Cross Current Fishing

Atlantic sturgeon listed as an endangered species

2012-01-31T22:37:00.000-05:00

NOAA Fisheries announced that five populations of Atlantic sturgeon will be listed as endangered. Of the six populations on the east coast five of them made the list which include the Chesapeake Bay, New York Bight, Carolina, and South Atlantic. Included in these populations is the Delaware river population which might number as few as just 300 fish. The Gulf of Maine population is also in trouble. That population made the threatened list.

Atlantic sturgeon are slow growing fish living most of their lives in saltwater. They are dependent on freshwater estuaries for spawning and for their early growth where they remain until reaching 30 to 40 inches (about 6 years old).

The southern fish grow at a faster rate than the northern ones, but nonetheless all populations can be considered very slow to mature. For example, South Carolina sturgeon mature at 5 to 19 years of age while Hudson river fish are 11 to 21 years old before they mature. As you move further north the St. Lawrence sturgeon aren't mature until they reach 22 to 34 years of age.

One they grow they do get big though. Atlantic sturgeon can grow to 14 feet long and weigh as much as 800 pounds. Typically they reach 6 or 8 feet and get up to 300 pounds.

Finally, this ancient species is getting the protection it deserves. Since females spawn only every 2 to 5 years it is expected to take at least 40 years before the sturgeon recovers to a population that represents 20 age classes.

Besides simply multiplying, Atlantic sturgeon need to overcome many obstacles in their path. These threats include river dredging, dams,locks, water withdrawals and getting hit by ships.

Hopefully 40 years from now these ancients of the ocean can again be considered thriving.

Don't Lease More State Forest Land for Oil and Gas Development

2012-01-30T15:05:00.000-05:00

Over 40 sportsmen groups ask Pa. governor not to lease more state lands for Marcellus Shale development.

Over 40 sportsmen groups and conservation organizations, representing more than 100,000 sportsmen and women in Pennsylvania, sent a letter to Gov. Tom Corbett today, asking that he not lease additional state forest lands for oil and gas development.

Over 700,000 acres — almost half of Pennsylvania's state forest lands within the Marcellus Shale region — have been leased for gas drilling. Pennsylvania sportsmen are asking that their voices be considered as the governor develops a budget for the next year.

"Gov. Corbett is looking for a quick, easy way to fill the gaps in the state budget," said Ken Undercoffer, president of the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited, "but we can't sacrifice our state forest system, our natural resources or our hunting and fishing heritage, for a short-term gain.

"Hunting and fishing is big business in Pennsylvania each year, more than $4.3 billion is generated from fishing, hunting and wildlife-related recreation — much of which occurs in public forests. State forests are hugely valuable to Pennsylvania and we need to do what we can to preserve them for the next generation," said Don Robertson, president of Pennsylvania division of the Izaak Walton League."

A 2010 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) study found that leasing additional state forest lands would significantly affect the wild character and ecological integrity of the state's forest system. Gov. Rendell placed a ban on additional leasing of state forest lands based on the agency's report.

Signed by such groups as the National Wildlife Federation, the Pennsylvania Forest Coalition, Quality Deer Management Association and local and state chapters of national Trout Unlimited, the letter asks Gov. Corbett to "upload the moratorium on leasing of additional state forest lands," and "preserve the long-held tradition of hunting, fishing, trapping and other sportsmen-related activities on these lands."

Improved way to estimate saltwater recreational fishing

2012-01-25T22:58:00.000-05:00

NOAA today announced it has begun to use an improved method to estimate the amount of fish caught by saltwater anglers, which will allow rules that fishermen follow to be based on more accurate information.

The method is part of an overall effort to improve the accuracy of recreational catch data collected by the Marine Recreational Information Program, and was developed by a team of NOAA scientists and outside experts.

“The new estimation method is a fundamental change that better reflects what is happening on the water and within the recreational fishing community,” said Eric Schwaab, NOAA’s acting assistant secretary of commerce for conservation and management. “Better, more accurate estimates can only be a plus for the saltwater recreational fishing industry, which provides jobs for many Americans and contributes to the economic vitality of our coastal communities.”

The agency today released recalculated estimates going back to 2004 using the new method. There were no overall trends in terms of size or direction of the new estimates; catch estimates for some species go up, some go down, and some remain about the same. To view comparisons of recreational catch estimates using the previous method and the revised method, go to: http://www.CountMyFish.noaa.gov.

“The recreational fishing community has a shared interest in scientifically sound, accurate data and a shared responsibility in making it available,” said Bruce Freeman, a New Jersey recreational fisherman, scientist and member of the Jersey Coast Anglers Association. “With this new estimation method, NOAA is taking an important first step toward the high-quality catch data that many of us have been calling for.”

Using these new estimates, NOAA will now work with the regional fishery management councils, the states, and other stakeholders to integrate these results into fisheries science and management.

Beginning this year, NOAA will use the new method to calculate estimates for the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico for use in fishery management and stock assessment by NOAA, regional fishery management councils and states. Other areas of the country, such as the West Coast, Hawaii, and Alaska, use different survey and estimation methods for saltwater recreational catch. NOAA is working with these regional partners to conduct similar evaluations and, as necessary, implement improvements to their estimation methods.

Another important part of the Marine Recreational Information Program is the National Saltwater Angler Registry, which will help NOAA improve the accuracy of fishing effort estimates by increasing the proportion of fishing households that are surveyed. Additional improvements that will increase the accuracy of the estimates are being developed, including revised dockside survey methods, testing of approaches to improving data timeliness, and use of electronic logbooks in the for-hire vessel sector. To learn more about MRIP, go to: http://www.CountMyFish.noaa.gov.

One rod, one reel, one lure equal new bass tournament rules

2012-01-18T10:15:00.000-05:00

If you're fishing the Bassmaster Classic this year or the Bassmaster Elite Series you'll have to do all your fish catching with just one lure. And one rod and one reel.

Gone from the scene are the Alabama rigs, the single jig with five wire leaders leading to soft plastic baits that supposedly resemble a baitfish school. Along the same lines, double topwater lures, umbrella rigs and drop shot rigs employing a jig as a weight all fall under the more than one lure category.

Remember, the rule change only applies to the Classic and the Elite Series competitions. All the lesser events are still under the old rules. Feeling they should be held to a higher and more professional standard the Elite Series competitors requested this rule change.

US Bans Importation and Interstate Transportation of Four Giant Snakes

2012-01-17T23:42:00.000-05:00

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has banned the importation of four nonnative snakes, the Burmese python, the yellow anaconda, and the northern and southern African pythons. The snakes, all constrictors, have already harmed wildlife and rearranged the balance in Florida's Everglades.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would like to also add the reticulated python, boa constrictor, DeSchauensee’s anaconda, green anaconda and Beni anaconda to the list.

All these large constrictor snakes have the potential to become established in the southern U.S. where they can threaten native species, some of which are already endangered or threatened.

For more information check out: http://www.fws.gov/invasives/news.html

North American Bat Death Toll Exceeds 5.5 Million From White-nose Syndrome

2012-01-17T23:18:00.002-05:00

On the verge of another season of winter hibernating bat surveys, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists and partners estimate that at least 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats have now died from white-nose syndrome. Biologists expect the disease to continue to spread.

White-nose syndrome (WNS) is decimating bat populations across eastern North America, with mortality rates reaching up to 100 percent at many sites. First documented in New York in 2006, the disease has spread quickly into 16 states and four Canadian provinces. Bats with WNS exhibit unusual behavior during cold winter months, including flying outside during the day and clustering near the entrances of caves and mines where they hibernate. Bats have been found sick and dying in unprecedented numbers near these hibernacula.

“This startling new information illustrates the severity of the threat that white-nose syndrome poses for bats, as well as the scope of the problem facing our nation. Bats provide tremendous value to the U.S. economy as natural pest control for American farms and forests every year, while playing an essential role in helping to control insects that can spread disease to people,” said Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe. “We are working closely with our partners to understand the spread of this deadly disease and minimize its impacts to affected bat species.”

Estimating the total number of bat deaths has been a difficult challenge for biologists. Although consistent population counts for federally listed endangered bats, like the Indiana bat, have been a priority for state and federal biologists, establishing population counts of once “common” bat species, like little brown bats, was historically not the primary focus of seasonal bat population counts.

“White-nose syndrome has spread quickly through bat populations in eastern North America, and has caused significant mortality in many colonies,” said National WNS Coordinator, Dr. Jeremy Coleman, “Many bats were lost before we were able to establish pre-white-nose syndrome population estimates.”

More than 140 partners, including tribal, state and federal biologists and bat researchers convened in Carlisle, Pennsylvania for the 2012 Northeast Bat Working Group (NEBWG) meeting last week to discuss challenges facing bat research, management and conservation. Coordinating with wildlife officials in Canada, the group discussed population-level impacts to hibernating bats and developed the estimate of bats lost to WNS.

In addition to the lack of population data for many bat species, there has also been a lack of consistency in how bat population data was reported among agencies. As part of the May 2011 national WNS response plan, which was developed by the Service in partnership with a team of federal, state, tribal, and NGO scientists, agencies are addressing this by establishing methods for consistent data collection.

The National Plan for Assisting States, Federal Agencies and Tribes in Managing White-Nose Syndrome in Bats provides a framework for the coordination and management of the national WNS investigation response, and the Service leads an extensive network of partners in implementing the plan.

The Service serves as the primary resource for up-to-date information and recommendations for all partners, such as important decontamination protocols for cave researchers and visitors and a cave access advisory that requests a voluntary moratorium on activities in caves in affected states to minimize the potential spread of WNS.

In addition to developing science-based protocols and guidance for land management agencies and other partners to minimize the spread of WNS, the Service has funded numerous research projects to support and assess management recommendations and improve our basic understanding of the dynamics of the disease.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service.

For more information about white-nose syndrome, visit www.fws.gov/whitenosesyndrome. Connect with our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usfwswns, follow our tweets at www.twitter.com/usfws_wns, and download white-nose syndrome and bat photos from our Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq/collections/72157626455036388/.

Discover Pennsylvania's Fly-Fishing Heritage

2012-01-13T22:12:00.000-05:00

Meet leaders of Pennsylvania's fly-fishing tradition and experience world-class fly tiers in action as they show fly patterns made famous on Commonwealth waters. The activities are part of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's upcoming fly-fishing program, scheduled for Monday, Jan. 30, from 6 - 9 p.m. at the agency's Harrisburg headquarters on Elmerton Avenue.

The program is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Individuals can register online through the Commission's website at: http://www.fishandboat.com/promo/form/register_onetime_2012jan.htm.

During the evening program, participants will be able to view paintings by artist Thom Glace, see the Commission’s new “Pennsylvania Waters” collectible embroidered patches, and purchase a 2012 fishing license.

The Cumberland Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited will also be recognized by the Commission.

Space is limited and registration will close on Jan. 27. For more information, contact Ted Walke at 717.705.7813.

The Fishery Management Illusion Continues

2012-01-12T22:12:00.000-05:00

by Ted Venker
Coastal Conservation Association

The illusion continues for NOAA Fisheries.

Last year the agency boldly announced it had ended overfishing. This week, the agency proudly announced that annual catch limits are now in place for most federal fisheries. Wonderful news, if either proclamation had roots in fact or could possibly translate into any good result.

Unable to muster the science to manage to the very high threshold specified by the Magnuson Stevens Act, NOAA Fisheries declared victory without even running the race. It ended overfishing and put a catch limit on every stock under management. On paper. And environmentalists cheered.

Recreational anglers are not cheering.

What will happen back in the real world now that the agency has claimed to have ended overfishing and put in annual catch limits without the science to adequately back it up? The rest of us will eventually have to pay the piper. The agency has built a house of cards and set catch limits that are not tethered to reality. When those limits are exceeded — and we are talking about limits on every single stock under management, the majority of which the agency knows nothing about — the agency will be sued. Sued relentlessly by environmental groups. With no tools to offer any other alternative, NOAA Fisheries will close stock after stock to comply with illusory catch limits. It is relatively easy to end overfishing and enforce catch limits if you simply don’t let anyone fish. And after every closure the environmentalists will cheer and commend the agency for its proactive stance. Won’t that make a good press release?

