Trout Anglers - NEW YORK STATE - New York ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
NEW YORK STATE
APRIL/MAY 2021
Anglers
and
Trout
—A NEW YORK TRADITION
Kayak Fishing
Hike the Finger Lakes Trail
Otters—charismatic critters
Dear Readers,
Spring is always a welcome sight in the
Northeast. Coupled with the arrival of
vaccinations to protect our families from
COVID-19 and warmer weather, thousands of Volume 75, Number 5 | April/May 2021
Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of New York State
New Yorkers are venturing out into nature in
the days and weeks ahead. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
Spring is also a time of rebirth both in Basil Seggos, Commissioner
Erica Ringewald, Deputy Commissioner for Public Affairs
nature and the human spirit as we emerge Harold Evans, Director of Office of Communication Services
from winter and begin to reconnect with
THE CONSERVATIONIST STAFF
nature and one another. Eileen C. Stegemann, Managing Editor
This edition of Conservationist dives deep into the wonderful world Peter Constantakes, Assistant Editor
of trout, taking readers on an underwater journey into their natural Tony Colyer-Pendas, Assistant Editor
Megan Ciotti, Business Manager
habitat and a behind-the-scenes look at the DEC biologists and wildlife Jeremy J. Taylor, Editor, Conservationist for Kids
professionals managing trout populations and enhancing their habitats. Rick Georgeson, Contributing Editor
You’ll ˜nd several articles about ˜shing, including e°orts to preserve DESIGN TEAM
heritage brook trout, which have a long history in New York. Don’t miss the Andy Breedlove, Photographer/Designer
Jim Clayton, Chief, Multimedia Services
story about pumpkinseed, a sun˜sh found across the state that is a popular Mark Kerwin, Art Director/Graphic Designer
˜shing target and a tasty treat. Robin-Lucie Kuiper, Photographer/Designer
Readers can also learn about the excitement of kayak ˜shing, a great way Mary Elizabeth Maguire, Graphic Designer
Jennifer Peyser, Graphic Designer
to explore waters throughout New York. You might be surprised at how Maria VanWie, Graphic Designer
modern-day kayaks di°er from those of the past, and how they can provide a
EDITORIAL OFFICES
unique and enjoyable experience for anglers and boaters alike. The Conservationist (ISSN0010-650X), © 2021 by NYSDEC,
Back on land, hiking enthusiasts can read about the Finger Lakes Trail, is an official publication of the New York State Department
a long-distance path that o°ers hikes of various durations and levels of of Environmental Conservation published bimonthly at
625 Broadway, 4th Floor, Albany, NY 12233-4502.
di˛culty, and connects people of all ages and abilities to State Forests, Telephone: (518) 402-8047
State Parks, and other great attractions. The article also highlights how Manuscripts, photographs and artwork will be accepted if accom-
volunteers maintain the trail, including constructing lean-tos for hikers. panied by SASE. Please write to the above address with an author’s
Finally, you won’t want to miss an article about river otters to learn how query or to request a Contributor’s Guide. The˜publisher assumes
no responsibility for loss or damage of unsolicited˜materials.
DEC and its partners have helped these personality-packed animals make a
TO SUBSCRIBE:
remarkable comeback in central and western New York.
$18 per year, $24 for two years, $30 for three years. Outside
All this and much more as we welcome spring with the latest edition the U.S., add $27 per year with a check drawn on a U.S. bank.
of Conservationist. All˜orders must be prepaid.
Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for new subscriptions or changes of
Best regards, address. Periodical postage paid at Albany, NY, and additional
mailing offices.
Basil Seggos, Commissioner
Send check or money order payable to:
Conservationist
P.S. I want to extend my gratitude to Conservationist editor Eileen
NYSDEC
Stegemann upon her retirement after a 39-year career with DEC. Eileen 625 Broadway
started at DEC in 1982 as a ˜sheries technician in Watertown, before Albany, NY 12233-4502
moving to DEC’s Albany o˛ce in the mid-1980s. She has worked for or call: 1-800-678-6399
Conservationist since 2003, and became its ˜rst woman editor in 2018. On Visit the Department’s website at: www.dec.ny.gov
behalf of the entire DEC family, I thank Eileen for her exemplary service in The New York State Department of Environmental
support of our environment and wish her all the best as she begins the next Conservation does not discriminate on the basis of race,
national origin, disability, age, or gender.
chapter of her life. Thank you, Eileen, for a job well done.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:
Conservationist
NYSDEC
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12233-4502
PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. PLEASE RECYCLE THIS ISSUE.
See page 18
Maintaining and improving the Finger Lakes Trail
CONTENTS A P R I L / M AY 2 0 2 1 | VO LU M E 75 , N U M B E R 5
D E PA R T M E N T S 2 Blue Halos—In
Praise of Wild Brook
18 Time, Talent,
and Treasure
17 On Patrol Trout/The Secrets
of the Stream
The Amazing Finger
Lakes Trail and its
28 Briefy BY CHRIS MURPHY AND Volunteer Stewards
MARK USYK BY CHRISTY POST
30 Letters 4 Trout for the Future
DEC’s New Trout
22 The Rewards of
Today’s Kayak Fishing
Management Plan Natural Beauty and Outdoor
32 Back Trails BY CHUCK GODFREY Recreation Preserved and
Open to the Public
8 Streams of Dreams
The Importance of Trout
BY ROBERT S. DREW
22
17 Habitat Improvement 26 Species Spotlight—
The Pumpkinseed
30 BY MARK KUGLER
BY ROBERT MICHELSON
30
17
14 10 New York’s
River Otters
28 30 18
SPECIAL INSERT
30 A Conservation Success Story
28 17 BY AMANDA BAILEY
14 Heritage Trout—
A Fish Story
17
BY NORAH MACHIA
FRONT COVER: Stream trout fshing, by Chris Murphy; BACK COVER: River otter, by Amy Comerford
Bl u e H a l ˜
—IN PRAISE OF WILD BROOK TROUT
BY CHRIS MURPHY with MARK USYK The brook trout’s colorful appearance
is what ˜rst made me fall in love with
Nothing makes me happier than ˜shing for wild brook trout. These ˜sh have them. Brookies could have been painted
a long history in New York State, and there is a dedicated group of people who by the ˜nest of Renaissance minds,
chase these gorgeous jewels of nature.˝˝ mixing a rainbow of green, scarlet, blue,
Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are native to the eastern United States and yellow, white, and black. Brook trout
Canada. They are a coldwater species, meaning they prefer coldwater habitats, have characteristic markings on their
such as brooks, streams, back called vermiculations, which
creeks, rivers, and deep appear as a marbled swirl of dark green
lakes and ponds; they thrive and yellow.
