MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes -
MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of 7/7/26 – *REVISED 7/15
Present: Pat Crisci, Dan Swart, John Leigh, Dave Barletta, Clark Angevine, Mike Matts, Bill Rooney
Meeting called to order @ 6pm by VP Mike Matts
D Swart motioned to approve minutes of June 2nd BOD meeting. Second by C Angevine. Board approved.
Agenda / Discussion
Youth Outreach
- NYS TU Trout Camp - MHTU & DC Federation of Fish & Game clubs co-sponsored Kieran Reade of Red Hook. Cost to MHTU $425.
- “Family on the Water”– April Stark - fly fishing event for families; developing; date TBD
Conservation – M Matts
- Awarded two $500 scholarships.
- Cleanup Wappinger Creek at Titusville Rd – T of Lagrange to pursue with landowner- this is private land.
- Dam removal & stream monitoring – no active projects but interest in both topics. *Mike Matts will contact Matt Best at Riverkeeper to invite their program director to attend a board meeting to discuss stream monitoring. Bill Rooney suggested contacting Fishkill Creek Watershed Alliance to discuss their stream monitoring work on Fishkill Creek.
Treasurer W Rooney reported bank accounts total $50,740. Approx 42k in CDs and 8k in checking.
Fly Fishing 101 – D Swart will send flyer to S Washburn at Lagrange Rec for posting on their web page. John Leigh to provide Zeffy link for registration and payment for posting on Lagrange Rec web and for MHTU Web Date is Sept 13, 1-5pm, Freedom Park, Lagrange. $20 per student, ten students max.
Stewardship Dinner - P Crisci
- Venue is booked for Nov. 7 from 6-10pm at Anthony’s Catering in Hopewell Junction.
- Dinner announcement will be finalized (PC & John Leigh) before the August board meeting.
- Announcement will be sent to members via Mailchimp, posted on FB, and MHTU web page.
- Suggested online auction of Phil Street framed photos and flies to open bidding at
$400 (?) This auction will be live – with link to the Zeffy auction site upon date of announcement.
- Early Bird Raffle TBD – possible gift certificate from Culinary Institute.
- All above will be finalized before the announcement is posted. Announce date on or around July 30.
OPEN ITEMS FROM JUNE BOD MTG (3)
1. Re MHTU Communications – A chapter newsletter “The Riffle” is planned for launch fall 2026. Mark Jones & John Leigh
2. Re requests of and approval for donations (funds) from MHTU to partner organizations: Mark Jones volunteered to amend chapter by-laws. D Barletta offered to help
3. Re TU Stream improvement project on the Vernooykill Creek: Mark Jones volunteered to follow up with Tracy Brown & Jesse Vadala of TU Northeast re MHTU participation.
NEW BUSINESS: none
MEETING ADJOURNED 8 PM by VP Matts
MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of 6/2/26
Present: Mark Jones, Pat Crisci, Dan Swart, John Leigh, Dave Barletta, Clark Angevine, Mike Matts, Bill Rooney
Meeting called to order @ 611pm by President Mark Jones
Dan Swart motioned to approve minutes of May 5th BOD meeting. Second by J Leigh. Board approved.
Agenda / Discussion
1. D Swart reports that teacher Eric Sciutto from Hyde Park requests after school instruction in fly fishing. Tabled pending more information/details from requestor. Per D Swart this request comes via April Stark. Dan will ask April to get more details. D Barletta offered to consult with Steve Little who conducts a similar program for students in PA. – OPEN ITEM
2. A TIC release was held in Beacon on Fishkill Creek on June 2. In attendance were MHTU members D Jones, D Swaret, Bron Burda.Wells Brook Electroshocking results. Mike Matts follow up with Bob Adams NYSDEC
3. Family on the Water – A Stark proposed this as a fly fishing event for families – developing; date TBD – OPEN ITEM
4. Mark Jones volunteered to follow up with Tracy Brown & Jesse Vadala of TU Northeast re MHTU participation on stream work at Vernooy Kill (Sundown Forest) – OPEN ITEM
5. Possible Stewardship Dinner venues: Coppola’s (Steve D.) Beekman Golf (Pat C.) Millbrook Winery (April Stark). Additional venue suggestions welcome. – OPEN ITEM
6. D Barletta reports that BOJC campfire weekend May 30-31 had 76 kids including 24 first year attendees. A $500 donation to BOJC for 2026, which was previously approved by the board, will be sent by treasurer Rooney.
7. MHTU Communications – A chapter newsletter “The Riffle” is planned for launch later this year. Mark Jones & John Leigh contacts. – OPEN ITEM
8. Development of online registration & payment via Zeffy for chapter events, trips is in the works – should be operational within the month of June (for July 9 Dream Catcher Trip) John Leigh contact. – OPEN ITEM
9. Clarification of procedure for the request and approval of donations (funds) from MHTU to partner organizations – M Jones volunteered to amend chapter by-laws to clarify procesure. D Barletta offered to assist) - OPEN ITEM
10. Bill Rooney provided a treasurer’s report: $50,684 total funds. Approx. $8k checking & $42K in CDs.
OPEN ITEMS ABOVE REQUIRING ACTION – ITEM # With OWNER Name IN PARENTHESIS:
1 (Stark)
3 (Stark)
4 (Jones)
5 (Crisci)
7 (Jones, Leigh)
8 (Leigh, Angevine)
9 ( Jones & Barletta)
NEW BUSINESS:
P Crisci suggested inviting Anthony Pittore to join the board. Board is in favor. Mark Jones will reach out to invite Anthony.
MEETING ADJOURNED 8 PM by President Mark Jones
MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of 5/5/26
Present: Mark Jones, Pat Crisci, Dan Swart, April Stark, John Leigh, Kevin Miller, Dave Barletta, Clark Angevine, Steve Dolce, Mike Matts
Meeting called to order @ 605pm by President Mark Jones
Short Summary
Upcoming youth and community events, projects
· May 11, 12 – Chapter Trip to Farmington R. Dan Swart is contact
· May 14 – TIC Release in Beacon. April Stark is contact
· May 18 – Meeting on the Stream, 5 PM at Albrecht’s Farm, Creek Rd. Pleasant Valley
· MHTU Scholarship Committee received 9 applications for consideration. Mike Matts with Mark Jones & Pat Crisci will evaluate to identify 2 recipients.
· MHTU donation of $1000 from McCann Trust earmarked for BOJC NY.
· Wells Brook Electroshocking results. Mike Matts follow up with Bob Adams NYSDEC
· Potential for MHTU participation on stream work at Vernooy Kill (Sundown Forest) Mark Jones follow up with Tracy Brown/Jesse Vadala TU Northeast
· Possible Stewardship Dinner venues: Coppola’s (Steve D.) Beekman Golf (Pat C. Millbrook Winery (April Stark will inquire). Additional venue suggestions welcome.
· Weekend For Warriors Vets Fishing Day – D Swart advised against this event because of last year’s poorly organized and executed event.
· Flyfishing 101 Class at Freedom Park, Lagrange Sept 13 from 1 -5 pm. $20 pp w/1yr. TU membership. Dan Swart contact.
· MHTU Communications – A chapter newsletter “The Riffle” is planned for launch later this year. Mark Jones & John Leigh contacts
· Online registration & payment via Zeffy for chapter events, trips – John Leigh contact.
· Memorial Meyen Bench is in the works. Fab by BM-Fab in Lagrange. Delivery date Summer 2026. Pat Crisci contact
· Summer Meetings in July & August?
· Storage Facility. April Stark investigation locations & fees.
Discussion
Youth Programs
$1000 McCann Trust check was handed over to BOJC rep Kevin Miller. Pat Crisci initiated discussion regarding the propriety of MHTU requesting funds on behalf of BOJC. Inasmuch as MHTU supports BOJC, there is no precedent for submitting a request for funding on behalf of any third party organization. It is advised that future requests for funding made by MHTU be brought forward for president/board awareness prior to submission.
Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer absent. No report.
Steve Dolce asked why at general membership meetings do we divulge chapter account balances. Mike Matts advocated for disclosing account balances for the sake of “transparency.” To be discussed/dispositioned with treasurer Bill Rooney & board members at next meeting.
Community Outreach
Fly Fishing Classes: Family-on-the-Water & Fly Fishing 101
Family On The Water – Date TBA. A family-focused one or two-day introductory program (family pairs/duos encouraged) to teach fly fishing basics. Target audience: families i.e. adult + child(ren).Contact April Stark
Curriculum and format: Casting, water safety, basic fishing skills. Volunteers M Jones, C Angevine, P Crisci, D Beckwith. Contact Dan Swart
Fundraising / Auction
Stewardship Dinner date is 11/7. Venue & ticket price TBD by Aug. 31
Discussion on plated v. buffet – dinner committee will consider both options & make a recommendation to the board by Aug. 31.
