SARP: Southeast Aquatic Resources Partnership

Altamaha Flathead River Project - Georgia

Fishers participate in gut analysis on site.

Introduction:

The Altamaha River Watershed Conservation Action Plan cites invasive species as one of the six highest ranked threats.  One of the invasive species thriving in portions of the watershed is the flathead catfish, which cause environmental harm, threaten native species, and can change the recreational value of an area for anglers.  User groups (general public, children, anglers, commercial fishermen)  as well as watershed managers must work together to control a population by size or area of infestation.

Description of Site:

• Although work occurs along the lower reaches of the Altamaha, it centers around Altamaha Regional Park.

Problem:

• The flathead catfish is popular with some groups of anglers and commercial fishermen.

• Flathead catfish preys on native sunfish, also popular with anglers. Sunfish are larval hosts for many of the rare freshwater mussels dwelling in the Altamaha.

Strategy:

• Educate user groups by involving them in gut analysis to see what the flathead consumes and to measure mercury contamination. The goal is to help users decide to control the habitat area and size of the flathead population.
• Increase communication among user groups and help them become proactive controllers of ANS.
• Study the reasoning and values of the user groups to better understand how to secure their ongoing help in controlling ANS that are both invasive and popular.

This project is not completed. Educational activities appear to be bearing positive fruit.  About 50% of the data collection has been completed.