Issues facing our trout streams

[WxGuy]

This is from the Minnesota Conservation Volunteer put out by the MNDNR.

This article is well worth your time...

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/volunteer/marapr06/fnsoutheastern_mn.html

[DEADhead]

another problem facing our trout streams today worth mentioning is stormwater runoff. Increased development on or near trout streams and their watersheds often times contribute to increased flows, sediment, and most importantly warmer water entering the stream. These all have detrimental effects on trout, especially brook trout who prefer the coldest water of all trout. Luckily the MECA, along with the MPCA, has instituted a new Stormwater Manual for Minnesota, providing guidelines for design and regulations geared at protecting these most sensitive of waters. Trout are a great indicator species of our streams and rivers. Healthy streams = more trout!

Tight lines!

[Fish_Hunter]

It is good to see they are going to make an effort to maintain the streams. It is very disheartening to hear that trout populations have declined. Does anyone know if the DNR approaches private owners about this issue? and how they can help them to create better watersheds? If these are as they say "Crown Jewels" I hope they put more effort into saving them now, rather than repairing them later.

[DEADhead]

the DNR has been working with landowners to create trout stream easements:

http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/outdoor_activities/fishing/trout_streams/easement_brochure.pdf

It is noted that public funding cannot be used to improve trout streams that are not accessible to everyone. Trout stocking or habitat improvement projects cannot be done on private property unless an easement has been granted to the DNR.

The DNR's long range management plan for trout streams can be found here:

http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/fisheries/management/coldwaterstrategicplan_semn.pdf

The above references to Trout stream management can be found on the DNR's Trout stream page:

http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/trout_streams/index.html

[Fish_Hunter]

Thanks DEADhead for the extra information. I guess I knew they couldn't do improvement without easement. I am going to go through and read up on this. I appreciate being enlightened in this matter.

[DEADhead]

Glad I could help!

[Quickstrike]

Thanks for the info and insite guys! I know this is becoming a problem in parts of WI where I grew up.

Hey WXGuy, I just had to interupt the thread to tell you that you have the coolest avatar i've seen yet!

[WxGuy]

Thanks QS!

I'd like to take credit for it, but I can't. I don't know who made it actually, but I thought it was really cool too...