By Topf Wells

Dan Oele, the DNR fish biologist for Dane, Rock, and Green Counties, scores again.  Thanks to his patient work and the generosity of the Pokorny family, the DNR will soon have another easement on Sawmill Creek.  Although the agreement is final, the paperwork will take several months.  So, NO FISHING until the DNR signs go up.

However, Jim Hess might provide a sneak preview.  He’s working with the family and other conservationists to schedule a work day this spring.  Stay tuned.  Jim might have more information on workdays at the March meeting, another good reason to attend.

We helped on this easement.  Four years ago, SWTU, Pecatonica Pride and the DNR asked landowners in the Gordon and East Branch of the Pecatonica watersheds to consider selling fishing easements.  We hosted two dinners and a field day.  The new easement is, by my count, the eighth the DNR has obtained via that effort.

Huge thanks to the Pokorny family, Dan, Pecatonica Pride and Steve Fabos with Indigenous Restoration.