in water temperatures The sides of brookies are a lighter
ranging from the 50s into green color that can vary to near cobalt
the mid-60s. blue or violet, and are covered with
Brook trout have a number yellow spots and the quintessential red
of common nicknames, spots surrounded by blue halos. Their
including brookies, specks, belly is either white or orange, and
speckled trout, squaretails, their ˜ns are red or orange, with white
and brook char. The latter tips separated by a black line. The tail
nickname comes from the is square, with rounded corners, and
fact that the brook trout is is usually orange and green, with black
not a true trout, but rather spots and patterns.˝
a char. Trout have lighter Many fly anglers cherish the
colored bodies with darker sight of watching a brook trout
colored spots, while char rise and leap out of the water,
have darker colored bodies attempting to take a dry ˙y. If I
with lighter spots. ever win the lottery, the ˜rst thing
The brook trout is one of I’ll do in celebration is take my
two char that are native to 6-foot, 6-inch, 2/3 wt. ˙y rod, with a
New York State; the other Brook trout are colorful fish with characteristic red Goddard Caddis, to an Adirondack
is the lake trout. There is spots surrounded by blue halos on their sides. brook trout stream. Ironically, when
actually no true trout native to New York. Rainbow trout were introduced from I am ˙y ˜shing for brook trout in a
the West Coast of the United States, and brown trout were brought over from small headwater stream, I feel like I
Europe. Even with trout and char being stocked throughout the state, there are already won the lottery.
still places where you can ˜nd wild ˜sh whose genetics have not mixed with No one puts this wonderful feeling
stocked ˜sh. These places are often far o° the beaten path, but the reward is well about trout streams into words like
worth the e°ort to get to these remote and wild places. my friend and author, Mark Usyk.
2 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021
THE SECRETS OF THE STREAM
BY MARK USYK
It starts as several little branches, ˙owing, wandering through the Adirondacks In this stream, I’ve learned that if
like lost souls without a care. Some begin as the out˙ows of small ponds in no- it looks ˜shy, you cast to it. There’s
named forests, some gather the trickles of streams that only ˙ow in the spring probably going to be a ˙ash of coppery
as snow melts and gradually become larger streams, and yet others just appear pink, the tea color tinted waters
from out of the ground itself. playing on the pink belly of a brook
These branches ˙ow through a pathless, dense forest, and as they gather their trout. If it doesn’t look ˜shy, well,
miles, they also gather width and depth, but still remain what you’d call a stream. even then I’ve seen many times the
They all ˜nally join together, just before entering a notable lake. And through dart of a black ˜sh shape and the same
this lake, these waters pass, until it becomes the outlet of this ˜rst lake, which at ˙ash, as a ˜sh takes and turns.
the same point becomes the growing inlet of a second, larger lake, downstream. This stream is just a tiny pinpoint
All things in nature on the map of the
are linked, and Adirondack Park,
watersheds are the yet to ˜sh it—and be
basis. They’re linked totally honest with
as everything else is, myself—I know I’ll
and they depend on never discover all
their surroundings of its secrets. That
to gather water and doesn’t mean I won’t
grow, just as their try, but truthfully,
surroundings depend I’m not sure I want
on the water systems to. Some things are
themselves. better with an aura
There are brook of mystery, so I travel
trout here, wild ˜sh to this watershed not
that call these waters trying to pry answers
home. These native from it, but rather
˜sh have a lineage waiting to see what
going back to the end of the last ice age. Their will to survive, genetically information it willingly gives up.
ingrained in them, is why they’ve survived various threats to their existence, This is not my stream; I think it’s
including deforestation, over˜shing, and acid rain. And now as the climate completely the opposite. The stream
continues to warm their home waters, these ˜sh face another challenge—how doesn’t belong to me, I belong to the
to survive in an increasingly inhospitable environment. For when water stream. And so, I’ll do what I can to
temperatures are above 68°F, these beautiful ˜sh can su°er from heat stress, protect it, while sharing its space. I’ll
which is potentially fatal to them. carry out what I carry in; I’ll catch
I can only hope that they, once again, find a way to carry on. The cold and release; I’ll tread lightly and leave
headwaters, I need to believe, will be the key. It’s because of these trout that no trace. This is the least I can do for
I’ve spent so many days over the past few seasons hopping from rock to rock, such a great friend that I’ve only just
crouching on the banks in the cover of green ferns, and exploring around each met. It’s already done more for me
new bend, pushing farther upstream or downstream, making it my goal to ˜nally than I could ever repay.
be able to say that I’ve ˜shed the entire thing.
Chris Murphy is a high school science
That of course doesn’t mean I know the stream with any intimacy, though teacher and president of Trout Power,
there are a couple of runs I can say I know very well. But I could never claim to a non-proft organization that seeks to
know where all the deep holes are, or where the largest ˜sh live. The ˜shing can identify and monitor wild and genetically
be so good that I’ve enjoyed success year after year. In fact, I’ve only ever been unique brook trout in the Adirondacks.
skunked on it once, and I blame that on the storm the day before, which raised Mark Usyk is the marginal fy fsherman
the water level to raging whitewater on several runs. and author˛of Refections of a Fly Rod
and Carp are Jerks.
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 3
DEC’s New Trout Management Plan
BY CHUCK GODFREY
If you like to ˜sh, what would you included gathering input from the according to its characteristics,
say if someone asked you what could anglers themselves. taking into account their physical
be done to create a better ˜shing DEC held public meetings across and water quality characteristics, the
experience? If you’re like me, you’d the state and asked anglers what extent of its wild trout population,
say “I’m glad you asked.” they desired in the way of trout and the amount of angler use.
