Use the following links to watch my educational video series about conservation success stories from across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Episode 1
The Trout Unlimited Tri-State Conservation and Fishing Camp
In this video, I interviewed Galen Westman, the Director of the Trout Unlimited Tri-State Conservation and Fishing Camp. He explained to me the significance of the camp to the future of fly fishing and how it encourages young adults to develop a love for nature and a desire to involve themselves in conservation.
To learn more about this unique experience, visit their website:
Episode 2
Conservation and the Mossy Creek
Episode Two explores the unique habitat, stream ecology, and characteristics of the renowned Mossy Creek. I spoke with Brian Trow, co-owner of Mossy Creek Fly Fishing and one of the land-owners along the creek. He explained to me the challenges this ecosystem faces, along with the solutions he and the rest of the fly fishing community are working to implement.
If you are interested in learning more about the Mossy Creek and this amazing business, visit the two websites linked below:
Episode 3
Culverts and the Whiteoak Canyon Bridge
In Episode Three, I interviewed Seth Coffman, the Project Manager for the Shenandoah Headwaters Home Rivers Initiative, about the problems culverts and other man-made stream crossings can have on the environment. A recent success story is the Whiteoak Caynon Bridge, which replaced a decades-old failing culvert and allowed aquatic organisms, such as Brook Trout, to access nearly three miles of new territory.
If you are interested in learning more about the Piedmont Environmental Council or Trout Unlimited's Shenandoah Headwaters Home Rivers Initiative, please visit the two websites linked below:
Episode 4
Accessibility and the Whitetop Laurel
For Episode Four, I visited the Whitetop Laurel, located near the two of Damascus in southwestern Virginia. To learn more about one of Virginia's most unique waterways, I spoke with Steve Owens, a fisheries biologist with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR). He was able to elaborate on how the creek's geography, biodiversity, management, and accessibility combine to create a fishery that is highly productive and open to all individuals.
To learn more about the Whitetop Laurel, the VA Trout Slam, and handicap fishing accessibility, please visit the websites linked below: