TU Advice

[Richard W. Fleet]

Looking for advice about TU membership. I have visited the TU website countless times with the intention of joining. Each time I can't quite hit the submit key. Here's my dilemma. I certainly support the stated mission of TU. Clean water, improved habitat, pristine woodlands, etc., etc. - who couldn't support these goals. Before I lend my name and financial support I want to be sure that TU has a balanced approach. I have spent some time reading about their involvement in many issues and sponsorships of projects but haven't quite figured out how radical vs balanced they are. Anyone have any experience and/or advice on the matter? Thanks

[Troutfitter]

I would say that TU is one of the most balanced organizations around. They tend to work with government to get their agenda approved versus going head to head.

This subject flirts with politics which is taboo on this site but I will allow it as long as it stays on track and focuses on TU.

[flygirl]

My problem with Trout Unlimited is that they don't give anyone else credit when it comes to stream/river conservation. It takes alot of effort from EVERYBODY...not just them.

[Catch 22]

As a former chapter president, state council member, etc, I think I'm pretty qualified to speak on this subject. I think Flygirl hit on a point that turns people off to TU. TU national has a history of this more so than the local chapters. Anyone involved in the Housatonic relicensing battle knows what I mean.

TU does operate through political means, but that is something that must be done to be successful. The chapter I'm involved with has worked with the Army Corps of Engineers, the DEP, and local governments to get things done.

Richard, I would suggest that you attend a few meetings of the chapter you are looking to join, and base your decision on them, not the national organization. After all, the local chapter is really where things happen. And by the way, you can be in any chapter you want. I joined the chapter that was nearest where I fish the most, not where I lived at the time.

Jeff

[sbalsen]

No lobbying organizationn is perfect. But there are very few organizations speaking for cold water fisheries. They need our support. If you have some concerns, voice them within the organization as a supporting member.

I also belong to FUDR (Friends of Upper Delaware River), another lobbying group working to protect the Delaware River fishery against small minded people. Like it or not, and not to get too political, lobbying groups make decisions in our country. If we don't get involved, we're letting other people make decisions for us.

And chapter membership is fun and you can join any chapter you like.
Sy

PS: And we should all join the FRAA (The Farmington River Anglers Association)!

[Richard W. Fleet]

Catch 22 - Thanks for the post and great advice. I generally fish the Farmington and will look into a chapter in that area. Thanks again!!!