The following schedule is from the 72nd Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies which was held October 21-24, 2018 in Mobile, Alabama.
AUTHORS: Jeremy Plauger, School of Fisheries Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University
ABSTRACT: Completed in 1963, Walter F. George Reservoir (aka Lake Eufaula) is located approximately 137 km between Columbus and Fort Gaines, Georgia. The reservoir supports many sport fisheries and has a national reputation for its Largemouth Bass fishery. Although a very popular reservoir, the annual economic impact from anglers is virtually unknown. An economic creel survey took place January 1 through December 31, 2017 in the area between Walter F. George Dam to the Georgia State Road 39 Bridge, approximately 14375 ha. A stratified, non-uniform probability sampling design was used for this survey to select time of day and section of reservoir to sample. A roving creel survey, instantaneous counts, aerial counts of boats, and follow-up telephone surveys were all conducted to meet the goals of this project. Sampling periods consisted of five consecutive days and two periods were conducted each month. Anglers contacted on the water were asked standard creel survey questions regarding their experience and catch that day, along with second questions about their expenditures. Other detailed questions were asked based on individual expenses during follow up interviews. Data from phone surveys were combined with those from the roving creel survey, instantaneous counts, and aerial surveys, to estimate the complete economic impacts of angling on Lake Eufaula to surrounding communities and both states.
