HCR 298

R-356  Page 1 of 2
2026
No. R-356. House concurrent resolution recognizing the importance of the Vermont
Department of Fish and Wildlife’s fish culture program for the continued success of
aquatic-resource sustainability and the availability of abundant recreational fishing
opportunities in Vermont.
                                        (H.C.R.298)
   Offered by Representatives Greer of Bennington, Galfetti of Barre Town, Austin of
Colchester, Berbeco of Winooski, Bishop of Colchester, Burrows of West Windsor,
Carris Duncan of Whitingham, Coffin of Cavendish, Conlon of Cornwall, Goslant of
Northfield, Gregoire of Fairfield, Hango of Berkshire, Higley of Lowell, Howard of
Rutland City, Keyser of Rutland City, Labor of Morgan, Logan of Burlington, Luneau of
St. Albans City, Malay of Pittsford, Masland of Thetford, McGill of Bridport, Morgan,
M. of Milton, Morrissey of Bennington, Nigro of Bennington, Noyes of Wolcott, Page of
Newport City, Parsons of Newbury, Pritchard of Pawlet, Southworth of Walden, and
Winter of Ludlow
   Whereas, recreational fishing bonds family and community members, offers physical
and mental health benefits, and is accessible to most Vermonters regardless of geographic
location, financial means, physical ability, or developmental level, and
   Whereas, the preservation and enhancement of our aquatic ecosystems helps ensure
biodiversity, community health, prosperous local economies, and recreational fishing
opportunities for residents and visitors, and
   Whereas, Vermont’s five fish culture stations (commonly referred to as fish
hatcheries)—Bald Hill (Newark), Bennington, Ed Weed (Grand Isle), Roxbury, and
Salisbury—annually produce more than 1.5 million fish for distribution to and stocking
of the State’s waters, and they play a significant role in maintaining sustainable fish
populations, restoring species, and providing ample fishing resources for Vermonters and
their communities, and
   Whereas, abundant fish populations enhance food security, and
   Whereas, fishing helps foster interest, public buy-in, and investment in clean waters,
and
   Whereas, maintaining an abundant fishery sustains jobs and stimulates economic
growth, and
   Whereas, Vermont’s fish hatcheries support educational programs and partnerships
that foster a better understanding of aquatic ecology, conservation, and responsible
fishing practices, now therefore be it
   Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives:
   That the General Assembly recognizes the importance of the Vermont Department of
Fish and Wildlife’s fish culture program for the continued success of aquatic-resource
sustainability and the availability of abundant recreational fishing opportunities in
Vermont, and be it further
                                                                            VT LEG #389916 v.1
R-356  Page 2 of 2
2026
   Resolved: That the Secretary of State be directed to send a copy of this resolution to
the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife.
                                                                            VT LEG #389916 v.1