It’s no secret that clean waters and healthy habitats are the key to abundant wildlife; the lakes and streams with the best fishing are usually well maintained. Pesticides, fertilizers and farm soils draining into lakes and rivers have led to the degradation of many of the world’s best fisheries. This pollution harms fish populations and kills aquatic insects.
There are many organizations that champion conservation in the U.S. and around the world, like Trout Unlimited and The Freshwater Trust. Trout Unlimited is an organization dedicated to the conservation of fisheries. Their approach has created a partnership with landowners, agencies, municipalities and stakeholders to protect critical habitats, reconnect degraded waterways and restore fish populations. The Freshwater Trust is dedicated to fixing rivers. They believe that traditional conservation methods, laws and procedures are inadequate; however, with their connections to willing landowners, agencies, locals and investors, the organization works to restore freshwater ecosystems with new technologies and philanthropic work.
To support the protection, enhancement and restoration of fishing waters, the American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) holds the annual National Casting Call, which allows affiliates to spend time on the water and honor those who are leading the charge of protecting and enhancing waterways.
There are a variety of ways that avid anglers or concerned citizens can help conserve and protect our waterways, but here are just a few that you can easily add to your daily routine!
1. Use biodegradable cleaning products if you can. The water that goes down your drain will eventually flow into a stream.
2. Use social media to spread the word about water conservation and the restoration of waterways. Also, find out where your water comes from—knowledge is power!
3. Donate to a worthwhile project like Trout Unlimited or The Freshwater Fund. Their research and philanthropy are going a long way to make the world a better, cleaner place.
4. Plant a tree. Trees help keep soil in place, which keeps it from flowing into streams and lakes. This helps slow water down and prevents flooding.
5. Instead of using a water hose to clean your patio or sidewalk, just grab a broom and sweep them off. Not only does spraying them waste water, but the water carries contaminates into freshwater systems.
6. Limit your pesticide use. If you have a garden, the pesticides you use to kill weeds or bugs eventually end up in the water supply.
These are just a few of the amazing organizations doing great work to help protect our water ways for future generations and beyond!
Maven Fly Joining TU as a Business Member during at the IFTD Show
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