Meghan Collins (541) 440-3353

GOLD BEACH – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is concerned about the amount of trash left behind by anglers at a local pond and may not stock it next year if the problem continues. Libby Pond is located on private land along North Bank Road near Gold Beach.

“We are fortunate the landowner allows the Department to stock Libby Pond because it’s such a great place to take kids fishing. We don’t want to lose that opportunity for the kids, but we may if anglers continue to leave their trash behind,” said Todd Confer, Gold Beach district fish biologist.

Last week, ODFW staff and volunteers from Curry Anadromous Fisherman (CAF) filled three 40-gallon bags with trash left around the lake just days after the landowner himself had picked up garbage. Trash cans are not available onsite, so people must pack out their garbage.

In addition to trash, another problem is anglers defecating on the property. CAF has volunteered to provide a portable toilet for the remainder of the season.

ODFW will meet with the landowner at the end of the summer to review the situation. Fish stocking and access for 2008 is largely contingent upon anglers packing out their garbage and using the portable toilet.

Confer asks anglers to help take care of Libby Pond and the landowner’s property by picking up their trash, fishing line and tackle.

The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.