Environment DEC
From the October 2005 issue
Free Youth Fishing Clinics in New York City
Fishing is a lifelong pastime
that can be enjoyed by all
members of the family
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will hold two free, family fishing clinics in Staten Island and Manhattan, in cooperation with various local and government organizations. Each clinic consists of four, ten minute educational sessions followed by fishing. Rods, bait and instruction will be provided by DEC.
"Fishing clinics help the public by bringing them closer to nature and fostering an appreciation of local natural resources," DEC Acting Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan said. "By learning about fish and fishing, young people and their families can appreciate some of the wonderful resources New York State has to offer."
Sponsored by "I Fish NY"
The clinics are offered as part of DEC's "I Fish NY" program. Using funds from the federal Wildlife and Conservation Restoration Program, "I Fish NY" employs hands-on methods that: teach participants in urban areas how to fish; provide instruction on fish biology, management and regulations, and provide information about local fish health advisories and environmental issues. The goal of the program is to help citizens enjoy, understand and take part in protecting the New York City metro area fishery.
Schedule
The schedule for the clinics follows:
- October 8, 2005, 9:30 AM-12:30 PM, Ocean Breeze Pier, Midland Beach, Staten Island. This clinic will be run in conjunction with the National Park Service
- October 15, 2005, 12:00 PM-4:00 PM, Stuyvesant Cove Park, Manhattan. This clinic will be run in conjunction with the Stuyvesant Cove Park Association
How to Register
Because of limited pier space, all clinic participants must register by calling Melissa Cohen at 718-482-4022 or Katie Sheehan at 718-482-1460. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Fishing gear will be provided but participants may bring their own. Please be sure to dress appropriately. Light rain or cool weather will not cancel the events. If severe weather causes any of the events to be cancelled, registered participants will be notified by telephone.