Real management is difficult and expensive, but infinitely more beneficial for the nation’s fisheries and the citizens who use and enjoy them. But functional management doesn’t seem to be the goal here. NOAA Fisheries has chosen the easier, but far more unpredictable path. By implementing everything from unfair catch shares to imaginary catch limits to archaic allocations, the agency has almost completely alienated its most valuable constituents — the anglers who actually use the nation’s marine resources and put back far more than they take out. Trust and partnership between the agency and the recreational community are at an all-time low. This community is counting the days until the Magnuson-Stevens Act comes up for reauthorization again. At this point it is hard not to believe the agency will eventually reap what it has sown, and that may not be a welcome outcome for the proper conservation of our marine resources.

The current and likely future situation is all the more regrettable when you consider that the Administration could have implemented the most turbulent provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Act in about 100 different ways — 99 of which would not have left scorched earth in their wake. As concerns mount over the strangling effects of over-regulation on the American economy, it is remarkable that the agency has elected to subject America’s anglers and all their economic potential to the singularly most restrictive interpretation of the law possible, never mind the consequences.

This Administration’s attitude towards fisheries management is strikingly similar to the one that gave the public Prohibition in the 1920s, and the results are likely to be the same. Prohibition, which made criminals out of ordinary citizens overnight, didn’t work because nobody wanted it to work except a small, hardcore group of extremists who didn’t drink alcohol. The country turned itself inside out, spent billions of dollars on a misguided campaign and took more than 10 years to correct its course. The current approach to federal fisheries management is on the same path.

Whether by choice or by circumstance, the agency has frittered away the good will of even the most reasonable of its constituents and has elected to hide behind an illusion of management. This is certainly not the agency the recreational community deserves or expects, nor is it one which contains the essentials of good management.

Carl Hiaasen 2012 Angler of the Year

2012-01-10T20:45:00.001-05:00

Fly Rod & Reel magazine named Carl Hiassen their 2012 Angler of the Year. Hiaasen is an avid fly fisher (which only makes sense), novelist and columnist for the Miami Herald.

Read Kirk Deeter's article on Fly Rod & Reel for the complete story:

Carl Hiaasen 2012 Angler of the Year

Stonycreek River Voted Pennsylvania's 2012 River of the Year

2012-01-09T22:12:00.000-05:00

The Stonycreek River, flowing through Cambria and Somerset counties, has been voted Pennsylvania's River of the Year for 2012.

For the second year, a public, online vote selected the winning river from among four nominees. Stonycreek River received 2,777 votes among the more than 8,300 ballots cast. The other finalists were the Kiskiminetas, Middle Monongahela and Upper Juniata rivers.

"The Stonycreek has it all -- near-wilderness, pristine trout waters; nationally acclaimed whitewater adventure; and a watershed steeped in natural and historical resources," said Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan. "Our newest River of the Year has rebounded from abandoned mine drainage threats of the past to unlimited recreational potential of the future.

"Once again the River of the Year designation raises awareness of the river and its conservation needs, while the public voting format continues to generate local enthusiasm for conservation and recognition of the importance of our waterways."

DCNR and the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers, or POWR, administer the River of the Year program. Local organizations submit nominations.

"Each of the waterways that were nominated is special and important in its own way," Allan said. "We extend hearty congratulations to the local groups who nominated their rivers, and rallied support for them not only for this vote, but through all of their continued activities and advocacy."

POWR helps train and organize local watershed associations, as well as the groups who lead a dozen sojourns on rivers around the state each year.

"This year saw record participation in the River of the Year selection process," said POWR Project Manager Joshua Karns. "Congratulations to the supporters of the Stonycreek River, and thanks to the thousands of Pennsylvanians who voted. We look forward to working with the communities in the Stonycreek Watershed to promote and protect their river, and all of Pennsylvania's waterways."

Before emptying into the Conemaugh River in Johnstown, Stonycreek River flows 46 miles across the Allegheny Plateau in southern Cambria County and northern Somerset County. Anglers are drawn to Stonycreek Gorge's nine miles of near-wilderness trout water, while the Stonycreek Canyon offers 15 rapids in four miles -- the longest set of continuous rapids in the eastern United States.

Now rebounded from the deadly effects of abandoned mine drainage, the Stonycreek River carves out a 468 square-mile watershed that is bordered by the Allegheny Front and Laurel Ridge, and contains rolling farmland, active and reclaimed strip mines, woodlands, and classic former coal-mining communities.

The river corridor contains the historic Forbes Trail and Flight 93 National Memorial, Quecreek Mine Rescue Site, Quemahoning Lake, Greenhouse Park and Whitewater Park -- the first constructed set of rapids for boaters in Pennsylvania.

The Stonycreek is among several key landscapes in the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative. Led by DCNR, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and others, the initiative seeks to protect the unique character of the Laurel Highlands and recognize its communities as world-class heritage/recreation destinations as well as wonderful places to work and live.

Located an hour east of Pittsburgh, the Laurel Highlands area is defined by three Allegheny Plateau ridges -- Chestnut, Laurel and Allegheny -- and portions of several watersheds. It includes Somerset, Westmoreland, Fayette and Cambria counties.

A number of partner organizations support conservation and recreation activities along Stonycreek River. Primary is the Stonycreek Quemahoning Initiative Inc., a not-for-profit corporation formed by representatives of recreational, sporting, conservation, economic development and historical groups. Its mission is development and presentation of Stonycreek River heritage corridor's assets.

Several events throughout the year will celebrate the Stonycreek's designation, including a sojourn offering canoeists, kayakers and other paddlers a chance to experience life on the river, and encourage greater understanding of its challenges and potential. The Stonycreek River also will be celebrated with an annual Rivers Month poster issued in June.

Pennsylvania's River of the Year has been presented annually since 1983.

