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As a club, we travel to the Lower Mountain Fork River for outings two times each year. It is our “local” trout fishery. Many of us travel to the river on our own more often than that. Last week when the water came up to levels that eclipsed even the 2009 flood, many of us feared the worst. However, this fishery will come back again, just like it did in the past.

While there is no timetable fore the cleanup, there are several friends of the FWFF that are optimistic about the future. And because of that, I am optimistic as well.

From the Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation:

We are fortunate enough to have Mike Carter, Don Groom, Eddie Brister, and his son, Aaron sending us pictures and calling me with their views on the changes to the river. Those who have walked Spillway Creek so far, are extremely excited with what Mother Nature has done to the shape and contour of Spillway Creek. Yes, we know that substrate and bug life will take a while. However, those that have been there say nothing but great things. Here is the latest batch of photos from 5/29:

http://lmfrfoundation.org/photos-of-the-2015-flood/

 

From Rob Woodruff (Woodruff Guide Service):

I have to say I am more optimistic about the future of the Spillway Creek portion of the Lower Mountain Fork Trout fishery after seeing some photos taken there today by Park Rangers, ODWC personnel and the owners of Beavers Bend Fly Shop. Some great looking runs and waterfalls are waiting to be fished.

 

What can you do to help?

Follow the LMF Foundation Website and Facebook page for information about cleanup efforts. You can also become a member of the LMF Foundation and make donations to the recovery effort that will begin very soon.

Also, one of the businesses in the park has been hit hard by the flood. Beaver’s Bend Fly Shop was flooded during the high water event, but the building was not swept away. In fact, the fly shop has already began the clean up process. The inside of the shop has been torn down to the studs and the dryers have been brought in. If you would like to help out in the rebuilding of the fly shop, you can donate to the cause HERE.

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