A public forum to discuss freshwater fisheries culture research, management and recreational angling in New Jersey will be held on Saturday, December 2 at the Hackettstown State Fish Hatchery in Warren County. The forum will begin at 9:30 a.m.

The DEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife is conducting these meetings to improve communication with the angling public and to solicit public input in shaping freshwater fisheries programs in the future. The forums are a perfect opportunity for all freshwater anglers to learn about existing programs, and to share their views and recommendations.

Participation in this year's forum is particularly important since it will focus on potential regulation changes for the 2008-2009 fishing season, as well as summarize 2006 sampling and culture activities. Topics cover all aspects of freshwater management, including both warmwater and coldwater fisheries. Come and be an integral part in the development of future regulations affecting New Jersey's freshwater resources.

Professional staff from the Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries will be on hand to answer questions and provide updates on current research, culture and management programs.

Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated, and will help ensure that all attendees can be accommodated. Individuals can pre-register by calling 908-236-2118 or by sending an e-mail to njfwfish@earthlink.net Be sure to include name, address, phone number and the number of people attending.

An on-line version of the preceding can be found on the DFW Web site at http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2006/fishforum06.htm.