Join Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission biologists to learn more about the core of our mission to protect, conserve and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources. You don’t have to be an angler or boater for the work of the Commission to matter to you. Find out how the agency is keeping Pennsylvania’s waters clean and our aquatic species and habits restored, maintained and protected.
Importance of PA Mussels
February 3, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Nevin Welte, Malacologist/Nongame Biologist
Come learn about the Mighty Mussels of PA’s waters! Join PA Fish and Boat Commission staff as we explore the world of freshwater mussels and their role in preserving clean waterways.
Delaware River Highlights
February 10, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Daryl Pierce, Area Fisheries Manager, Cooper Barshinger, Fisheries Biologist 2, Mike Porta, Area Fisheries Manager, and Tyler Grabowski, Fisheries Biologist 2
Join us as we highlight some of the fisheries within the Delaware River – the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi. We will discuss population trends and where we conduct surveys for several species: including trout, American Shad, Smallmouth Bass, and Striped Bass.
Erie Fisheries Highlights: Perch and Walleye
February 24, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Mark Haffley, Fisheries Biologist 3 and Lake Erie Unit Leader
Join our staff to learn about Lake Erie Yellow Perch and Walleye populations, sampling practices, and fishing techniques in a 30 minute presentation. Lake Erie is currently experiencing record high catch rates for Walleye. At the end of the 2024 boating season, Yellow Perch fishing was as good as it has ever been. Mark will also provide information on how to get started and fishing tips for pursuing Walleye and Yellow Perch on Lake Erie.
PA Wild Trout Waters: A Reason to Celebrate
March 3, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Jason Detar, Fisheries Biologist 3, and Nate Walters, Fisheries Biologist 3 and Coldwater Unit Leader
Discover opportunities that PA Wild Trout Waters offer to anglers year-round. With over 15,000 miles of Wild Trout Waters across the state, they are truly something to celebrate, enjoy, and protect. Learn about efforts the PA Fish and Boat Commission and partnering organizations are implementing to protect and enhance these precious waterways.
Amphibian and Reptile Conservation
March 10, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Kathy Gipe, Herpetologist/Nongame Biologist, and Chris Urban, Chief, Natural Diversity Section and Nongame, Threatened and Endangered Species Coordinator
Learn about the Commission’s conservation and management efforts for Pennsylvania’s native amphibian and reptiles. We will provide an overview of the diversity of species of reptiles and amphibians found in the Commonwealth and discuss initiatives that PFBC is taking towards their conservation and management, including the threatened and endangered species program, implementation of Species Action Plans, and participation in regional conservation initiatives for several species of turtles.
What are Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)?
March 17, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Sean Hartzell, Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator
Share lunch with a PA Fish and Boat Commission Biologist to understand the significance of preventing and controlling aquatic invasive species (AIS) affecting Pennsylvania’s aquatic ecology and outdoor recreation. Gain confidence in identifying AIS and AIS impact, practicing prevention, and informing others.
Stream Habitat Projects and Fishing Benefits
March 24, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Mark Sausser, Chief, Stream Habitat Section
Grab your lunch and learn more about the Fish and Boat Commission’s conservation mission and work to improve stream habitats. We’ll highlight successful projects including angler access and children/disabled fishing areas, natural reproduction stream sections, stocked trout stream sections, and riparian buffer plantings.
Lake Habitat Projects and Fishing Benefits
March 31, 2025 | 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Ben Page, Chief, Lake Habitat Section
Join the PA Fish and Boat Commission to learn more about how we partner with community organizations to build artificial fish habitats for conservation and to improve fishing opportunities. Enjoy your lunch and learn more about resources available in your area.
