a key contributor to local economies. Each
state-specific fact sheet highlights the importance of public
lands to communities across the country.</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
fact sheets show that in 2016, the 331 million people who visited
national parks spent an estimated $18.4 billion in local gateway
communities, supported 318,000 jobs, and added $34.9 billion in
economic output to the national economy. Protected public lands also
boost local economies by increasing income per person.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“America’s
public lands are not only a part of our heritage that we cherish
passing onto our children and grandchildren, but they are also the
backbone of a thriving outdoor
recreation economy<b>,” said U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, Ranking Member of the Joint Economic Committee.</b>
“National monuments, national parks, and other public lands draw locals
and visitors alike to go outdoors and represent billions of dollars in
economic
output and millions of American jobs—especially in rural areas. The
campaign to shrink or even sell off our shared lands would devastate
outdoor traditions like hunting, camping, and fishing that are among the
pillars of Western culture and a thriving outdoor
recreation economy. I remain deeply committed to standing with New
Mexicans and all Americans to protect our public lands, water, and
wildlife for our children and all future generations to enjoy.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Click
</span><a href="https://www.jec.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/7c1c8204-b272-40f3-ae31-46c340e64ff9/economic-impact-of-public-lands-final.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">here</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
to find your state’s fact sheet.</span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-70110156149933915162017-06-28T14:12:00.001-04:002017-06-28T14:12:37.723-04:00Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) Publishes 2016 Annual ReportThe Delaware
River Basin Commission (DRBC) today released its 2016 annual report
highlighting ongoing efforts to manage the water resources of the
13,539-square-mile Delaware River Basin that provides
drinking water for an estimated 15 million people.
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This year’s report focuses on “Clean Water by the
Numbers” emphasizing the efforts and results of the commission and its
staff of engineers, aquatic biologists, geologists, modelers, planners,
and others to provide clean and sustainable
water resources throughout the Delaware River Basin.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Measuring changes to water quality can be
complex,” said DRBC Executive Director Steve Tambini. “In 2016, we saw a
continuation of DRBC-driven water quality improvements throughout the
basin.” For example, in watersheds that drain to
the basin’s Special Protection Waters (from Hancock, N.Y. to Trenton,
N.J.), DRBC’s goal is
<i>no measurable change</i> to existing water quality <i>except toward natural conditions</i>.
DRBC’s monitoring and assessment programs confirmed in a report
published in 2016 that the Lower Delaware – a 76-mile stretch of the
river extending from just below
the Delaware Water Gap at Portland, Pa./Columbia, N.J. to Trenton – not
only met the
<i>no measurable change</i> water quality objective, but showed
reductions in nutrient pollution at most sites. “Our annual report
highlights these improvements along with many other DRBC programs that
we employ to effectively manage our shared water resources
in the basin,” said Tambini.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The annual report, along with short supporting videos that give an overview of the commission’s work, can be viewed at
<a href="http://www.nj.gov/drbc/about/public/annual-report2016.html" target="_blank">www.nj.gov/drbc/about/public/annual-report2016.html</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The compact that formed the DRBC in 1961 requires
the publication of an annual report covering the commission’s programs,
operations, and finances.