As anglers venture out to their ˜shing. Anglers happily shared their Additionally, and equally important,
favorite trout streams this spring, ideas, and after compiling all the the categories de˜ne expectations for
they will be taking part in a new feedback, DEC created a focus group anglers so they can pick and choose
trout ˜shing world—one that anglers of ˜shermen and women from across the trout stream ˜shing experience
helped create. This year will be the the state to advise them on whether they desire. Speci˜c categories within
˜rst season under new management the proposed actions would deliver the Plan are:
practices outlined in DEC’s Inland on what had been identi˜ed as the 1) Wild
Trout Stream Management Plan. most important desires of the public. 2) Wild-Quality
Many of these practices were DEC ˜sheries sta° then tweaked 3) Wild-Premier
developed from ideas suggested the Plan and submitted the ˜nal 4) Stocked
by˝anglers. version, which was received with 5) Stocked-Extended
To me, the previous trout stream overwhelming support.
Note: To fnd out more detailed
management objectives—in place One of the key components of the information for each of the categories,
since the late-1980s—always seemed new Plan is that DEC recognizes go to DEC’s website to view the Plan
to be centered around stocked trout that not all streams are the same and the new regulations. There is also
and the catch rate goal. But several throughout their full length. As such, a Categorization of New York State
Trout Stream reaches document, which
years ago, DEC recognized the these streams are now divided into anglers can use to fnd the angler
need to revise and update the goals, “reaches,” and DEC categorizes experience they desire, in the location
objectives, and strategies, and that the management of each “reach” they choose.
4 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021
The new Plan strives to meet the As for stocked trout, DEC
wishes of a diverse angling public, recognizes that the stocking program
and also places an emphasis on is an integral part of the trout °shing
managing wild trout populations, experience in New York. Through
which has been absent from “o˜cial” this program, anglers can pursue
policy in the past. trout in waters that would otherwise
Here are a few highlights. not support enough wild trout to
provide quality °shing. The stocking
Regulations program provides great value from
One of the goals of the new Trout both a recreational perspective and
Management Plan is to simplify in introducing trout stream °shing to
the regulations. By separating anglers who might otherwise not take
management strategies into the °ve advantage of the opportunity.
categories above, DEC has eliminated Fishing for stocked trout is also a
the need to develop special great way to introduce children to
regulations for many varying streams, trout °shing. My °rst experience
thereby making it easier for anglers trout °shing was as a 5-year-old on
to understand and follow. There will Little Bu˝alo Creek in Erie County,
still be a regulations and it helped spur
A rainbow trout to remember
guide printed that my love for the
will list, by region, all “DEC has outdoors and a
the stream reaches eliminated lifetime of volunteer
that fall into the the need to conservation work.
Wild-Quality, Wild- develop special In my opinion,
Premier, and Stocked- regulations for one of the Plan’s
Extended categories. many varying highlights is that
All other stream streams, thereby in the Stocked-
reaches, including making it easier Extended “reaches”
Stocked, Wild, or for anglers to there will be four
“uncategorized” will stockings of trout,
understand
be managed under each two weeks
a new statewide
and˜follow.”
Brook trout—New York’s state fish apart. For years,
regulation for trout many people have
streams, which is 5 °sh per day, but complained that the stocked trout
now no more than two of those °sh are “all caught out” after the °rst two
can be 12 inches or longer. weeks of the season. The “extension”
There are some changes made to will enhance the opportunity to catch
the regulations related to the three stocked trout during the season, on
“wild” trout categories. Most notable these select stream reaches, beyond
is the reduction in the number of the relatively short period of time
°sh that can be creeled in the Wild- allowed under previous stocking
Quality and Wild-Premier categories. procedures. The Stocked-Extended
Even though studies show that more category regulation of three trout
than 80 percent of all trout caught with only one allowed over 12 inches
are released, the reduced creel limit also extends the length of time trout
re˛ects the value of these °sh. DEC are available to be caught. These
has been managing wild trout in changes in stocking and regulations
Western New York waters extensively addresses one of the wishes identi°ed
for 30 years and now welcomes it as a during the public meetings during the
more formal statewide policy. Plan’s development.
A new generation of anglers
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 5
Another outcome of the Plan is
stocking larger ˜sh. To help make
this a reality, DEC hatcheries are
currently raising yearling trout to be
at least 9 inches long before being
stocked. Additionally, 10 percent of
the ˜sh in each stocking will consist
of ˜sh 12 inches in length or longer.
12"+
STOCKING Stocked-Extended reaches can handle higher
fishing pressure due to their larger size and
Trout, A happy angler extensive public access.
10%
9"+ Trout, 90%
10% of each stocking will comprise
trout˜12 inches or longer.
The Catch-and-Release Season expands fishing opportunities outside of the regular
New Tools and harvest season.
Opportunities for Anglers
To help anglers have better ˜shing and-release” season from October˝16 for any issues. There have been no
experiences, DEC is developing an through March 31, in nearly every documented problems related to the
interactive map that will show every stream covered under the Plan. For October through March extension of
reach of every stream with public those of us lucky enough to live in the season; however, DEC plans to
access, its management category, and Western New York, this will not be as study this issue over the next three
where public access is located. People great a change as it will be for anglers years to ensure there are no concerns.
will be able to use the interactive in the rest of the state, as we’ve been Of course, people will need to be
map to see what encouraged not to
the “reach” they ˜sh for spawning
“For me, perhaps the biggest change in˜the
are going to ˜sh is
Plan is the introduction of ‘year-round’ trout trout on redds (i.e.,
categorized as, and ˜sh nests), but this
then look up the
fishing in streams. This will be implemented has proven not to
regulations for that through the creation of an ‘artificials only, be a problem in my
category. It should catch-and-release’ season.” neck of the woods.
be noted that the I’ve spent many a
interactive map covers only those able to do this on many of our local day taking advantage of this provision
“reaches” with o˛cial public access. wild trout streams for much of the over the last few years, ˜shing a
For me, perhaps the biggest change last 15 years or more. couple of our most popular wild
in the Plan is the introduction of These Western New York streams trout streams. We have some really
“year-round” trout ˜shing in streams. have all been extensively studied nice weather in October and early
This will be implemented through the through electro˜shing surveys and November and catching trout in the
creation of an “arti˜cials only, catch- angler diary programs, to check Fall is a memorable experience.