Report Confirms High Value for Wild Atlantic Salmon

2012-01-09T14:43:00.002-05:00

Gardner Pinfold Consulting Economists Ltd. of Halifax concludes that wild Atlantic salmon were worth $255 million and supported 3,872 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs in eastern Canada in 2010. The firm’s study confirms that Canadians hold a special place in their hearts, and pocketbooks, for restoration of this iconic species.

The Gardner Pinfold evaluation includes a gross domestic product value of $150 million relating to activities such as recreational and First Nation fishing, tourism, education and spending by governments, universities and non- government organizations. In addition, Atlantic Canadians and Quebecers are willing to contribute tax dollars to support successful restoration programs that would cost up to $105 million annually to ensure that wild Atlantic salmon continue to exist and contribute to ecosystem integrity.

Spending in the recreational salmon fishery in 2010 alone amounted to $128 million. This recreational fishery attracts significant numbers of non-resident anglers from the United States, where there is no fishery for wild Atlantic salmon due to their endangered status. Higher angler numbers are the key driver for growth in spending and even greater economic benefits from this fishery. For example, more anglers participated in the recreational fishery in 2010 (53,883) due to better salmon runs, compared to 2005 (41,737). In 2005, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) in its survey that evaluates all recreational fishing in Canada put a value of $62 million on the recreational fishery for Atlantic salmon. The Gardner Pinfold value in 2010 more than doubles this amount. “One of the conclusions of this report is a relatively simple concept,” said Bill Taylor, President of the Atlantic Salmon Federation, “ The more fish there are; the more anglers travel to eastern Canadian destinations and more spending and jobs are generated in rural economies that are very much in need of such a boost .”

The Gardner Pinfold report provides a strong case put forward by the general public in the Atlantic Provinces and Quebec for investment by government in wild Atlantic salmon. More than 80% of the public supports investment in salmon restoration with a willingness to pay in the range of $4.50 to $12.50 annually per tax-paying household on programs that have a high likelihood of success.

Gardner Pinfold randomly surveyed the general public in Atlantic Canada and Quebec during an economic downturn, when the average Canadian was preoccupied with debt and declining incomes. “The results were great,” said Greg MacAskill, an economist with Gardner Pinfold, “Such strong support for wild Atlantic salmon among non-users, against that dire economic backdrop, adds extra weight to the results, and cements the fact that protecting the species rests solidly among the core values of Canadians.”

In our political climate, money talks, and government tends to invest in industries that provide economic benefits and jobs to communities. The Gardner Pinfold report confirms that wild Atlantic salmon support a sustainable green industry that attracts a lot of tourists from throughout Canada, the United States and overseas, and generates income and jobs in rural communities that are often faced with massive job loss in other industries, such as forestry.

For example, the recreational salmon fishery on New Brunswick’s Miramichi River attracts visitors from around the world, supports annual spending of $20 million, and provides 637 (FTE) jobs to rural communities surrounding the river.

An increase in salmon numbers is an important goal of both the general public and the recreational fishing segment. Increased salmon numbers depend on governments taking a lead in implementation of effective restoration programs. Despite its core mandate to conserve and manage wild Atlantic salmon, DFO budgets related to wild Atlantic salmon have declined by nearly 75% since 1985.

Mr. Taylor said, “Gardner Pinfold has provided a legitimate socio-economic value for wild Atlantic salmon, utilizing standard, transparent and comprehensive surveying techniques and analyses that have been the basis of many economic studies, some of which DFO itself has commissioned. The study clearly demonstrates that additional conservation and restoration measures for wild Atlantic salmon will significantly strengthen the economy and quality-of-life of Canadians.”

If DFO adds $15 million annually (a fraction of the $105 million that the general public is willing to contribute) to restore its budget for wild Atlantic salmon to near what the department spent in 1985, Canadians could see a return on investment within six years, according to Gardner Pinfold.

“We are not asking for a hand-out,” Mr. Taylor concluded, “We are asking for a reasonable investment in restoration, conservation and protection that will pay dividends in future wild Atlantic salmon returns to our rivers and economic returns and employment to Canadian communities.”

The Atlantic Salmon Federation is dedicated to the conservation, protection and restoration of wild Atlantic salmon and the ecosystems on which their well-being and survival depend.

Some Cool Pictures from the US Coast Guard

2012-01-06T22:18:00.000-05:00

Coast Guard icebreaker escorts tanker through Bering Sea ice

BERING SEA - The Coast Guard Cutter Healy breaks ice around the Russian-flagged tanker vessel Renda 250 miles south of Nome, Alaska, Jan. 6, 2012.
The Healy is the Coast Guard's only current operating polar icebreaker.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Sara Francis.

BERING SEA - The Coast Guard Cutter Healy escorts the Russian-flagged tanker vessel Renda 250 miles south of Nome, Alaska, Jan. 6, 2012.
The vessels are transiting through ice up to five-feet thick in this area.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Sara Francis.

BERING SEA - The Russian-flagged tanker Renda steams toward Nome, Alaska, through a path in the Bering Sea ice broken up by the Coast Guard Cutter Healy Jan. 6, 2012.
The Renda is carrying more than 1.3 million gallons of fuel to deliver to the city of Nome.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by cutter Healy.

BERING SEA - The Russian-flagged tanker Renda carrying more than 1.3 million gallons of fuel for the city of Nome steams through a path in the ice of the Bering Sea Jan. 6, 2012.
The 420-foot Seattle-based Coast Guard Cutter Healy is escorting and breaking a pathway in the ice approximately 19 miles northwest of Nunivak Island for the Renda to safely navigate to Nome.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by cutter Healy.

BERING SEA - A Coast Guard Cutter Healy crewmember takes a moment to watch the Russian-flagged tanker Renda steam through the ice in the North Bering Sea while the cutter crew escorts the tanker to Nome Jan. 6, 2012.
The 420-foot Seattle-based Healy is the Coast Guard's newest and most technologically advanced polar icebreaker and is currently the service's only operational polar icebreaker.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by cutter Healy.

BERING SEA - The Coast Guard Cutter Healy crew breaks ice in the Bering Sea as the Russian-flagged tanker Renda, approximately 19 miles northwest of Nunivak Island, makes their way to Nome, Alaska, to deliver more than 1.3 million gallons of fuel to the city Jan. 6, 2012.
The 420-foot Seattle-based Healy and tanker Renda are approximately 19 miles northwest of Nunivak Island.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by cutter Healy.

$736,000 for One Bluefin Tuna

2012-01-05T12:02:00.000-05:00

With numbers like this, it's going to be harder and harder to curtail the harvest of bluefin tuna. Just a year ago there was a push to severely limit the catch or close fishing all together in an effort to save over fished stocks. Some experts were claiming the species was at a point of no return and unless the kill was halted extinction was inevitable.

MSNBC reported the price on this bluefin tuna at the first auction of the year at Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market. It's a record price too. It beats out last years record of $416,000 paid for one fish.

If you do the arithmetic, this years record breaking tuna comes to $1,238 per pound.

The record price tuna was caught just north of Japan's tsunami-battered coast. 80 percent of the Atlantic and Pacific bluefins caught are consumed in Japan so it stands to reason that Japan opposes efforts to close or limit the tuna harvest as means of protecting the species and increasing its numbers to historic levels.

More Than $20 Million in Grants to Conserve Coastal Wetlands

2012-01-04T13:13:00.000-05:00

The 2012 National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program has awarded $20.5 million in grants to support 24 projects in 13 states to conserve and restore coastal wetlands and their fish and wildlife habitat. These grants will be matched by nearly $21 million in partner contributions from state and local governments, private landowners and conservation groups.

The states receiving funds include Alaska, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Texas, Virginia and Washington. The money will be used to acquire, restore and enhance coastal wetlands and their adjacent uplands.

Funding is provided by Sport Fish Restoration Act revenue. This is the money generated from excise taxes on fishing equipment, motorboat and small engine fuels. Since the program began in 1992, including the current grants, nearly $300 million has been awarded to coastal states to protect habitat.

Coastal areas comprise less than 10 percent of the nation’s land area yet support 75 percent of migratory birds, nearly 80 percent of fish and shellfish and about half of all threatened and endangered species.

A list of projects funded by the 2012 grant program can be found online at: http://www.fws.gov/coastal/CoastalGrants/index.html.

The Fly Fishing Show and the Clean Angling Coalition Partner to Spread the Message on Inspect, Clean and Dry.

2012-01-03T12:46:00.000-05:00

A key partnership between the Fly Fishing Show, worlds largest fly fishing consumer show and the Clean Angling Coalition aims to bring the Inspect, Clean and Dry message to the winter show season. Aquatic invasive species threaten our fisheries resources and cleaning gear is one of the best tools we have in preventing the spread of these harmful species. The Fly Fishing Show will be educating anglers on cleaning to prevent the spread of invasive species at its seven venues across the US with the use of the Clean Angling brand and Inspect, Clean and Dry message.

“It is important that our industry stands together in educating anglers on the importance of cleaning their gear,” says Ben Furimsky, Co-Director of The Fly Fishing Show. "We are thrilled to be part of the Clean Angling Coalition and sharing the message of Inspect, Clean and Dry. Our commitment is to protecting the fly industry from the impacts of invasive species.”

The angling community has a keen awareness about invasive species, unfortunately invaders continue to spread. We must teach all anglers to clean so they can help prevent the introduction of invasive species. When anglers repeatedly hear the importance of cleaning gear from trusted industry leaders, this creates a positive momentum for all anglers to take action.

“The Fly Fishing Show brings strength to the Coalition,” says Leah Elwell Clean Angling Coalition Program Manager. “This is a great opportunity to reach tens of thousands of anglers on cleaning at the largest fly fishing consumer show.”

The Clean Angling Coalition is a program of the Invasive Species Action Network. The mission of Invasive Species Action Network (ISAN) is to reduce the human-caused spread of invasive species by promoting voluntary behavior change. ISAN programs focus on creating and implementing practical solutions for people, and providing educational resources. ISAN is a 501c3 non-profit conservation organization based in Livingston, MT. For more information visit www.cleanangling.org.

The Fly Fishing Show is the world’s largest consumer fly fishing show featuring new industry products, educational venues and celebrity showcases. The Fly Fishing Show hosts their event in seven locations across the US including Somerset, PA and Pleasanton, CA. For more information visit http://www.flyfishingshow.com/

New Findings on New York's Adirondacks Aquatic Insects

2012-01-02T19:02:00.000-05:00

A whole bunch of new mayflies, caddisflies and stoneflies have been cataloged as being found in New York's Adirondacks. This discovery includes some that are even new to science. Pretty exciting stuff for entomologists and fly fishermen.

But the interest in these aquatic insects shouldn't stop there because as the article in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise explains, these insects are indicators of not only biodiversity but also water quality.

Planning the Perfect Fly Fishing Trip

2011-12-29T00:39:00.003-05:00

Cross Current Guide Service & Outfitters

The Upper Delaware River and much more...

The shorter days of winter give us longer nights to dream about the fishing that is yet to come.

I hope everyone had a happy holiday season!

The Upper Delaware had an outstanding season for 2011. There were times that were tough for sure, but the seemingly never ending Fall kept the dry fly action going right into Thanksgiving. The wet year gave us excellent water flows that provided miles of water cold enough for trout, something we hadn't seen in more than a decade. Right now the river looks excellent. Water levels are high as are the reservoirs. The brown trout had excellent spawning conditions this past Fall and the rainbows should be looking at the same this Spring.

Here at Cross Current few changes have taken place. The first is our new website. Well, not really "new" but definitely a face-lift. Check it out at CrossCurrentGuideService.com.

We also have added a new destination to our travel itinerary. March 3 through 10 will have us bonefishing in the Bahamas. We'll be staying on one of the more remote and undeveloped islands. Massive white sand flats line the island's entire shores and with them bonefish from 4 to 10 pounds. Call or email if you'd like to join us or want more information on the trip. crosscurrent@optonline.net

We also book destinations to just about anywhere you may want to fish, both hosted and individually. Call or email for details.

