Ed. note: This event was publicized in the September Newscasts and Topf Wells was kind enough to provide a report on the evening, a modified version of which is below.

Dan Oele, DNR Stream Biologist, convened a public meeting to discuss the reasons for and possible versions of new regulations for the stretch of Black Earth Creek (BEC) running from South Valley Rd. to the Highway 14 bridge near Mazomanie. The current limit is three trout under 12 inches. As was explained several times, this is the regulation designed for streams with an abundance of smaller trout. The population of trout in this section of BEC currently features a disturbingly low number of trout, especially the smaller fish.

Dan presented data clearly and gave honest, full answers to all questions and comments. About 15 to 18 people attended. Everyone had the chance to fill out a brief survey, add comments, ask any question and participate in discussion. About half the attendees had questions or comments.

Essentially, this section of BEC experienced the same precipitous drop in trout numbers in 2012-14 that befell just about every SW WI trout stream but its population has not rebounded nearly to the degree that many other streams have. Fewer fish have resulted in fewer anglers. The DNR’s best guess is that not many fish are being kept. They repeatedly noted that a change to a more conservative regulation is not the “silver bullet” to restoring the population, but at the least a new regulation will better fit the current trout population and might help in rebuilding the fishery.

The DNR is considering 3 options, all of which Dan identified as conservative (as in conserving lots of fish):  2 over 12 inches; 1 over 18; catch and release. Currently, no fishing method is restricted and no restriction of any sort is being considered. One speaker endorsed C&R; another endorsed the other two. The meeting did not end with any endorsement of any one action but with an invitation from the DNR for continued comments.

Other items of interest include:

• Dan’s judgment that a fair about of habitat in this stretch of stream has deteriorated. My sense is that the DNR wants to improve that habitat, especially the loss of woody cover.
• Next year Dan will lead a thorough and comprehensive survey and analysis of the BEC fishery, including Garfoot and Vermont Creeks.
• With the Southern District fishery personnel finally being fully staffed (ALLELUIA), there will be an renewed effort to acquire easements.
• The major project downstream of the Cowling property and upstream of the Festge property is still scheduled for next year (with likely support from SWTU).
• A one-time, restorative stocking of brown trout for this stretch of BEC is under consideration but no decision has been made.

They expressed a very cautious optimism that most trout were able to survive the flooding of two weeks prior but they have not been able to assess all or most of the effects of the flood.