6 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021
Ed Ostapczuk
Protecting Trout Habitat Conservation Districts, U.S. Fish
Habitat improvement and and Wildlife Service, as well as many
restoration are key themes in the new private companies.
trout plan—something that is both While these habitat improvement
welcome and necessary. and restoration measures provide
Here in Western New York, the places for trout to live in, they
area’s three Trout Unlimited chapters can also aid landowners who are
have worked together with DEC losing valuable land due to erosion
˜sheries since and protect
1970 to improve structures which
“While these habitat municipalities
and restore
trout habitat. I
improve-ment and are responsible
estimate we’ve
restoration measures for maintaining,
been able to take provide places for saving taxpayer
part in more trout to live in, dollars.
than 70 habitat they can also aid Hopefully,
improvement landowners who are everyone will
and restoration losing valuable land be able to take
projects during due to erosion and advantage of this
that time, protect structures new approach to
including which municipalities managing stream
installing ˜shing for trout. I
are responsible for know that on any
“cribbing,” log
revetments,
maintaining, saving nice, pleasant day
de˙ectors, and
taxpayer dollars.” in early spring,
Healthy stream habitat is essential for success.
more. One of the I’ll be tearing
most important things we have done myself away from the Lake Erie
is to restore riparian zones along tributaries to ˜sh my favorite streams
trout streams by planting tens of in New˝York State—the wild brook
thousands of trees and shrubs. trout streams of Allegany State Park.
Given the impacts of climate I’ve been ˜shing now for 71 of my 73
change, establishing shade trees years and it doesn’t get any better than
along with bank stabilizing plants, hiking for 30 minutes (it used to take
like willows, is some of the most 15) to get back to my favorite stream
important habitat work we can do. and try to catch some wild brook trout.
There is a real commitment on the
part of DEC to make this an ongoing Chuck Godfrey is a retired math
teacher (Williamsville South), present
e°ort, and active organizations like Girls’ head track coach (Maryvale H.S.),
the State Council of Trout Unlimited past president of the WNY Chapter of
are always working on projects like Trout Unlimited and the Erie County
this with many other governmental Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, the
Region 9 Vice President of the NYS
and non-governmental partners,
Council of Trout Unlimited, and a
such as county Soil and Water lifelong conservationist.
Reach management category assignments
will be reevaluated as biological surveys and
fishing pressure estimates are conducted. APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 7
Streams
of
The
importance
of trout habitat
improvement
BY MARK KUGLER
A hard truth that we must accept is that humans are
From the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes, and all areas widely responsible for population declines of many native
in between, New York State and its residents are blessed ˜sh species. Historic and current activities, such as
with a diverse bounty of water resources, which provide for development, overharvesting of timber and other natural
a vast array of aquatic habitats and angling opportunities. resources, and the construction of manmade impassible
My fascination with ˜sh began at an early age, and barriers (e.g. dams) have all contributed to far-reaching
my pursuit of ˜sh-related objectives went through what displacement and long-lasting population declines. To
seems to be a natural progression. My passion began in the think that brook trout were once a dominant species in
back corner of a ˜eld on my family’s property that had a the Mohawk River seems far-fetched, but archaeological
pond, and it eventually led me to the tip of Rock City Falls evidence tells us otherwise.
in Saratoga County’s Kayaderosseras Creek, and every As a person who deeply values our natural world, I feel
direction I’ve ventured since. For me, there has never been that there should be a responsibility, if not a restitution,
a greater potential reward for my e°ort than I get from for the error of our ways. There are de˜nitely things we
catch-and-release ˙y ˜shing for trout. can do to help. Having played baseball throughout my
Trout represent what is pure about the natural resources younger years, and now working as a Stream Technician
of our beautiful state. They rely on cold, clean water in Cooperstown, I recall the commonly confused movie
to survive, and many of the locations they inhabit are quote, “If you build it, they will come,” and I can’t help
incredibly serene. Brook trout are a particularly sensitive but feel that it applies to ˜sh. If we can work to improve
species, with a fragile beauty that some might compare to in-stream habitat and restore riparian corridors to the
a priceless painting. If you’ve ever seen a wild Adirondack forested areas they once were, we might be very pleased
brook trout, you’d probably agree. with the result—the return of more ˜sh, to more places.
8 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021“Perched” culverts can block access to important habitat.
Trout Unlimited has partnered throughout the years
with government and local stakeholders to restore in-
stream habitat in a number of Catskill streams. They “If you build it, they
are now expanding their e°orts to Washington County’s
Battenkill, and their work is an example of what great
will come”
partnerships can accomplish.
We have come a long way from the days of placing
DEC’s Trees for Tributaries program works with
temporary structures in streams that would merely
organizations, such as the Upper Susquehanna Coalition,
hold ˜sh within reaches (sections) of streams, and we
and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, to plant
have learned valuable lessons about how to work with
native trees and shrubs along streams throughout New
nature, rather than against it. Utilizing modern scienti˜c
York. This low-cost conservation practice can help aid in
techniques, Watershed and Fisheries Managers are
nutrient and sediment reductions, while providing shade
now learning that natural stream channel design and
during summer months and leaf litter in the fall, which
engineering allows us to repair sections of streams to
fuels productivity for the coming year. These actions will
withstand what are becoming more frequent and more
have long-term bene˜ts that will help and support trout
extreme episodic weather events. We have learned that by
as well as other aquatic organisms that rely on cold, clean
using various aggregates (e.g., sand, gravel, crushed stone)
water to survive.
and large woody debris, we can tailor these repairs to the
Riparian bu°ers provide forage and habitat for a wide
speci˜c hydrology and geology of each stream, allowing
range of terrestrial organisms, and they enhance the
them to further heal on their own.
