Bob Wise, Governor
Ed Hamrick, Director

News Release
For release: January 5, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Bret Preston , Wildlife Resources Section (304) 558-2771 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

Ohio River Fisheries Management Plan and Public Comment Schedule

  Anglers who wish to provide input on the future direction of fisheries management on the Ohio River are encouraged to comment on the Ohio River Fisheries Management Plan, according to Bret Preston , Assistant Chief of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Section. The goal of the plan is to provide enhanced angling opportunities using a sound scientific approach and prudent use of agency funds.

  The plan was developed following five years of extensive studies on the Ohio River and its fisheries, according to Chris O'Bara, DNR Ohio River Fisheries Biologist. The plan calls for stocking of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass during those years when river conditions are not conducive to spawning success. Additional species to be stocked are walleye, paddlefish, hybrid striped bass, and blue catfish. All of these species will provide added fishing opportunities to West Virginia anglers. Additional tasks include the enhancement of river habitat to promote the natural reproduction of Ohio River fishes. A revamping of current angling regulations is also proposed.

  A draft of the Ohio River Fisheries Management Plan is available on the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Web site www.wvdnr.gov or can be obtained by contacting Chris O'Bara at 304-420-4550 or by e-mail ohioriverfish@wvdnr.gov . The plan also can be acquired by writing Chris O'Bara, WVDNR, 2311 Ohio Avenue , Parkersburg , West Virginia , 26101 . Comments received from review of the plan are due February 4, 2005 .

  DNR will host a series of informational open house public forums early in 2005 about fisheries management on the Ohio River . See the schedule on page 2.

Ohio River Fishery Management Plan

Public Open Forum Schedule

January 25, 2005   7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

  West Virginia University at Parkersburg

  BIDS Building , Room B100AB

  Parkersburg , WV

January 26, 2005   7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

  John Marshall High School

  South Commons

  Glendale , WV

January 27, 2005   7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

  Big Sandy Convention Center

  Dogwood Room

  Huntington , WV

For Further Information:

    Chris O'Bara

    304-420-4550

    ohioriverfish@wvdnr.gov

**DNR**