Spring 2020 Publication of the Pa. Council of Trout Unlimited www.patrout.org
Visit page 12 for a recap of the Keystone Coldwater Conference held Feb. 28-29, 2020 in State College. Moving forward By Greg Malaska PATU President
“Far and away, the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” – Theodore Roosevelt Today is May 2. The first day of spring gobbler and the nicest day we’ve had in weeks. After a long week at the office Rob Shane Photo (dining room table), I needed to get out The Delaware River, one of the top recreation areas and trout fisheries in the state, of the house. Faced with blown out rivers received the prestigious designation of River of the Year by American Rivers. and tailwaters due to the major rains on Thursday, today seemed like a perfect day Delaware named River of the Year to get after some “natives.” By Rob Shane Aside from being the source of drinking A few hours on the water chasing wild TU Mid-Atlantic Organizer water for more than 15 million people in trout and a couple miles on the Danners two of the largest cities in the United States helped to put a lot of things in perspec- For those in the Mid-Atlantic, or for any- (New York and Philadelphia), it provides tive, an opportunity many of us have been one who’s been trout fishing long enough so much more to all of us who rely on the craving. to have a bucket list of rivers, you’re cer- Delaware for their livelihood, a source of See FORWARD, page 3 tainly familiar with the Delaware River. See RIVER, page 7 Introducing: Fly Patterns of Pennsylvania tying column PATU Awards Visit page 6 for the debut of a new fly TU member, Nick Cobler kicks things off tying column, Fly Patterns of Pennsylva- with Charles Meck classic “The Patriot.” Information regarding this year’s nia, a quarterly feature focusing on flies Cobler is a Pittsburgh-based creative PATU award nominations is available with historical significance to the Key- director and visual designer, and a former on pages 10-11. The awards will be stone State and its waters. LL Bean casting and tying instructor who presented at the PATU Annual Meeting Pittsburgh-based creative director and was first introduced to fly fishing by his on Sept. 19. Nomination deadline is visual designer, and Penn’s Woods West father, Dwight, more than 36 years ago. July 31. IN THIS ISSUE EXCOM Actions...... 2 Treasurer’s Report...... 9 Headwaters...... 4 Keystone Coldwater Conference Recap...... 12 Minutes...... 8-9 PATU Merchandise Order Form...... 14 New Council merchandise available If you haven’t taken a look at PATU’s Wars, Trout Wars and a River Reborn” merchandise offerings lately, please take – This 268-page book authored by profes- a few minutes to check out our latest sional river guide and co-chair of Council’s additions on page 14: Insulated stainless Delaware River Committee Lee Hartman PA COUNCIL OF steel travel mugs, brook trout-themed dog is not a how-to or where-to-go-to fish TROUT UNLIMITED PO Box 5148 collars and Lee Hartman’s new book, “The book, but rather it chronicles the natural Bellefonte, PA Delaware River Story.” and unnatural history of the Delaware and 16823 Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mugs its watershed. PRESIDENT – Greg Malaska – These PATU-logoed, BPA-free insulated The book focuses on four centuries of 218 W. 13th St. stainless steel 16 oz. travel mugs are de- history and the author’s own personal Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 signed to fit in the console of your vehicle stories as well as those of the many indi- Phone: 570-657-7169 and feature a removable plastic lid with a viduals and organizations who have, and Email: [email protected] sliding cover for sipping your beverage. are continuing to sacrifice their time and EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT – An easy-grip handle assures stability and effort to keep the Delaware River flowing Bobby Hughes minimal spillage when you are on the go. free and clear without detriment to its flora 394 E. Washington St. Nanticoke, PA 18634 Price: $14.00 each. and fauna. Price: $25.00 each. Phone: 570-239-3909 Brook Trout-themed Dog Collars – All items are priced to include shipping Email: [email protected] Treat your canine fishing companion to costs and sales tax (where applicable) EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT – a new collar that features a unique Brook and can be ordered using a credit card for Monty Murty Trout design and offers waterproof tech- online payment at www.patrout.org or by PO Box 55 nology that is impervious to dirt, moisture downloading an order form and paying Laughlintown, PA 15655 and odors. Available in two sizes: by check. Phone: 724-238-7860 Small/Medium – length 20.75” (fits neck Profits from the sale of merchandise are Email: [email protected] size 12.5” to 17”) Price: $23.00 each. used exclusively for Council programs that TREASURER – Bob Volkmar Large/ X-Large – length 25” (fits neck benefit our mission“to conserve, protect, 1443 West Br. Fishing Creek Road Roulette, PA 16746 size 17” to 21.5”) Price: $25.00 each. restore and reconnect the coldwater re- Phone: 814-544-7174 “The Delaware River Story/Water sources of Pennsylvania.” Email: [email protected] SECRETARY – Bob Pennell 2319 Valley Road Actions Taken by EXCOM since Feb. 1, 2020 Harrisburg, PA 17104 Phone: 717-395-5124 By email vote: Email: [email protected] February 22: Approved Council’s sign-on to two letters from the Choose Clean Water Coalition to the PA House in support of funding for the Agricultural Improve- PA TROUT EDITOR & DESIGNER – Brad Isles ment Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill). P.O. Box 23 March 10: Approved letter from Council to PA Fish & Boat Commission recom- Grove City, PA 16127 mending the addition of the proposed list of Class A and Wild Trout Waters at the Phone: 724-967-2832 Commission meeting on April 27-28. Email: [email protected] March 14: Approved letter from Council to the Western PA Conservancy in sup- PA TROUT ADVERTISING – port of their C2P2 grant application to acquire property adjacent to the Susquehan- Brad Isles nock State Forest in Potter County, with the intention of conveying this property to P.O. Box 23 Grove City, PA 16127 the PA Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources. Phone: 724-967-2832 March 24: Approved Council’s FY2021 Operating Budget; commencing April 1, Email: [email protected] 2020 and ending March 31, 2021. WEB EDITOR – Bob Pennell March 24: Approved postponing Council’s Eastern Regional Training originally 2319 Valley Road scheduled for April 25 Harrisburg, PA 17104 until a date in August to be determined. Phone: 717-395-5124 March 25: Approved National TU drafting a letter to the Susquehanna River Ba- Email: [email protected] sin Commission outlining concerns due to possible groundwater contamination and COPYRIGHT 2020 proposed water withdrawals for a Nicholson Meats processing plant to be built near Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited Fishing Creek in Clinton County. No portion may be reproduced without permission. April 18: Approved Council sign-on to a National TU letter to the President of the U.S. in opposition to the proposed Pebble Mine project in Alaska. 2 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 www.patrout.org Join TU’s social distance fishing effort PA COUNCIL TU and our partners are asking everyone the spread of the virus. OF TROUT to practice #ReponsibleRecreation when 3. Avoid fishing from a boat with some- outside enjoying America’s great fishing one you haven’t been in lock-down with. UNLIMITED opportunities.Here’s what we recommend, In other words, if they’re not family, don’t 2019-20 COMMITTEES given what we know about the threats fish from a boat with them. Awards – posed by the coronavirus outbreak and the 4. Drive to the river separately to get to Beth Boyd COVID-19 disease: the angling destination. 717-404-7642 / [email protected] 1. Practice good social distancing on the 5. Stay local, if at all possible, to limit Budget – water. The Centers for Disease Control rec- exposure to others, and limit others’ ex- Monty Murty 724-238-7860 / [email protected] ommends staying six feet apart from oth- posure to you. Coldwater Heritage Partnership Admin. – ers. We’re taking it a step farther — we’re Spread the word by posting photos Rachel Kester asking anglers to stay a rod’s length apart and videos on Facebook, Instagram and 814-359-5233 / [email protected] from their fishing partners whenever pos- Twitter of you and your family practicing Coldwater Heritage Partnership TU Delegate – sible. The standard fly rod is nine feet long. social distancing while fishing. Be sure to Ken Undercoffer 2. Wear a multi-layered face covering use #ResponsibleRecreation and tag @ 814-765-1035 / [email protected] College/5 Rivers – when in the vicinity of other anglers. Even troutunlimited to be entered to win some Charlie Charlesworth a double-layered cloth mask can help slow great prizes and TU swag. 570-954-5042 / [email protected] Communications – Many of our chapters have canceled their Brad Isles FORWARD 724-967-2832 / [email protected] from page 1 annual fundraisers and even more have had Conservation – their conservation projects put on hold. We Dale Kotowski 724-747-1513 / [email protected] It’s been 47 days since Gov. Tom Wolf are all chomping at the bit to get back to Delaware River – told us to all go home. Since that time, our events, but we have to be prudent and patient to protect everyone’s safety. Lee Hartman many of us have been working from home 570-224-6371 / [email protected] We at PATU are doing our part as well. and have had plenty of time to reassess Jeff Skelding We held our first Zoom board meeting what’s really important in our lives, our 410-245-8021 / [email protected] last week and are developing some sce- jobs, and our streams. Development – narios to move the organization forward Monty Murty It’s also given me some time to think regardless of the length or intensity of the 724-238-7860 / [email protected] about our role as conservationists. COVID-19 pandemic. We are patiently Diversity Initiative – You, our volunteers, are the lifeblood Amidea Daniel waiting to see how this virus matures and of this organization. Without you, streams 814-359-5127 / [email protected] hopefully, it won’t impact our annual meet- don’t get improved, bills and permits don’t Kelly Williams ing in September, but the health and safety 814-765-2624 / [email protected] get monitored, and new conservationists of our members comes first. Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture – of all ages and groups don’t get to join the After nearly two months of quarantine, Ken Undercoffer 814-765-1035 / [email protected] effort. Protecting our streams is hard work social distancing, wearing masks to buy and is definitely worth doing. Membership – groceries, and missing our friends and Erick Lewis Sometimes our work is harder than family, we’re all a little punch drunk right 607-621-8120 / [email protected] usual, especially in times of crisis. now. I’ll task all of you to use this time National Leadership Council Rep. – The past few weeks have shown how to think about the future and what your Brian Wagner 484-894-8289 / [email protected] proud I am to be a part of this organization. chapter will be in the future. Update your Our Executive Committee has been forced Trout in the Classroom – strategic plans, learn new technology, and Rachel Kester to take some tough positions in response cultivate future volunteer leaders. I’ll chal- 814-359-5233 / [email protected] to COVID-19 and will need to make even lenge all of you to get to that hard work Trout Policy – tougher decisions moving forward. Re- that is worth doing. Len Lichvar 814-659-7057 / [email protected] gardless, our decisions will be guided by Eventually, we’ll get out of this bottle- two directives: 1.) They must be in the best Dave Rothrock neck and all that pent-up TU energy will 570-377-9712 / [email protected] interest of our streams and wild trout; and have to be used somewhere. See today as Veterans Service Partnership Initiative – 2.) They have to prioritize the health and an opportunity to plan where to direct that Bill Nolan safety of our volunteers. energy once the straitjacket is off. I really [email protected] As you know by now, we had to cancel believe that we are at the cusp of the great- Youth Education – Judi Sittler our regional trainings and TU National est period of conservation success in our 814-861-3288 / [email protected] has canceled its annual meeting in Maine. history… start writing your narrative now. www.patrout.org PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 3 Digital Edition Sponsors The Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited would like to thank the businesses on the next page for sponsoring the digital edition of PA Trout.