aesthetic qualities of our landscapes. Planting riparian
In recent years, numerous public meetings with trout
bu°ers can be a great way to volunteer and enjoy the
stream stakeholders throughout New York State have
outdoors, while working to bene˜t your community and
produced a resounding sentiment for the conservation and
future generations. At the very least, we can improve our
preservation of wild ˜sh, and DEC heard that message loud
environment, sequester carbon, and prepare vulnerable
and clear. After years of careful thought and planning, we
ecosystems for climate resilience and other challenges that
are now in a new age of Trout Stream Management, where
lie ahead.
we will not only be provided with traditional and newly
I applaud the e°orts that are being made, and I’m excited
expanded opportunities for angling, but there will be an
about the direction we are heading. So, let’s work to build
added priority on habitat management for conserving our
it, and see if they will become streams of dreams.
highly valued wild ˜sh. This endeavor will undoubtedly
require dedication and patience, as well as a holistic
approach to watershed management, where a connection An avid trout angler, Mark Kugler is a Stream Technician
for the Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation
between land and water is understood. This can be our District in Cooperstown. He is primarily involved in riparian
most cost-e°ective and prudent option for producing long- restoration within New York’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay
lasting impacts to promote sustainable ˜sh populations. Watershed.
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 9The year 2018 marked the second identi˜able by the webbing visible
winter of river otter surveys between the ˜ve toes. After much
conducted by DEC sta°. All across searching, the ˜eld crew stumbled
central, western, and southeastern across a latrine, a kind of communal
New York, wildlife biologists and bathroom used by river otter. It was
technicians were scouring wetland the jackpot.
and riparian habitats for the Surveys like this one have been a
charismatic critters. critical part of DEC’s understanding
“We’ve got some jelly over here,” of river otter distribution in New
one of the technicians shouted. York. The species is quite active
Others gathered to take some during the winter, and the snow
pictures. While the substance is shows signs of otter even when the
jelly-like in consistency, it’s not otters themselves aren’t visible.
anything you would want to put on Biologists spend hours searching
your sandwich. It’s actually a stinky for scat and tracks along lakeshores,
A C˜°˛˝˙ˆˇ˘˜° secretion left behind by river otter,
S˝˛˛ S˘˜˙ consisting of intestinal lining, bits
of undigested food, and anal
secretions. It may sound gross, but
the anal jelly plays an important
role for the otter. Biologists
BY MANDY BAILEY believe that the matter protects
the lining of the river otter’s
Sometimes, the work of a wildlife intestines from the sharp
biologist is much like that of a bones and body parts of
detective. Most of our careers are ˜sh, cray˜sh, mollusks,
spent studying wildlife that are rarely and other food items they
seen. And so we are left hunting for consume. Since the jelly
the smallest clues, pieces of a puzzle contains pieces of
that tell a greater story: a footprint undigested food, it
in the snow or a tuft of hair caught can help biologists
on a branch—clues that tell us which ˜gure out what an
wildlife are around and what they’re otter is eating.
up to. Someone else
A cold day in February 2018 was pointed out a
one of those days. Biologists from few pieces of scat
New York State’s Department of littering the area,
Environmental Conservation (DEC) shiny with scales
were on the hunt in western New York, from the ˜sh that
searching the snow along a beaver make up the bulk of
pond for a weaselly character. In the river otters’ diets
fact, they were looking for the largest in this area. The snow
member of the weasel family found in here was trampled, but
New York: the North American river it was possible to make
otter (Lontra canadensis). out a few individual tracks,
10 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021beaver ponds, wetlands, and swamps, the case, with river otter being found throughout the nineteenth century
photographing otter signs, and nearly everywhere there was suitable led to a sharp decline in New York’s
marking datasheets. At the end of habitat in these areas. River otter are otter population. By 1900, river otter
the winter, they compile the results most common in northern New˝York, had disappeared from most of central
of the surveys and send them to where untouched wetlands and and western New York and were
researchers at the State University of remote ponds provide ample, ideal reduced to isolated pockets in the
New York College of Environmental habitat for this semi-aquatic critter. Adirondack and Catskill mountains.
Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF). However, it is the central and western Things improved for the river otter
These researchers use these results to half of the state that DEC is most in the second half of the twentieth
develop “occupancy models”—a kind interested in. In fact, before 2000, century. As otter populations
of statistical analysis that uses ˜eld river otter had not been sighted there recovered in the eastern half of the
surveys and habitat characteristics to in more than 100 years. state, the Conservation Department
estimate how likely it is that an otter Before European settlement, river (DEC’s predecessor) began to regulate
inhabits an area. otter were widespread throughout river otter trapping, using science
The survey results are enlightening New York, as evidenced by the many to set speci˜c seasons and ensure
and help guide DEC’s management of waterbodies throughout the state that any harvest was sustainable.
river otter. Historically, the eastern that were named for the charismatic The environmental movement of
portion of the state has supported critter—there is an Otter Lake in both the 1960s and ’70s brought major
robust river otter populations. DEC’s Cayuga and Oneida counties, Otter improvements in water quality. Land
surveys con˜rmed that this is still Creek ˙ows through Lewis County, once cleared for agriculture began
While fish are
a favorite food,
river otter will
hunt for a variety
of prey, including
frogs, crayfish,
salamanders,
crabs, turtles,
insects, and some
small mammals.
and there are three di°erent Otter to transition back into forest. The
Ponds in St. Lawrence County river otter population in the eastern
alone. However, the destruction half of New York ˙ourished. Despite
of wetland and riparian all of this, otter remained scarce in
habitats, deforestation other areas of the state. Without
for agriculture and more intensive intervention, DEC
development, biologists estimated that it may take
pollution of New the greater part of a century for river
York’s waterways, otter to naturally recolonize all the
and unregulated areas where they once lived.
fur trapping In the 1990s, DEC held a series
of public meetings to discuss the
possibility of reintroducing otter
to areas where they were not even a
memory. These meetings resulted
in a unique partnership, a group of
biologists, trappers, veterinarians,
and interested private companies
and individuals all committed to
bringing back otter to central and
western New˝York. The not-for-pro˜t
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 11circa 1990s
Van Kollias
New˝York River Otter Project, Inc. and had the
was formed, a unique partnership needed expertise
where DEC worked with the private to make the
sector on a wildlife restoration project a success.
project. Captured otter
But restoring the species by were transferred
capturing wild river otters in to a holding area,
places where they were abundant where they were
in the eastern part of the state and evaluated by
translocating them to areas where veterinarians and
they were absent would be a huge kept prior to being
undertaking. About 100 people released into their
volunteered 54,000 hours of their new homes.
time to ensure the success of the All told, 279
project. Businesses also contributed river otter
to this e°ort, like Perry’s Ice Cream, were trapped
based in Akron, New York, which and released Various groups, including nature lovers, trappers, businesses,
created a new “Welcome Back, Otter” into central schoolchildren, and many others celebrated the˜return of
river otter.
