BROOK TROUT RESTORATION PROJECT
We are partnering with our friends at Naturaland Trust in asking for volunteers this Saturday, October 16th, to help rescue plants and clean up debris where an old farm pond dam is being removed to restore habitat for native brook trout.
Naturaland Trust, who recently acquired the property at the old Burrell’s Place tract, is working with the Forest Service and the SC Dept. of Natural Resources on the project. The property is an inholding in the Andrew Pickens Ranger District of the Sumter National Forest, in the headwaters of the Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River.
The site is located on a tributary to Pig Pen Creek, which supports one of the last remaining populations of native Southern Appalachian brook trout. The heated water and reduced flow from the old farm pond are having negative effects on the brook trout stream below. The pond has been drained in preparation for dam removal.
what to expect
Volunteers will help rescue native plants at the dam site before the dam removal, and with clean up efforts. Please be prepared by wearing long pants and shirt sleeves, with boots or high top shoes, and bring gloves too (it will be a bit muddy.). Bring water. Come join the fun for a great cause!