Tippets: New Threat on the South Fork, Protecting Marine Resources, Paddling Ban Lifted, Bull Trout Recovery, Catch and Kill

October 14, 2015 By: Erin Block

  • A new parasite is killing whitefish on the South Fork of the Snake River. Fisheries managers worry trout species could also be at risk. Read more from Paul Bruun at The Jackson Hole News & Guide.
  • America’s marine resources are increasingly threatened by pollution and overfishing. In a recent statement and video, President Obama addressed these issues and presented next steps, including two new marine sanctuaries (in Maryland and Michigan), and tools to tackle illegal fishing. Read more from The White House.
  • Despite longstanding opposition from conservation and angling groups, the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee recently lifted longstanding restrictions and will now allow kayaks, rafts and other “hand-propelled” vessels to be used on rivers and streams in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Via The Spokesman-Review.
  • The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has finalized its Bull Trout Recovery Plan, which outlines the actions needed to recover bull trout populations in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Nevada. Some conservationists, however, say the plan isn’t enough. Via Oregon Public Broadcasting.
  • The practice of catch and release fishing is an effective conservation strategy. However in some places, the best thing might actually be to keep your catch. S. Chris Hunt writes about “catch and kill” fishing of invasive species, via Hatch Magazine.