California Boat Inspections

California Inspects BASS Federation Nation Boats

ROCKLIN, Calif. — California BASS Federation Nation (CBFN) members joined the California Department of Fish & Game (DFG) and Sportsman's Warehouse to hold a half-day training session on boat inspections. The goal of the session was to help prevent the spread of invasive species, such as quagga and zebra mussels.

 "I've wanted to partner with DFG for some time," said Mike Landy, CBFN's conservation director, who called Jason Roberts, an environmental scientist at DFG, in late 2009 when Landy was looking for projects to support. "After hearing about Jason's work, I decided this was our chance."

 The CBFN's conservation effort for 2010 will include inspections at local tournaments and spreading the message about stopping the invasion of exotic species by posting signs and notices.

 A dozen men and women participated in the Feb. 6 workshop, which included both a lecture portion and hands-on practice with boats brought in by DFG staff.

 "We had a good representation of anglers, agencies and citizens in attendance," said Roberts. "The department is committed to preventing the further spread of quagga and zebra mussels in California."

 Sportsman's Warehouse provided a training room and space in its parking lot during the four-hour class. Jack Kreiss, CBFN youth director, knew from experience that Sportsman's Warehouse had been generous to the club in the past, so it was a natural progression to consider the sporting goods store a potential site for the class. "Brad Schuelke, manager of Sportsman's, welcomed our junior club, NorCal Bass Ratz, when we needed space for monthly club meetings, so we immediately thought of them when looking for a location to host this training."

 CBFN provided pizza and beverages to participants and also awarded Sportsman's Warehouse Gift Cards to a few participants.