April Stark suggested Millbrook Winery as a venue. She is inquiring prices, etc.
Action Items
Establish protocol for MHTU Treasurer’s report at general membership meetings.
Do we need an amendment to our charter to establish protocol for requesting funding
Establish Summer Meetings – Board? General Membership?
MEETING ADJOURNED 8 PM by President Mark Jones
MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of 4/7/26
Present: Mark Jones, Pat Crisci, Dan Swart, April Stark, John Leigh, Bill Rooney
Meeting called to order @ 550pm by President Mark Jones
Short Summary
Upcoming youth and community events
April 19 Town of Washington kid-friendly citizen-science hands-on activities -April Stark
April 22 Earth Day at Dover HS – Pat C, Dan S, Mike B
April 23 TIC release at Creamery Park, Stanfordville – April Stark
April 25 & 26 – Vets Fishing Day & Family Fishing Day, respectively, in partnership with DC Sportsman’s Clubs, NYSDEC, Town of Lagrange. 830- 1pm at Overlook Park.
May 2 - Riverkeeper Riversweep. Two locations 1. Cady Park, Pleasant Valley (Mark Jones). 2. Fishkill Creek, Brinckerhoff Bridge at Rt82 & Rt52 (John Leigh) Contact: Mike Matts
A late August – date TBD- family on-the-water event- April Stark
The board reviewed financials ($49,912 total, including checking and CDs) Bill Rooney
Reviewed the TU Annual Activity Report for TU national (due May 15). Noted—moving forward need for complete and accurate chapter reporting i.e. event counts, and hours. That will be finalized offline. Action items include finalizing event logistics and permission releases, ordering supplies (water test kits, kid activity materials), gathering volunteer hours and event participation numbers, and completing the reporting form with Bill Rooney, Pat Crisci, and Dan Swart
Agreed to initiate online chapter event registration & payment to an online platform (Zeffy/Eventbrite?) linked to the chapter website to streamline sign-ups, payments, and broaden participation. John Leigh & Bill Rooney will set up the account using info@midhudsontroutunlimited.org
Discussed the need for an ongoing monthly communication vehicle to help keep members informed, to publicize meetings, outings, events, and programs – Mark Jones.
Arrange for backup website access/update capability (Pat Crisci will discuss with Mike Matts).
POP UP CHAPTER TRIP -- $50 for two nights on the Farmington River cabins, May 11 & 12. Depart May 13 – Contact Dan Swart
MHTU Flyfishing school planned for Sept 13. Cost per person $20 with online payment options (Zeffy?)
New initiatives: A powder-coated commemorative bench (budget ~$500–750) is being designed and built by a local fabricator (BM-fab in Lagrange). Board voted to approve up to $750. Subject to approval of bench design by MHTU. Orvis Sandanona has agreed to placing the bench on their campus - Pat Crisci, Mark Searle.
Investigating online auction for the stewardship dinner – Pat Crisci, Bill Rooney, John Leigh
MHTU received two new donations – a $1,000 check from McCann Foundation, and a $50 donation in memory of Bob Meyen. – Pat Crisci presented checks to Treasurer Rooney
Chapter membership stands at 230 – Dan Swart
Discussion
Youth Programs
· NYS Trout Unlimited Trout Waters Youth Camp 2026 June 28th - July 3rd 2026
Ages 14-17 years. Campers learn fly fishing basics. Lessons on fly tying, fly fishing, entomology, ecology and conservation. All equipment, lodging, meals are provided. Each evening the campers will have one-on-one stream fishing experiences with a veteran Delaware River Angler. Tuition $850 per camper. Contact Kevin Miller.
· NYS DEC Camp tuition is $350/ week. Registration begins 3/22. MHTU has an existing credit of $750 toward NYS DEC camp tuition. Do we have any camp candidates? POC is Kevin Miller.
· BOJC - As in the past our $500 donation for 2026 will help offset cost of tuition. Per Kevin Miller MHTU will be eligible for BOJC Silver Level Sponsorship as we donate $500 annually.
· MHTU Scholarship Program - Scholarship letters sent to school counselors. Contact Mike Matts.
Community Outreach
Town of Washington Earth Day April 19. April Stark coordinating MHTU volunteers
DOVER HS Earth Day Celebration April 22, 8:30 – 1pm at Dover HS. Lunch provided.
TROUT IN THE CLASSROOM - April 23 TIC fish release at Stanfordville Rec Park at 40 Creamery Road (11:30–1:30) with chapter volunteers. No rain date. Contact April Stark
Veterans Fishing Day April 25 & 26 9am – 1pm hosted by Federation of DC F&G Clubs – Contact Dan Swart
· Family Fishing Day April 26 9am – 1pm hosted by Federation of DC F&G Clubs – Contact Dan Swart
· Riverkeeper River Sweep May 2, 9am-1pm. MHTU Sweep Leaders John Leigh & Mark Jones. Contact is Mike Matts
Fly Fishing Classes: Family-on-the-Water & Fly Fishing 101
Family On The Water – Date TBA. A family-focused one or two-day introductory program (family pairs/duos encouraged) to teach fly fishing basics. Target audience: families i.e. adult + child(ren).Contact April Stark
Fly Fishing 101 – NEW DATE proposed date is Sept 13 at Freedom Park, Lagrange.
Curriculum and format: Casting, water safety, basic fishing skills. Need volunteer instructors, waders, liability insurance certificate. Contact Dan Swart
Fundraising / Auction
Stewardship Dinner date is 11/7. Venue & ticket price TBD. Stay tuned for updates.
We have received a shadow box of flies and photos by Phil Street (framed by Peter Leitner) for our dinner/auction. Discussed valuation and best approach to maximize auction proceeds. I.e. possible on-line auction. Contact Pat Crisci
Pursue gifts/donations for MHTU Stewardship Dinner auction & raffle. Ask & you shall receive!
Action Items
Encourage use of the chapter-specific URL on the MHTU website to increase chapter-attributed memberships and receive recruitment bonus ($15 per new member recruited thru this URL).
Ensure dates, cost, details & publicity of chapter outings are correct & posted on webpage. - Clark Angevine
Research, determine, and select the best online event registration/payment and online auction/payment platform for MHTU – John Leigh, Bill Rooney
MEETING ADJOURNED 7:55 PM by President Mark Jones
MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of 3/10/26 - revised 3/18
Present: Mark Jones, Pat Crisci, Dan Swart, Steve Dolce, Clark Angevine, April Stark, Kevin Miller
Meeting called to order @ 530pm by President Mark Jones
Short Summary
Mid-Hudson TU met to plan upcoming youth and community events, confirming a Trout in the Classroom (TIC) fish release, a related school visit, participation in Earth Day events, River Sweep (May 2), and veterans/family fishing activities in late April.
Treasurer Bill Rooney reported approximately $51,000 in combined checking and CDs, noted recent donations (in memory of Bob Meyen), reviewed the 2027 budget and its component line items.
Discussion of outreach and programming included: chapter membership, scholarships, “Family on the Water” and “Fly-Fishing 101” classes, donation of $500 (Silver Certificate Level Sponsorship) to the NY Brotherhood of the Jungle Cock (BOJC); equipment purchases for the fly-fishing schools (Orvis Clearwater outfit discounts), and auction items (in particular a recently donated shadow box of photos and flies by Phil Street flies) for Nov. 7 Stewardship Dinner and fundraiser.
Action items include issuing donations/checks to partner organizations, finalizing event logistics, securing waiver/parental release to photograph/post online photos of minors (for upcoming TIC fish releases), establishing dates and promotional materials for the fly-fishing school and chapter outings, planning chapter outings -- the need to confirm outing dates, cost per person, etc. & how to best publicize and promote outings to generate more interest.
Key Decisions
Motion to approve FY2027 chapter budget by Mark Jones, second by Clark Angevine. Budget approved by board.
Approved $700 donation to Catskill Fly Fishing Museum for donating the bamboo rod-building class to our 2025 fundraiser.
Approved purchase of five Orvis Clearwater rod/reel/line outfits for use in MHTU fishing classes/community outings. Funds to come from Bob Meyen memorial fund contributions.
Approved “Delaware Sponsor” (four seats + program promotion for MHTU) at The Catskill Fly Fishing Museum Legends Dinner June 6. Four seats @ $100 ea (at attendee’s cost). MHTU will cover the additional $100. Three of four seats are filled.