The Double Haul Club is up and running providing private access on the East and West Branches of the Delaware. Look for the club's website launch in the very near future. Club membership also includes discounts on local lodging and dining. In addition, club members enjoy travel discounts to any of our travel destinations. Annual membership is only $500 per person. To receive a membership brochure and more information send us an email or visit us at the Fly Fishing Show in Somerset, NJ or Lancaster, PA.

During January 27, 28, 29, 2012 we'll be at the Fly Fishing Show, in Somerset, NJ. and at the Lancaster, PA Fly Fishing Show during February 18 & 19, 2012. Stop by our exhibitor booth for some fishing talk or drop in on one of the several presentations we’ll be giving. Visit the shows website for times and directions.

Until the next cast,

Joe

Calling Them Shrimp Just Wouldn't Make Sense

2011-12-27T19:10:00.000-05:00

The headline reads like the title of a science fiction move: Giant Prawns Invade Texas. Known to be in the Gulf of Mexico for the last few years, giant Asian tiger prawns have now appeared in Texas waters.

These prawns are speculated to be aquaculture escapes and have taken hold in the gulf coast waters where they threaten the native white shrimp, crabs and shellfish. One theory is that floods washed them out of aquaculture ponds in South Carolina, the Caribbean or one of the gulf states.

The prawns are big and competitive and compete for the same food sources as their native relatives. The tiger prawns also think nothing of dining on their smaller cousins and small crabs too.

The giants are known carries to 16 different diseases that are known to be lethal to native species.

I'm guessing due to their large size, sometimes better than a foot long, these prawns are so named because calling them shrimp just wouldn't make sense.

More information on these alien invaders can be found at ProtectYourWaters.net

Legislation to keep vessels with illegally caught seafood out of U.S. ports introduced

2011-12-26T15:54:00.001-05:00

A bill introduced in Congress yesterday would prevent pirate fishing vessels from entering U.S. ports to offload their illegally caught seafood. This pirate fishing is often called illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

The Administration bill, which implements an international agreement the United States helped negotiate, would benefit U.S. fishermen, seafood buyers, and consumers by keeping illegal seafood out of global trade. It is sponsored by U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii, who introduced it in the Senate yesterday, and is co-sponsored by Sens. Begich, Snowe, Whitehouse, Murkowski, and Rockefeller.

“Illegal fishing undermines fishermen in the U.S. and worldwide who fish sustainably and legally, and it can devastate fish stocks and ocean ecosystems,” said Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “As one of the top importers of seafood globally, the U.S. is committed to combating illegal fishing and ensuring a level playing field for our fishermen. The international agreement and this bill will close the world’s ports to illegal fishing.”

Illegal fishing deprives law-abiding fishermen and coastal communities around the world of up to $23.5 billion in revenue every year, and undermines efforts to monitor and sustainably manage fisheries. Since seafood caught through IUU fishing enters the global marketplace through wide-ranging ports mostly outside the U.S., keeping that seafood from entering the global market requires an international solution and the cooperation of multiple countries.

“The sustainability of fish and fish products and the economic integrity of those who sell them is a priority for the seafood community,” said John Connelly, president of the National Fisheries Institute, an industry association. “Efforts to stamp out illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing go a long way in protecting the resource and ensuring the global seafood industry is operating at the highest standards. It also helps create a level playing field whereby the industry both in the U.S. and around the world plays by the same rules.”

“This legislation further strengthens the United States' commitment to closing our ports to illegally caught fish,” said Gerry Leape, senior officer at the Pew Environment Group. “The U.S. is the third largest seafood market in the world, so passage of this bill will deal a heavy blow to any vessels looking to offload and sell contraband fish.”

This legislation arises from the first binding global agreement to focus on combating IUU fishing, the agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing. This international accord is recognized globally as a landmark agreement. As a leader in the negotiation of the agreement, the U.S. was one of the first countries to sign it, an act that expresses an intention to ratify the agreement. The agreement will take full effect when 25 parties to the agreement ratify it.

Three countries – Norway, Sri Lanka, and Burma – along with the European Union have already ratified it, and 18 more countries and the U.S. have expressed an intention to ratify.

Countries that ratify the agreement have four basic obligations:

Designating ports through which foreign fishing vessels may enter;
Conducting dockside vessel inspections in the designated ports, following established standards;
Blocking port entry and access to port services to vessels known to or believed to have been involved in IUU fishing, particularly those on the IUU vessel list of a regional fishery management organization; and
Sharing information, including inspection results, with the governments of vessels found involved in IUU fishing during an inspection.

U.S. law already prohibits foreign-flagged fishing vessels, even those operating legally, from landing their catch at most U.S. ports. However, in addition to fishing vessels, the agreement and implementing legislation extends to both transport and other support vessels, which may be carrying IUU fish transferred to them at sea.

The implementing legislation, introduced as the Pirate Fishing Elimination Act, follows the November 14 transmission of the agreement itself from President Obama to the Senate. Congressional approval of the agreement and its implementing legislation will ensure continued U.S. leadership in the global battle to stop IUU fishing and will allow the United States to encourage broad ratification of the agreement worldwide.

NOAA has taken a number of steps to combat IUU fishing and prevent illegal seafood from entering the global marketplace. In September, NOAA and the EU signed a historic statement pledging bilateral cooperation to combat pirate fishing. The U.S. also identifies countries engaged in IUU fishing through the U.S. High Seas Driftnet Fishing Moratorium Protect Act and participates in international fishery management organizations to address IUU fishing. To find out more about NOAA’s efforts to end illegal fishing, see http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/stories/iuu/.

One of World’s Rarest Birds in Western North Carolina

2011-12-26T15:18:00.000-05:00

Biologists recently confirmed the presence of a pair of whooping cranes outside Hayesville, North Carolina, marking the first time the birds have been documented wintering in Western North Carolina.

