On May 27th, Greg Fairchild, Jim Herrig, Sandy Macey, and Robert Wilson attended chainsaw training at the Ocoee Ranger Station. This training certifies them as Level A chainsaw operators which will allow them to operate chainsaws in the National Forest. These skills will be used to trim overgrown rhododendron which causes streams to flood their banks, resulting in stream siltation. 

At 11:00 AM on June 3rd, Jim Herrig, a fisheries biologist with the National Forest Service and member of the Applachian Chapter of TU, will lead a snorkeling trip on the Conasauga River. Those interested in attending need to bring swimming suits, wading shoes (or old shoes/sandals), towels, lunches, and water to drink. Changing tents will be provided as well as all gear needed for snorkeling. The wet suits fit people that are around 12 years old and up. On a recent trip, the water was 57 degrees. Hopefully it will warm up some by the 3rd!

Click here to download an Adobe PDF file with complete information.

Dane Law from Southeastern Anglers sent the following fishing reports from the Hiwassee River, Toccoa River, Tellico Basin, Clinch River, and Holston River. Thanks for the report Dane.

Abstract: McNabb Creek is a tributary stream to the North River in the Cherokee National Forest.  For most of its fishable length, McNabb is 15 to 30 feet wide with some pools up to 3 feet deep.  There are no major waterfalls but many small (3 to 4 feet high) ones.  Brook (southern strain), rainbow and brown trout are all present. A poorly maintained hiking trail runs its entire length with the stream always within sight.  Most of the trail is flat until the last half mile where it becomes very steep (several switchbacks).

Greg Fairchild and Charlie Bagley from the Appalachian Chapter along with Ty Goodwin from the Hiwassee Chapter taught fly fishing at a recent Boy Scout Merit Badge College. The boys learned various aspects of fly fishing inline with the requiments for the fly fishing merit badge. After learning the fundamentals of gear, fly tying, and casting, the young men were given the opportunity to try out their new skills at a trout pond. For some, this was their first fishing experience and the smiles on their faces showed how much they enjoyed catching their first fish. Four boys earned their merit fly fishing merit badge. Thanks to Greg, Charlie and Ty for their efforts.