Discussion
Youth Programs
· NYS Trout Unlimited Trout Waters Youth Camp 2026 June 28th - July 3rd 2026
Ages 14-17 years. Campers learn fly fishing basics. Lessons on fly tying, fly fishing, entomology, ecology and conservation. All equipment, lodging, meals are provided. Each evening the campers will have one-on-one stream fishing experiences with a veteran Delaware River Angler. Tuition $850 per camper. Contact Kevin Miller.
· NYS DEC Camp tuition is $350/ week. Registration begins 3/22. MHTU has an existing credit of $750 toward NYS DEC camp tuition. Contact Kevin Miller.
· As in the past our BOJC donation for 2026 will help offset cost of tuition. MHTU will be eligible for BOJC Silver Level Sponsorship as we donate $500 annually. Contact Kevin Miller
MHTU Scholarship Program - Scholarship letters sent to school counselors; 2 applicants received thus far. Scholarship application deadline is APRIL 30. Contact Mike Matts.
Treasurer Report / Budget Review
Current balances (end of February): Checking ~$8,718.47, CDs ~$42,164.23; net available ≈ $51,000 (up ~$635 from prior month). Small $25 credit on card being investigated.
Revenue/expenses: Donations in memory of Bob Meyen are $2000+. Treasurer Bill Rooney presented a 2027FY budget with breakdowns (program codes 10s–50s).
Community Outreach
Town of Washington Earth Day April 19. April Stark coordinating MHTU volunteers
DOVER HS Earth Day Celebration April 22, 8:30 – 1pm at Dover HS. Lunch provided.
TROUT IN THE CLASSROOM fish April 23. April Stark will staff the fish release at Stanfordville Rec Park at 40 Creamery Road (11:30–1:30) with chapter volunteers. No rain date.
Veterans Fishing Day April 25 & 26 hosted by Federation of DC F&G Clubs – Contact Dan Swart
· Family Fishing Day April 26 – hosted by Federation of DC F&G Clubs – Contact Dan Swart
· Riverkeeper River Sweep May 2, 9am-1pm. MHTU Sweep Leaders John Leigh & Mark Jones. MHTU Contact is Mike Matts
Fly Fishing Classes: Family-on-the-Water & Fly Fishing 101
Family On The Water -- family-focused one or two-day introductory program (family pairs/duos encouraged) to teach fly fishing basics. Target audience: families i.e. adult + child(ren).Contact April Stark
Fly Fishing 101 proposed date is Sunday July 19 from 9:00–12:00. Aim to schedule class 2–3 weeks prior to a planned trip to increase participation. Contact Dan Swart
Curriculum and format: Casting, water safety, basic fishing skills. Need volunteer instructors, waders, liability insurance certificate.
Membership and Administration
Membership update: One new member in Feb. Membership is 241. Discussed (new, renewed, expired. Two members transferred to Catskill Mtn Chapter. Contact Dan Swart.
As of April 1 TU annal dues will be $45 reg member (up from $35).
Member Recruitment -- We now have a MHTU-specific URL (it’s on the MHTU webpage see the “Join TU” button at the bottom of the home page. For new members joining thru our webpage MHTU will receive a $15 rebate (per Jeff Yates, Director of TU Volunteer Ops).
Noted that for TU Annual Activity Report all volunteer hours are to be tracked by category. Categories are: Conservation, Science/monitoring, Advocacy, Communications/engagement, Youth/education, Fundraising, and Board Operations. Contact Dan Swart.
Fundraising / Auction Discussion.
Stewardship Dinner date is 11/7. Venue & ticket price TBD. Stay tuned for updates.
We have received a shadow box of flies and photos by Phil Street (framed by Peter Leitner) for our dinner/auction. Discussed valuation and best approach to maximize auction proceeds. I.e. possible on-line auction. Contact Pat Crisci
Spring Trout Stocking (with DC Federation of Fish & Game Clubs – Contact Dan Swart
· March 16 meet at 84 Diner Fishkill 10:30am stocking Fishkill Creek
· March 17 meet at Boyce Park 6420 Rt 55 in Dover at 11am stocking Ten Mile River
· March 18 meet at Greenville Park Town of POK 10:30am stocking Wappinger Creek
· March 24 meet at Mobil on Rt 199 Milan 11:15am – stocking Roeliff-Jansen Kill
Action Items
Finalize volunteer roster for April 23 fish release and confirm 2–3 additional volunteers — due ASAP / before April 23. April Stark.
Obtain parental release forms and photo-release language for April 23 event. April Stark
Issue $700 check to Catskill Fly Fishing Museum and resolve missing donation/payment from prior year — due by end of current fiscal month. Bill Rooney
Investigate $25 credit on chapter credit card and reverse any pending charges. Rooney
Confirm purchase details of Clearwater fly-fishing outfits at negotiated discount. Bill Rooney.
Draft class description, dates (proposed Sunday July 19 or alternate), liability requirements, instructor list, equipment needs and registration logistics for Family-on-the-Water / Fly Fishing 101 — draft due by next month (to allow for publicity/marketing ahead of class). April Stark, Dan Swart
Encourage use of the chapter-specific URL on the MHTU website to increase chapter-attributed memberships and receive recruitment bonus ($15 per new member recruited thru this URL).
Appraisal/value of the shadow-box fly display and determine auction method. Dinner Committee
Ensure dates, cost, details & publicity of chapter outings are correct & posted on webpage. Clark Angevine
MEETING ADJOURNED 7:50 PM by President Mark Jones
Mid-Hudson Trout Unlimited — Directors Meeting (03 Feb 2026)
Attendees
M Jones called meeting to order at 6pm.
Attendees: Dave B, Mike M, Mark J, John L, Dan S, Bill R, Clark A, April S, Steve D, Pat C, Kevin Miller
Key Decisions and Actions
Approved up to $500 to repair or replace a chiller needed for a 55-gallon trout-in-the-classroom system. Motion made and seconded; funds to come from chapter budget. Decision contingent on troubleshooting and confirming whether the problem is trivial (e.g., GFI/circuit/reset) or requires a new unit.
Immediate next steps: troubleshoot with the teacher/school (identify tank size, symptoms, whether power/circuit/GFI issue), attempt simple fixes; if unresolved, purchase/replace chiller. Dave identified chillers on Amazon in the $250–$400 range; plan to order quickly if fish are at risk.
Logistic notes: chapter lacks storage/inventory; discussion about recovering an old chiller, refurbishing, or housing equipment. Agreement to start inventory planning for chapter assets.
Treasurer/budget items:
Fiscal year recognized as April–March. Proposed chapter operating budget of $2,000 for 2026 (to cover unusual/start-up items and contingency).
Venmo/PayPal: Venmo account suspended since Thursday due to an issue with PayPal; PayPal support indicated this is a known problem but resolution timeline unclear (they may not provide an update for seven days). Donations via PayPal/Venmo are effectively blocked until resolved.
Treasurer is evaluating QuickBooks Online for bookkeeping, using TechSoup nonprofit discounts; working to set up accounts aligned with national reporting categories.
Youth Outreah -Trout-in-the-Classroom (TIC)
A teacher (Scott Adams, Arlington CSD) has a failing chiller. Equipment and fish are at immediate risk due to cold room and possible system failure.
Discussion about program commitment: chapter intent is to prioritize funding only for programs/schools that demonstrate commitment and have read/understood program requirements. Trout-in-the-Classroom pieces are expensive and require a responsible teacher and backup coverage.
Action items:
One or more board members will call the teacher to troubleshoot electrical/reset issues and gather tank/chiller specs and price quotes.
If the chiller is not repairable, chapter will purchase replacement (not to exceed $500).
Mid-Hudson to request documentation so chapter can sign off on ownership of equipment and track assets going forward.
Administration & Reporting / QuickBooks
Mid-Hudson is configuring a QuickBooks Online chart of accounts to match Trout Unlimited National reporting categories (Conservation, Science & Monitoring, Youth Education, Veterans & First Responders, Membership/Support, Community Engagement, Advocacy/Lobbying, Program Services, Administrative, Fundraising, etc.).
QuickBooks Online via TechSoup (nonprofit discount) is under consideration; training resources being used. The goal is to produce consistent categories and an auditable trail for future officers and for national reporting (and IRS filings).
Volunteer hours currently tracked in only one category; national reporting requires seven categories. Board agreed they must begin categorizing volunteer hours properly going forward and estimate categories for prior months if needed for the April report.
Scholarships
2026 scholarship program updated: increased from one scholarship to two; requirements and application posted to the website (posted Jan 17). Contacts at high schools were sent materials on Jan 30; as of meeting six confirmations received.
