The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is looking for partners to help defend New Mexico from alien organisms that threaten our fish, wildlife and aquatic ecosystems. More than 100 aquatic invasive species already are seriously impacting New Mexico's natural resources, and the threats continue to grow despite regulations prohibiting their introduction to the state. Eurasian watermilfoil and Brazilian waterweed are present in the state and can reduce waterfowl populations and cause fish die-offs. Toxins produced by golden alga have killed thousands of fish in the Pecos River. Other potential threats include zebra and quagga mussels, which can wipe out native species and force costly repairs to water systems and water craft. To battle these invasive species, the Department is forming an advisory committee to help in the development of an Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan. The plan will make New Mexico eligible for substantial matching federal assistance funding. Currently, New Mexico is not eligible for the funding because it has no plan. Individuals, groups, organizations, tribes and agencies are encouraged to participate in the process by joining the advisory committee. The committee's initial tasks will be to review a preliminary draft management plan developed by the Department. A final draft will be presented to Governor Bill Richardson and the federal Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force for approval. Those interested in participating on the committee are encouraged to contact Brian Lang at 505-476-8108 or brian.lang@state.nm.us. More information about invasive aquatic species is available on the Department website http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/documents/invasive_species.htm
MacAllister Lake will remain closed to fishing until water quality improves. A complete die off of all fish occurred in 2007, and the lake currently has low water levels and high salinity. The Department of Game and Fish will monitor water quality and stock fish when they can survive, but there are no fish in the lake at this time. The lake will reopen when it can support trout. Until then, anglers are encouraged to visit other area fishing lakes. McAllister Lake Fishing Area is still open to hiking and bicycling on established roads. Beginning April 1, Gaining Access Into Nature (GAIN) permits will be required for those activities. It may take some time to fill the lake and show the need for a lot of fresh water to dilute the lake to a point that fish can survive. The lake currently holds about 15 percent of its capacity.
The recent snowstorms in the Four Corners Area has resulted in an increase in the current snowpack in the San Juan Mountains to as much as 170% of average. The Bureau of Reclamation will be increasing the release from Navajo Reservoir to 3,000 cfs beginning Monday, February 11, 2008. The release will be increased by approximately 1,000 cfs per day, which will result in reservoir releases reaching 3,000 cfs on Wednesday, February 13, 2008. The release will likely remain at 3,000 cfs until May, at which time the release will be ramped up to 5,000 cfs where it will remain for approximately 30 days. More information will be provided by Bureau of Rec on the timing and duration of the 5,000 cfs release as we get closer to May.
The High Desert Angler is a member of the Santa Fe Alliance and is also a participating member of Locals-Care. With Locals-Care, card holders earn and redeem points at many local merchants and also earn money for a local non-profit of your choice. Sign up for a Locals-Care card at the High Desert Angler and start earning points today!
Kids, learn to fish from a pro for free! Casting a line and catchin' fish - the basics of angling -offer fun for entire families in New Mexico's enchanting outdoors. For those who have never fished or are a little rusty, yet eager to get started, the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish's Fishing Skills Program offers FREE clinics with all the equipment you need for learning from experienced, professional trainers. Students of all ages learn basic skills of assembling tackle, knot tying, identifying fish and good fish habitat, casting, fish handling, New Mexico's fishing rules and regulations, angling ethics, aquatic food webs, and outdoor safety and fishing safety. To schedule a fishing clinic at your community or school, contact Ti Piper, Fishing Skills contractor, at (505) 250-9994 or (505) 281-5647. Watch for New Mexico Free Fishing Day events on the first Saturday in June each year and local community fishing events in your area. 2008 Free Fishing Day is set for Saturday, June 7th.
