Fall 2009 - From the Director

Trout Unlimited’s fiscal year ended on September 30, and few will miss 2009. However, thanks in large part to the continued generosity of Coldwater Conservation Fund members like you, TU is in far better shape than most of our peer organizations. All of our projects are moving ahead at full speed, and we have scored some remarkable victories in the last 12 months.

Because on-the-ground projects are the last place we want to cut, we have focused on tightening our belts in other areas. If you are reading this, you will know that we have gone from a printed Complete Angler to an online version. In addition to saving trees and reducing waste, we save on postage and printing costs. This new format also gives readers the ability to link directly for more information on specific topics; renew their membership quickly, easily and securely; view photos and provide feedback easily.

We hope you like the new format and look forward to your feedback.

In terms of substance, please take a few minutes to read Jack Williams’ piece about engaging kids in outdoor work. As TU’s senior scientist and the father of two sons who have followed him into the field of fisheries conservation, Jack has real experience in the issue.

Charlotte Belling, daughter of CCF member Phil Belling, helps Montana Biologist Ron Spoon evaluate the health of fish on the Jefferson River.

And if you think it’s too late, consider the example of CCF Board member Phil Belling. This past summer, Phil and his teenage daughter Charlotte decided to spend a few days of their summer vacations as field technicians on TU’s Jefferson River Project in Montana. Led by Bruce Rehwinkel (who has led TU’s restoration work in the watershed for the last decade) and Ron Spoon (the state of Montana’s biologist for the Jefferson), Phil and Charlotte got a crash course in research and restoration.

Electroshocking fish and sampling invertebrates in a muddy tributary of the Jefferson will never be confused with Club Med, but Phil and Charlotte had a great time and Phil now wants to work with TU staff across the country to provide similar opportunities for other CCF members and their children. Any takers?