For information on how to become a sponsor of the digital edition or to advertise in the printed newsletter, please contact Charlie Charlesworth, Tali MacArthur or Brad Isles. Contact information is available on pages 2-3.
Digital edition sponsorship is $25 per issue for an approximately 3.5-inch by 3-inch ad that runs online only. Print ad costs vary by size. 26 North Second Street Jeffrey Ripple Clearfield, PA 16830 206 Vanyo Road 814-765-3582 | [email protected] Berlin, PA 15530 www.jimssports.com 814-701-9703 | [email protected]
Archery, Bicycling, Fly Fishing, Casting, Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Lessons Printed and Embroidered Clothing Guided Fishing Trips in the Laurel Highlands Headwaters A message from PATU President Greg Malaska
So what does Council actually do? After visiting with 27 of our 49 chapters, you begin to see certain issues and ques- tions that continue to arise. As president, I thought it was high time to address one of them. This is the article that needed to be written and should have been written a long time ago. This issue’s piece is designed to respond to two related, yet all-too-common questions from our chapters: 1. What does Council actually do? 2. What does Council do for me? In order to answer these two important Orr-Greene, our new MidAtlantic Policy successful chapters, but swapping ideas questions, it’s critical to look at our orga- Advisor, is our “eyes and ears” in Harris- amongst each other allows for a synergy nization and operations from 10,000 feet. burg. We regularly schedule meetings with that can’t otherwise happen through phone TU is a national 501(c)(3) charitable legislators and agency staff to promote calls or emails. WE are hoping to resched- nonprofit corporation. PATU is a state trout-friendly legislation and regulations ule the trainings for later this year. council of the larger whole. Our chapters and also work to defend against the con- Our Keystone Coldwater Conference is are subsets of both TU and PATU. Regard- trary. While Jen oversees and creates the also a great learning opportunity for our less of these multiple layers of operation, message, Rob Shane brings the message chapters and members. Every two years, we are still “One TU”. to our chapters and helps members to the KCC brings together agency staff, The Coldwater Heritage Partnership is understand the issues and advocate on the academics, and nonprofits to share and a partnership between PATU, the Penn- local level. Jen and Rob are both National discuss cutting-edge research impacting sylvania Department of Conservation and staff serving several Mid-Atlantic states our coldwater fisheries. Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Fish and and are an invaluable component to our Outreach Boat Commission, and the Foundation for conservation efforts. Once the message We also maintain a great new website Pennsylvania Watersheds. CHP is staffed is developed, PATU also uses its website, which shares up-to-date info with all our by a Program Director (Rachel Kester) and social media, and email blasts to notify our members. We have a Facebook page and has oversight from PATU and a CHP steer- members of the upcoming issues. a Twitter account as well. We help to edit ing committee made up of the four funding Education and networking and publish a quarterly newsletter which partners. CHP is responsible for three pri- Education is perhaps PATU’s greatest is posted online four times per year and mary tasks: 1) administration of the CHP benefit to our chapters. mailed once annually. We also send action coldwater grant program; 2) coordination Every year, we hold two separate train- alerts to our members via email regarding of the biannual Keystone Coldwater Con- ings, one in the east and one in the west. hot issues. ference, and 3) coordination, with PFBC, The trainings provide advocacy reports, Fundraising and grant programs of the Trout In The Classroom program. updates from the PFBC and TU National One of our biggest changes in the last Now that we understand how we are staff, and also showcase 1-3 chapters’ ef- few years is our reinvestment in our Forev- structured, we can go back to the core forts on specific projects. This year, we er Wild grant program. As you recall, this question: what does PATU do? Well… hand-picked four different presentations program grew out of the Back the Brookie we do a lot. from four different chapters to help provide program, which raised funds from the sale Advocacy a resource for chapters considering similar of license plates. Our goal with Forever PATU, in concert with National staff, projects. While the lecture-type format has Wild was to expand the scope of the BTB advocates for trout and our coldwater re- great value, even more value is added by program to those projects impacting wild sources. We constantly monitor legislation the networking opportunities provided by brown and rainbow streams. We also and DEP regulations through our Conser- these events. Being around 50-75 chapter expanded the scope of projects funded, vation Committee and also track regulatory leaders from across the state is a great providing grants for projects ranging from changes at the Fish and Boat Commission environment for cooperation and idea shar- stream improvements to signage. In this through our Trout Policy Committee. Jen ing. There is no one-size-fits-all model for Continued on next page... 4 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 www.patrout.org ...Continued from previous page explain where the money comes in and also has Bylaws, which EXCOM and its year’s budget, we prioritized fundraising where it goes out. members must follow. to ensure that more and more FW grants Committees and Regional VPs Over the years, we have had issues with are funded. These grants are administered PATU, like many other nonprofit, ac- Chapters or members not complying with by PATU’s Conservation Committee in complishes much of its strategic work National or PATU’s policies where we have concert with CHP Program Director, through committees, which are entirely had to notify the Chapter or member of Rachel Kester. Myself and EXCOM are volunteer-driven. Eleven committees the noncompliance. Absent violations of committed to find ways to provide value meet in person or via teleconference to express policies, we have generally taken back to our chapters and this is the most develop strategic plans and make recom- a hands-off approach with our chapters. mendations to EXCOM for implementa- visible opportunity. If you haven’t sent in In fact, wherever possible, we prefer to tion. They are open to all PATU members an annual appeal donation, Forever Wild address possible violations through the and are discussed on our website. These Chapter directly. could really use the help. Right now, we committees provide a great opportunity We’re here to help, not to dictate. If can only fund up to $1,500 per applicant. for those volunteers with a passion for a there is an impression to the contrary, that With your help, perhaps this could grow. special topic or those that just want to learn is on us and we are prepared to restore Let’s also not forget our merchandise more about a certain PATU initiative. We that image and its impact on our relation- sales. We have really streamlined our are always looking for new volunteers to ship with our chapters. Over the last two marketing efforts and are actively selling serve on committees, so I encourage you years, I have made it my priority to reinvest merchandise to assist with our programs, to get involved. into our chapters. We are one TU and we including Forever Wild. PATU Secretary Similarly, an important component of respect each chapter’s unique challenges Bob Pennell is spearheading this effort. our Board is our six regional vice presi- and opportunities. Again, we’re here to Make sure to check out our website to dents. They are the eyes and ears of EX- engage, not micromanage. see the new look and diverse set of goods COM, serving as a conduit to our chapters. I hope this piece has answered your available for purchase. Even better, if you The RVPs are the go-to people for chapter questions and dispelled some myths. We see a type of merchandise that we don’t questions and issues. I served as NE Re- all need to work together to protect our sell and you are interested in purchasing, gional VP for four years and had the chance coldwater resources on the state and local let us know. The more we sell, the more to develop hands-on working relationship level. Teddy Roosevelt once said, “Do we can put back into programs. with each of my chapters. what you can, with what you have, where One last item. For years, we held a raffle The elephant in the room: you are”. That credo has never been more to raise funds for the Trout in the Class- Can we tell you what to do? relevant. Thanks for all you do for this room program. After some initial success, Well…Sometimes. organization. the ticket sales stagnated and EXCOM TU National publishes a document decided it was no longer able to raise TIC known as the Leadership Manual. It funds in this manner. TIC is an incredibly catalogs all of TU National’s Policies. It valuable program and we continue to look is a great resource for all of you. It can be for creative ways to help pay for it. found at https://www.tu.org/wp-content/ We’re a nonprofit, so every purchase uploads/2019/11/TU-Leadership-Manual- and donation counts. In an upcoming is- Nov.-2019.pdf. PATU must follow that sue, Bob Volkmar, PATU Treasurer will Manual and so should every chapter. PATU
The Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited has more than 14,000 members in nearly 50 chapters statewide, with one common goal: The con- servation and enhancement of Pennsylvania’s coldwater streams and fisheries, specifically our wild trout resources. Trout Unlimited is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, functioning for charitable, educational and scientific purposes. Donations are deductible to the extent provided by law. For information on advertising in PA Trout, call 814-692-5232, or email [email protected]. See pages 2-3 for Council contact information, officers and committees. For listings of Regional VPs and Pennsylvania TU chapters, and their contact information, see pages 15-20.
