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 22, at Batsto Village in Wharton State Forest in Burlington County. The forum will begin at 10:00 a.m.

This year's topics will include an update of the Furunculosis disease outbreak at the Pequest Trout Hatchery and results from 2013 field sampling.

Anglers are invited to ask questions and comment on any aspect of the division's fisheries management programs with Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries biologists. By providing input, the public can help guide the development of 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.