By Kalvin D. Perron
Staff Reporter
BAY MILLS - Since their first meeting on Oct. 29, 2003, Friends of the Pendills Creek Hatchery have been working diligently to raise awareness about the importance of the hatchery. Created to provide support for the activities conducted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Services Pendills Creek and Sullivan Creek Fish Hatcheries, the non-profit citizen's organization has also been dedicated to conserving the fishery resources of the Great Lakes. In its nearly two years of existence, FPCH has grown to include a membership of 35 people. FPCH President George Goetz said he would like to see that number doubled by this time next year.
"Strength is in numbers," he said. "More members means more community involvement. The more community involvement we have the better we can serve the public."
Goetz said that the first issue the group addressed was the deteriorating condition of the old bridge at Pendills Creek. The bridge, which allows access to the beach, was partially destroyed by a flood several years ago and was unsafe to cross. After attaining a $13,000 Coastal Wetlands grant, with assistance from the hatchery, the bridge was removed and replaced with a giant culvert to act as the new bridge. The remaining monies from the grant will be used for the trails and beautification of the site.
In addition to helping with the maintenance of the hatchery grounds and raising funds to support their cause, Goetz said the group has many plans for the future. Whether talking about building a fishing pond for children to come and catch trout, or a park and picnic area for families and tourists to come enjoy the area, Goetz said the group has many ideas to help garner support and raise awareness for the hatchery. With its funding being cut each year, Goetz said FPCH will do all it can to support the hatchery. Minor problems, such as vehicle and machinery maintenance, become major problems because of a lack of funding, he added.
"I really don't know where our tax money is going," he said. "The funding is being cut each year. It should be in everyone's best interest to keep the Great Lakes stocked with fish. You can't do that effectively if you don't have the money to do so."
To learn more about the Friends of Pendills Creek Fish Hatchery, or to become a member, call Treasurer Carol Eccleston at 906-437-5560, or President George Goetz at 906-437-4349. Yearly membership dues are $5. To learn more about the Pendills Creek and Sullivan Creek Fish Hatcheries call 906-437-5231.