PENNSYLVANIA TROUT is published quarterly by the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited. Information in this publication is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied. The Pennsylvania Council Pennsylvania of Trout Unlimited makes no guarantees as to accuracy, currency, quality or fitness of any information presented in this Trout is a publication. The Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited assumes no legal liability or responsibility for any incorrect, misleading, outdated or missing information. supporting The views and opinions expressed in PENNSYLVANIA TROUT are those of the writers, who are responsible for the member accuracy of content. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited. The accep- of the tance of advertising by the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited does not constitute an endorsement of the products or Pennsylvania services advertised. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for the publication of copy submitted by advertisers. Outdoor The Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited reserves the right to cancel or reject articles or advertising deemed inap- Writers Association propriate or unsuitable for PENNSYLVANIA TROUT. Anyone using any information from this publication does so at his own risk and shall be deemed to indemnify the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited. The publisher shall not be responsible or liable for any damage or injury resulting from such use. Letters to the editor are welcome; they must be signed and contain the writer’s contact information. PATU reserves the right to edit letters for length.
www.patrout.org PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 5 Fly Patterns of Pennsylvania by Nick Cobler THE PATRIOT Designed by Charles R. Meck (1932–2018) Fly Design / Highlights • Highly visible to the angler on the water’s surface • Great attractor pattern in any situation • Perfect top fly for a dropper rig
History Pittsburgh-based creative director and visual This dry fly pattern was first tied by Charles Meck many years ago and was designer Nick Cobler is a member of Penn’s originally called the RB Coachman. The RB stood for “really blue.” The body was Woods West TU and a former LL Bean fly cast- ing and fly tying instructor. See more of his work constructed of barbules from a blue marabou feather. When krystal flash became at Brushes-with-Brookies-and-Beer.com. available, he replaced the marabou body with smolt blue krystal flash.And after showing the pattern to Art Gusbar, of Somerset, PA the name was changed to the Materials Patriot because Art pointed out it was comprised of red, white and blue. The name • Thread: Red stuck and this attractor pattern has proven itself consistently across the state – and • Tail: Brown hackle fibers even country! • Body: Smolt blue Krystal Flash wound around the shank; wind About the Fly Pattern Designer some of the red thread in the Mr. Meck, a lifelong Pennsylvania resident, was a noted author and fly fishing middle of the shank, similar to the expert. He wrote several successful books and numerous magazine articles on fly Royal Coachman fishing and had fished virtually every trout stream in the state of Pennsylvania. He • Wings: White impala or calf tail, loved teaching others the sport of fly fishing and the appreciation of the beauty of the divided with figure 8 wraps natural world. Charlie was inducted into the Pennsylvania Fly Fishing Museum Hall • Hackle: Brown of Fame. He was also a member of the Outdoor Writers Association and PA Outdoor Mustad 94833, sizes 10-18 Writers Association. • Hook:
Insert hook into vise and start thread at least Clean, stack and measure calf tail for wing. Divide wings with figure 8 wraps; Try to an eye length behind the eye of the hook. Tie in with tips forward and build thread dam create a nice smooth transition with thread Wrap back to bend and attach tail, then a few to prop wings to vertical. (Tip: stagger cuts of over the trimmed calf tail. Cover or trim any krystal flash strands. Wrap thread forward. calf tail to help with a smoother transition.) stray fibers.
Wrap krystal flash forward and tie off with Grasp the feather with hackle pliers and wrap Create a small, neat head with thread, trim thread. Attach appropriately sized hackle forward behind the wing a few turns. Then any stray barbules if you like. I prefer mine as feather behind wing and move thread to front wind a few turns in front of the wing. Capture buggy as possible. Whip finish and coat with of wing. Secure with a half-hitch. with thread and trim any stray barbules. Wrap head cement to secure wraps. Hit the stream a red band with thread and whip finish. and do some prospecting! 6 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 www.patrout.org RIVER from page 1 escape from everyday life, and a place to call home. Earlier this month, American Rivers named the Delaware its River of the Year. It’s a prestigious designation that those of us who know the story of this river’s troubled history and have worked hard to change that narrative know did not come easy. Rob Shane Photo Before George Washington famously TU members and supporters hav worked hard to ensure that future generations crossed the Delaware on Christmas night in can enjoy the recreational opportunities of the Delaware River. 1776, the basin was home to the Lenni Le- Because of these new regulatory tools, as ic driver for much of the region. The famed nape tribe – the first to recognize its value well as the effort of the newly formed Dela- Upper Delaware wild trout fishery alone and cherish its bounty. The tribe’s territory ware River Basin Commission, the river’s contributes more than $400 million to that spanned the entire length of the river, from health improved. Dissolved oxygen levels, region. In total, more than $22.5 billion is its headwaters in New York to the mouth which had been extremely low or even pumped into the regional economy from in Delaware Bay. The great Lenape people non-existent in some parts of the river, recreational activities, and that number thrived by harvesting migratory returns of began to increase. Phosphorous and other continues to grow. American Shad and growing crops in the harmful chemicals started to disappear. There’s still plenty of work to be done, fertile valleys of the Delaware River. With the resurgence of clean water, mi- though. The Delaware River is also the birth- gratory fish such as American shad, striped Since 2018, Congress has appropriated place of American fly fishing. bass, and Atlantic sturgeon returned. between $5 million and $10 million annu- Although disputes continue about Coincidentally, at the beginning of the ally as part of the Delaware River Basin whether the Catskills in New York or the River’s resurrection in the 1970s, com- Restoration Program. Brodhead Creek in Pennsylvania can of- munities upriver in the Pocono Mountains Trout Unlimited has been the benefac- ficially claim the title, all who enjoy the were fighting a battle that would ultimately tor of more than $969,000 of this funding, sport can thank the cold, clean water in the define the future of the River as we know allowing us and our conservation partners Delaware Basin for the sport as we know it. it today. to carry out projects in New York, New With the introduction of fly fishing in The proposed Tock’s Island Dam, near Jersey, and Pennsylvania to improve wild the upper reaches of the Delaware in the the Delaware Water Gap National Recre- trout habitat and watershed connectivity. late 1800s also came some of the earliest ation Area, would have been the largest We are thankful for this financial com- stories of coldwater conservation. We at east of the Mississippi, creating a lake mitment, but we must continue to advocate Trout Unlimited can thank these founders, nearly 37 miles long and flooding one of for its growth into the future, securing at least in some small part, for our own the most popular National Park Service clean water for recreation enthusiasts, busi- existence today. units in the country. nesses, and those who rely on the Delaware The story of the Delaware River took a Local advocates fought this flood-con- for clean drinking water. turn, though, as industry took precedent trol dam tooth and nail, refusing to see their TU members and supporters, in addition and water quality quickly became a victim beloved river and its history needlessly to restoring stream miles throughout the of growth and economic prosperity. buried behind a man-made structure. Delaware River Basin, have been vocal Timber harvest, coal mining, and manu- And they won. advocates in support of such efforts, help- facturing giants such as Bethlehem Steel Today, the Delaware River remains the ing to ensure that future generations can were fueling the American industrial longest undammed river in the Eastern enjoy the recreational opportunities of the revolution. Alongside these prosperous United States, flowing freely for 330 Delaware River. industries came booming metropolitan miles from the confluence of the East and Earlier this month, the Fish and Boat populations, roads, parking lots, and lots West Branches in Hancock, N.Y., to the Commission upgraded more than 120 of impervious surfaces. Delaware Bay. Class A and Wild Trout streams, receiving At one point, the river’s water was so Additionally, more than 400 miles of more than 1,200 public comments in favor foul that it would turn the paint of ships the River and its tributaries are designated of these upgraded protections. brown. Vast sections of the river were void as Wild and Scenic, garnering protections of aquatic life. from the federal government from future Rob Shane is the Mid-Atlantic Orga- Enter the Clean Water Act in 1972, and development projects. nizer for Trout Unlimited. He’s based in the story of the river started to shift. The Delaware River basin is an econom- Carlisle, Pa. www.patrout.org PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 7 TU Climate Change submitted. Council’s PA Council Workgroup has devel- FY2021 operating of Trout Unlimited oped a roadmap to raise budget was approved awareness of climate by an email vote of Minutes of the April 26, 2020 change by communi- EXCOM in March. Executive Committee Meeting cating a consistent TU Murty outlined a Teleconference science-based message proposal for applying to our members. for Education Officers Attending: Greg Malaska, Bob Mid-Atlantic Policy Innovation Tax Pennell, Monty Murty, Ken Undercoffer, Director’s Report: Credits (EITC) to Bob Volkmar, Charlie Charlesworth, Rus- Report submitted. Orr- benefit businesses who sell Thrall, Brian Wagner, Dale Kotowski, Greene reported on her donate funding for Brian McGuire, Bobby Hughes advocacy work regard- the TIC program (see Others Attending: Rachel Kester, Len ing PA HB2426 and SB317, and requested further information under New Business). Lichvar, Jen Orr-Greene, Robert Shane, approval for Council to sign on to a letter Investments – No report submitted. Brad Isles in opposition to HB1822 (see action taken Volkmar pointed out that we will just The meeting was called to order at 9:06 under New Business). Shane reported that have to ride out the current downturn in AM by President Malaska. A motion was the four regional Trout Forums proposed the economy until conditions improve. made and carried to approve the Minutes for 2020 with PFBC have been put on hold. Awards – No report submitted. of our February 1, 2020 EXCOM meeting Financial Reviewer’s Report: John Delaware River – Report submitted. Lee as submitted. Leonard’s report was submitted for the Hartman reported that the newly proposed President’s Report: Malaska submitted months of January, February and March fisheries regulations for all streams and a report of his activities since the February 2020, showing no irregularities in any of rivers (stocked and wild) in the State of 1, 2020 EXCOM meeting. the accounts/charges, and everything is New York, including the border waters of Treasurer’s Report: A motion was well documented. the Upper Delaware River, have been put made and carried to approve the Treasur- Regional Reports: on hold until further notice. er’s Report dated April 2020 as submitted. • Northcentral – All eight chapters Conservation – Kotowski reported Actions Taken by EXCOM since reported. that the committee is now staffed with 7 February 1, 2020: The list of action items • Northeast – Eight of 10 chapters members and requested the assistance of taken by email vote since February 1, 2020 reported. Schuylkill County and She- the Regional VPs in compiling a list of the was approved as submitted. hawken did not report. conservation/environmental committee Program Director’s Report: Coldwa- chairs for each of their chapters. ter Heritage Partnership - Report submit- • Northwest – Six of nine chapters Women/Diversity – Report submitted. ted. Kester reported that an application has reported. Allegheny Mountain, Corn- Amidea Daniel reported that a decision been submitted to DCNR to fund $112,175 planter and Seneca did not report. will be made on April 29 on moving ahead for the 2021 (Round 26) CHP Grants • Southcentral – Four of seven chap- with plans for a Women & Diversity Lead- program. It is anticipated that Round 21, ters reported. Adams County, Falling ership Retreat scheduled for May15-17. 