Application deadline: April 20, 2026.
Outreach: Share scholarship link on Facebook and Instagram; provide an image for social posts.
Conservation, Projects, and Advocacy
River/stream cleanups: River Sweep scheduled May 2 (9:00–noon), seeking volunteers. Past cleanup totals summarized: over six years River Street cleanups removed ~3,485 lbs; veterans cleanups ~730 lbs; Wells Brook/HVA cleanup 890 lbs — cumulative ~5,105 lbs.
Gravel mining: no new activity; Kent Hollow has not submitted required DC application.
Stream restoration with HVA: hopeful for work in 2026 but no schedule yet.
Culvert assessment: chapter members participated in assessments; opportunity to claim credit for supporting county/region initiatives, but cautioned not to overcommit.
Wells Brook electroshock data from Bob Adams outstanding; final report pending.
Events, Outings & Programming
Chapter outings calendar discussed (day trips and destination trips. Clark was asked to clean up and circulate the outings schedule and provide GPS/address-friendly details for each trip.
Notable outings/events discussed: Housatonic River (CT), Salmon River, Oak Orchard trips, Beaverkill, Connetquot. Outings need date confirmation/cost/meet up times & locations deetermined before posting.
Membership meeting speakers: Tracy Brown scheduled to present Feb, 16; other suggested speakers include conservation program leaders and the executive director of a conservation center (possible fall presentation). Other meeting programs include Rocky Rockwell (Salmon River), Riverkeeper (dam removal), John Francis (Catskills)
Fundraising/banquet: tentative date proposed for November 6 (Friday). Feedback from prior November event at Beacon Golf Club: food was good, but service was disorganized — follow-up planned with venue. Accessibility (handicap access) and space layout are concerns to confirm for future venues.
Education & Outreach — Fly-Fishing Skills Program Concept
Discussion about re-starting or creating a progressive adult/adolescent fly-fishing skills curriculum (Fly Fishing 101 -> 102 -> 103), building skill succession, with in-class/indoor instruction and on-water practice/trips.
Benefits noted: improves retention, provides a clear path for newcomers to become confident and self-sufficient anglers, links adults and youth participation (family pairing), and supports the chapter mission to encourage appreciation and stewardship.
Potential partners: DLC, river/watershed groups, local fly-fishing clubs, county fair, and other chapters. Consider replicating successful events (e.g., DLC fly-fishing day that combined casting and on-water practice).
Action: form a small working group to scope program logistics, equipment needs (loaner rods), schedule and outreach.
Website, Communications & Donations
New website submissions noted: Miranda Jabot (Woodstock Conservatory) requests support/contacts for a Feb 12 fish workshop — board suggested she be referred to the local chapter covering that area and offered to assist with contact but not to take over jurisdiction.
Online donation: a $100 donation in memory of Bob Meyen appeared in PayPal transaction logs; method/person indicated memory gift. Board agreed to send personalized thank-you notes; QuickBooks may support automated receipts later.
Several other mailed donations received (checks totaling ~$720); Treasurer to process. Pat C to send thank you notes to donors.
Membership & Volunteer Hours
January volunteer hours tallied (total ~135 hours reported in discussion) — numbers fluctuate month-to-month; December was lower.
Need to start tracking volunteer hours by the seven categories required by TU National (e.g., conservation, education, outreach, etc.). Proposal: track categories for one month to establish workflow and retroactively estimate categories for the annual report if necessary.
Miscellaneous
Inventory & asset management: consensus that chapter lacks an inventory of equipment; plan to develop inventory and storage plan in coming months.
Beacon Golf Club banquet feedback and venue follow-up assigned to P Crisci.
Several membership outreach contacts made at shows; one promising local high school senior interested in forestry applied to Paul Smith’s and may pursue the chapter scholarship. Mark J.
Discussion of potential presence at local fairs (e.g., county fair) / booths and the resource commitment required (staffing for entire show vs. one-day events). Need to evaluate volunteer availability and cost-benefit.
Next meeting reminders: Mid-Hudson noted limited website access between Feb 15 and May 1; request for updates before Feb 15 if possible.
Outstanding Action Items (who/what)
Mid-Hudson / designated board member: Contact teacher with failing chiller; gather specs, troubleshoot/reset attempt, and obtain quotes; if needed, purchase/replace up to $500.
Board volunteer(s): Attempt simple troubleshooting (GFI/circuit checks); maintenance contact if necessary.
Treasurer/Mid-Hudson: Continue QuickBooks setup, align accounts with TU National reporting categories; finalize FY budgeting (Apr–Mar) and propose $2,000 operating budget.
Clark: Clean up the outings/trips document, include addresses/GPS-friendly directions, and circulate to board.
Communications lead: Post scholarship info across social media with image; monitor scholarship responses; send follow-ups to school contacts who have not confirmed.
Treasurer/Membership: Process mailed donations (~$720) and prepare personalized thank-you acknowledgements.
Small committee (volunteers to form): Scope a progressive fly-fishing skills program and present a plan at next meeting.
Asset management lead (TBD): Create an inventory system and storage plan for chapter-owned equipment.
Mid-Hudson: Follow up with Beacon Golf Club and other potential banquet venues regarding service, accessibility, and space configuration.
Documents, Reports & Deadlines
Scholarship application deadline: April 20, 2026.
River Sweep (cleanup): May 2, 2026 (9:00–noon) — volunteers needed.
Annual National/990-related report and volunteer hours submission due April (annual activity report); must map hours to seven categories.
Meeting Notes / Tone
Meeting was wide-ranging, practical, and action-focused, emphasizing program continuity (especially trout-in-the-classroom), improved bookkeeping and reporting alignment with national TU requirements, outreach and events planning, and improving internal systems (inventory, volunteer hour categorization). Adjourned at 8pm.
MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes of 4/7/26
Attendees: Swart, Angevine, Stark, Crisci, Dolce, Jones, Matts, Miller, Rooney, Leigh
Meeting called to order at 6:00 pm.
NOTE: Because the December board meeting was cancelled due to snow there are no December mtg minutes to review.
Mark Jones, newly elected chapter president presided.
2026 Officers
· President - Mark Jones
· Vice President – Mike Matts
· Treasurer - Bill Rooney
· Secretary – Pat Crisci
Welcome John Leigh to the MHTU board of directors!
Budget 2026 & Treasurer Report: Bill Rooney
Bill R presented a proposed chapter budget for 2026. Much of the proposed budget mimics the previous year. A lot of discussion ensued re categorization of expenses and granularity of budget i.e. drilling down to layers within expense categories. It was agreed that a separate budget meeting is needed. John Leigh, Dan Swart, Mark Jones, Pat Crisci offered to be part of that meeting with Treasurer Bill Rooney leading the effort. MAYBE each committee chair should submit a projected budget for 2026 -- this could be based on actual 2025 expenses by committee.
Youth Outreach
Trout in the Classroom – April S. - We have 4 TIC classrooms up & running in Arlington, John Jay, Beacon, & Pine Plains schools. Discussion re publicizing status/progress of TIC programs thru MHTU Web, social media – video? photos?
BOJC - Kevin M. - There is a member campaign for individuals to join BOJC. Annual membership is $35. Sign up online at nybojc.org
Conservation (Matts, Rooney, Pelletier)
1) MHTU 2026 Scholarship – Committee (Mark, Pat, Mike) met 1/5/26 to discuss
Changes, Schedule, Requirements, Application, and Contacts.
Next checkpoint: 1/16 – Post requirements & application to website,
contact DC high schools. Responses due by 4/20/26 ---- QUESTION: DOES THIS BELONG IN THE YOUTH COMMITTEE BUCKET?
2) Veterans Day Stream Cleanup completed Saturday, Nov 22.
2 Locations cleaned: Ten Mile River (RT 55 near Dog Tail Corners
Road) and Well Brook (by McDonalds, Dover).
14 volunteers from DLC & MHTU collected 450 lbs of garbage & 30 lbs of metal.
3) Proposal to clean up PFR on Wappingers Creek along Titusville Road near
HG Pages and Phillips Road. Suggest late spring cleanup to coordinate
with Town of Poughkeepsie on trash removal (dumpster?) and get
more volunteer participation.
4) Riversweep Clean Up scheduled for Saturday, May 2 from 9 – noon.
Need 3 MHTU volunteers to lead three cleanups
(2 Wappingers Creek, 1 Fishkill Creek)
5) Kroeger USA Heiden Road Riverside Warehouse Project.
(Massive warehouse proposed on banks of Neversink River)
MHTU wrote letter opposing project on 11/30/25.
6) Gravel mining on Webutuck Creek in Amenia – No New News
7) HVA/ MHTU Stream Restoration Work on Lower Wells Brook – No New News.
8) Culvert Assessment Training/ Updates – No New News.
9) Ten Mile River Collaborative Meeting held 9/15/25 – No New News.
Mike Matts proposed potential MHTU Conservation Projects for 2026
- Water temp monitoring on Wappingers Creek or other stream – discussion around the usefulness of this based on past water monitoring efforts – maybe we should get in synch with NYSDEC to see if this is worthwhile….?
- Trees for Tribs on Region 3 river – generally well-received – selecting a stream and a reach within a stream requires research.
- Assist with Dam Removal, where applicable.
Chapter Outings: Angevine, Jones
Clark A. proposed overnight trips to Penns Creek, W Branch Delaware; day trips to Esopus, Connetquot R., Beaverkill, & Neversink; RI for Striped Bass. Consensus: focus on fewer trips and provide more complete info re cost per person for lodging etc.
Stewardship Dinner: P Crisci
2026 Dinner proposed for early Nov. First committee meeting will be held in March or April.
Membership: Dan S, Dave B
AS OF 12/31/25
MHTU membership: 242
New Members: 3
Renewed: 9
Recruited: 5
Soon to expire: 8
Lapsed: 185
MEETING PROGRAMS
· Jan. – Tom Zarecki
· Feb – Tracy Brown -TU Northeast Habitat Restoration Manager
NEW/MISC Business:
· MHTU Fly Fishing School – Dan S proposed possibly for spring 2026. More to follow re DATES, LOCATION, FEES. We will also need to acquire new fly rods & lines & reels for students as our existing gear is aged and/or in disrepair.
· THIRD SATURDAYS WINTER FLY TYING scheduled for Jan 17, Feb 21, Mar 21 at Plan Bee Farm Brewery, Poughkeepsie. Contact Pat Crisci
· Bob Meyen Recognition – tabled
MHTU Website Communications – Mike Matts
Date Who Topic
1/1/26 Judy Ghezzi - Donate hand tied flies Mike
10/6/25 Gary Dimatteo - Interest in joining TU Mike replied 10/14
10/16/25 Thomas Kinney - New member, lives in Beacon Dan S/ Mark J
Can he attend events?
10/24 Nicole Turano - Book Donation interest Mike replied, reply due 3/26
Meeting adjourned 755 pm
MHTU BOD Meeting Minutes – NOV 4, 2025 REVISED
Attendees: Swart, Angevine, Stark, Crisci, Dolce, Barletta, Jones
Meeting called to order at 6:00 pm.
Mark J motioned to accept OCT 2025 BOD minutes. Clark A 2nd. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Youth Outreach
Trout in the Classroom – April S - TIC classroom teachers will attend MHTU membership mtg – Feb 16 (to be confirmed) to discuss how the program is going.
Conservation (Matts, Rooney, Pelletier)
· MHTU 2025 Scholarship – Request to increase the number of
scholarships to be awarded in 2026 from 1 to 2 at $500 each, or $1000
total. Note: High Schools in Dutchess County were given scholarship
requirements in January 2025
· Veterans Day Stream Cleanup planned for Saturday, Nov 22 from 9-noon. Meet at 9am at Ketcham Park. Clean up sites: Ten Mile River (Ketcham Park & RT 55 near Dog Tail Corners Road) and Well Brook (by McDonalds, Dover) Working with DLC and HVA.
· Request for Volunteers – Catskill Mountain TU Chapter
Esopus Creek Trout Spawning Survey Saturday,11/8/25, 9 am to noon.
· Proposal to clean up PFR on Wappingers Creek along Titusville Road near
HG Page and Phillips Road. Suggest late spring cleanup to coordinate
with Town of Poughkeepsie on trash removal (dumpster?) and get
more volunteer participation.
· Mark Jones is interested in Trees for Trout project. Discarded Christmas trees are placed in stream to create holding areas for fish and aquatic insects, and to help control erosion of streambank.
Chapter Outings: Angevine, Jones
Clark proposed: Deerfield R., Connetquot, Penns Creek (Feathered Hook), Upper Delaware (DreamCatcher). Neversink R. Mark interested in saltwater trip with RI or CT TU.
Stewardship Dinner: PCrisci
Online TIcket Sales Link is LIVE https://tu.myeventscenter.com/event_detail/114487
Dinner is FRI NOV 7. 50 tickets sold to date.
Membership: Dan S, Dave B
MHTU membership is 250 as of Oct 31.
Treasurer Report: Bob - PCrisci covering
No Report
CHAPTER ELECTIONS – At the time of this meeting there are no additional candidates for elected office. At the NOV 17 membership meeting President Dan S will once again present committee nominations & call for nominations from the floor.
BOD/Committee Nominations - 2025 Officers
· President - Mark Jones
· Vice President – Mike Matts
· Treasurer - Bill Rooney
· Secretary – Pat Crisci
MEETING PROGRAMS - M Jones
· Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
· Dec. - Holiday Party?
· Jan. – Tom Zarecki
NEW/MISC Business:
· Event: FALL/WINTER FLY TYING – TBD P Crisci
· Recognition for Bob Meyen’s service to TU. I believe it was Clark who suggested this – and all board members agreed that we should acknowledge Bob’s contribution to MHTU. Bob is a lifetime TU member, and has been MHTU Treasurer for 35 years. No consensus emerged as to how, or what we should do. Board tabled this idea. For now, PCrisci will contact Bob’s wife to see what she thinks Bob might be open to & most appreciative of. Question: Which MHTU members are closest to Bob? Longtime friends &/or fishing partners? Family? Suggestions from the board needed. To be continued at Dec. board meeting.
MHTU Website Communications – Mike Matts
10/2/25 John Omutanyi Flies at wholesale prices - ?
10/6/25 Gary Dimatteo Interest in joining TU, relocating
to area (Newburgh) - Mike M replied 10/14
10/16/25 Thomas Kinney New member, lives in Beacon - Dan/Mark STATUS?
Can he attend events?
10/24/25 Nicole Turano Possible Book Donation - Mike M replied 10/31
10/24/25 Mark Koide Lifetime TU (NJ) member.
Info on Roe Jan for friend - ?
8/7/25 Carol Neslund Donation of Fly Tying Matls - Mike M - Update by 11/15
8/27/25 George Lasorta TU President Info Exchange - Dan STATUS?
1)
Meeting adjourned 735 pm
MHTU BOD Meeting Minutes – OCT 7, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, April Stark, Pat Crisci, Steve Dolce, Dave Barletta, Kevin Miller
Meeting called to order at 6:05 pm.
Steve D motioned to accept SEPT 2025 BOD minutes. Clark A 2nd. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Youth Outreach (Stark)
Trout in the Classroom – April S reports that TIC egg pickup is this week. The Pine Plains TIC program has received their TIC kit. Cost of TIC startup kit/materials is $1603.97.
Conservation (Matts, Rooney, Pelletier)
MHTU 2025 Scholarship – Request to increase the number of
scholarships to be awarded in 2026 from 1 to 2 at $500 each, or $1000
total. Note: High Schools in Dutchess County were given scholarship
requirements in January 2025
Veterans Day Stream Cleanup planned for Saturday, Nov 15 from 9-noon.
Locations: TBD
HVA wants to work with MHTU on Lower Wells Brook Stream Restoration
work in Dover area. Per Jillian Gunderson on 9/2/25, HVA Restoration
Coordinator, funding for the project has not been received. Jillian is hopeful
that work will occur in 2026
Ten Mile River Collaborative Meeting 9/15/25. Bill Rooney attended.
“MHTU is eager to assist on projects” HVA will continue to drive
Collaborative. Meetings to occur 2X per year. Claire Wegh is leaving,
Jillian Gunderson, Julia Rodgers, Mike Jastremski are contacts.
Chapter Outings: Angevine, Jones
Neversink R. trip scheduled for 9/12 was canceled. For the remainder of 2025 no trips are planned
Stewardship Dinner: Pat Crisci
Online TIcket Sales Link is LIVE https://tu.myeventscenter.com/event_detail/114487
25 tickets sold to date. Committee is working to reach a wider audience to advertise and sell more tickets. Dinner is listed in the events calendar of SDN, NDN, BFP & a one-eighth page ad will run in SDN, NDN, BFP on Oct 22 & 29; we have a 30 min radio slot on 10/17 from 7-730 AM on WBNR. Next committee meeting will be Oct. 20 at 5pm at The Heartwood. Meet in the lounge area.
