DEC Announces Angler Outreach Event

Biologists to Update Status of Lake Erie and Niagara River Fisheries

An upcoming meeting to update the public about the status of the Lake Erie and Upper Niagara River Fisheries is scheduled during the month of June, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced today.

"DEC is committed to sound management of Lake Erie and Upper Niagara River fisheries to maintain high-quality angling opportunities and associated economic benefits," DEC Regional Director Abby Snyder said. "This event provides an excellent opportunity for anglers to hear directly from the biologists who study and manage Great Lakes fisheries."

The free seminar will take place at Woodlawn Beach State Park's Lodge on Tuesday, June 27 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and will begin with an informal discussion and poster exhibits. This will be followed by a series of presentations on Lake Erie and the Upper Niagara River fisheries topics, including an opportunity for angler input on a variety fisheries management activities such as a newly released steelhead management plan. The meeting will conclude with questions and an open discussion.

Key members of Lake Erie and Niagara River's fisheries management and research community will present on Lake Erie fisheries management and assessment activities for steelhead, walleye, and muskellunge, and discuss research initiatives and habitat improvement projects. This seminar is sponsored by DEC's Lake Erie Fisheries Unit and Region 9 Fisheries offices. Anyone interested is welcome to attend this free event and registration is not required.

The Lake Erie and the upper Niagara River rank among New York State's top fishing destinations, especially for walleye, smallmouth bass and steelhead. The 2007 statewide angler survey estimated more than 800,000 angler days spent on these waters and the estimated value of these fisheries exceeded $22 million to the local New York economy.

For further information contact Don Einhouse, Lake Erie Unit Leader, (716) 366-0228.