22 and 23 grants will be closed out by the Spring and Muddy Creek did not Youth Education – No report submitted. end of December. Volkmar stated that report. Membership – No report submitted. our cashflow related to CHP funding is in Erick Lewis has been appointed chair of • Southeast – Six of seven chapters good shape. this committee. reported. Bucks County did not report. Trout in the Classroom Program – Re- Communications – Report sub- port submitted. Kester reported that the • Southwest – Four of eight chapters mitted. Discussion on printing and new TIC website developed by Stroud reported. Fort Bedford, John Kennedy, mailing a second issue of PA Trout Research will be launched very soon. The Ken Sink and Mountain Laurel did resulted in a decision to go with the Winter annual order for TIC T-shirts is on hold not report. issue. Murty suggested that we develop an until the vendor is permitted to resume COMMITTEE REPORTS: editorial schedule with themed editions to production under COVID19 guidelines. Trout Policy – Report submitted. attract more advertisers and supporters. Keystone Coldwater Conference – Re- Lichvar reported that the meeting Veterans Services – No report submit- port submitted. Kester reported that there scheduled with PFBC for April 27 has ted. were 153 participants in the February Con- been postponed. Malaska requested that OLD BUSINESS: ference. She is working with Volkmar to the committee establish a policy for PATU Annual Meeting – Malaska develop a task list for the 2022 Conference. moving forward on the issue of proposed stated that as of now we are still planning National Leadership Council Report: rulemaking for Section 3 of Penns Creek. to hold our Annual Meeting on September Report submitted. Wagner reported that the Budget/Development – Report Continued on next page... 8 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 Treasurer’s Report by PATU Treasurer Chapter Donations Bob Volkmar Thank you to all chapters that donated to State Council in support of The Executive Committee approved the purchase of a laptop computer for the trea- the Trout Unlimited mission over the surer; PATU’s financial information will no longer reside on his personal computer. past six months. Russ Thrall, Northeast Regional VP, was kind enough to configure and set up the Exceptional Value $1,000 or more computer. With the latest software and backup to the cloud, we’re moving into the 21st • Valley Forge century. However, becoming acquainted with the new system has precipitated frequent High Quality $500 to $999 profanity-laced rants from the treasurer. This could go on for a while. • Allegheny Mountain We’re all struggling to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, which also could go • Doc Fritchey on for a while. President Greg Malaska has appointed a committee to develop an op- Brook Trout $250 to $499 erations continuity plan. Committee members are Rachel Kester (program director), • Adam’s County Bob Pennell (secretary), Russ Collins (southcentral regional VP), and Bob Volkmar • God’s Country (treasurer). The continuity plan is a contingency plan of sorts that identifies how PATU • John Kennedy will deal with the impacts of the pandemic and its economic fallout, and thus avoid • Oil Creek placing decisionmakers in the position of having to make hasty decisions amidst chaos. Wild Trout $100 to $249 I wish to thank all the members and chapters that donated to PATU in response to the • Forks of the Delaware Annual Appeal. Also, a shout-out to the Kettle Creek Watershed Association, which • Tiadaghton gave a generous donation in support of Trout in the Classroom.
...Continued from previous page will schedule a conference call with Steve and fall. 19 in Bedford. Moyer of National TU to discuss the Operations Continuity Planning – Mal- Regional Trainings – Malaska stated feasibility of accepting grant money from saska appointed Volkmar to chair an ad that while everything is set to conduct the Appalachian Region Independent hoc committee of Kester, Collins and Pen- our regional trainings later this year, he Power Producers Association for stream nell to develop a plan to identify adverse is requesting feedback from the Regional restoration projects. impacts on our Council operations, with VPs on whether we should postpone these NEW BUSINESS: the goal being to develop safeguards and trainings until next year due to probable Forever Wild Grants – Requests for procedures to ameliorate or prevent those conflicts with the date for our Annual proposals will go out in May, with a deci- impacts, in short…a recovery plan for a Meeting in September. sion on grant awards scheduled for August. return to normal operations. Update on Merchandise Sales – Lancaster Fly Fishing Show – Charles- Letter to SRBC on Nicholas Meats worth reported that Council has been al- – Orr-Greene will circulate a letter to Pennell reported that since taking on this located a space for the 2021 Show. A mo- EXCOM for signing on to a letter to the responsibility last April, merchandise tion was made and carried to participate, Susquehanna River Basin Commission sales have totaled $5.469. It is anticipated based on identifying volunteers from local objecting to the expansion of a Nicholas that publishing and mailing of a Winter chapters to man our booth for 2-hour shifts Meats processing facility in the Fishing issue of our newsletter will give the during the two days of the show. Volkmar Creek (Clinton County) watershed. program a much-needed boost in sales. will register us for the show online. PA House Bill 1822 – A motion was Stroud Research/TIC Program – The Riparian Buffer Grant – Kester sug- made and carried for Council to sign to a contract with Stroud has been closed out gested that we postpone any action on this letter prepared by Orr-Greene opposing and it was reported that they did a good until next year. passage of HB1822 which would freeze job for us on the TIC program. Education Innovation Tax Credit state funding for environmental projects PA Collegiate Fly Fishing (EITC) Application – Malaska asked during the virus pandemic. Championships – Charlesworth reported Murty to make any final changes to the Erosion Problems on Sandy Creek – that this event has been canceled for this application, then submit it to EXCOM for Malaska will reach out to Bob and Linda year, but we are in good shape for next approval pending solicitation of the 10 Steiner to suggest that they coordinate year due to having a student in place support letters. their efforts with the Oil Creek Chapter in who was responsible for organizing the Keystone 10 Million Trees Initiative – A combatting erosion problems they reported event this year. Saint Francis University motion was made and carried for Council on Sandy Creek (Venango County). in Loretto will be added to the College/ to join this Chesapeake Bay Foundation The meeting was adjourned by mutual Five Rivers program, with the Mountain initiative which will be available through consent at 11:52 a.m. Laurel Chapter serving as its sponsor. 2025 to allow chapters to obtain live stakes – Bob Pennell ARIPPA Grant Initiative – Malaska and tubes for planting trees in the spring Council Secretary PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 9 PA Council Award nominations are due by July 31 Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlim- ganizations such as government agen- navigate? If so, send nominations to ited will present its annual awards during cies, other non-profits, schools, etc., Brad Isles at [email protected]. the fall meeting at The Hall at Kinton’s and which had a notable impact on • Samuel Slaymaker Award for Best Knob (Bedford County Historical Soci- the community and/or environment., Chapter Newsletter – If your news- ety), 6441 Lincoln Highway, Bedford, PA • Doc Fritchey Award for Outstand- letter includes information about your 15522, on Saturday, Sept. 19. ing Coldwater Conservationist, TU chapter’s activities that is current, There is a huge amount of extraordi- Member – This award recognizes well-presented and clear, and is visu- nary work being accomplished by PATU a TU member with a history of ex- ally attractive, your chapter may very chapters, as well as many individuals, and emplifying PATU’s core values and well win this award. Send nomina- that work should be recognized. If you are mission- conserving, protecting, and tions, with a few copies of the newslet- aware of a group, chapter or individual restoring PA’s coldwater fisheries and ter, to Brad Isles at PO Box 23, Grove you feel is worthy of a nomination, please watersheds – and who demonstrates a City, PA 16127. A digital copy can also consider filling out a nomination form. commitment to volunteerism. Nominations are due by July 31. be sent to Brad at [email protected] • Forms may be emailed to Rachel Kes- Outstanding Coldwater Conserva- • Dr. Jack Beck Award for Outstand- This award ter at [email protected] or mailed to her tionist, Professional – ing Youth Outreach – This award recognizes an individual, either from at PATU P.O. Box 5148, Bellefonte, PA recognizes an individual who has a governmental agency, private en- 16823. shown exceptional leadership and terprise, or non-profit organization, Please note: nominations for Best News- commitment to youth outreach, pro- who has made an exceptional effort letter and Best Chapter website (described grams, and activities. to help fulfill the TU mission of con- below) should be sent to Brad Isles at serving, protecting, restoring, and • Ken Sink Award for Outstanding [email protected]. sustaining PA’s coldwater fisheries Service to PATU – This award is Below is a brief description of each and watersheds. given to a person who contributes to award with eligibility criteria when ap- PATU’s mission in a notable way. It plicable: • Outstanding Volunteer – This award recognizes a person who, while not is intended to recognize a person who • Chapter with greatest member- necessarily a member of TU or a con- has been involved for a significant pe- ship increase – Nominations not servationist professional, was particu- riod of time and who has demonstrated accepted; Recipient determined based larly helpful and who contributed time steadfast dedication to coldwater con- on data collected from National TU. and effort to supporting a TU chapter servation, protection, restoration, as • Chapter with greatest percent- or project. Their efforts on either a well as volunteerism and leadership. It age increase in membership – single project or on an ongoing basis is not necessarily presented every year. Nominations not accepted; Recipient can be considered and described in the • Inky Moore Award for Outstanding determined based on data collected nomination. Service to State Council – This award from National TU • Best Chapter Website – Is your recognizes a person who through his • Edward Urbas Award for Best PA Chapter’s website particularly at- or her recent efforts shows promise Chapter – This award is given to tractive, clear, up-to-date and easy to as a future leader of the organization. the chapter that best exemplifies the work of TU, including involvement in conservation efforts, community ac- Subscribe to PA Trout tivities, outreach, youth activities, etc. If you would like to receive future PA Trout newsletters by U.S. Mail, fill out the following • Best Small Chapter Award – The form and mail with your check payable to “PA Trout” to: PA Trout, PO Box 5148, Bellefonte, same criteria used in the Edward Ur- PA 16823. bas Award will applied to this award, Name______but it is limited to chapters with 150 or fewer members. Street or P.O.______• Best Chapter Project – This award City, State & Zip______recognizes an exceptional initiative, project, or effort on the part of a TU Subscription rate is $5.00 per year (4 issues) chapter which demonstrates efficient use of resources and which utilizes Enclosed is my check for $______for _____ year(s) effective partnerships with other or- 10 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 PATU Awards 2020 Nomination Form Fill out, clip and except where otherwise indicated mail this nomination form to: Rachel Kester, P.O. Box 5148, Bellefonte, PA 16823. You may also download it from www.patrout.org and mail to the same address. Scanned submissions can be emailed to [email protected]. Call 814-359-5233 with questions. The deadline for nominations is July 31.
