By Chris Bathurst, National Canvass Coordinator
I live and fish in Western Massachusetts. I am particularly interested in native Brook Trout, which I have fished for more than 25 years. These beautiful creatures require very specific conditions to thrive. The presence of Brook Trout is an indicator as to the cleanliness and health of both the surrounding and upstream environment. Over the last 25 years of wading streams I have learned that all water, no matter how small the stream, eventually connects and influences the larger branch to which it flows. And it is the Trout that taught me.
Brook Trout used to inhabit waters throughout Massachusetts. That's not the case anymore - they are now an endangered wild native species. The reasons vary, but one of the leading culprits is degradation of upstream habitat. Development in critical habitats – that is to say small streams - has led to increased silt deposits which inhibits reproduction. Tree removal has resulted in increases of water temperature. Brook Trout have managed to survive for thousands of years with many changes to the environment but unfortunately have not been able to withstand more recent onslaughts and insults.
The Clean Water Rule, which reaffirms that small streams lead to and influence the health of larger bodies of water is a welcomed outcome. Many small clean streams equal clean rivers. I am very happy for the Brook Trout. Like some folks say…”Fight for the protection of our waters because fish can’t vote”. Mark this one in the win column for the Massachusetts Native Brook Trout.