˙avor, and donated the proceeds and western New
from the sale of 35,000 half-gallons York between 1995
of this ice cream ˙avor to the and 2000. New York became one internationally. The Eurasian otter
project. Children also chipped in: a of 22 states to reintroduce otter. (Lutra lutra) had su°ered a similar
kindergarten class contributed $35 The techniques developed in the fate as the North American river
in pennies, children donated their New˝York River Otter Project were otter, and both Holland and Spain
allowances, and a Girl Scout troop later used to ensure the success of reached out to New York for advice on
donated 1,000 towels to be used when similar programs in other states, their own restoration projects for this
the river otters were held in captivity Canadian provinces, and even closely related species. In addition,
(prior to being released). The e°orts trapping techniques perfected by
made by so many people from so participating trappers formed the
many di°erent walks of life was truly framework for best management
something to behold. practices (BMPs) for trapping
Of course, the project’s success river otter. These BMPs
depended on the river otters. have been crucial in the
Biologists estimated that at least management of river
270 river otters would have to be
relocated from eastern New York, a
daunting number, as river otter are
intelligent and di˛cult to trap, even
in areas where they are relatively
common. Luckily, New York trappers
rose to the challenge. Hunters and
trappers have long been champions
of conservation, as exempli˜ed
by this project. Trappers devoted
untold time and energy attempting
to capture river otter in northern and
southeastern New York, contributing
around 300 trap-nights to capture
each river otter for this project.
But the trappers were dedicated
12 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021otter in New˝York, ensuring that success story. The surveys found populations remain stable and that
traps are more selective and humane, that river otter were ˙ourishing New Yorkers can continue to enjoy
and outlining methods to avoid in the areas where they had been them for years to come. We encourage
unintentional captures of river otters reintroduced. Occupancy rates of everyone to report sightings of
in traps set for other species, such river otter in central and western river otter to the DEC Furbearer
as˝beaver. New York were similar to rates in Sighting Survey, accessible via the
While much of the fanfare died out southeastern New York, where river DEC website (www.dec.ny.gov/
with the last release of the relocated otter were already well established. animals/30770.html).
otters, the story wasn’t over. Just While river otter were originally One of the more remarkable things
because river otter were brought to introduced to just 16 sites across about the success of river otter
central and western New York, there central and western New York, they restoration is that it is not limited to
was no guarantee they would ˙ourish now are found in nearly all suitable New York. Across the entire range of
there. And so, we returned to those habitats in those areas. the North American river otter, the
river otter surveys conducted by DEC This leaves us with just one species is doing well. New York is just
in partnership with SUNY-ESF in 2017 question: What is next for New York’s one piece of a larger puzzle that spells
and 2018. Eighteen years had passed river otters? Although the population out success for this species. A recent
since the last river otter was released appears to be doing very well, it is survey of state wildlife agencies
in western New˝York. While public important to continue to monitor found that river otter populations
Teri LeBaron
River otters are
well known for
their playful
nature. They are
semi-aquatic
mammals—at
home in the water
and on land.
sightings and limited surveys suggested otter “All told, 279 river otter were trapped
that river otter were doing well, no throughout and released into central and western
large-scale, standardized evaluation the state New York between 1995 and 2000.”
of the population had been completed to ensure
following the restoration e°ort. their success. DEC biologists will be are stable or increasing in every
During the surveys, biologists and conducting another round of winter state, with populations robust
technicians scouring the landscape sign surveys for otter in the coming enough to support regulated harvest
found more than otter tracks and years to compare to the surveys opportunities in 40 states, including
sign—they uncovered completed in 2017 and 2018. We are New York. Of the 13 species of otter
a˝restoration also in the process of developing a occurring worldwide, the North
management plan for river American river otter is the only one
otter to ensure listed by the International Union for
that their Conservation of Nature as a species
of least concern. The recovery of the
river otter across North America—
and here in New York—is a true
conservation success story.
Mandy Bailey is a Wildlife Biologist in
DEC’s Albany˛o˝ce.
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 13Heritage
Trout —A Fish
—A˜Fish Story
BY NORAH MACHIA
A good ˜sh story is never truly
˜nished—it continues to be shared,
sometimes changing as time goes on.
This ˜sh story starts with the species
itself—the popular brook trout,
designated as the o˛cial New York
State Freshwater Fish in 1975. stocked ˜sh. These ˜sh have been domesticated hatchery cousins. In fact,
Native to New York’s coldwater bu°ered from intense development scientists believe certain populations
streams and lakes, brook trout have and managed to adapt, survive, and have resided in the same protected
endured the test of time, but their thrive in their natural habitats. watersheds for thousands of years.
numbers have declined throughout the Having these diverse populations While several genetically distinct
Northeast during the past century, in increases the resilience of New York’s strains have been discovered, they
part due to habitat fragmentation. The wild brook trout to climate change. still face the potential destruction of
cause of fragmentation and habitat Studies have shown that wild brook their habitats from outside sources.
loss is often suburban development trout have a longer lifespan than their “Land and water conservation e°orts
and increased paving associated with
it. Such development can result in Remote stream fished in Tug Hill
sedimentation, stormwater runo°, and
reduced groundwater recharges—all
potential threats to brook trout habitats.
Fortuntately, DEC researchers and
citizen scientists continue to discover
populations of native brook trout
throughout New York. Some of these
˜sh have been carefully studied and
were determined to be “genetically
distinct,” con˜rming their distinct
value as heritage trout.
Why the Fuss About
Heritage Trout?