Nominator’s Name: ______Email: ______Telephone Number(s):______**Nominator will be notified once a decision has been made. I would like to nominate ______for the
Check one: ______Edward Urbas Best Chapter ______Outstanding Coldwater Conservationist, TU Member (Doc. Fritchey Award) ______Best Chapter Project ______Outstanding Coldwater Conservationist, Professional ______Best Small Chapter (150 or fewer members) ______Outstanding Volunteer (Person who contributed time or effort in ______Dr. Jack Beck Award for Outstanding helping a TU chapter or project, either one Youth Outreach time or ongoing; doesn’t need to be a mem- ber or conservation professional) ______Ken Sink Memorial (not presented every year) For an individual who has made long-term ______Samuel Slaymaker For Best Newsletter significant contributions through their work (Send copies of at least three recent issues or with state council email to Brad Isles at [email protected]) ______Inky Moore Outstanding Contributions to ______Best Chapter Website (Contact Brad Isles at PATU’s Conservation Mission [email protected])
Reason for nomination (250 words or fewer):______
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PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 11 Keystone Coldwater Conference puts focus on conservation, education By Rachel Kester size, and water volume on brook trout PATU Program Director eDNA recovery. The keynote address on Saturday was The 14th biannual Keystone Coldwater given by Tim Schaeffer, executive direc- Conference was held on Feb. 28-29, 2020 tor of PFBC. at the Ramada Conference Center in State During his address, Schaeffer talked College. One hundred fifty-three partici- about the various ways that his agency is Brian Wagner Photo pants took part in the two-day conference. working to help our coldwater ecosystems Student research is a key part of the bi- The theme for this year’s conference was be more resilient in the face of climate annual Keystone Coldwater Conference. Coldwater Conservation and Education: change. He then moderated the plenary A list of sponsors along with other infor- Resiliency in a Changing Environment. session which was focused on resiliency mation about the conference can be found Friday, February 28, professional con- in a broad sense. on the website by following the above link. servationists from the PA Fish and Boat Panelists spoke about how organizations The next Keystone Coldwater Confer- Commission, Trout Unlimited’s Penn- can be more resilient, how conservationists ence will be held in the spring of 2022. sylvania Coldwater Habitat Program, the can help coldwater ecosystems and trout Penn State Center for Dirt and Gravel Road populations to be more resilient, and how Studies, and the US Forest Service led a organizations can continue to advocate for workshop on Aquatic Organism Passage. coldwater resources and raise funds for They educated workshop participants conservation projects. about the resources available for AOP proj- The remainder of Saturday was filled ects and how replacing undersized culverts with concurrent sessions focusing on can benefit fish and other aquatic species coldwater conservation and education. while also benefiting human health and Links to the presentations can be found GET A CUSTOM safety by reducing flooding impacts. An on the Keystone Coldwater Conference TROUT UNLIMITED additional benefit is reducing maintenance website under the “Presentations” tab or costs for municipalities. by following this link: https://www.cold- PENNSYLVANIA The AOP workshop was followed by a waterconference.org/presentations.html. LICENSE PLATE! student mentoring dinner, student poster Council would like to thank all the spon- session, and an evening reception. Thirteen sors, speakers, students, exhibitors and Want to show others that you’re a proud students representing four colleges and participants for making the 2020 Keystone member of PATU and support the mission universities across the state participated Coldwater Conference another successful of Trout Unlimited? Well, you can, and it event. A special thank you to the confer- in the poster session. will only cost you a onetime charge of $27 ence planning committee for their dedica- While all the students did an excellent for a specialty PA license plate. The cus- tion and hard work to bring the conference job presenting their research, three students tom plate fee is in addition to your annual to fruition. were recognized for their exemplary re- registration fee, and the plate is available search and poster presentations. for passenger cars and trucks 14,000 lbs. First place was awarded to Meredith or less, motor homes and trailers. Bennett of Duquesne University for her To order your Pennsylvania Council of poster titled Two Approaches for Aquatic Trout Unlimited PA state license plate, Environmental DNA Surveys: Advantages send your name, TU membership num- and Concerns. ber and current PA license plate number Second place was awarded to Sara Muel- by email to [email protected] or ler of Penn State University for her poster mail to: titled Phenotypic Variation in Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) Among Pennsylva- Bob Pennell nia Drainages. 2319 Valley Road Third place was awarded to Rachel Kim Harrisburg, PA 17104 of Juniata College for her poster titled In return, you’ll receive an application Standardizing Methods for environmental form to complete and send with your $27 DNA (eDNA) sampling in stream water: payment to PennDOT. Examining the role of filter material, pore 12 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 CHP awards $80K in Coldwater Conservation Grants Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited for Abandoned Mine Reclamation plant 3,000 riparian trees and shrubs in a announced that 12 grants totaling $80,000 – EPCAMR will assess naturally 1,200-foot segment of Muddy Creek on have been awarded to conservation reproducing and wild trout populations, five adjacent properties in Centre County. organizations across Pennsylvania through aquatic connectivity, macroinvertebrates, Trout Unlimited PA Coldwater the Coldwater Heritage Partnership’s and fish passage barriers within the Mill Habitat Program – This project will Coldwater Conservation Grant Program. Run watershed in Luzerne County, and will improve habitat for the existing Class A The funds will be used to perform stream identify where potential restoration and population of brook trout and reduce an assessments and develop conservation watershed improvement projects can be estimated 5,400 pounds/year of sediment plans in seven watersheds and complete on- recommended for future implementation. by addressing 7,920 feet of streambank the-ground projects, such as construction Falling Springs Chapter of Trout erosion along Beaverdam Run in Clinton of instream fish habitat structures, tree Unlimited – This project will implement County. plantings, and stabilization of eroding plans to clean, improve access to, and plant Warren County Conservation District stream banks in six additional watersheds. a riparian buffer along Falling Springs – Project partners will gather data to These grants are made possible with Branch in “The Meadows” section in prioritize projects that will improve the financial assistance from the Pennsylvania Franklin County. water quality, fish habitat, and streambank Department of Conservation and Natural Huntingdon County Conservation stability of Farnsworth Branch in Warren Resources through a Community District – This project will entail County. Conservation Partnerships Program grant completion of a watershed assessment Western Pennsylvania Conservancy – administered by the Bureau of Recreation and development of a conservation plan This project will restore a 200-foot section and Conservation; AND through funding that will provide a foundation for the of Clear Creek at Clear Creek State Park from the Foundation for Pennsylvania management of the coldwater stream in Jefferson County by removing failing Watersheds. The Coldwater Heritage ecosystems in the Upper Standing Stone gabion baskets along the bed and banks Partnership is a collaboration between Creek watershed in Huntingdon County. and installing 12 fish habitat enhancement PATU, PA DCNR, the Pennsylvania Fish Juniata College – This project will structures. and Boat Commission, and the Foundation identify barriers to wild trout passage and Western Pennsylvania Conservancy for Pennsylvania Watersheds. areas for fish habitat improvement in the – This project will mitigate the negative Organizations receiving funding support Doe Run watershed in Chester County. effects of stream acidification by from the CHP this year: Moshannon Creek Watershed strategically adding alkaline material to Clearfield County Conservation Association – This project involves various locations in the headwaters of District – This project will entail updating water quality information in Shade Creek, in Somerset County, through installation of structures to stabilize Moshannon Creek and its tributaries and instream dosing of limestone sand. the banks of the Bennett Branch of identifying risks to the trout streams within Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Sinnemahoning Creek and Wilson Run this watershed in Blair, Clearfield, and – WPC staff will complete at least 70 road- in Clearfield County, improving sediment Centre Counties. stream intersection surveys to determine transport and instream habitat for native Penns Valley Conservation Association current aquatic organism passage potential brook trout. – This project will install 16 streambank in three focal watersheds in Clearfield Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition stabilization and fish habitat structures and County.
RepYourWater provides creative and unique designs on high-quality apparel and merchandise, and makes a difference for wildlife habitat around the country. RepYourWater donates 1% of Pennsylvania designed apparel sales to Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited to support our Coldwater Conservation Corps program. We would like to thank RepYourWater for its support and for those who have purchased items. Please check them out at www.repyourwater.com and support coldwater conservation!
PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 13 Merchandise Order Form Thank you for supporting the efforts of PATU in protecting, conserving and restoring PA’s coldwater streams. Please allow 1-2 weeks to receive your order. Some items may ship sooner. For pictures and complete descriptions of these items please go to www.patrout.org/merchandise. If you have questions about the availability of any specific items, please feel free to contact Bob Pennell at [email protected] or 717-395-5124.
