2013 Virginia Recreational Flounder Regulations

According to Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC), anglers will be fishing under new recreational flounder regulations for the 2013 season. The recreational minimum size limit for flounder will be 16 inches with a creel limit of (4) fish. The new minimum size for summer flounder is the lowest in Virginia since 2001. No seasonal closures are expected during 2013 fishing season.

source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission

Hope House Foundation Shamrockin In Ghent

On Friday, March 15, 2013, from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m., Hope House Foundation in conjunction with 93.7 BOB FM, 96X, and US 106.1 will present 2013’s "Shamrockin’ In Ghent", a free block party.

The event which is open to the public will take place on Colley Avenue in Norfolk’s historic Ghent district between Shirley and Gates Avenues.

"Shamrockin’ In Ghent" will benefit Hope House Foundation and will include musical performances by The Newport News Police Pipes and Drums, Glasgow Kiss, and The Deloreans.

This is the 19th annual Shamrockin’ in Ghent (previously called the Greening of Ghent). Beverages will be available for sale and Belmont House of Smoke (http://www.belmonthouseofsmoke.com) will be on hand selling food.

source: Hope House Foundation

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Planners from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are developing a new 15-year management plan, known as a comprehensive conservation plan (CCP) for Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).

The plan is expected to address issues that will affect wildlife and habitat management, administration and public uses of the refuge.

According to USFWS, accomplish the refuge’s wildlife conservation mission, while promoting sustainable, compatible enjoyment of the refuge by over one million people who visit annually.

The August 2012 CCP newsletter is now available and can be found on the refuge website at: http://www.fws.gov/northeast/planning/Chincoteague/ccphome.html

The draft CCP is expected to be published for public review and comment at the end of 2012.

For more information, contact the refuge at 757.336.6122.

Lynhaven River Citizen Oyster Gardeners Program

Growing oysters can help improve the Lynnhaven River. To become an oyster gardener, LRNOw offers a Taylor Float workshop where participants can build their own float and get all the equipment needed. Alternatively, gardeners can purchase an assembled float with all the equipment from LRNow for $100.

Participants also need to attend a New Citizen Oyster Gardener Workshop where they will learn about caring for oysters over the next year.  Pre-registration is required for both the Tayor Float workshop and the New Citizen Gardener Workshop.

Oyster Gardening Events:
Taylor Float Workshop

Thursday, July 26, 6-7:30 PM, at the LRNow office at 1608 Pleasure House Road, Suite 108.  Cost for all supplies is $75.
To register call 757-962-5398 or email kris@lrnow.org



New Oyster Citizen Gardeners Workshop

Thursday, August 2, 6-7:30 PM at the Great Neck Rescue Squad on Bayne Drive
Thursday, September 6, 6-7:30 PM at Virginia Wesleyan College
Cost:  $30 for your bag of 1000 baby oysters
Pre-registration required with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation at www.cbf.org/virginiaoysters or call 757-622-1964.



The Oyster Gardening Project is offered in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. More information about oyster gardening can be found at www.LRNow.org/need-oyster-growers or by calling 757-962-5398.

source: LRNow

Virginia Wild Turkey Facts

According to biologists from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, a number of biological variables may affect the state's turkey populations from year to year.

Food is important as hens need higher energy and protein levels for over-winter survival and for the different phases of reproduction, including egg laying, incubation, and brooding.

During years early spring weather is mild, abundant plant growth appears to help stimulate the reproductive process early. Weather can also be a detrimental factor for turkey populations, especially if conditions are wet and cold over several days.

For the 2011-2012 season turkey populations in Virginia may have experienced high survival rates due to good fall foods and a mild spring. Early spring green-up likely resulted in earlier than normal broods.

source: Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries