volunteer opportunities

1.  First Cast program. First Cast is TU's new nationwide initiative to introduce youth to coldwater conservation through angling. The program is the result of a ground-breaking partnership between TU and the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF), working on the premise that many of our most dedicated conservationists are also avid anglers.  If you would like more info on how you can help please contact Steve Hackett.  Just as an aside the 2009 program was a BIG HIT!!!!  Be a part of the fun.

2. Help Stock Atlantic Salmon Fry.  This a joint effort between NH Fish and Game and the US Fish and Wildlife Dept.  Click here and you will be redirected to the F&G web site stocking page which lists dates, times and other info. participants need to know.  This is generally done on a yearly basis so keep checking in.

3.  River Monitoring.  Newfound Lake Region Association is looking for a few volunteers to monitor feeder streams/rivers of Newfound lake.  This requires about 1-2 hrs of time per month sampling things like temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and other critical measures important to a healthy stream.  If you are interested please contact Martha Twombley nlra.martha@metrocast.net or Todd Smith granoladude@hotmail.com

4. Waterville Valley Fishing Derby:  Date is May 29th.  The chapter is hoping to have 6-8 volunteers spend part of the day assisting kids and their parents at this fun filled event.  Contact Steve Hackett if you are interested.  

5. Atlantic salmon electrofishing index sites in September/October 2010.  Several of these sites require a great deal of staff/volunteers.  These annual surveys include the Pemi, e. branch Pemi, Mad, Baker and Smith rivers.  Contact F&G if interested.

6.  This one is directly from Ben Nugent, Fisheries Biologist with NH F&G.  Here is what he says; 

One activity that does not necessarily have a timeline is the need for local stewardship at the town level.  As you are aware, the Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act is a state mandate that protects larger giver systems (4th order or greater rivers).  While some protective measures are covered in the CSPA, they may not be adequate to protect all fish habitat.  Furthermore, the CSPA does not cover lower order streams...the streams where we find the majority of wild brook trout populations.  I see a need for all of us interested in protecting fish habitat and water quality to become active at the town level.  Interested parties should be attentive as to what projects are being proposed and actively speak out against projects that would degrade aquatic habitat and water quality.  The Local Strategies for the Conservation of Wild Brook Trout section found in the Newfound Watershed Plan (attached) shows some examples on how local regulations can be used to protect wild brook trout populations.  At some point, I see the need to produce a NH guide that town conservation commissions and planning boards, etc. can use to create ordinance/zoning that promote sustainable fish habitat.  We are currently working on a survey to send to towns/regional conservation groups that will help us get a sense of what is currently being used as protection to smaller streams/rivers.  This survey will also help us develop contacts/public awareness in the town level.