West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Director Stephen McDaniel and staff met with representatives from Trout Unlimited in South Charleston on Wednesday to discuss ways the two organizations can work together to make the Mountain State a premier trout fishing destination.
During the meeting, DNR staff talked with Trout Unlimited President and CEO Chris Wood and local representatives about ways the conservation organization can help West Virginia.
“I’m all for collaboration,” Director McDaniel said. “When we can get everyone together like this and find ways to make our partnerships better, we can do a lot of good.”
West Virginia DNR Director Stephen McDaniel (right) and Trout Unlimted President and CEO Chris Wood (left).
DNR and Trout Unlimited, which has nine chapters in West Virginia, have collaborated for years, staff said during the meeting.
“Now, we’re trying to do more,” said Wildlife Resources Chief Paul Johansen. “We have shared interests, and we’ll continue to build on that. I’m very encouraged.”
Trout Unlimited has more than 400 chapters nationwide with 150,000 members, all working to promote trout fishing and conservation of the cold water fish and the water systems they rely on.
Wood and local Trout Unlimited representatives said they want to continue supporting DNR efforts to protect trout and promote fishing for anglers.
“When we all work together, we can get so much more done,” Wood said.
Trout Unlimited representatives also praised DNR’s efforts to promote fishing tourism in West Virginia, which they said yields big economic returns and raises awareness for conservation efforts.
“With the topography and natural beauty, West Virginia has the potential to be a world-class destination,” Wood said. “It’s a hidden gem.”
If you would like to learn more about fishing in West Virginia or ways DNR protects trout, click HERE.