Item Description Price Qty. Total 1. “Back the Brookie” License Plate $25.00 Brook Trout Dog Collar – SM/MD $23.00 Brook Trout Dog Collar – LG/XL $25.00 Ballcap w/logo (circle) Khaki Navy Camo Brn. Grn. $17.50 Large Waterproof Fly Box (6”x4”x1”) $20.00
1 Medium Waterproof Fly Box (5.5”x3.75”x5/8”) $14.00 2. Custom-tied Leaders Dry Fly – 4X Tippet $6.00 Dry Fly – 5X Tippet $6.00 Dry Fly – 6X Tippet $6.00 Wet Fly – 4X Tippet w/ 2 Droppers $6.00 Wet Fly – 5X Tippet w/ 2 Droppers $6.00 3. “The Delaware River Story” Book $25.00 “PA Limestone Trout Creeks” Book $24.00 “History of Trout Unlimited in PA” Book $15.00 “Fly Fishing PA’s Spring Creek” Book $15.00 “More of CVTU’s Favorite Flies” Book $20.00 “Keystone Fly Fishing” Book $30.00 Traveller Fly Rod – 9’0, 5-wt., 7-piece (temporarily out of $130.00 2 stock) PATU Travel Rod Case $24.00 Official PATU T-shirt (circle size) S M L XL $20.00 Official PATU T-shirt (circle size) 2XL 3XL $23.00 PATU Sticker $1.50 3 PATU Travel Mug $14.00 6% sales tax (where applicable), shipping Note: and handling costs included in unit prices. Total $ * Prices effective May 1, 2020
6% sales tax (where applicable) and shipping and handling costs are included in unit prices.
Mail this form, along with money order or Ship to: check payable to “PA Trout” to: Name: ______PA Council of TU c/o Merchandise 2319 Valley Road Address: ______Harrisburg, PA 17104 City, State, Zip: ______
Or you can order directly online using a credit Phone ______Email ______card at www.patrout.org/merchandise. ** Phone and email are needed should PATU have questions regarding your order. Brodhead Chapter #289 Hokendauqua Chapter #535 Note: Due to ever-changing Eric Baird Art Williams COVID-19 restrictions, shut- 570-396-4647, [email protected] 610-266-1788, [email protected] downs and county-by-county www.brodheadtu.org http://hokendauqua.tu.org reopenings, any upcoming Our annual banquet was postponed until July The three TIC programs we sponsor have 31, 2020. All current conservation projects on been suspended, and several other programs events listed in the follow- hold until construction activities are allowed to were planned but had to be canceled because of ing chapter reports should be proceed. TIC programs and other educational COVID-19 shutdowns. We held our eight-week considered tentative. Please programs hit a snag with the closing of the schools fly tying course from January through February and prohibition on meeting people. Once we and had 13 students which included three women, check the individual chapter’s have a date that we can start planning around the several VSP members and two teens. website or newsletter for up- chapter can begin laying the groundwork for new ______dated status. educational events. We have no program speakers Lackawanna Valley Chapter #414 planned until September, tentatively. Jacob Bliss ______570-833-2091, [email protected] Forks of the Delaware Chapter #482 www.lackawannavalleytu.org NORTHEAST CHAPTERS Joe Baylog No report. Brodhead 289 610-751-9116, [email protected] ______forksofthedelaware.tu.org Forks of the Delaware 482 Monocacy Chapter #491 Hokendauqua 535 We purchased supplemental accident insur- Erik Broesicke Lackawanna Valley 414 ance for the new fiscal year. We held a successful 610-909-2652, [email protected] Zoom board meeting on April 15. The chapter www.monocacytu.org Monocacy 491 created a Facebook group to focus on community Pike-Wayne 462 engagement and promote more social interac- All meetings are canceled until the fall. There Schuylkill County 537 tion between members during these challenging are several land developments we are keeping an times. The chapter received another anonymous eye on, but nothing to report as of yet. Shehawken 81 $100 donation for our Bushkill Creek restora- ______Stan Cooper Sr. 251 tion project. The chapter is considering impacts from coronavirus to construction of the Bushkill Pike-Wayne Chapter #462 Paul Ranello Western Pocono 203 Creek restoration project that is expected to start 973-452-9301 this summer. Our Feb. 5 meeting featured guest www.pwtu.org REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT speakers Kerry Reider focusing on local Bushkill Township open space, and WCO Zach Rudd with In March PWTU celebrated its 35th year of Russell Thrall an update from PFBC. School closures led to being a charter member of Trout Unlimited. 159 Swift Road some hurried trout releases by our TIC teachers. We continue to be an active member in the Pike Stroudsburg, PA 18360 We did hold three Bugs & Suds fly tying events Conservation Dirt, Gravel and Low Volume Road at Riverside Barr & Grill on the second Thursday Program. PWTU will provide three $500 stipends Email: [email protected] in January, February and March. to graduating seniors from the three area high Phone: 570-620-8677 ______schools who will be majoring in environmental or related studies in the fall. Plans are underway for our second annual Women’s Introduction to Fly Fishing program. In February, Jack Harris gave a presentation on fishing in Alaska, and wildlife conservation. In March, Scott Major gave a pre- sentation on fly fishing on the Delaware River. ______Schuylkill County Chapter #537 Brian Lengel 717-708-8846, [email protected] www.schuylkillcountytu.org No report. ______Shehawken Chapter #81 Joe DeMalderis 914-475-6779, [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/Shehawken- Trout-Unlimited-811023349070239 No report. ______
Continued on next page... PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 15 ...Continued from previous page facebook.com/Trout-Unlimited-Columbia- R.B. Winter Chapter #124 Stanley Cooper, Sr. Chapter #251 County-PA-Chapter-038-149965298455579 Rod Jones Scott Brady We are working with the Columbia County 570-259-7205, [email protected] 570-479-6106, [email protected] District Conservation Office to provide grant facebook.com/ www.sctu.org access and boots on the ground for stormwater/ RBWinterTroutUnlimitedChapter/ culvert repair improvement, which has been de- Our banquet scheduled for March 28 at the We held election of new officers, and Dave Ni- layed due to COVID-19. A planned litter cleanup Holiday Inn Wilkes-Barre was canceled. We es- hart, PFBC cold water specialist, was the speaker at Orangeville Steps access area was also delayed. sentially finished a phase of a stream improvement at our January chapter meeting. In February, Steve The chapter completed weekly fly tying classes project at Mountain Springs Lake, where we took Sywensky presented. Our March and April chap- in February. Our chapter picnic is scheduled for down a dam, and planted 2,000 plants and trees in ter meetings were canceled. Our annual banquet July 14 at Kocher Park, Lightstreet. conjunction with Luzerne County Conservation scheduled for March 27 was canceled. In Febru- ______and to revitalize Bowman’s Creek where Moun- ary, members did a fly tying demonstration at Win- tain Spring Lake was before the construction of God’s Country Chapter #327 terfest, an annual event hosted by RB Winter State the dam. Bowman’s Creek roadside and stream David Saulter Park. President Bob Laubach and President-Elect cleanup was postponed. May fishing camps for 814-274-9763, [email protected] Rod Jones visited all TIC programs in February. Starting the first Monday in January, the chapter youths and adults were canceled. We’re planning Chapter meetings were held in January and ran a 10-week fly tying course for beginners. An a women’s fly fishing camp held in conjunction February. The march meeting was canceled. advanced fly tying course was also organized. All with the PFBC. Planning was conducted for the chapter’s booth chapter meetings and events have been suspended ______at the annual Maple Festival in mid-May, which until September 2020. was also canceled, along with a TIC release day Western Pocono Chapter #203 ______George Hludzik for Coudersport Elementary School. 570-788-2121, [email protected] ______Spring Creek Chapter #185 www.tu.org/connect/groups/ Jamie SanFilippo Lloyd Wilson Chapter #224 [email protected] 203-western-pocono Bill Bailey www.springcreektu.org In February, the chapter heard Catawissa Creek 570-748-6120, [email protected] Restoration Association president Ed Wytovich www.lwtu.org The SCCTU Board and a few members vol- unteered for the YMCA of Centre County’s, speak about the AMD remediation projects on We are attempting, along with some other Backpack Program on Jan. 23, where we packed wild brown trout in Catawissa Creek, but had to groups, to stay on top of the request by Nicholas over 100 bags of food for local children in need. cancel March meeting with Lehigh Coldwater Meats in Loganton to withdraw a minimum of Our annual banquet was rescheduled for July 25. Fishery Alliance representatives. WPTU hoped 175,000 gallons of water per day from wells in the Stream cleanup and McCoy Dam maintenance to help students or designated participants from Big Fishing Creek watershed. As of March 12, the in May were postponed. Our Veterans Service Hazleton STEM school release TIC-raised trout Susquehanna River Basin Commission’s technical Program hosted a VA Briefing on Jan. 11. Our if permitted. review is ongoing and is expected to continue for Smart Angler Program on Jan. 18 was canceled several months. Everyone who submits a com- due to snow. We had 16 women attend a bug ment to SRBC and provides contact information identification workshop in January, and 20 at- will be added to a list to be notified regarding a fu- NORTHCENTRAL tend a Wine, Women and Waders Happy Hour ture public hearing and also when the application CHAPTERS as part of our women’s initiative. Other events is scheduled for action at a quarterly commission included Vino & Vices on Feb. 6 and the 10th Columbia County 038 business meeting. The trout that were raised in the annual Joe Humphreys Film Festival on Feb 16. TIC programs have been released, but without God’s Country 327 The chapter applied for a Growing Greener grant student involvement. All projects, events and Lloyd Wilson 224 for $107,685. Brian Swistock spoke on the effects programs we have been planning for the second of climate change on PA water resources on Feb. Penns Creek 119 quarter and into the summer are on hold. 6. ______Raymond B. Winter 124 ______Spring Creek 185 Penns Creek Chapter #119 Susquehanna Chapter #044 Joe Dunmire Susquehanna 044 Charles Knowlden 717-899-6085, [email protected] Tiadaghton 688 570-971-1296, [email protected] The Annual Financial Report and Form 990 www.susquehannatu.com for fiscal year 2020 were prepared and submit- The Susquehanna Ripples newsletter was ted. Our annual banquet was held on March 14 distributed in January, February and March. REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT with speaker Sara Mueller, a Ph.D. candidate at Several veterans have expressed interest in fly rod Penn State. She presented and excellent program Bob Volkmar building. We are organizing a raffle and other fun- on her research into brook trout in a changing 443 West Br. Fishing Creek Rd. draising activities utilizing donated fishing items climate. The chapter purchased many truckloads to purchase rod-building kits. We convened our Roulette, PA 16746 of stone for repair of stream improvement struc- annual summit of area watershed organizations, tures at Karl B. Guss State Park. Park employees Email: [email protected] public officials and conservation organizations placed the stone. Tying classes were held at the Phone: 814-544-7174 on Jan. 8 in order to learn and promote synergies Juniata Valley YMCA in January and February. about the volunteer efforts and accomplishments All TIC programs released fish early due to school to protect and conserve our area streams and Columbia County Chapter #38 shutdowns. Erick Lewis watersheds. Tim Schaeffer, executive director ______607-621-8126, [email protected] of PFBC, and Eric Hussar, PFBC president, pre-