Membership: Dan S, Dave B
Month of AUGUST – No new members since last month. MHTU membership is 248.
Treasurer Report: Bob - PCrisci covering
MHTU Checking Account balance $3856.49; Savings CDS $41,130.19
CHAPTER ELECTIONS - At the Oct. 20 membership meeting President Dan S will present committee nominations & call for other nominations from the membership at large - if there are others who would like to run for office.
Committee Nominations - 2025 Officers
· President - Mark Jones
· Vice President – Mike Matts
· Treasurer - Bill Rooney
· Secretary – Pat Crisci
MEETING PROGRAMS - M Jones
· Oct 20 7pm The Heartwood – Guest Speaker John Apgar - BAMBOO ROD MAKING
· Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
· Dec. - Holiday Party?
· Jan. – Tom Zarecki
NEW/MISC Business:
RESIGNATION – President Dan S reports that he received from board member Bill Soja an email stating his intent to resign.
FALL/WINTER FLY TYING – TBD P Crisci
MHTU Website Communications
Date Who Topic Contact / STATUS
8/7/25 Carol Neslund Donation of Fly Tying Mat’ls Mike
8/27/25 George Lasorta TU President Info Exchange? Dan
Meeting adjourned 715 pm
MHTU BOD Meeting Minutes – SEPT 2, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, April Stark, Mike Matts, Pat Crisci, Bill Rooney, Bill Soja, Steve Dolce, Mark Jones, Dave Barletta
Meeting called to order at 6:08 pm.
Clark A motioned to accept AUGUST 2025 BOD minutes. Mark J 2nd. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Youth Outreach (Stark)
Trout in the Classroom April reported that TIC program will start this fall at Pine Plains Elementary School. Startup cost to MHTU is $1500.
Conservation (Matts, Rooney, Pelletier)
TU national has 100% approved of the process, criteria, and method used to award the MHTU scholarship this past spring. Discussion ensued on adding a second scholarship in 2026. Board is largely positive to the idea – provided that we have sufficient applicants and deserving recipients. Follow up.
The gravel mining operation on Webatuck Creek appears to be at a standstill. The mine owners have yet to submit their application to the DEC. Follow up.
MHTU & HVA partnership on lower Wells Brook restoration project TBA.
Veterans Day Stream Cleanup on Nov. 15 - locations TBA.
Chapter Outings: Angevine, Jones
Mark Jones is organizing a day of fishing on the Neversink River on Sept. 12. We will fish the Neversink Gorge area. Meet at 8am the parking lot at the top of Katrina Falls Rd in Rock Hill NY.
Potential Pulaski trip proposed by M Jones - TBA
Stewardship Dinner: Pat Crisci
Online TIcket Sales Link is LIVE https://tu.myeventscenter.com/event_detail/114487
12 tickets have been sold as of this date. Committee is working to reach a wider audience to advertise and sell more tickets.
Brief discussion about auction and raffle prizes ensued. Early on it appears that we will have an impressive list this year. More info as we firm up our donations/prize list.
Discussion of “absentee bidding” at the dinner to attract more auction participation. Not feasible this year. But we might in the future have an on line auction – maybe on that is separate from the Stewardship Dinner.
Membership: Dan S, Dave B
Month of AUGUST - Lapsed 181. Membership 248. “Lapsed” is defined as membership has expired for 6mos 3 yrs.
AUGUST 2025 BOD Minutes Treasurer Report: Bob - P>Crisci covering
Pat reported MHTU Checking Account balance $3826.49,; Savings CDS $40,912.12
CHAPTER ELECTIONS -Bill Soja
Election committee nominations will be presented at Oct. board mtg.
MEETING PROGRAMS - M Jones, et al
Sept – John Miller (Jones)
Oct - John Apgar - BAMBOO ROD MAKING (Jones)
Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
Dec. - Holiday Party?
Jan. – Tom Zarecki
NEW/MISC Business:
ORVIS GAME FAIR AT SANDANONA SEPT 20 & 21. 9am – 5pm MHTU will table at this event. We will demo fly tying and fly casting both days. volunteers are needed.
VETS FISHING DAY – Guiding on Wappinger Creek - Dutchess County Veterans from appox noon til 4pm.
FALL/WINTER FLY TYING – TBD P Crisci
Web site inquiries – Mike M re Donation of Fly fishing & fly tying paraphernalia; April S, Kevin M re Rhinebeck Science Expo on 9/27; Dan S re info sharing with CWTU – George Lasota President.
Meeting adjourned 750 pm
MHTU BOD Meeting Minutes – AUGUST 5, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, April Stark, Mike Matts, Pat Crisci, Bill Rooney, Bill Soja, Steve Dolce, Kevin Miller, Mark Jones
Note: this meeting took place in the Beech A room at The Heartwood at Vassar College. Prior to our meeting Heartwood staff gave us a guided tour of the facility.
Meeting called to order at 6:14 pm.
Mark Jones motioned to accept JULY BOD minutes. April Stark 2nd. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Youth Outreach (Stark & Miller)
April Stark - Stream Keepers sessions at Town of Washington Town Park were held July 28 - Aug. 1. Six 11 & 12 year olds attended. April designed the camp curriculum which included fishing and conservation lesson plans. Examples of activities include How To Read Water, Macroinvertebrates, Fly Tying and Fly Casting, spinfishing and flyfishing lessons/coaching, April reported that the camp grossed $300 ($50 per camper fee). April spent approx. $150 on MHTU logo T Shirts and class materials. So MHTU net is +/-$150. Awaiting receipts for expenses.
Trout in the Classroom April reported that we have a potential TIC starting at Pine Plains Elementary School. She is working with the teacher to price out and place an order for the supplies to start up the program. Start up cost is approx $1500.
BOJC - Kevin Miller asked to have MHTU help spread the word about BOJC. We have BOJC brochures available and will continue to offer them at events. BOJC info is posted in the YOUTH section of MHTU web page.
Conservation (Matts, Rooney, Pelletier)
Mike Matts is waiting for word from HVA re lower Wells Brook restoration project.
There will be a Veterans Day Stream Cleanup on Nov. 15 - locations TBA.
Mike also mentioned the idea of offering two $500 scholarships next year. There was no discussion on this. We will revisit at a future meeting.
Chapter Outings: Angevine, Jones
Clark Angevine reports 12 have signed up for the Sept 6 fishing trip to Connetquot Preserve. At this time 7 have paid. They are: Clark A, Dan S, Jennifer L, Mark Searle, S Deluca (Clark has $), John Leigh, John Hershey. On 4/9/25 I sent a $250 check to reserve the date. The total cost is $650 for the day. So the remaining $400 is due on arrival at Connetquot.
Mark Jones is organizing a day of fishing on the Neversink River on Sept. 12. We will fish the Neversink Gorge area. Meet at the parking lot at the top of Katrina Falls Rd in Rock Hill NY.
Stewardship Dinner: Pat Crisci
Online TIcket Sales Link is LIVE https://tu.myeventscenter.com/event_detail/114487
Brief discussion about auction and raffle prizes ensued. Early on it appears that we will have an impressive list of goodies this year. More info as we firm up our donations/prize list.
Membership: Dan S, Dave B
Month of July - Lapsed 176. Membership 252. A question was raised “What is lapsed?”
Treasurer Report: Bob - P>Crisci covering
Pat reported MHTU Checking Account balance $4,294.45,; Savings CDS $40,912.12
CHAPTER ELECTIONS -Bill Soja
No report
MEETING PROGRAMS - M Jones, et al
Sept - Matt Supinski - STEELHEAD (Jones)
Oct - JJohn Apgar - BAMBOO ROD MAKING (Jones)
Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
Dec. - Holiday Party – need volunteer to lead this effort
NEW/MISC Business:
NEW MEETING VENUE - MMatts and Bill Rooney led the effort to find a new meeting venue for monthly membership meetings. Several options were considered. Zion Church in Wappinger Falls, Presbyterian Church in Pleasant Valley, Germania of Pok, Hampton Inn Pok, The Heartwood at Vassar College Pok. After discussion of each location K Miller motioned to move membership meetings to The Heartwood, Beech A @ $90 per meeting. P Crisci seconded this motion. Board voted unanimously to approve. Dan Swart motioned to reimburse Bill Rooney for $75 paid to use Beech A room at the Heartwood for our board meeting on 8/5. P Crisci seconded this motion. Board approved reimbursement.
ORVIS GAME FAIR AT SANDANONA SEPT 20 & 21. MHTU will table at this event. We will demo fly tying and fly casting from 9 til 5 both days. volunteers are needed.