When ˜sh populations possess
their own distinct genetic pro˜les, it
means they have been “reproductively
isolated,” and have not crossbred with
14 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021the project, Trout Power Inc., a
New˝York-based nonpro˜t dedicated
to protecting, restoring, and
remain critical for their continued New York State has a robust enhancing heritage brook trout and
survival,” said Dr. Spencer A. Bruce, a stocking program that provides their habitats, developed citizen
researcher at the State University of recreational trout ˜shing in locations science protocols that were followed
New York at Albany (UAlbany). “The where it otherwise would not exist by all of the anglers. Members of
documentation of genetically unique at a meaningful level if it depended Trout Unlimited local chapters
brook trout is important because it on wild trout. At the same time, DEC also followed these protocols when
shows the existence of biodiversity has been doing its part to protect wild gathering samples in their own
across the landscape. If you plant brook trout populations by carefully communities.
the same type of corn throughout documenting their existence. These Although volunteers collected their
New˝York State and a disease comes data have helped state o˛cials avoid samples in mostly remote areas, the
along, it will wipe it all out. The same stocking decisions that risk diluting majority were ˜shing on public access
is true for ˜sh populations.” valuable genetic resources. lands. Anglers collected the samples
Having unique pockets of species by taking a small clip of the tail ˜n
with di°erent genetic pro˜les means Identifying Unique before returning the ˜sh to the water.
some populations may be better Strainsof Brook Trout The samples were stored in prepared
suited to withstand environmental In order to document the existence vials ˜lled with a preservative
changes than others. That’s why it is of “genetically distinct” strains of chemical. The vials were then sent to
important to preserve biodiversity brook trout, a collaborative e°ort was the UAlbany laboratory for genetic
by protecting the natural habitats of made with a group of enthusiastic analysis.
these ˜sh. anglers who volunteered their time Using precise methods of extracting
“Some heritage brook trout to ˜sh (which for many, was really DNA from the ˜n samples, Dr. Bruce
populations may hold the genetic no hardship at all). Representatives and his colleagues were able to
key to resilience, in terms of climate from UAlbany, DEC, The Nature determine if the trout was genetically
change and its e°ect on natural Conservancy, and the U.S. Geological distinct. Having local residents
habitats,” said Fred Henson, a senior Survey were partners in the endeavor. involved in the collection of brook
aquatic biologist with DEC. “The Many of the volunteer anglers were trout samples for DNA testing
protection of these watersheds members of nonpro˜t organizations helped spread the message about the
remains critical for heritage trout to that helped with the ˜eld studies. importance of protecting the ˜sh
continue to survive and thrive.” In order to ensure accuracy with habitats in their own communities.
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 15With the help of volunteer anglers,
a number of genetically distinct
populations in the Adirondacks,
Catskills, and Tug Hill regions have
been identi˜ed. One strain that was
determined to be genetically distinct
compared to other genetic pro˜les
in the surrounding area was recently
discovered in the Tug Hill region. It
marked the ˜rst time such a population
had been identi˜ed in Tug Hill, an
indication that these ˜sh may possess
adaptations unique to their stream
habitats. This is a signi˜cant ˜nd, and
all involved agree that it is important
to do everything possible to protect
their habitat to ensure the survival
of these genetically distinct trout. As
such, the exact locations of where the
native brook trout were discovered
has not been made public, to avoid the
potential for over˜shing in those areas.
Protecting a Unique Strain Volunteer angler in Tug Hill
Conservation of the “Heart of
Tug Hill” has been a priority of the The protected forestlands in the woods for an opportunity to discover
Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust, a Heart of Tug Hill give rise to major native ˜sh, to enjoy their beauty, and
nationally accredited, nonpro˜t land river systems that provide what release them back into the water.
trust established 30 years ago. The many have called world-class ˜shing For some people, they feel a greater
land trust protects wildlands, forests, opportunities. DEC does stock connection to the landscape by
and farms throughout the Tug Hill brook trout in the region, but natural ˜shing for native species. With that in
region, which encompasses more barriers, such as waterfalls and mind, it’s a safe bet that if anglers put
than 2,000 square miles between rapids, appear to have prevented the some distance between themselves
Lake Ontario and the Adirondacks. native brook trout from mixing with and the nearest locations where
Portions of the core forest were the stocked population. domestic brook trout are stocked,
recently identi˜ed as “last chance DEC continues to protect native the wild brookies they catch will
ecosystems” by The Nature brookie populations by carefully likely be the descendants of the ˜sh
Conservancy—meaning if the land reviewing permit applications to that recolonized New York when the
remains relatively unspoiled, through ensure projects such as bridge and glaciers retreated.
conservation e°orts such as those culvert replacements do not occur And to make sure these distinct
being conducted by DEC and the Land during spawning seasons, and that strains remain available for future
Trust, the habitats that are important precautions are taken to avoid adding generations to enjoy, biologists will
for wildlife species diversity will be sediment and turbidity into the water. continue to study and protect them,
preserved. New York State also undertakes which is great for the species and
“This has been a major project,” a big stocking e°ort each year, for˝anglers.
explained Dr. Bruce. “We are now with a variety of species, so there
moving forward with other studies, are numerous options for ˜shing, A former reporter for the Watertown
determining the actual di°erence depending on an angler’s preference. Daily Times, Norah Machia is a regular
contributor to the Northern New York
between the populations, beyond While there are many anglers who
Magazines. She recently released a
their DNA, by studying how genes enjoy ˜shing at sites stocked by DEC, book, Tug Hill – Shaping the Future of
in˙uence the behavior of the ˜sh.” others prefer to head deep into the the Region.
16 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021Carl Heilman II
On Patrol
Real stories from Environmental Conservation Police O˜cers and Forest Rangers in the °eld
Sni°ng Out Trouble—Oswego County
Three teams of ECOs and newly acquired,
young German Shepherd dogs recently
completed three months of K9 Basic Training
School in Pulaski. The K9 teams were put
through numerous real-life scenarios, learning
how to track humans through di˛erent terrain
and environmental conditions, and detecting
wildlife and even burnt gunpowder. The K9s
were also trained in basic obedience, handler
protection, and criminal apprehension. The
dogs’ keen sense of smell will assist in police
Dolphin Watch— investigations, including illegal hunting crimes
and the taking of wildlife across New York State.
