The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold its next public forum to discuss freshwater fisheries culture, research, management and recreational angling in New Jersey on Saturday, February 23, at Batsto Village in Wharton State Forest in Burlington County. The forum will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Anglers are invited to share their views and recommendations for the future of freshwater fisheries research and management in New Jersey with Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries biologists. Preliminary results of the recently completed trout angler telephone and on-line surveys, as well as 2012 field sampling results, will be presented. Anglers are invited to ask questions and comment on any aspect of the division's fisheries management programs. By providing input, the public can help guide the development of all New Jersey's freshwater programs and the regulations which govern them.

Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated, and will help ensure that all attendees can be accommodated. Individuals can pre-register by calling 908 236-2118 or by sending an e-mail to njfwfish@earthlink.net. Be sure to include name, address, phone number and the number of people attending.

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to shape the future of New Jersey's freshwater fisheries programs.

DIRECTIONS

Historic Batsto Village is located on Route 542 in Wharton State Forest, Washington Township, Burlington County. It is about 45 miles southeast of Philadelphia and approximately 25 miles northwest of Atlantic City. The nearest town is Hammonton, NJ 08037, which is about 8 miles to the west.

Directions via MapQuest.

Parkway Directions from South Jersey
Take the Garden State Parkway North to Exit #50 (New Gretna), exit to Route 9 North to a Citgo Gas Station. Turn left onto Route 542, continue for 12 miles; Batsto Village is on the right.

Parkway Directions from North Jersey
Take the Garden State Parkway South to Exit #52 (New Gretna). Turn right at stop sign onto E. Greenbush Road. Make left at next stop sign. Go over two small wooden bridges. Pilgrim Lake Campground will be on the right. Make left onto Leektown Road. Continue 2 miles to a stop sign. Stay straight on Leektown Road. Continue 3 miles to stop sign. Turn right onto Route 542 West. Stay on 542 for approximately 9 miles. Batsto Village is on the right.