16 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 sented the strategic plan for the commission at Clearfield, PA 16830 Western Pennsylvania Conservancy in conduct- the Feb. 12 chapter meeting. We are monitoring ing LWD work in order to improve the habitat the Sugar Valley water withdrawal applications Email: [email protected] of the upper section of the East Branch. Work in the Big Fishing Creek watershed and will Phone: 814-765-1035 was conducted under a grant from the PATU provide comments. Geoff Smith, Susquehanna Coldwater Heritage Program. Four of a planned River lead biologist for PFBC, gave an update on Allegheny Mountain Chapter #036 six fly tying classes were held before the CO- Susquehanna River smallmouth bass population Codey Schlemmer VID-19 led to shutdown. The chapter is trying to and related research programs at March 11 chapter 814-953-5295, [email protected] put together plans for the completion of the last meeting. We concluded another successful weekly www.amctu.org two classes. The chapter is working with the Elk fly tying course in February and into March, No report. County Conservation District to formulate an although we had to cancel the last three sessions. ______AMD cleanup plan for West Creek. Recent high Several chapter members have been approached Caldwell Creek Chapter #437 water flows have been increasing the acid mine about participating in Casting for Recovery, as we Tom Savko drainage entering the creek and causing problems have done in the past. The chapter will not sponsor 814-664-2124, [email protected] for the trout population. a Casting For Recovery program due to concerns ______about administrative requirements similar to Proj- Work on area streams with the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is on hold. Weekly Neshannock Creek #216 ect Healing Waters, although we will encourage Jeff Kremis women to participate in fly casting instruction in water testing with AALLARM is also on hold. Our four TIC programs released fish early due 724-588-4378, [email protected] conjunction with our Veterans Service Program. ww.neshannock-tu.org We applied for a Technical Assistance Grant that to school shutdowns. Outdoor Day for May 16 involves the TU Lock Haven office gathering data was canceled. Our annual banquet planned for March was and creating a plan for potential AMD-related ______canceled and rescheduled for next spring. We conservation projects in the Upper Loyalsock Cornplanter Chapter #526 will be having the annual spring cleanup on the Creek watershed. Shawn Rummel was going to Troy McDunn Coolspring DHALO area with date and time to present a program about the project at our April 814-723-3759, [email protected] be announced after restrictions have been lifted. 8, chapter meeting which that postponed. Shawn www.facebook.com/pages/Cornplanter- The Deer Creek group is also working on plans is continuing with his work. Chapter-Of-Trout-Unlimited for stream improvement projects and any work- ______day details will be provided once everything is No report. set. TIC release day plans had to be changed on Tiadaghton Chapter #688 ______short notice and all schools were able to release Jere White their fish. 570-662-2167, Iron Furnace Chapter #288 Mark Hanes [email protected] 724-464-7320, [email protected] Northwest PA Chapter #41 Several members attended the Keystone www.ironfurnacetu.net Bill Eckert Coldwater Conference in February. F3T film and In mid-January we had a “Pint Night” recruit- 814-392-2696, [email protected] hors d’oeuvres was held March 14, though it was ment event at Mechanistic Brewing in Clarion. http://nwpachaptertu.blogspot.com lightly attended. Project planning for the EAS It was held on a Friday night and we signed up grant on Long Run is on hold and trees will not be Our Board approved a $500 donation toward about 20 new members to the chapter. Plans are available to plant this spring. Our final free Flies purchasing trout to support the Edinboro Univer- to have more of these events in future it really got and Lies event was canceled. The film “Live the sity Fly Fishing Club’s 2nd annual kids fishing some excitement going within the chapter and Stream: The Story of Joe Humphreys” was shown derby to be held again at Mallory Lake on the EU community. Terry Morrow gave a presentation Feb. 19 at the Victoria Theater in Blossburg. campus. Several members were set to volunteer to at the Clarion Rotary Club’s February meeting help with activities. Unfortunately, the derby was about the chapter and what we are working on. canceled due to the closing of the campus. Presi- We have been working on a packet with informa- dent Bill Eckert and board member Matt Kemp NORTHWEST CHAPTERS tion about that chapter that will be sent out for attended the Keystone Coldwater Conference in an appeal to members and friends of the chapter. State College. Our annual showing of the F3T Allegheny Mountain 036 Hopes are we can start work on the Clear Creek movie had to be canceled. Chuck Keeports, hy- Caldwell Creek 437 Habitat Improvement with our EAS grant. Work drologist for the Allegheny National Forest, gave a Cornplanter 526 was set to start in early to mid June. We are still presentation on the results of three years of water waiting to hear from our partners at the Western quality sampling of numerous forest headwater Iron Furnace 288 Pennsylvania Conservancy on when this project streams for PH, methane and other contaminants. Jim Zwald 314 will move forward. Fly tying classes in February While several streams showed higher than desired Neshannock 216 were again a success this year. We again held Pies heavy metals, overall PH levels are rising due to and Flies events at Clarion University in January the diminished use of coal in our power plants. Northwest PA 041 and February. We had to cancel our April meet- ______Oil Creek 424 ing and fly casting clinic/picnic at Cook Forest. ______Oil Creek Chapter #424 Seneca 272 Jennifer Lyons James Zwald Chapter #314 814-671-1292, [email protected] Murray Neeper www.oilcreektu.org 814-834-3472, [email protected] We have a number of new members/leaders REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Considerable work was conducted on the upper and have been loosking forward to this year’s Ken Undercoffer section of the Middle Fork of the East Branch of activities. A Veterans Service Program event at the the Clarion River. The chapter partnered with the 1510 Village Rd. Continued on next page... PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 17 ...Continued from previous page Tying Night. In February, we had a tightline vs. program trout were released early and without the indicator nymphing presentation. Our 2020 Fly kids due to school closings. Sandy Creek Conservancy on June 6 was post- Fishing Film Tour at the Colonial Theatre, Phoe- poned. Our banquet planned for April 4 at the Ale ______nixville, was postponed. House in Franklin was canceled. Tom Young, Dan Tulpehocken Chapter #150 Rockwell and WCO Mark Kerr attended the an- ______Brenda Bittinger nual meeting of the Venango County Gravel and Little Lehigh Chapter #070 610-704-4676, [email protected] Low Volume Road committee. They approved Scott Alderfer www.tullytu.org spending of all the monies allocated for this year 610-390-6219, [email protected] We are continuing to work on updating and and needed to ask for a number of requests to be www.lltu.org resubmitted next year, as this has become a very migrating to a new website design. Many of our popular program in our county. We helped with We have continued planning for possible fundraising activities were canceled. From May to equipment for the Titusville TIC program. The stream improvement projects on the Little Le- June we’ll be holding a “Local Business Gift Card program for our February meeting was presented high Creek. We held the drawing for our annual Raffle” with three tiers of prizes. Tickets will go by Mike Reynolds, teacher at Titusville Middle fall raffle on Jan. 8. Chapter leadership met with out in mailed newsletters, and we’re working on School. His science program includes TIC and representatives from the Watershed Coalition of setting up an online portal. Restoration projects field lab work. the Lehigh Valley, an umbrella group of water- include working with Javius Galan for wetlands ______shed associations from Lehigh and Northampton project grant support, working with Berks Parks counties. Also attending were several master and Rec to establish lumber-based deflectors in Seneca Chapter #272 watershed stewards, graduates of Penn State the Tulpehocken. Our TIC programs released their Chase Howard Extension’s Master Watershed Steward Program. trout before schools closed. Our annual casting 814-598-3449, [email protected] We discussed partnership opportunities in which competition and BBQ is tentatively scheduled www.facebook.com/SenecaTroutUnlimited the stewards would assist LLTU with labor on for July 15 at the Tully House, Grings Mill Park, No report. future stream improvement projects. Our TIC Wyomissing. schools made plans to release their fish as soon ______as possible given school closures in mid-March. We plan to apply for a 2020 Embrace A Stream Valley Forge Chapter #290 grant. Recent speakers included Caitlin Mercier, Pete Hughes 610-827-9239, [email protected] SOUTHEAST CHAPTERS watershed specialist, and Jolie Chylack, environ- mental educator, both from the Lehigh County www.valleyforgetu.org Bucks County 254 Conservation District, talking about partnership All activities, including our major fundraiser Delco Manning 320 opportunities for LLTU with the Conservation for the year have been postponed or canceled. Little Lehigh 070 District; and Waterways Conservation Officer We will still hold one of the raffles usually held Travis Miller (Lehigh County territory) speaking as part of our Spring Trout Show. The tickets for Perkiomen Valley 332 about stocking efforts and new regulations. this raffle were mailed in advance. All 14 schools SE Montgomery Co. 468 ______in our TIC programs released their trout. VFTU Tulpehocken 150 still has several grant applications pending for Perkiomen Valley #332 stream monitoring and for installing additional Valley Forge 290 Thomas W. Smith stormwater trenches in the headwaters of Valley 215-513-9709, [email protected] Creek and its tributaries. We are also working with www.pvtu.org other organizations to submit grant applications The chapter secured PADEP GP-1 approval to for stream improvement work. REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT proceed with stream restoration on Hosensack Creek, which we’re planning to implement in Brian McGuire September, 2020. We are working on final design 52 W. Princeton Rd. and funding for a quarter-mile length of Perkio- SOUTHCENTRAL Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 men Creek at Camelot Park, Upper Hanover Twp. CHAPTERS Our F3T event on April 23 was postponed. We Email: [email protected] are scheduled to participate in “Schuylkill River Adams County 323 Phone: 484-270-8505 Greenways” Summer Camp in 2020. Codorus 558 ______Cumberland Valley 052 Bucks County Chapter #254 Joe Mihok SE Montgomery County Chapter #468 Doc Fritchey 108 215-589-9531, [email protected] Richard Terry Donegal 037 www.buckstu.org 215-675-1536, [email protected] www.tu468.org Falling Spring 234 No report. Muddy Creek 575 The chapter held its annual Polar Bear fish- ______ing outing on the second Saturday in January. A Delco Manning Chapter #320 winter stocking took place in March and resulted Fred DeWees in a lot of activity on the Pennypack that flows 610-547-9403, [email protected] through the Pennypack Trust Property. Our annual REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT www.dmtu.org banquet in March was postponed until the fall. A Russ Collins fly tying class was offered to TU and Pennypack Mono recycling tubes being placed on streams 1167 S. Forge Rd. Trust members during the winter resulting in is completed. We did not qualify for any recent several new members joining the chapter. Our TIC Palmyra, PA 17078 grants. Our January meeting was our annual Fly 18 PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 Email: [email protected] grant to DEP for restoration of a handicapped and 724-498-6632, [email protected] Phone: 717-580-3958 children’s fishing area on Powell’s Creek in upper www.arrowhead214tu.org Dauphin County. Arrowhead’s banquet originally scheduled for ______Adams County Chapter #323 March 28 was rescheduled. The chapter was able Hank Rajotte Donegal Chapter #037 to stock the DHALO on Buffalo Creek with fish 717-408-8747, [email protected] Tom Hall furnished by the PFBC as well as from Arrow- www.adamscountytu.org 717-898-8664, [email protected] head’s nursery prior to COVID-19 restrictions. www.donegaltu.org Subsequent stockings are yet to be determined. No report. The chapter completed our annual beginner fly ______Our spring fundraiser originally scheduled for April 4 was postponed. Our projects are all tying course in January and February of 2020. We Codorus Chapter #558 on hold and most of our conservation activities are considering an application for an additional Tom Feninez for the summer were canceled or postponed. As grant for future work on Huling Run. TIC interac- 717-817-8446, [email protected] part of a grant from the Campbell Foundation, on tion with our seven schools was halted in light of www.codorustu.org Jan. 23 we held a land-owner outreach at Camp the school closures. ______The status of two planned projects for which Andrews on Fishing Creek. Speakers included we were awaiting permits is unknown. We were Shaun McAdam from National TU, Strouds Chestnut Ridge Chapter #670 hoping for a late summer/early fall timeframe. Water Research Center and local farmers. Our Ben Moyer We completed a significant stream cleanup proj- new Women’s Initiative coordinator is Becky 724-329-3772, [email protected] ect earlier this year, removing a variety of large Whitson, a teacher at Montessori School who is www.chestnutridgetu.org objects that have been lingering since our historic very involved in the TIC program. She gave a The Chestnut Ridge chapter has developed an flood in 2018. Furniture, televisions, tires, kids presentation about the TIC program at our Febru- ambitious schedule of educational, outreach, and toys and tires were all among the items. Also ary membership meeting. fund-raising (which are also educational) events before the state shutdown, we held two informal, ______over recent spring seasons. These include sev- open fly tying sessions for members and others. Falling Spring Chapter #234 eral TIC release days with instruction on stream We managed to organize a release day into the Chris Rudyk ecology and casting, a kids’ fishing experience south branch of Codorus Creek for two of our 717-387-1246, [email protected] for urban children, a veteran’s fishing day, our TIC schools prior to their closings. Our other chapter’s totally-fun-and-no-work fishing day two schools also arrangements to release their No report. ______at Beaver Creek, hosting the International Fly- fish as well. Fishing Film Festival, and our 25th annual chapter ______Muddy Creek Chapter #575 banquet. Because our board concluded it was the Cumberland Valley Chapter #052 Jimmy O’Connor only responsible course, we canceled all these John Leonard 717-451-5200, [email protected] events. We will, however, run our banquet in 717-512-4620, [email protected] www.muddycreektu.org March 2021, as if it were indeed our 25th annual www.pacvtu.org No report. fete. We also canceled our annual litter cleanup on Dunbar Creek, and a first-ever cleanup on Pike Our Limestoner Fundraiser and Conservation Run, a Delayed-Harvest stream in Washington Banquet was postponed until Oct. 3, 2020. We County. These will be resumed at the earliest are still working on our LeTort restoration plan, possible time. Physical habitat improvement work which is being written by Lori Glace from the SOUTHWEST CHAPTERS to improve aquatic organism passage on Dunbar Cumberland County Conservation District. We Arrowhead 214 Creek, in partnership with Habitat Partners at hope to fulfill all the CHP grant requirements by Chestnut Ridge 670 California University of Pennsylvania, is tempo- the end of 2020. When able, membership meetings rarily suspended, but will be completed later this are held on the third Wednesday of each month Forbes Trail 206 year. We have been trying to maintain a sense of (except August & December) at Appalachian Fort Bedford 291 chapter-unity, with frequent updates on Facebook Brewing Company, Mechanicsburg. John Kennedy 045 and our website, and as-needed exchanges among ______Ken Sink 053 the board and officers. The president also reported Doc Fritchey Chapter #108 Mountain Laurel 040 to the CRTU membership a summary of the Zoom Russ Collins meeting hosted by National TU president Chris 717-580-3958, [email protected] Penn’s Woods West 042 Wood and other national staff on April 16. We www.dftu.org are currently working within the totally rational All plans and preparations were completed in restraints and guidelines established by Governor anticipation of our annual fundraising banquet, Wolf, to secure delivery and placement of alkaline which ended up being postponed. We took a dif- REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT limestone sand to our Glade Run acid-mine- ferent track for the fundraising in that we sought Dale Kotowski drainage remediation project. Our partners in this, “Special Sponsors” for our conservation efforts. 304 Fordyce School Road the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Mountain We raised $4,250 from these business partners. Watershed Association, and Wharton Township The chapter is doing the groundwork for a major Waynesburg, PA 15370 have been supportive and as helpful as possible. effort to restore Spring Creek watershed in Derry Email: [email protected] Our objective is to have 225 tons of limestone Township. This effort may lead to submission to Phone: 724-747-1513 sand treating the Glade Run headwaters (tribu- EPA for a 319 grant for a Watershed Implementa- tary to Dunbar Creek) by the end of April. The remote location and the nature of the project will tion Plan. Additionally, plans are being discussed Arrowhead Chapter #214 to form a watershed association for this creek. The enable us to complete this treatment safely and Bill Libengood chapter is awaiting word on a Growing Greener Continued on next page...
PA TROUT ... Spring 2020 19 Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Lancaster, PA Permit No. 280
PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL OF TROUT UNLIMITED Post Office Box 5148 Bellefonte, PA 16823
...Continued from previous page remind them to follow the social distancing www.mltu.org within the guidelines of “essential enterprises,” guidelines offered by PFBC. No report. since it supports higher water quality within the ______commonwealth. Fort Bedford Chapter #291 Penn’s Woods West Chapter #042 ______Rylan Schnably Charles Buffington Forbes Trail Chapter #206 814-494-3751, rschnably@bedfordcounty- 412-388-1666, [email protected] Larry Myers conservation.com www.pwwtu.org 724-454-9345, [email protected] www.facebook.com/fortbedfordtu The Board has had three meetings by phone www.forbestrailtu.org No report. conference with the primary topic being the re- The chapter had a number of school field day ______view and approval of chapter policies to be more and trout release events scheduled for spring John Kennedy Chapter #045 in compliance with National TU. We’re still work- along with a few public outreach activities. Those Jerry Green ing on the language of a Youth Protection Policy were all canceled due to the COVID-19 outbreak. 814-934-7046, [email protected] which should be ready for review by the May Members continue monthly water quality testing tu.org/connect/groups/045-john-kennedy phone conference. We’ve been working to revise on both Linn Run and Rock Run. The stream No report. our communication with members. The newslet- chemistry is holding relatively steady. Our an- ______ter has been incorporated into the website, which nual Veterans Service Partnership fishing event in has been expanded considerably. We’ve decided partnership with the Kingston Veterans Sportsmen Ken Sink Chapter #053 to keep using an email service that will provide Club has been tentatively rescheduled for May 1, Keith Ewing a quick look into topics on the website instead 2021. We invited our youth fly tying class from 724-840-3145, [email protected] of a full commentary with embedded links. We Ligonier Valley Middle School to our February http://kensink.blogspot.com plan a survey of members to gauge their reaction monthly meeting. At our March monthly meeting No report. to the revised communication and to the revised we held our annual Show & Tell. Our executive ______website. Our Cabin Fever Fly Fishing Expo was committee meets via Zoom videoconference as Mountain Laurel Chapter #040 held before COVID-19 shut things down. Given needed to manage business matters. We want our the quarantine, we have elected to have a contest Randy Buchanan members to enjoy the outdoors and especially in which individuals or families go to a stream 814-467-4034, [email protected] trout fishing during these trying times. But, we and collect trash.