FINGER LAKES - During ice fishing season, it can be apparent that burbot (Lota lota) are not a fan favorite of some anglers, as far too often they can be seen discarded on the ice after they’ve been caught. Maybe it’s because they’ve gotten a bad rap for preying on more desirable sportfish species, or maybe they’re being misidentified as the invasive northern snakehead.
PENN YAN - Cornell Cooperative Extension-Yates County is launching the 2nd Annual Yates County Pollinator Bracket Tournament on March 7. Inspired by the National Park Service’s “Fat Bear Week,” this tournament aims to educate the community and bring attention to the variety and importance of pollinators in the support and continuity of agriculture.
NAPLES - The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will be sampling the rainbow trout run at Naples Creek, Ontario County, on March 23, beginning at 9 a.m. “Sampling rainbow trout is an important function of the region’s fisheries management practices,” said Region 8 Director Tim Walsh.
FINGER LAKES – Friday, Nov. 11 marks the sixth and final Free Fishing Day of the year. Selected to coincide with Veterans Day, it’s a nice way to pay tribute to America’s veterans. Through their service and sacrifice, we continue to have the opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy our state’s great fisheries. So, honor that special veteran in your life and head to your favorite local fishing hole to cast a line next Friday.
Retired Penn Yan science teacher Brenda Travis recently sent photos of herself holding The Chronicle-Express in front of iconic sites in Ireland. “I got the idea from other small-town newspapers where I have seen pictures of subscribers photographing themselves with their hometown paper while traveling,” said Travis.
It isn’t unusual for gardens to experience a more insect pressure in dry years. Some of these insects feed directly on fruit. This year, many tomatoes fruit are showing signs of past insect feeding damage. Let’s run through some of the most common culprits. Keep in mind that all the insects discussed below cause minor blemishes and that tomato fruit with this damage are perfectly fine to consume.
September marks the beginning of several hunting seasons in New York State. Hunting seasons for squirrel and Canada goose began Sept. 1 in upstate New York, and the early bear and antlerless deer seasons begin Sept. 10 in select wildlife management units (WMUs).