Fly Fishing Industry unites against invasive species

July 31, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Bob Wiltshire
Center for Aquatic Nuisance Species
406-222-7270
bob@stopans.org
http://www.stopans.org

August 1, 2010 – Livingston, MT. In a collaborative effort to protect the future of our sport from aquatic invasive species, fly fishing industry leaders have joined together in the Clean Angling Coalition. The mission of the Coalition is to prevent the spread of invasive species by encouraging all anglers to become “Clean Anglers”. Coalition members understand that to reduce the spread of invasive species we must work cooperatively to instill a cleaning ethic in all anglers. Coalition members include businesses, organizations, media outlets and government agencies. Initial Coalition partners include American Fly Fishing Trade Association, Dan Bailey’s, Korkers, Orvis and Trout Unlimited.

“This is what the industry needs,” says John Bailey, owner of Dan Bailey’s. “The Coalition is a trusted source for the information that helps us make better decisions and reduces the current inconsistent messages about invasives.”

There are currently a number of programs working to educate people about reducing the spread of invasive species. Unfortunately, there has not been coordination to deliver a consistent message. By working together we reach out to anglers with a common message and consistent brand that really helps to address the problem of invasive species transport and introduction to new fishing waters.

“The industry has needed a way to unify on the issue of invasive species,” says AFFTA’s Randy Swisher. “We all benefit from a collaboration to get Inspect, Clean and Dry practiced by anglers everywhere. All of us need to teach about the importance of being a Clean Angler”.

The Coalition will soon be contacting companies with additional information about Coalition membership. With a wide range of membership options, there is a membership category that works for any sized business. Additionally, look for the Clean Angling Coalition at the upcoming International Fly Tackle Dealer Show in Denver.

Aquatic invasive species cause economic and ecological damage in waters around the world. Invasive species continue to spread to new waters despite general awareness about them, primarily because people don’t know what actions to take or how to help. The most effective way to reach anglers with a cleaning message is make sure that the message consistent and simple – Inspect, Clean and Dry. To learn more about the Clean Angling Coalition and best cleaning practices visit www.cleanangling.org

The Clean Angling Coalition is a program of the Center for Aquatic Nuisance Species. The mission of Center for Aquatic Nuisance Species (CANS) is to reduce the human-caused spread of nuisance species by promoting voluntary behavior change. CANS programs focus on creating and implementing practical solutions for people, and providing educational resources. CANS is a 501c3 non profit conservation organization based in Livingston, MT. For more information visit www.stopans.org.