|
We have a lot of trout streams in Michigan. You probably haven’t even heard of most of them. Others are too well known. Many of us get real protective of them and we join a group like Trout Unlimited with the goal of protecting something important. We do it for ourselves and for others, thinking that clean water and places where wild things can live have an intrinsic value. In some way, trout streams are good for us and for our children. I joined TU about 25 years ago, looking for people who could teach me about flyfishing and the ways of trout. The people I met were good company and there was a lot to absorb. So, I stuck around and here I am after all those years. In the last year or two, the Challenge Chapter has sold over $20,000 worth of river guides, Emergence Schedules and Coaster Brook Trout prints. We’ve started a fly fishing school for 12-15 year olds. We’ve hosted winter fly tying sessions and we’ve maintained a community that meets to encourage a conservation ethic revolving around trout. I’ve repaired a lot of fences, built lots of stairs and moved a lot of gravel in the last 25 years. That kind of work is rewarding in one way and I don’t think it should be belittled. But, there are some big issues facing trout habitat in Michigan, like dams and the exploration for natural gas. As protectors of cold water resources, we have to pay attention to these and other concerns, debate with our fellow TU members, and with outside groups. As a general rule, I believe we need to side with the habitat and protect the fish. At the same time, one of the things I like about TU is that we usually come to a decision that is acceptable to a large part of the public. I believe that quality has preserved our credibility. |
 |
It would be nice to maintain that reputation as we think about the future of TU in Michigan. It would also be nice to remove more of the many old dams that no longer serve much purpose. Here’s to T.U. and the men and women who got us to where we are today! Come join us for a meeting and we invite you to become an active member. |
|
|
|