<span lang="EN">The DRBC is a federal/interstate government agency
responsible for managing the water resources within the Delaware River
Basin without regard to political boundaries. The five commission
members are the governors of the basin states (Delaware,
New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania) and the commander of the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers’ North Atlantic Division, who represents the
federal government.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To learn more about the commission, please visit <u><a href="http://www.drbc.net/" target="_blank">www.drbc.net</a></u> or follow DRBC on Twitter at
<a href="https://twitter.com/DRBC1961?lang=en" target="_blank">@DRBC1961</a></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-90901897108241527562017-05-14T16:55:00.000-04:002017-07-16T09:15:06.316-04:00Summer on the Upper Delaware River<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It’s been an excellent water
year so far and that's resulted in some very good drift boat fishing on the Upper
Delaware. The Main Stem, West
Branch, and East Branch have had high cold water flows providing excellent all day fishing
opportunities.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />Blue Quills, Hendricksons, caddis flies, March Browns, grey fox, green, and brown drakes, and golden stone flies have been on the trout’s menu. As we come into summer, Isonychia, aka slate drakes, Cahills, and blue wing olives will play a major role in the trout's diet. Time of day can become critical in determining your success. To help you maximize your time on the water we have several different options available for trout fishing, and to maximize your summertime opportunities we also have a couple of other species we throw into the mix.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here's what can be in store for your summer fishing fun.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Magic Hour Dry Fly Fishing </span></b></i></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: yellow;">This Summer we're once again offering a </span><b><i><span style="background-color: yellow;">Magic Hour</span></i></b><span style="background-color: yellow;"> evening float trip where you can try
your hand on twilight fishing for the Delaware’s famed wild rainbow trout. This
3 to 4 hour </span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"></span></span></span></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUzgdk9I79M/WUAWrv-U85I/AAAAAAAAAXE/0Z0j6uiWhBgNB_D_wCrOnEPz_f5dsh-dACLcB/s1600/IMG_1562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUzgdk9I79M/WUAWrv-U85I/AAAAAAAAAXE/0Z0j6uiWhBgNB_D_wCrOnEPz_f5dsh-dACLcB/s200/IMG_1562.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: yellow;">float trip begins with meeting us around 6:00 PM and fishing until
dark from the safety and comfort of a drift boat. Catch the excitement of
evening spinner falls for just $250 for one or two
anglers.</span><br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our Full Day guided trip for up to 2 people is still
available for $425. A five hour Half Day’s trip is $325.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Sunrise Half Day </span></b></i></span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k-TPMk_iLjs/WUAYz5PWTlI/AAAAAAAAAXM/Mub5oiXZ4CwuFcjcRiGQhvBNkjn8PAGWwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k-TPMk_iLjs/WUAYz5PWTlI/AAAAAAAAAXM/Mub5oiXZ4CwuFcjcRiGQhvBNkjn8PAGWwCLcB/s200/DSC_0402.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Start your day at daybreak and enjoy the sights and sounds of the river awakening. Early morning sippers eating their breakfast from the film or aggressive meat eaters willing to chase down a streamer with a smashing grab, you never know which way the day will start. It's cool just being there.</span></span><i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></b></i></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: darkgreen; font-size: large;"><b><i>Smallmouth Bass Fishing
on the Upper Delaware River</i></b></span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Field and Stream Magazine </i>names the Upper Delaware as <u>one of the top five
smallmouth bass Rivers in the US</u> - July 2007</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The number one reason you should
fish for smallmouth bass with us is because it's just downright fun! Perfect for
the novice or expert.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l0PQ-0NTN4I/WRiqUZrQO4I/AAAAAAAAAWE/35Pt5Jf5vroHqMO5FN8NUp9HPklMUVC3QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l0PQ-0NTN4I/WRiqUZrQO4I/AAAAAAAAAWE/35Pt5Jf5vroHqMO5FN8NUp9HPklMUVC3QCLcB/s200/IMG_4443.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">On spin tackle or on a fly rod the smallmouth is inch for
inch and pound for pound, the sportiest fish in freshwater. As soon as they're
hooked a smallmouth lets off with an exciting series of runs and jumps, fighting
against the rod and giving the impression that it's a far bigger fish than it
is.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our Full
Day guided Smallmouth trips are for up to 2 people, 8+ hours, snacks, soft