Su˜olk County
Several months ago, Environmental
Conservation O°cers (ECOs) Wilderness Rescue—
Bobseine and Doroski assisted the
New York Marine Rescue Center with
Essex County
This past January, Acting Lieutenant
locating a dolphin in Bellport Bay, o˛
Forest Ranger Burns was notifed
Long Island. The dolphin had been
of a hiker with a hip dislocation on
living in the bay for nearly a year.
Cobble Hill in the Saranac Lake Wild
Throughout 2020, the Rescue Center
Forest, and three Forest Rangers
periodically checked on the dolphin
responded to assist. Once on the
due to reported sightings. On a sunny
scene, the Rangers evaluated the
winter afternoon, the two ECOs went
52-year-old woman, from Lake Placid,
under Smith’s Point Bridge in their
and placed her in a vacuum splint.
safeboat and watched the dolphin
She was then packaged into a litter
surface. A biologist from the Rescue
and sled, brought to the trailhead,
Center, also onboard the vessel,
and transferred to the Lake Placid
quickly identifed the dolphin and
Volunteer Ambulance Service for
determined that it was healthy before
additional medical treatment.
it swam away.
Wilderness Rescue—Ulster County
Forest Ranger Slade received a report of an injured hiker on the Menla Resort
property. A 52-year-old female hiker from New York City was attempting a two-
mile loop on the resort’s blue trail and fell down an embankment, dislocating
her left shoulder; she was also mildly hypothermic. When Ranger Slade and
additional Rangers arrived at the hiker’s location, they warmed her, provided frst
aid, including placing her left arm into a sling. They then assisted her back to the
trail, where she was treated by Shandaken Paramedics and transported to a local
hospital for further medical treatment.
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 17Map based on data provided by Finger Lakes Trail Conference, Inc.
TIME,TALENT,
and TREASURE
The Amazing Finger Lakes Trail
and its Volunteer Stewards
BY CHRISTY POST
TAKE A HIKE. While this phrase has some unfortunate connotations, in general,
it’s good advice. There’s something special about hiking in nature—the clean air, beautiful
scenery, views of wildlife, and more. Taking a hike can refresh the body and mind.
The Finger Lakes Trail (FLT) System o°ers amazing opportunities for people to enjoy nature
on a hike. If you want to take a short hike near home with young children, you’ll ˜nd many
options. If you are looking for a strenuous hike, there are sections requiring various skills and
o°ering distances from one mile to hundreds of miles.
The FLT System is New York State’s longest continuous footpath, with a main trail of 580
miles, six branch trails, and 29 loop trails and spur trails that total an additional 480 miles, as
well as connections to trails in Canada, the Long Path and Appalachian Trail in Vermont, and
the North Country National Scenic Trail all the way to North Dakota. But, with more than
1,000 miles of trails in New York alone, hikers have beautiful trails to explore without ever
leaving the state.
18 New York State Conservationist APRIL/MAY 2021With so many miles of trails, the management and
maintenance of the FLT is a substantial task. In 1962, the
non-pro˜t Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC) was Enjoying State Forests
founded by a group of extremely dedicated volunteers. Did you know that New York has 470 State
Ironically, from the outset, much of the FLTC’s planning Forests and Unique Areas, covering nearly every
took place in the living rooms, basements, and kitchen area of the State?
tables of its volunteers. The organization’s o˛ce was Along the Finger Lakes Trail, hikers may
originally located in the home of its founding president, travel through a State Forest (or more than one)
Wallace D. Wood. Thirty-nine years later, in 2001, the that is managed by DEC. In fact, the FLT passes
FLTC Service Center opened in Mount Morris, with a through more than 42 State Forests, four Wildlife
mission “… to build, protect, enhance, and promote a Management Areas, and three Forest Preserve Areas.
continuous footpath across New York State. Forever!” State Forest lands are managed by DEC’s
Each year, more than 500 volunteers work on projects professional foresters, who monitor conditions
to support the trail, often working with a˛liated hiking and work to address threats and challenges, such
clubs or organizations that helped build the trail. Each as invasive species, shifting land use trends, and
successive generation has risen to the task, and today, climate change. The goal is to ensure these lands,
students play an important, active role in maintenance of which comprise a total of more than 77,000 acres
the trail. statewide, continue to provide bene˜ts ranging
The FLT would not be possible without the volunteers from the protection of vital natural resources and
who donate more than 20,000 hours each year in support drinking water, to outdoor recreation, to forest
of the trail. These are people like Rob Hughes, a high school product manufacturing and other economic
science teacher who has donated his own time and talent to bene˜ts, and mitigation of climate change.
the FLT and has introduced a new generation of trail lovers As you hike along a trail in a State Forest, or
to the trail by involving his students (see sidebar “Teacher, camp overnight under a State Forest canopy, you
Volunteer, and Trailblazer”). can enjoy the natural beauty of these amazing
As is typical for long distance trails, the FLT was built resources, clear your mind and immerse yourself
sectionally by di°erent groups. Existing hiking clubs in nature, yet still be connected to society. You
in upstate cities adopted speci˜c sections and started can also take comfort in knowing these resources
building the planned cross-state trail in chunks, utilizing are being managed in a manner that protects
State Forests and State Parks whenever possible. The their lands, waters, and beauty, and keeps them
trail route was planned to meander generally south of the accessible to the public.
Finger Lakes, connecting new segments with just enough To learn more about DEC’s management of State
coordination to ensure that each segment would eventually Forests, visit www.dec.ny.gov/lands/40672.html.
connect with another one. In fact, thirty years had passed
ADK Mountain Club-Onondaga Chapter
ADK Mountain Club-Onondaga Chapter
Adk-Onondaga volunteers help build, maintain, and improve Volunteers create maps and install signage and markings
trails in the Finger Lakes Trail system to provide a safe and along the 1,000+ mile trail to ensure hikers of all skills and
enjoyable experience to all trail users. abilities can navigate the trail easily and safely.
APRIL/MAY 2021 New York State Conservationist 19You can also read
