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The Exceptional Waters Approach‐A Focus for Coordinated Natural Resources Management
Author(s) -
Born Stephen M.,
Sonzogni William C.,
Mayers Jeffrey,
Morton J. Anderson
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
north american journal of fisheries management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.587
H-Index - 72
eISSN - 1548-8675
pISSN - 0275-5947
DOI - 10.1577/1548-8675(1990)010<0279:tewaaf>2.3.co;2
Subject(s) - recreation , fishing , trophy , fishery , business , fisheries management , natural resource , environmental resource management , recreational fishing , trout , fish <actinopterygii> , environmental planning , geography , environmental science , ecology , archaeology , biology
This study represents the first assessment of state management programs for exceptional trout streams. We focus on “exceptional waters” (EW)–those especially valuable riverine systems that support excellent trout or salmon fishing and are sometimes designated as “blue ribbon” or “gold medal” waters. Conclusions are based on a detailed survey of fishery management agencies, as well as reviews ofdocuments and personal interviews. Of states with coldwater fisheries, 13 currently have formal EW programs; several others have well‐established elements of an EW program. States with EW programs have (1) a formal system for classifying their exceptional waters, (2) an official process for designation, and (3) coordinated natural resources management arrangements stemming from the designation. The most important factors in identifying exceptional waters are presence of wild trout, high carrying capacity, trophy‐size fish, and public access. Exceptional waters programs demand that traditional fishery management activities be coordinated with related natural resources management programs. This is most often accomplished through informal communication, joint planning, and review activities. Given increasing recreational‐use pressures, EW programs, which stress integrated resources management, will be an important future trend in the management of sport fisheries.