Anglers and Boaters Protect Fishing for Current and Future Generations Program funded by your purchase of fishing and motorboat fuels as authorized by the federally-assisted program Wallop-Breaux.

Good Fish Habitat = Good Fishing What are the threats? What can we do?

The Threat: Reduced in-stream flows due to drought and increased water demand In 2001, the Rio Grande failed to reach the Gulf due to a combination of drought and overuse.

Freshwater inflow is crucial to bay and estuary systems and the life they sustain.

Texas’ population is expected to double by mid-century, threatening other Texas rivers with the same fate if nothing is done.

What Can Anglers and Boaters Do? Practice water conservation at home and work. Remember to: 1.Run appliances like dishwashers only when full. 2.Use low-flow toilets and shower heads. 3.Cut faucets off as soon as possible.

Do not water your lawn… using a fine mist sprinkler. when water is in short supply. during the heat of the day

NEVER dispose of cleaners or pesticides in a toilet, sink or storm drain. Use biodegradable products for house and lawn care.

Become knowledgeable about local water issues and support water conservation laws. Become knowledgeable about local water issues and support water conservation laws.

The Threat: Pollution from urban areas, industry and agriculture

The Threat: Development and poor land management that destroy wetland and riparian areas

The Threat: Dams, culverts and channelization that disrupt natural stream function and connections between water bodies

What Can Anglers and Boaters Do? Support strong water conservation laws and laws that protect aquatic habitats. Become knowledgeable about local water issues. Support development practices that protect wetlands and riparian areas.

The Threat: Litter and illegal dumping

What Can Anglers and Boaters Do? Pick up any litter you find when fishing or boating. Clean up motor boat oil or gasoline spills. Take care at the pump.

Reduce consumption of non-recyclable items. Reuse and recycle items when possible. Report illegal dumping.

The Threat: Invasive species Giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta), a floating fern from southern Brazil, is currently one of the most problematic aquatic plants in Texas

What Can Anglers and Boaters Do? Learn about aquatic invaders that threaten our rivers, lakes and streams. Zebra Mussels Hydrilla Call a TPWD office if you see Giant Salvinia or Zebra Mussels and report what you see.

Clean boats, motors and trailers at the ramp when exiting the water. Drain bilges at the water’s edge.

Don’t dump bait buckets and aquariums in waterways.

The Threat: Boat propellers that destroy sea grass beds

What Can Anglers and Boaters Do? Observe “no-prop” zones in shallow bays and estuaries.

The Threat: Improper dredging and sand and gravel mining

What Can Anglers and Boaters Do? Be watchful when on the water. Report any improper dredging and sand and gravel mining to local authorities.

Purchase fishing licenses Observe fishing regulations. Teach others to fish.

Together…anglers and boaters can make a difference.