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Federation of Fly Fishers Lists Potomac River as Endangered Fishery

"The value of a healthy Potomac watershed and fishery cannot be overlooked," says Leah Elwell, conservation coordinator of the Federation of Fly Fishers. "Although the Potomac is considered an American Heritage River which affords it certain environmental protections and historic preservation, these waters bear a huge burden and need greater protection. This resource needs to be taken care of to make sure it can support thriving fish populations."

The U.S. Geological Survey found alarming signs of problems in the fish populations such as increased reports of fish with sickly lesions and a condition called intersex. The likely culprits of intersex are chemicals and pharmaceuticals in the water. In the past several years, there has been seven major fish kills with one that resulted in 80 percent of native redbreast sunfish and smallmouth bass destroyed.

"Keeping a constant watchful eye on the waters of the Potomac and its tributaries has allowed us to see these unfortunate changes in the fish populations over time," says Ed Merrifield Executive Director of the Potomac Riverkeeper. "The recent impacts on the fishery bring a new urgency to ensure the Potomac remains a life-blood to the region."

Take action and help bring respect to a national treasure. To learn more about the Potomac River and the other designated endangered fisheries please visit; http://www.fedflyfishers.org

About The Federation of Fly Fishers

The Federation of Fly Fishers is a 43-year old international non-profit organization dedicated to the betterment of the sport of fly fishing through conservation, restoration and education. The FFF and its councils is the only organized advocate for fly fishers on a national and regional level. The organization has individual members as well as 300 local fly fishing clubs across the U.S. For further information, visit http://www.fedflyfishers.org.

SOURCE The Federation of Fly Fishers