drinks, and lunch includ</span>ed.<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;"><i> </i></span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;"><i>Fly Fish for Carp!</i></span></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">The ubiquitous common carp provides summertime sight fishing opportunities for a challenging and strong fighting fish.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xUuuiFlGyNo/WRit4zsVW1I/AAAAAAAAAWI/4SDj39uUJC8fflps7CBEF7OX4tMRwK0lQCEw/s1600/IMG_3901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xUuuiFlGyNo/WRit4zsVW1I/AAAAAAAAAWI/4SDj39uUJC8fflps7CBEF7OX4tMRwK0lQCEw/s320/IMG_3901.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Spooky and nervous, it takes a perfectly presented fly for a feeding carp to take interest, but once he does, watch out, for it's game on with a hard fighter that can put your tackle to the test.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Once introduced to this fascinating fish many fly anglers quickly become obsessed with the both the challenge and quarry. Don't be a fish snob, come find a new obsession with us!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><i><b>Evening to Midnight Mousing for Brown Trout</b></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="color: black;">One thing we've learned over the years is that it doesn't pay to stay up all night. The best carnivore activity happens from dusk to somewhere between 11 PM and midnight, and then again for a brief period just before dawn. This is definitely not for the faint of heart or the beginner fly fisher. Swimming a mouse pattern through the darkness is truly an adventure that requires solid casting skills. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NpFeHipkNKY/WRi7nu0EJBI/AAAAAAAAAWU/LpzzZPsvCLge0ISGN11ulfkFsLy15MjwwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NpFeHipkNKY/WRi7nu0EJBI/AAAAAAAAAWU/LpzzZPsvCLge0ISGN11ulfkFsLy15MjwwCLcB/s320/IMG_4834.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="color: black;">When your line gets tight with the slurp of a big brown trout you'll be hooked on fly fishing the cooler summer nights! Our favorite pattern is <a href="http://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/the-lateral-line/how-to-tie-the-master-splinter-mouse-fly" target="_blank">Cermele's Master Splinter</a>, a simple, easy to tie fly that gives a realistic silhouette that brown trout find hard to resist. It's easy to cast too making the darkness game that much less complicated.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Check out if this might be for you: <a href="http://www.fieldandstream.com/fs-hook-shots-episode-5-season-6-mousing-around-for-night-browns" target="_blank">Mousing the Upper Delaware</a> and then give us a call to schedule your date.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i> Call us today and get your summer fishing fun together!</i></b></span></span><b><br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;">914-475-6779 or 800-463-2750</span></span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">email <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=24362668">crosscurrent@optonline.net</a></span></b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Capt. Joe
Demalderis</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>2010 Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide of the
Year</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.crosscurrentguideservice.com/"><b>www.crosscurrentguideservice.com</b></a></span></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-45771110441575677602017-04-05T13:15:00.000-04:002017-04-05T13:15:01.000-04:00NY DEC to Host Trout Fishing Public MeetingThe New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will host a public meeting to discuss Delaware River Tailwater and Main Stem trout fishing regulations at the Hancock High School, 67 Education Lane, Hancock, on Wednesday, April 19 at 6:30 p.m. The upper Delaware River system is made up of two tailwater rivers, the East and West branches, which converge in Hancock to form the Main Stem of the Delaware River.<br />
<br />The meeting will outline the recent history of fishing regulations for the area’s trout streams and gather public input on ways to improve the regulations. DEC Fisheries and Law Enforcement staff will be on hand to provide information and answer questions about trout regulations and the enforcement of those regulations.<br />
<br />The fishing regulations are designed to ensure the continued sustainability of the fishery by setting daily catch limits as well as minimum size limits for allowable fish. In addition, some stretches of the river are designated as catch and release only, and some stretches have restricted angling methods, such as artificial lures only. The public is invited to bring their ideas and questions about how DEC manages the fishery resource in the Delaware River and its main tributaries.<br />
<br />For those unable to attend the meeting, the public is invited to comment on the current trout regulations and suggest ways they could be improved. Comments should be sent to Chris VanMaaren, DEC Region 4 Fisheries Manager, 65561 State Hwy 10, Stamford, NY 12167, or emailed to <a href="http://fwfish4@dec.ny.gov./">fwfish4@dec.ny.gov.</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-52976591239047062152017-04-02T09:06:00.000-04:002017-06-30T07:38:06.927-04:00The Worse Fly in Fly Fishing<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">Venomous snakes lurk in the brush through much of the area I spend my time. Ticks lie in ambush, waiting to jump aboard and inject disease into my blood stream. Mosquitoes hone in on carbon dioxide so they can join their tick cousins in injecting pathogens all under the guise of feeding. </span></span><span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">Then there are the over
250 black fly species in North America, with about a half dozen different
ones that have been determined to bite you. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">The way I see it, they are
all determined to bite you. Though we do fare better than livestock and poultry
when it comes to fly bites. These animals can catch all sorts of nasty
and deadly diseases and even drop dead from severe blood loss and toxic
shock.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">Black flies exist simply to annoy. Yes, they bite, and in some people they might cause an allergic reaction at the bite site, but according to Purdue University, there are no known diseases they transmit to humans in North America. In some areas they are called Buffalo Gnats, implying you don't need to worry about them if there aren't any bison around. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">Though many black fly bites can collectively cause fever, swollen lymph nodes, nausea, and headache, don't worry about it. It's called 'Black Fly Fever" and is no big deal to those not suffering from it. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">In Central and South America, and also parts of Africa, black flies can inflict a disease known as river blindness. Basically, they inject you with a worm larva that causes all sorts of skin problems and blindness. It hasn't found its way north yet, but like most things infectious, I'm sure one day it will.</span></span><br />
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true"><br /></span></span>
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">Black flies require clean, well oxygenated water to to breed in. With less and less of that around, it's only a matter of time until black flies become eradicated. It still has me baffled how one time I was bitten by a black fly in Bayonne, NJ.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-offset-key="bmbb2-0-0"><span data-text="true">So don't sweat the black flies. They'll only crawl in your ears, up your nose, and get in your eyes, all the while nipping at your flesh for its vampire meal. Wear a head net, bug suit, duct tape your shirt sleeves to your wrists, spray down with Raid, or any of the concoctions devised over the years to repel the bugs, and be happy knowing that at least in North America they'll only drive you crazy. Unless you're a cow... or a chicken.</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-66846601212943384012017-03-17T11:05:00.001-04:002017-03-17T11:05:53.322-04:00College Students Encouraged to Apply for NY DEC's Summer Internship ProgramThe New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is
encouraging students who have completed at least two years of college to
apply for summer job opportunities through DEC's annual internship
program. The program offers multiple part-time unpaid internships in the
fields of engineering, science, planning, sustainability, law,
community outreach, social media, and more.<br />
<br />
"DEC's summer internship program connects the Capital Region's
college students with opportunities to learn about future careers and
garner professional experience," DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. "By
working closely with DEC's engineers, scientists, and other
professionals, we hope that our interns are inspired to protect New
York's public health and the environment as the next generation of
conservationists and dedicated public servants."<br />
<br />
Candidates must submit applications by April 20, 2017. The majority
of the internships are located at DEC's downtown Albany office.
Prospective interns are encouraged to carefully read the qualifications
for each job to determine whether they meet the requirements before
submitting an application.<br />
<br />
Those accepted into the six-week summer internship program will have
the chance to work alongside a team of highly trained and skilled DEC
employees who regulate and manage New York State natural resources and
the environment. Placements are made within one of DEC's divisions, and
interns will be assigned to specific program areas such as public lands,
air or water quality, fiscal and personnel management, legal counsel,
or environmental education. Every effort is made to match the intern's
career interests, experience, and field of study with the needs of and
the experiences offered by each program.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/about/34336.html">For more information about these internships, including online applications</a>, visit DEC's website.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24362668.post-29634240241805331692017-03-01T19:26:00.001-05:002017-03-01T19:26:36.606-05:00New Jersey Eagle, & Osprey Populations Climb to Record Highs<strong></strong>Bald eagle and osprey populations continue to reach
record highs in New Jersey, according to surveys conducted by the
Department of Environmental Protection’s Endangered and Nongame Species
Program and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.<br />
<br />
The surveys of eagle and osprey populations and nest
sites conducted last year documented 172 nesting or territorial pairs
of bald eagles in New Jersey, up from 161 the previous year, with
southern New Jersey, especially the Delaware Bay region, remaining the
species’ stronghold.<br />
<br />
In addition, 42 new osprey nests were counted, for a
record total of 515. The Atlantic coast – in particular the wetlands
and waterways around Barnegat Bay and Great Egg Harbor – accounted for
the vast majority of nests.<br />
<br />
“These
surveys confirm that New Jersey’s ecologically sensitive coastal
environments are healthy and thriving,” Commissioner Martin said. “The
steady recoveries of these magnificent birds of prey would not be
possible if not for our strong partnership with the Conserve Wildlife
Foundation and the work of vigilant volunteer nest watchers who give
their time to monitor these nests.”<br />
<br />
The Endangered and Nongame Species Program’s efforts
protecting these and a wide variety of other species depend in large
part on funds provided by the Endangered Wildlife Fund state income-tax
check-off, which allows taxpayers to provide a portion of their state
refunds to fund wildlife protection.<br />
<br />
The Endangered Wildlife Fund check-off is on Line 59 of
Form NJ-1040. Taxpayers are provided the option of contributing $10,
$20, or an amount of his or her choosing, toward protection of
threatened and endangered species.<br />
<br />
The Endangered and Nongame Species Program also depends
on strong partnerships with local conservation groups, and recently
awarded Conserve Wildlife Matching Grants – funded by sales of Conserve
Wildlife license plates – to help nonprofit conservation organizations
enhance public education, research and habitat management projects.<br />
<br />
“Without
the help of local residents who care deeply about wildlife, we would
not be able to accomplish as much as we do,” said Division of Fish and
Wildlife Acting Director Larry Herrighty. “As important and visible as
eagle and osprey recoveries are, the Endangered and Nongame Species
Program protects a truly wide variety of species such as the red knot,
piping plover, bobcat, Indiana bat, bog turtle, eastern tiger
salamander, timber rattlesnake, wood turtle, even various species of
dragonflies and butterflies, to name a few.”<br />
<br />
The recovery of eagles and ospreys is largely the result
of a decades-old ban on DDT, a once widely-used pesticide that caused
egg failure. But the species have needed a lot of nurturing along the
way, including programs to incubate eggs in laboratory settings and
intensive monitoring of nest sites. The Endangered and Nongame Species
Program also works to identify habitats that are critical to support
the state’s bald eagle nesting and wintering populations.<br />
<br />
Among the state’s endangered species wildlife
recoveries, perhaps none have been as dramatic as that of the bald
eagle. In 1982, there was just one nest left in the state, in
Cumberland County’s Bear Swamp, and that nest repeatedly failed due to
DDT. Eagles were ultimately brought in from Canada to begin rebuilding
New Jersey’s population.<br />
<br />
In 2016, a record 172 pairs of nests were counted, up
from 161 in 2015 and continuing the trend of new nests being identified
ever. Of these, 150 actively nested, and the remainder were in the
process of establishing nesting territories before, which is part of
the species biological behavior. The active nests produced a total of
216 eagle chicks.<br />
<br />
The majority of the state’s nests are in southern New
Jersey. Nearly half of the nests are found in the Delaware Bay region –
believed to be the species’ historic stronghold prior to steep
DDT-related declines.<br />
<br />
Both eagles and osprey depend primarily upon fish for
survival. The DDT ban eliminated a toxin that accumulated in the tissue
of fish that eagles ate and caused their eggs to become brittle and
fail.<br />
The trend for the osprey, a primarily coastal
bird-of-prey, continues to be equally uplifting. During the osprey
survey conducted last June and July, volunteers and staff checked nests
from Sandy Hook to Cape May, and then up Delaware Bay to record nest
occupancy and success.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQPixJFhyvg/WLdmlOkR4QI/AAAAAAAAAU4/OjH2ktSCpbcuPkRPsRXurYdzjEnfsAVgwCLcB/s1600/17_0011_clip_image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQPixJFhyvg/WLdmlOkR4QI/AAAAAAAAAU4/OjH2ktSCpbcuPkRPsRXurYdzjEnfsAVgwCLcB/s320/17_0011_clip_image002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Of the 515 nests counted statewide, the majority – 316 – are found along the Atlantic coastline. <br />
Notably, the survey confirmed that osprey in the Barnegat
Bay area tagged with special red bands are increasingly using the bay
for nesting. The Barnegat Bay region and Sedge Islands Wildlife
Management Area located in the bay adjacent to Island Beach State Park
accounted for 102 of the state’s counted nests.<br />
<br />
This three-year-old project, known as Project RedBand,
is designed to chart the migration, feeding patterns, lifespans and
nesting patterns of osprey in the ecologically important Barnegat Bay
region while engaging the public in the recovery of this species
through the special bands that can be identified from a distance.<br />
<br />
The nests that were counted during the statewide survey
are believed to account for at least 80 percent of the nests actually
present in the state. Detailed data collected from 376 of the nests
showed that 670 chicks were hatched, for an average 1.78 young per
nest, more than twice the rate needed to sustain a stable population. A
total of 361 young were banded for future tracking.<br />
<br />
Volunteers work to build and maintain osprey nest platforms that have helped greatly in the recovery of the species.<br />
<br />
To review the 2016 bald eagle project report, visit: <a href="http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/ensp/pdf/eglrpt16.pdf">www.njfishandwildlife.com/ensp/pdf/eglrpt16.pdf</a> <br />
To review the 2016 osprey project report, visit: <a href="http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/ensp/pdf/osprey16.pdf">www.njfishandwildlife.com/ensp/pdf/osprey16.pdf</a> <br />
For more information about the Conserve Wildlife Matching Grant Program, visit: <a href="http://www.nj.gov/fgw/ensp/cwgrants.htm">www.nj.gov/fgw/ensp/cwgrants.htm</a> or call (609) 292-9400.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.crosscurrentfishing.blogspot.com</div>Cross Currenthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05784331456527392588noreply@blogger.com0