Category: Conservation News
For over 30 years, Shenandoah National Park and the University of Virginia have been partners in the study of water quality for SNP’s entire watershed. This is recognized as the longest continuously conducted watershed research and monitoring program in the National Park System. Shenandoah Watershed Study (SWAS) data is gathered along with Virginia Trout Stream Sensitivity Study (VTSSS) data which allows for a data set that encompasses most of the trout habitat in the Commonwealth.
VTSSS data is gathered every 10 years. The last study was done in 2000 and the Rapidan Chapter was a partner in the data gathering effort. Next spring, we will also have an opportunity to help with this important event.
We welcome Jeb Wofford to our November 4th meeting. He will discuss “Fish Monitoring and Management in the SNP”. These programs are directly affected by SWAS and VTSSS data.
Marcia Woolman will also introduce us to the data collection plan for the upcoming 2010 VTSSS study.
Won’t you please join us?
Kevin Daniels
President, Rapidan Chapter of Trout Unlimited
Where to find trout is important
At our last meeting, our now former member Dr. Larry Puckett provided an outstanding presentation on the characteristics of stream habitat to look for when stalking the elusive brook trout. Larry was very gracious to make this material available for both our education and to make our quests for trout more productive. His presentation, and data are available for viewing by clicking the links below:
For his presentation “Prospecting for Brook Trout” Click Here
For his 2000 VTSSS data Click Here
For his map displaying geological areas of Virginia Click Here
The 2 data collectors that the Rapidan Chapter paid for are now in Jeffrey’s branch near the headwaters and one is downstream about one mile. I know Doug was interested in getting involved in this, but with all the rain we had, I never did get to fully explore the headwater branches. I would have called Doug to do that with me, but I never was able to get out there. So, I discussed with Nat Gillespie the CSI results and where he thought they should go. I spoke with the farm manager at Cleremont Farm and Mark Thompson who are the two landowners and got permission. Continue Reading »
Richmond, VA—Senior Fisheries Biologist Paul Bugas with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) was recently recognized by Trout Unlimited, a national conservation organization, as their Conservationist of the Year Award recipient for Virginia. Continue Reading »
