DEC To Hold Public Fishery Meeting In Hancock

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the agency is holding a public meeting with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) on Tuesday, April 9, to outline progress on survey work identified in the 2018-2020 Fisheries Investigation Plan for the Delaware Tailwaters. The meeting will be held at Hancock High School, 67 Education Lane in Hancock, New York, from 6 to 7 p.m.

The Delaware Tailwaters system consists of the East and West branch tailwaters and the main stem of the Delaware River downstream to Callicoon. Information available to New York and Pennsylvania biologists on this wild trout fishery predates significant changes in the fishery, including current flow management and angler use. To determine the status of the fishery and whether changes in management objectives and strategies are needed, a new trout management plan is being developed. When complete, the bi-state management plan will address both the current trout populations supported by enhanced flows since 2010, and current angling pressure and patterns.

At the meeting, biologists will present initial results from the first year of survey activities, such as monthly electrofishing, spawning redd counts, trout tagging, and an angler creel survey. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about planned activities for 2019, and how they can support DEC and PFBC efforts.

Questions can be sent to Chris VanMaaren, DEC Region 4 Fisheries Manager, 65561 State Hwy 10, Stamford, NY 12167, or emailed to fwfish4@dec.ny.gov.