Whooping cranes are one of the rarest species in the world, with a current estimated global population between 525-550 individuals, which is divided into four main groups. All wild whooping cranes are part of a western population that migrates between Canada and coastal Texas and now numbers approximately 300. In 1999 state and federal agencies, non-profits, and private individuals formed the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP) to restore a migratory flock to eastern North America. This carefully-managed and heavily-monitored eastern flock began with a small group of captively-reared birds which has grown to more than 100 individuals, including the two found in Clay County. The third and fourth populations are reintroduced populations of nonmigratory whooping cranes in Florida and Louisiana.

The Western North Carolina sighting of whooping cranes was reported through the BringBacktheCranes.org website on December 9, 2011 by Paul Hudson, of Hayesville, N.C. After the initial report, Jennifer Davis, of the International Crane Foundation, joined Hudson and confirmed his sighting upon finding the birds foraging in a soybean field.

“With Jennifer’s great tracking abilities and my local knowledge, we found the birds again and got to view them from a safe distance. They lifted their giant wings and displayed while calling, which echoed across the valley,” said Hudson. “What wonderful creatures they are, and I got two chances to see them in the wild. How cool is that?”

Since Hudson’s first sighting, at least two other people have reported the birds.

“We’re pleasantly surprised that we’re beginning to get a steady stream of reports, since the birds don’t usually pass through Western North Carolina and we haven’t put out a call for people to report sightings,” said Billy Brooks, a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service biologist who has spent years working with whooping cranes. “It’s wonderful to see people recognizing that these birds are something special in their community.”

The cranes are a male/female pair, and biologists anticipate they’ll mate when they return north in the spring. Like all members of the eastern population, the birds have identifying leg bands. The male goes by the number 28-08, meaning he was the 28th chick hatched to the eastern population in 2008. The female is 5-10, the fifth chick hatched in 2010.

When young eastern whooping cranes make their first southward migration, they follow closely related sandhill cranes, older whooping cranes, or an ultralight aircraft which leads the birds south from Wisconsin, across Tennessee and Alabama into Florida. After that first guided migration, the birds are on their own to select a route and a wintering area. The male of this pair spent last winter at Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge in southeast Tennessee, along with a handful of other whooping cranes which winter there with thousands of sandhill cranes. While Clay County is outside the main migration corridor, it isn’t far enough to worry biologists.

It remains to be seen whether the pair will make Western North Carolina their annual wintering ground. Aside from ecological factors, it may depend, in part, on the behavior of Western North Carolinians. Brooks advises anyone encountering a whooping crane in the wild to give them the respect and distance they need. WCEP recommends not approaching the birds on foot within 600 feet; remaining in your vehicle; not approaching in a vehicle within 600 feet or, if on a public road, within 300 feet; remaining concealed and not speaking loudly enough that the birds can hear you; and not trespassing on private property in an attempt to view whooping cranes. These birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act.

“It’ll be fascinating to see if these birds remain in Western North Carolina,” said Brooks. “There are a lot of factors that play into that – not only human disturbance, but also whether the habitat has what they need to over-winter.”

Whooping cranes were listed as an endangered species in 1967, the result of hunting and specimen collection, human disturbance, and loss of habitat. Whooping crane numbers dipped to an all time low of 16 individuals in 1941. They once occurred from the Arctic coast to the high plateau of central Mexico, and from Utah east to New Jersey and Florida. Standing almost 5 feet tall, it’s the tallest bird in North America. Adult birds are characterized by snowy white plumage, a crimson crown, long thin black legs, and white wings tipped with black that measure almost 8 feet in length. The plumage of juvenile birds is a mixture of cinnamon and white. Deriving their name from the distinctive whooping call, the call of the whooping crane can carry for miles.

Recognizing that the few remaining wild birds had become concentrated in small areas, scientists became concerned that a single catastrophic event on either the wintering or nesting grounds could wipe out the population. This led to efforts to establish additional, separate populations.

The Whooping Crane Recovery Team, a group of biologists that provide policy and recommendations for the species, searched for possible locations to establish a second migratory flock. In 1999, the team recommended that a flock of whooping cranes hatched in captivity be taught a migration route between central Wisconsin and the west coast of Florida. The recovery team then sanctioned the ultralight-led migration techniques of Operation Migration, Inc. as the main reintroduction method.

In 2001, Operation Migration's pilots first led captive-reared whooping crane chicks south from Necedah National Wildlife Refuge in Wisconsin to Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge in Florida. This effort to guide young cranes to wintering grounds has become an annual event and is considered key to establishing the eastern population. To prepare for the journey and release into the wild, the young cranes are introduced to ultralight aircraft and raised in isolation from humans. Project biologists and pilots adhere to a strict no-talking rule, broadcast recorded crane calls, and wear costumes designed to mask the human form whenever they’re around the cranes.

In addition to the ultralight-led method, biologists from the International Crane Foundation rear whooping crane chicks that are released in the company of older cranes, from whom the young birds learn the migration route, part of WCEP’s “Direct Autumn Release” reintroduction method.

Founding members of WCEP include the International Crane Foundation, Operation Migration, Inc., Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey's Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and National Wildlife Health Center, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, and the International Whooping Crane Recovery Team. Many other flyway states, provinces, private individuals and conservation groups have joined forces with and support WCEP by donating resources, funding, and personnel. To report a crane sighting or learn more about the project, visit the WCEP website at http://www.bringbackthecranes.org.

Didymo Infestation Leads to the Death of 434,000 Lake Trout

2011-12-23T18:58:00.001-05:00

It all started back in August, 2011 when Hurricane Irene trashed the White River National Fish Hatchery in Bethel, Vermont.

Not only did the hatchery sustain damage and lose thousands of fish including Atlantic salmon, lake trout and native brook trout, but the flood waters injected didymo, aka rock snot, into the hatchery.

Efforts are under way to disinfect and reopen the facility but in the meantime 434,000 lake trout became homeless.

These fish were slated for stocking in Lake Ontario and Lake Erie but wildlife managers cancelled that fearing introducing the invasive didymo into the Great Lakes. Second thought was to stock them in already contaminated waters, but in the end no one wanted them and the decision to kill the fish was made.