Meeting adjourned 8pm
MHTU BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING JULY 1, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts April Stark, Mark Jones, Bill Rooney, Mike Butts (Guest)
Meeting called to order at 6:07pm.
C Angevine motioned to accept April 2025 BOD minutes. Second by M. Jones. Board approved.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
YOUTH OUTREACH / ENGAGEMENT: K MILLER, A STARK
A Stark re T of Washington (Millbrook) MHTU “Life of the Stream” summer camp July 28 – Aug 1, at Millbrook Rec Ctr… April is pricing T shirts for the campers. So far 4 have signed up to attend.
NOTE: There was a Question at the JUNE BOD meeting re Youth Budget for 2025. The budget as per Bob Meyen is as follows:
· $4500 Youth Education
· $2500 Trout in the Classroom
CONSERVATION: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
MHTU SCHOLARSHIP AWARD - Mike Matts presented the MHTU 2025 Scholarship Award on June 11 to Emma Mazzotta, a John Jay High School graduating senior. Emma received a $500 check, a framed award certificate, and a one year MHTU membership.
Potential Dutchess County Stream Cleanup fall 2025 with DLC, HVA, et al. Date TBD
Possible sites: Ten Mile R., Wells Brook, Swamp R., Webatuck Creek.
Lower Wells Brook Stream restoration in Dover. HVA is obtaining grants and permitting. Expect construction to begin late summer/fall 2025.
Gravel Mining on Webatuck Creek. No Update.
Culvert Assessment Training Update – Bill Rooney has completed all 3 training programs including field training on 5/19 & 20. Mike Matts has completed 2 of 3 trainings. Has yet to complete field training.
CHAPTER OUTINGS – C. Angevine & M. Jones
SEE MHTU 2025 Fishing Trips — Mid Hudson Trout Unlimited
● CONNETQUOT RIVER – SATURDAY SEPT 6TH (CORRECTED DATE) Day Trip. Clark A. $60 per person full day fishing 7am til 4pm. MHTU cost is $650. We PAID $250 to reserve (check #1980). Balance due on arrival. One person (J.Hershey) paid.
NEVERSINK RIVER – SEPT 12 DAY TRIP – details TBA
● STRIPED BASS OUTING - M Jones coordinating w/TU chapters and LI Flyrodders. TBA
ELECTION COMMITTEE - W SOJA (CHAIR), M Matts, P Crisci
● No Report
MEETING PROGRAMS (M Jones & P Crisci)
● July & August – Summer Hiatus -- no membership meetings
● Sept - Matt Supinski (Jones)
● Oct – Rodbuilding with John Apgar (Jones)
● Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
STEWARDSHIP DINNER: Pat Crisci
SAVE THE DATE: November 7, 2025 at Beekman Golf Course
Solicitation letters sent June 22 to approx. 50 nationwide flyfishing retailers and manufacturers.
Ticket sales to begin on or around July 15.
NEED HELP FROM ALL TO Please reach out to local businesses for prizes, gift certificates, etc. for our raffles and auctions. Especially needed: prizes for the ladies –fishing & nonfishing.
Questions/coordination of prizes/prize solicitation contact P Crisci.
MEMBERSHIP: Dan S, Dave B
Dan S reported that as of 6/30/25 we have 264 members including three new members and one transfer in.
TREASURER: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
● Checking $5292.20
● CDS $40630.52
● We are in need of a new treasurer.
MISC:
· CFFCM Summerfest Aug 2 & 3. Absent a TU chapter in the BeaMoc area MHTU has supported this event for the past three years to keep TU’s mission and brand visible. BeaMoc TU will relaunch with its debut at Summerfest. We will table with them. https://cffcm.com/eventscalendar/2025/8/2/summerfest-catskill-fly-fishing-festival-amp-hardy-cup-competition
· Reimbursed M Butts $210 for annual PO Box rental fee at Pok PO.
New meeting location for membership meetings.
Zion Church (Wappinger) $50/mo – Matts reported space is under renovation for two months
Presby Church (PV) $70/mo – Angevine – NEED STATUS -- WALKTHRU?
Germania – Awaiting decision, pricing from Germania BOD - P Crisci following
Hampton Inn South Rd. POK – M Matts reported $100 + 22% svc chg/mo
· SWART – month of JUNE - 128 MHTU volunteer hrs.
· M Butts – discussed
o NYS Sportman’s Recognition Award process and offered to provide details on how to nominate candidate. No action taken at this point.
o Asked for volunteers to assist with a program for HS students. Macroinvertebrate study/flyfishing/conservation education. In classroom sessions and/or HS club meetings. Mike will drive this project.
o Handicap Access Fishing at Cady Park – M Butts following. – no update.
· MARK JONES Discussed TU’s new branding strategy which includes an expanded focus to embrace Warmwater and Saltwater anglers….
· 8 million flyfishers in the USA; 100K are TU members ☹
Meeting adjourned at 7:25pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING JUNE 3, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts, Bill Soja, April
Stark, Mark Jones, Bill Rooney
Meeting called to order at 6:10pm.
Pat Crisci motioned to accept April 2025 BOD minutes. Second by C Angevine. Board approved.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
YOUTH OUTREACH / ENGAGEMENT: K MILLER, A STARK
A Stark re T of Washington (Millbrook) MHTU “Life of the Stream” summer camp July 28 – Aug 4, at Millbrook Rec Ctr…
April is pricing T shirts for the camp. Follow up at July meeting.
April re Trout in the Classroom potential program for 2025-26 school year in Pine Plains CSD. A Stark will follow up.
Question re Youth Budget…P Crisci to report at July meeting.
CONSERVATION: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
MHTU 2025 Scholarship – Status
- Winner: Emma Mazzotta, John Jay High School
- Award to be given at John Jay Awards Night on June 11, 2025 – Mike Matts will present the award on behalf of MHTU
Mike M and Bill R attended Culvert Assessment Training.
Potential Dutchess County Stream Cleanup fall 2025 with DLC, HVA, et al. TBD
Gravel Mining on Webatuck Creek. Town of Amenia contacted TU to request support in opposition to gravel mining on Webatuck
Creek. As an aside, T of Amenia reports that landowners will consider selling the property. Tracy Brown, TU Northeast Habitat,
is in the loop. No action at this point. Following.
CHAPTER OUTINGS - CLARK ANGEVINE & MARK JONES
SEE MHTU 2025 Fishing Trips — Mid Hudson Trout Unlimited
● DREAMCATCHER LODGE JUNE 12, 13,14 - $75 per person for two nights. MHTU payment of $513 due to Dreamcatcher on arrival. 10 slots taken --- 9 are paid. N. Kaiser will pay on arrival. TRIP IS FULL.
● CONNETQUOT RIVER - SEPT 5 Day Trip. Clark A. $60 per person for day of fishing on the entire river from 7am til 4pm.
MHTU PRICE FOR THE DAY IS $650. MHTU PAID $250 (check #1980). Balance due on arrival. Approx.15 slots. One person is paid.
● POTENTIAL STRIPED BASS OUTING - M Jones is coordinating with TU chapters and LI Flyrodders re Striped Bass fishing trip
ELECTION COMMITTEE - W SOJA (CHAIR), M Matts, P Crisci
● No Report
MEETING PROGRAMS (M Jones & P Crisci)
● June 16 – MOVIE NIGHT: Land of Little Rivers
○ D. Swart – will send a mailchimp reminder to members, bring TV Screen and DVD
○ B Rooney will bring the raffle prize $25 gift cert Anglers Den
○ A Stark – Popcorn, snacks
○ Everyone is asked to bring a beverage.
● July & August – Summer Hiatus -- no membership meetings
● Sept - Matt Supinski (Jones)
● Oct – Rodbuilding with John Apgar (Jones)
● Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
STEWARDSHIP DINNER: Pat Crisci
DINNER DATE is November 7 at Beekman Golf Course
Solicitation letters are going out this month (June) to potential donors
Ticket sales to begin month of June
Please begin now to reach out to community businesses for prizes, gift certificates, etc. for our raffles and auctions. Questions/coordination of prizes/prize solicitation contact P Crisci.
MEMBERSHIP: Dan S, Dave B
We have 266 members as of June 1.
TREASURER: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
● No Report
● We are in need of a new treasurer.
MISC:
Discussion of a new meeting location for membership meetings. Several board members are looking into venues for our monthly meetings.
o Zion Church (Wappinger) $50/mo - Matts
o Presby Church (PV) $70/mo – Angevine
o Germania (suggested by AStark) P Crisci will inquireSWART – Vets fishing outing Oct 4. Details to follow
SWART – month of MAY - 155 volunteer hrs.
