Since the passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972, we have taken measurable steps to rid our lakes and streams of harmful pollutants. Industries and sewage systems can no longer spew untreated solid wastes directly into our waterways. However, we still have a long way before we fully restore our fisheries. Pollutants, mercury in particular, can accumulate in fish, making fish consumption risky for some people. Loss of habitat has also degraded Vermont’s fisheries. Fish need habitat for food, cover, and spawning. A healthy and self-sustaining fish population relies on a readily identifiable food source of small aquatic insects (macroinvertebrates) or small fish, abundant vegetation along streambanks, and clean and clear water.
For more information please visit the links below, or other pages in this section of our web site.
Fish Habitat - US Department of Transportation's informational site that discusses fish habitat, Resting and Hiding Areas, Food Producing Areas, Reproduction Areas and Streamside Vegetation.
Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife - Offers the complete listing of fishing regulations in a printable PDF file. This site also provides general fishing information and a link for information on fish consumption.
In This Section
Acid Mine Drainage
Bank Erosion & Sediment
Basin Planning
Fisheries
Floodplain Management
Good Road Maintenance
Grants
Invasive Species
Mercury
Non-Point Source Pollution
Organizations
Permits
Riparian Buffer Zones
Wastewater Treatment
Water Quality Studies
Water Supply Protection
Wetlands