Mid-Atlantic Conservation News
Robert Ferroggiaro, Vice President for Conservation
of the NCC FFF, recently reported a summary of
ongoing, volunteer conservation activities underway
by the Northern California Council. Similarly, the
May issue of Fly Fisherman includes a short article
that referenced a Senate bill signed by the
previous California governor Gray Davis, that gives
that state’s regional water quality boards
veto power to prevent proposed timber harvest plans
that degrade water quality or add significant
amounts of sediment to streams. A short scan of the
internet (e.g. http://www.macconservation.org/)
quickly brings the reader to realize that there are
concerns and efforts across this nation directed at
preserving our natural resources, particularly
clean water.
At the beginning of the year, most of the clubs in
the Mid-Atlantic Council were queried as to what
conservation projects their club is currently
supporting. While this listing below demonstrates
that clubs on the east coast too are active in the
conservation effort, the report that follows may
serve as an incentive to all MAC clubs to
“adopt-a-stream” conservation project.
Pennsylvania Chapter BOJC
Erection of fish habitat and stream improvement
devices along Big Elk Creek, Chester County,
Pennsylvania. This project saw the installation of
deflector and boulder placements in early 1999. The
second phase (July 2003) consisted of insertion of
log face and stone deflectors along with more large
boulders. With these projects completed, already
the stream is beginning to develop structure,
insect life is prevalent, and more
“hold-over” trout noted than ever
before.
Fly Fishers Club of Harrisburg
FFCH continues to be active in the restoration of
Big Spring Creek, Newville, PA. Along with the new
Big Spring watershed Association, this effort is
directed at restoring the wild brook trout fishery
for which it was famous in the 1950’s.
Potomac Valley Fly Fishers
Restoration of sections of Carroll Creek within the
Frederick, MD. city limits. The project which will
be completed in phases includes tree planting and
erection of fencing to restrict cattle from
crossing the stream and eroding stream banks.
Additional projects include upgrade of the stocking
pens located along Monteview Lane in Frederick.
Antietam Fly Anglers
AFA-supported projects include upgrades to both
Beaver Creek and Black Rock Creek, including
creation of habitat and stream structure, fencing
to keep cattle from eroding stream banks, and a
succession of stream-side plantings. Volunteer
support from local clubs, schools in the area, and
organizations such as the Chesapeake Bay Foundation
have helped in making this a most successful
program, resulting in DNR designation of a one-mile
section of stream as “catch and
release” beginning in 2004. The Black Rock
Creek restoration phase is currently under design
and construction is slated for 2005.
Donegal Fish and Conservation Association
Their ongoing mission is to maintain the 7 miles of
fencing along Donegal creek in Lancaster, County,
PA. The project was funded by a grant in 1998 to
install the fence that keeps cattle out of the
stream.
Falmouth Flats Fly Fishers
The club works with the Friends of the Rappahanock
toward the elimination of the Emery Dam. Club
members annually participate in a stream clean up
activity.
Dame Juliana League
Restoration of a stream-bank following demolition
of an abandoned slaughterhouse on the banks of
French Creek's Delayed- Harvest/Fly-Fishing-Only
area.
White Clay Fly Fisherman
Extension of mud sill below London Tract Bridge, on
White Clay Creek, PA and stabilize the eroded creek
bank. This project was designed by PA Fish &
Boat Commission.
Rapidan Chapter Trout Unlimited
The club is engaged in structure work on Laurel Run
that will continue this spring with a break in the
weather. As a result of liming of the stream, fish
are beginning to return. Club also participates in
an acid rain outreach project. An educational video
tape was prepared and is used to instruct middle
school age children of the damage caused by acid
rain. Acid Rain Outreach, VA funds were used to
purchase materials and supplies for posters and
slides, as well as testing materials.