Update on the State's Public Hearing on the Draft Interim Management Plan for
the Batten Kill Fishery
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The public hearing on the state's draft interim management plan for the Battenkill fishery went as well as could be expected. We had a good turn out of like-minded anglers
from all over VT as well as neighobring states, and by the time all had their 2 minutes at the mic, it was clear that those in favor of maintaining the Battenkill as a wild trout
fishery, absent any stocking component, were in the majority. According to the press coverage (you can find the articles under "Hot Off the Press!" on the main page), we had a 4-to-1 advantage
over those favoring stocking. Also according the media, Commissioner Laroche was pleased with the hearing, saying something to the effect that "it's clear the public doesn't want it
stocked, and we heard 'em..." It was also overheard that the Commissioner was impressed and suprised by the support for actual real river restoration that was shown and demonstrated at the
hearing. (Hey, that should come as no surpise since that's why we're here, right?) Finally -- we're not in the clear yet, and despite the fact that some of the press coverage is claiming
that the state will bow to the public opionion and 'not stock', it was also made perfectly clear at the hearing that the state will continue to take additional public comment for a period
of one month - until 10/21/2006. So - we're not out of the weeds yet. If you weren't able to make the hearing, or if you didn't submit your comments via email yet, nows' your chance and
opportunity to help us drive the nail in the lid of this stocking tank full of rainbows. Fire off an email to Ken Cox,
Eric Palmer, and Wayne Laroche, and let them know you think the Battenkill should be
kept wild -- and to send those rainbows somewhere else....
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For more information, contact us via email at:
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