After Irene: Fish And Habitat Need Time To Recover

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The powerful rush of water triggered by Irene’s rains had an impact on the state’s fish population.  Some fish died from the force of the water, others were killed by high levels of sediment stirred up by the flooding.  Fish habitat was also changed as  tranquil pools filled with silt and debris.  Gravel extraction for the flood recovery effort has also altered stream beds.   The flood even destroyed one of Vermont’s hatcheries, washing away tens of thousands of fish.

Experts say habitat is always changing and fish are resilient creatures, but some damage has been done and it will take time for species to recover.  

We  talk with David Deen, river steward for the Connecticut River Watershed Council and Rich Kirn, fisheries biologist with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department about how fish are faring post-Irene. 

If you have questions about how the flood affected fish and habitat, email vermontedition@vpr.net.

Also, like other farmers, Vermont’s apple growers had to contend with spring
flooding and Tropical Storm Irene.  Vermont Tree Fruit Growers
Association President Terry Bradshaw provides an update on how the crop
was affected and how growers are dealing with damaged roads leading to
their orchards.

And we find out what it takes to teach young people to sail from an instructor at Community Sailing Center in Burlington, which was named one of the top sailing centers in the country.

 

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