There's a public forum in NJ soon, this would be a great opportunity to get a group of us from NJ and surrounding states to lobby for some consideration for future management and laws to include us native enthusiasts. If interested let's talk and make some concrete plans. Here's an email I just received:

The NJDEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife is conducting a public forum to discuss freshwater fisheries research and management, culture and recreational angling in New Jersey on Saturday, February 28th beginning at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Batsto Village Visitors Center in Burlington County.

Topics to be discussed will include all aspects of freshwater fisheries management, including both warmwater and coldwater fisheries. Professional staff from the Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries will be on hand to answer questions and provide updates.

Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated, and will help ensure that all attendees can be accommodated. Individuals can pre-register by calling 856-629-4950 or by sending an e-mail to Christopher.Smith@dep.state.nj.us.

Come on out and be an integral part in the development of future regulations and management strategies affecting New Jersey's Freshwater Resources!

For more information about the forum, including directions and contact information, visit http://www.njfishand...orumsouth09.htm on the Division of Fish and Wildlife Web site.

Sounds fantastic, Mike! Please keep us posted on how this develops!

Brian