NPS VISITS WEST YELLOWSTONE
Small Turnout - Big Input
information & education
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.. The open house for the "Native Fish Conservation Plan / EA" was attended by some of the neighbors. Fewer, however, than in Bozeman, MT. or Cody, WY.
.. The well prepared staff was eager for input prior to drafting the Environmental Assessment (EA) that will delineate the management policies for the foreseeable future.
.. Those attending had the opportunity to submit their concerns and recommendations during the gathering. These will be addressed in the draft document.
.. Public input at this stage of the process is disproportionately significant compared to later stages in the process. The draft document will reflect this input. Later changes and modifications must address the scope of the document and it's contents. We're pleased to see our concerned neighbors taking advantage of this opportunity.
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.. The species addressed in the EA will be the West Slope Cutthroat, Yellowstone Cutthroat, and Grayling, (and perhaps the Fine Spotted Snake River Cutthroat as well.)
.. The genetics, population dynamics, numbers and distribution of these species, within Yellowstone National Park, has been muddied by introduced invasive species, and the planting of natives and exotics throughout the park... We've mentioned the problems before:
==> Lake Trout in Yellowstone Lake eating Yellowstone Cutthroats,
==> The "Cutbow Conundrum,"
==> The replacement of fluvial Grayling with adfluvial populations,
==> The upstream retreat, hybridization and disappearance of West Slope Cutthroats.
.. There are also other ancillary, (rapidly becoming central,) problems that need to be addressed as well. The belief of fly fishers that catch and release is a religion rather than a management technique is one.
Others include: non-piscine invasive species, reduced river flows, river warming, excessive fishing pressure in some areas, etc... The job ahead is a tough one and there is no silver bullet or single action that can address all conditions at once. It is envisioned that a series of pilot, (or extended,) projects will be undertaken. Alarmingly, the possibility exists that for some fish populations it may be too late.
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.. It's not too late to make suggestions for solutions. It's not too late to voice your personal concerns.==> Read about it HERE.
==> Comment HERE.
.. You must use the comment form. Email comments are not acceptable. There is adequate space for comment on the electronic form, (35,000 characters = 10 page letter.) If you intend to submit a longer comment there are instructions for filing a hard copy.
.. For an example of the types of comments and a professional response check out the blog entry from PARK'S FLY SHOP.
.. Thanks go to the staff who left Mammoth in a blinding snow storm to visit sunny, (52 degree,) West Yellowstone. AND THEN, had to drive back.
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