OVBC MEETING MINUTES Date: 04 November 2008 Time: 7:00 PM Place: Whistlers, Tonasket WA Previous Minutes – Not Read Financial Report – Provided Officers present – 6 GUEST SPEAKER: Marc Petersen and Mike Schmuck of the WDFW Region 2 Warmwater Assessment team and Bob Jateff, Region 2 Coldwater Biologist Marc and Mike presented the membership with data and interpretation of the data from the most recent, 2008, Whitestone survey. The Whitestone data presented to the membership was scientific and presented in an unbiased and open discussion. In summary, the survey data presented indicates that the number and sizes of bass in Whitestone are respectful and better than most Washington bass waters. However there is some concern about the effect recent bass plants (from Fish-Outs) may have had on the survey numbers. There is also a concern that the numbers of bluegill in Whitestone remains high. However the removal of bluegill could have a detrimental effect upon Whitestone’s balance of species and ultimately the health of its bass population. The lake will continue to be surveyed to monitor the overall balance of species. WDFW 2008 Whitestone Survey Results Size Caught Age Percent Est Pop < 12" 73 <4 yrs 19.1 202 12"- 17" 223 4-8 Yrs 58.2 615 >17" 87 > 8 yrs 22.7 240 383 815-1302 The option of a NO HARVEST period covering the spawning period was suggested. While this remains a possible option, it is felt that it is not necessary at this time – at least on Whitestone. On another note, members expressed their concerns about the smallmouth population in Palmer, in general the effects of the observed illegal harvesting, particularly during the spawn. A number of options to help protect the smallmouth population were discussed. Enforcement remains at the top of our list, unfortunately that is a different WDFW department and remains a discussion for another time with different individuals. Due to our concerns, another survey of Palmer will take place in 2009. The 2009 data will be compared with that of past surveys and the findings will be presented to the membership. At that time, if there is a problem, options will be discussed. Another option for Palmer that was voiced was to reduce the daily limit for smallmouth back from 10 to 5. Again this remains an option provided the results of the 2009 survey substantiates that the smallmouth population is being depleted and require additional managed protection. Due to the length of the presentation and discussions, the November business items are rescheduled for the December meeting. MEETING ADJOURNED: 8:45 PM NEXT MEETING: 7:00 PM Dec 2nd @ Whistlers in Tonasket. No scheduled new business at this time. DOOR PRIZE: NONE. |
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