TVA to Conduct Annual Sport Fish Survey

KNOXVILLE -- Anglers, boaters and anyone interested in the health of sport fish are invited to observe the Tennessee Valley Authority's annual survey of sport fish populations in the Tennessee River and its tributary reservoirs this spring.

The survey, which has been conducted yearly since 1995, collects data on sport fish species such as black bass and crappie. This year's survey will be held at 11 TVA reservoirs beginning March 15 at Wilson Reservoir, near Muscle Shoals, Al., and continuing through May 17 at Great Falls near McMinnville, Tenn.

The fish are collected using boat-mounted, electro-fishing equipment. The units harmlessly stun the fish for a brief time and bring them to the surface, where they are examined and evaluated by TVA biologists. Once weighed, measured and counted, the fish are released.

Biologists collect and record information such as abundance, distribution, age, relative weight and general health of the fish. The results from TVA's fish surveys are shared with state agencies and are used to protect and improve sport fishing.

During each survey, TVA fisheries biologists will leave designated boat ramps at 7:30 a.m. and survey the fish until mid-afternoon. Participants with life jackets may join survey crews in TVA boats or they may follow in personal boats.

People who would like to accompany TVA biologists in the survey should call the TVA Environmental Information Center at 800-882-5263 to schedule a time. Space is limited. The Environmental Information Center operates from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. EDT, Monday-Friday.

For more information on the TVA annual sport fish surveys and a complete list of survey locations, please visit /www.tva.com/river/fishsurvey.htm.

Published March 8, 2011

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