The fish were taken from their tanks and dumped into deep pits, covered with lime and buried. A huge waste of fish as I see it. Didymo is a diatom that has colonized many waterways with its fibrous coating but it's not poisonous. Why couldn't these fish be either sold to a commercial wholesaler or donated to shelters and food banks? I'd like to believe there's a good reason they weren't. Emphasis on the "I'd like to..."

Take a minute and email your congressman and ask why. Here the link to make it easy: https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml

Rhode Island Bans Felt Soles

2011-12-22T22:47:00.000-05:00

Rhode Island becomes the fourth state to ban felt soles in an effort to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species. The Ocean State joins Alaska, Vermont and Maryland in having statewide bans.

A look at Rhode Island's 2012-2013 Fishing Regulations simply states: It is prohibited that any person use foot gear with external felt soles in any state waters, inclusive of freshwater, tidal, or marine. This shall include any waters shared with adjacent states in which any Rhode Island Fishing Regulations apply.

Note that Rhode Island and Maryland ban the use of felt sole in both freshwater and saltwater.

Simms urges support for on-line sales tax

2011-12-22T20:02:00.000-05:00

Marketplace Fairness Act creates level playing field for specialty fly shops

BOZEMAN, Montana (for immediate release) – Simms Fishing Products is urging the U.S. Congress to approve legislation that enforces sales taxes on Internet sales from out-of-state retailers with online revenues totaling more than $500,000.

The proposed legislation, titled the Marketplace Fairness Act (S-1832), levels the sales tax collection playing field for local retailers by granting the states authority to enforce existing laws and require out-of-state, online retailers to collect and remit sales taxes to those states. Sponsored by Senator Mike Enzi (R-Wyoming), the proposed legislation has strong bipartisan support.

“Our business and the sport of fly fishing depend on healthy specialty fly shops,” said K.C. Walsh, president of Simms. “This legislation will close a critical loophole that has given an unfair competitive advantage to online retailers. Our dealer-partners in states with high sales taxes have been hit hard trying to do business under the current structure.”

The legislation does not mandate a new sales tax. Under current law in 45 states, consumers are supposed to pay sales taxes on the goods they purchase, but online sellers are not collecting the tax in the same way that local brick-and-mortar businesses are.

“With the Internet and modern shopping methods, fly fishers can go online and get an all-inclusive price to have an item delivered to their doorstep,” said Bill Kiene, owner of Kiene’s Fly Shop in Sacramento, Calif. “When an online retailer doesn’t charge California’s 8-10 percent sales tax, that price comes in below what my shop must charge. This bill would rectify that.”

This legislation is being supported by a wide variety of retailers, manufacturers and organizations. The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association and The National Bicycle Dealers Association are in favor of this legislation. Amazon.com, Sears Holdings Corp. and traditional retailers including Wal-Mart Stores Inc. also back the measure.

“Specialty fly fishing retailers have been critical to our growth in revenues and jobs,” said Walsh.
“They are being unfairly impinged by online retailers who do not currently collect sales taxes,
challenging their viability and jobs in local markets. Please contact your legislators to support
the Marketplace Fairness Act.”

About Simms Fishing Products: Established in 1980, Simms Fishing Products is the
recognized leader in guide-quality fishing waders, outerwear, footwear and apparel. Their full
line of gear is available at specialty and large format retailers nationwide. For more information
on Simms, please visit www.simmsfishing.com. For additional media information, please contact
Matt Crawford at Pale Morning Media, matt@palemorning.com or call 802.583.6069.

Pennsylvania Free Saltwater Angler Registry Available Jan. 1

2011-12-22T19:50:00.002-05:00

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is reminding saltwater anglers that they can register with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for free beginning Jan. 1 through the PFBC’s website.

NOAA requires annual registration from both Pennsylvania residents and non-residents – 16 years of age or older – who target or catch shad, striped bass and river herring from the Delaware River below Trenton Falls or in the Delaware River Estuary.

Beginning Jan. 1, anglers who fish in Pennsylvania and its boundary waters have the option to register through the free PA Saltwater Angler Registry Program (PA-SARP), or to register for a fee through the federal online registry or by calling toll-free 1-888-674-7411. A web button in the left column of the PFBC website called “PA-SARP” directs anglers to the free registration page.

“As a registered saltwater angler, you may be asked by NOAA to participate in surveys about your fishing activity,” said PFBC Executive Director John Arway. “Information obtained from these surveys is used to determine the health and sustainability of marine fisheries and to make informed decisions about how many fish can be caught the following year.”

Anglers must have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license prior to registering with PA-SARP.

Anglers do not need to register if they meet one of the following exceptions:

Are under the age of 16.
Hold a Highly Migratory Species Angling Permit.
Fish commercially under a valid license.
Possess a valid registration with the National Saltwater Angler Registry administered by NOAA or from another exempted state.

Please note that River herring (also known as alewife and blueback herring) and hickory shad (endangered species) are regulated with a closed fishing season, year-round. These species are not to be targeted. If caught, they are to be immediately released.

“Saltwater anglers should carry their Pennsylvania Saltwater Angler Registration Card with them while fishing as proof of compliance with this registration program,” Arway added. “And anglers should contact the applicable state agency when fishing the tidal waters outside of Pennsylvania to be sure they are in compliance with the states saltwater angler registration requirements.”

For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.

$485 Million in Grants to Clean Up Abandoned Coal Mines

2011-12-16T00:18:00.000-05:00

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that grants will be awarded in 2012 totaling more than $485 million to remove health and safety hazards caused by past coal mining activities. This is $90 million more than last years grants.

The money for Abandoned Mine Land (AML) grants is from coal receipts and is divvied up through a federal mandated formula in the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA).

“When our nation enacted mining reform in 1977, we made a simple and bold promise that the revenues from coal extraction today should help clean up the legacy of coal mining many years ago,” said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. “These grants help fulfill that promise while putting men and women to work across the country on restoration projects that will bring lands back to life, clean up rivers, and leave a better legacy for our children and grandchildren.”

The top states relieving grants are Wyoming ($150 million); Pennsylvania ($67.2 million); West Virginia ($66.5 million); Kentucky ($47 million); and Illinois ($24 million)