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SlipperySmitt -> RE: Butler Co Dams Opening (6/5/2009 10:10:17 PM)
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Another email from the Fish Comm. Big John did his thing too I guess.
Smitty
Fish & Boat Commission, PA American Water Celebrate Reopening of Public Fishing at Butler County ReservoirsBUTLER COUNTY, PA, (June 5, 2009) - With a ceremonial “first cast” by local and state officials, Pennsylvania American Water and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission today marked the reopening of the Oneida and Thorn Run Reservoirs in Butler County for shoreline fishing.
“Our partnership with the Fish and Boat Commission paved the way to reopen these reservoirs for fishing, while ensuring the safety of our drinking water and creating an enjoyable experience for all who visit,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy Pape. “We are delighted to provide the community with excellent fishing and a place for family recreation among the reservoirs’ scenic beauty.”
Pennsylvania American Water closed the Butler County reservoirs (Oneida and Thorn Run) in response to the events of September 11, 2001. Because of the need for increased security, Pape said Pennsylvania American Water and its parent company American Water worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Homeland Security to help determine risk and develop security recommendations and solutions for the water industry.
“We’re very pleased to have successfully worked with Pennsylvania American Water and other local officials to reopen these two popular sites for public fishing,” said Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Doug Austen. “Our local waterways conservation officer, Jon Kay, was instrumental in establishing this partnership, which will benefit not only local sportsmen but also the wider community in the form of local spending and tourism dollars.”
Pennsylvania American Water created a dedicated telephone number – 1.866.808.4219 – to report suspicious activity. Pennsylvania American Water representatives will report the activity to the proper law enforcement or Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission authorities. All other inquiries will be directed to the company’s customer service center at 1.800.565.7292.
"Fishing at Oneida Dam is a fond memory of my childhood. I am pleased that Pennsylvania American Water has taken the steps necessary to work with the state's Fish and Boat Commission and others to reopen the area for recreational fishing," said Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy.
He added, “We all understand the importance of protecting our water resources from possible tampering. We also must be mindful of the importance that locations such as Oneida Dam play in the local community. I commend everyone for working together to return this area to a place where the neighbors can come for inexpensive recreation. Now my generation can again bring their children to Oneida dam, creating new memories."
Pennsylvania American Water and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission worked together to create rules and regulations that will ensure the safety of the water supply as well as those fishing. The rules include:
· Designated fishing areas: Access to both reservoirs is limited. Fishing areas have been designated with appropriate signage. Major roadways parallel both reservoirs and no parking areas also have been designated to prevent pedestrian accidents.
· No trespassing: To better protect the source of supply, several areas are designated off-limits to fishing and have been marked with no trespassing signs.
· General rules of operation:
o Fishing is permitted at both reservoirs between dawn and dusk
o Shoreline fishing is permitted, but wading will not be permitted
o Boats are also not permitted on the waterway
o Commonwealth inland fishing rules and regulations and Fish and Boat Commission property regulations apply to this property
Local anglers can expect to find several different and popular sport fish. Based on a recent fisheries survey, the species include largemouth bass, yellow perch, rock bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish.
The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.
Pennsylvania American Water, a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to more than 2 million people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in 32 states and Ontario, Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.
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