Meeting adjourned at 8pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MAY 6, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts, Steve Dolce, Bill Soja, April Stark, Mark Jones
Meeting called to order at 6:05pm.
C Angevine motioned to accept April 2025 BOD minutes. Second by M Jones. Board approved.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
YOUTH OUTREACH / ENGAGEMENT: K MILLER, A STARK
At April BOD mtg K Miller reported that we have one potential sign up for Trout Unlimited Youth Camp – need status.
A Stark reports that T of Washington (Millbrook) will host MHTU “Life of the Stream” summer camp July 28 – Aug 4, from 1230p – 330p at Millbrook Rec Ctr. Ten camper maximum. Camp proceeds to be donated to MHTU. A Stark is lead on this project. Details to follow.
A Stark will attend Trout in the Classroom release event May 16 in Beacon.
CONSERVATION: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
MHTU 2025 Scholarship – Status
- 7 applicants from 4 DC high schools
- Committee met and reviewed results. Unanimous winner selected.
- Winner: Emma Mazzotta, John Jay High School
- Award to be given at John Jay Awards Night on June 11, 2025
Riversweep stream cleanup completed Saturday, May 3.
Totals: 3 sites (Wappingers Creek, Fishkill Creek, Crum Elbow Creek)
MHTU leaders: Pat, Bill, Mike. Volunteers: 7
Trash collected: 420 lbs. (WC: 210 lbs, FC: 60 lbs, CEC: 150 lbs)
Note: In 4 years, the MHTU led Riversweep cleanups have removed 2060 lbs of garbage from around Dutchess Co streams!) If you add the 2 MHTU Veterans Day cleanups (280 lbs) and the2024 Wells Brook/ Ten Mile Cleanup with HVA (890 lbs), that total becomes 3230lbs of garbage removed!!!
HVA wants to work with MHTU on Lower Wells Brook Stream Restoration
in Dover area. Per HVA, permits are being obtained currently, construction planned for summer/fall 2025.
As a result of Jim Katz’s (NYS DEC) presentation at our Feb. membership meeting on dams and culverts in Dutchess County, members of the Conservation Committee requested seats in culvert assessment training class. There are required 3 classes to get certified. Next class(es): 5/15/25 & 5/19 (Field Training).
Potential Dutchess County Stream Cleanup fall 2025 with DLC, HVA, et al. Possible sites: Ten Mile, Wells Brook, Swamp River. Other suggestions contact M Matts.
CHAPTER OUTINGS - Angevine & Jones
SEE MHTU 2025 Fishing Trips — Mid Hudson Trout Unlimited
● PENNS CREEK, PA - May 15, 16, 17 The Feathered Hook. $160 per person, two nights. Four slots. STATUS = FULL. Swart, Butts, Angevine, Soja are paid up. MHTU paid $333 to hold the reservation. Balance is due on arrival. Cost per person $160 for two night stay.
● DREAMCATCHER LODGE JUNE 12, 13,14 - $75 per person for two nights. STATUS: Ten slots max. Of nine signed up seven are paid. MHTU payment of $513 due to Dreamcatcher on arrival.
● CONNETQUOT RIVER - SEPT 5 Day Trip. Clark A. $60 per person for day of fishing on the entire river from 7am til 4pm. CHAPTER PAID $650 (check already sent). Up to 15 slots. One person is paid.
● POTENTIAL STRIPED BASS OUTING - M Jones is coordinating with TU chapters and LI Flyrodders re Striped Bass fishing trip.
● POTENTIAL Neversink River fishing - M Jones looking into Sept. day trip. TBA
CHAPTER BY LAWS - Dave Barletta
● By laws were posted March 12 on MHTU web for members to review. Membership voted at April 21 meeting and unanimously passed amended by laws. Chapter Secretary to sign off.
ELECTION COMMITTEE - W SOJA (CHAIR), M Matts, P Crisci
● No Report
MEETING PROGRAMS (M Jones & P Crisci)
● May - Mtg on the Stream (K Miller will bring refreshments)
● June – MOVIE NIGHT: Land of Little Rivers. Refreshments provided by chapter
● July & August – Summer Hiatus -- no membership meetings
● Sept - Matt Supinski (Jones)
● Oct - OPEN
● Nov. - Rich Strolis (Miller)
STEWARDSHIP DINNER: Pat Crisci
Dinner committee will meet MAY WED. MAY 21 @ 430 at Madison’s Cafe in Pleasant Valley. All are welcome to attend.
SAVE THE DATE – STEWARDSHIP DINNER IS NOV 7, 2025
MARK SEARLE agreed to be auctioneer for the event
Please begin now to reach out to community businesses for prizes, gift certificates, etc. for our raffles and auctions. Questions/coordination of prizes/prize solicitation contact P Crisci.
MEMBERSHIP: Dan S, Dave B
Four new members joined MHTU in the month of March. Membership is 256. Increase of 3 members from April.
TREASURER: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
● Bank of Millbrook Checking account balance $5,313.89;
● MHTU Paypal funds $371.07 - transfer to checking (not included in above balance)
● HVCU CDs - $40,488.10
● B Meyen will complete the 2025 Annual Activity Report for MHTU and submit to national.
● We are in need of a new treasurer. No candidates have been put forward.
MISC:
· SWART – Vets fishing outing Oct 4. Details to follow
· SWART – Motioned to donate $60 for a sign to advertise MHTU at the 2025 K9 Cancer Shoot (fundraiser June 21 at Mid Hudson Sporting Clays in New Paltz). Seconded by C Angevine. Motion passed.
· SWART – month of April - 252 volunteer hrs.
NEW BUSINESS
● At the Jan, board mtg Bill Rooney proposed that the chapter purchase a Sandwich Board for use at chapter events and activities. The “pull down” board is not suitable for outdoor use. Motion was seconded by P Crisci and board approved. Bill Rooney taking the lead. Anticipated cost LT $300. TABLED
● Discussion of a new meeting location for membership meetings. Several board members are looking into venues for our monthly meetings. ONGOING.
Meeting adjourned at 755pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MAR 4, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Mark Jones, Bill Ro
oney, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts, Steve Dolce, Bill Soja
Meeting called to order at 6:06pm.
C Angevine motioned to accept FEB 2025 BOD minutes. S Dolce seconded. Approved by board.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
YOUTH OUTREACH / ENGAGEMENT: K MILLER, A STARK
No Report
CONSERVATION: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
1)MHTU Scholarship - No applications rec’d as of Mar 4. App deadline is 3/31. M Matts will email reminder to HS contacts.
2) Fly Tying & Aquatic Health Event at Ketcham Park, Dover 3/29 (1-4pm) Volunteers at 11am.
MHTU, Dutchess Land Conservancy (Lead Agency), Housatonic Valley Assn will partner to increase community awareness of stream health, aquatic habitats, and to promote recreational fishing opportunities in the Ten Mile River Watershed. MHTU will provide fly tying demo & instruction, fly casting, and an aquarium display of aquatic insects representative of a healthy stream to highlight the importance of macroinvertebrates as indicators of stream health. MHTU will also provide Stream Explorer Magazines and Living At The Water’s Edge brochures. On site TU signup will be available too. VOLUNTEERS FOR THIS EVENT: D Swart, P Crisci, M Matts, C Angevine, S Dolce. P Crisci motioned for chapter to expense lunch for volunteers at this event. C Angevine 2nd. Motion passed.
3) RIVERSWEEP - MAY 3. P Crisci, B Rooney, M Matts volunteered for sweep locations: Rt 52/82 intersection on FIshkill Creek; Cady Park in PV; Creekside Park & Rochdale in POK. Looking for one more volunteer.
4) Ten Mile River Watershed Collaborative - M Matts attended Feb. meeting.
Wells Brook electroshocking results are not yet completed. Bob Adams (NYSDEC) is preparing for the team.
HVA team leader Claire Wegh is leaving her position as Mgr of Ten Mile River Watershed. Her replacement TBA.
5) M Matts, A Pelletier, B Rooney, P Crisci are signed up to take the NYSDEC Culvert Assessment training. Date of training TBD. DEC contact is Jim Katz. If you are interested in this training contact P Crisci.
CHAPTER OUTINGS
C Angevine is in contact with Dreamcatcher Lodge on W B Delaware R. for a possible trip in June. TBA
Mark Jones is coordinating with TU chapters in CT and RI for a potential Striped Bass fishing trip. TBA
DIscussion of a Catskill fishing outing/social - no definite plan emerged – but consensus that an overnight trip - ‘gathering of the tribe’ in the Catskills is something all seemed enthusiastic about.
CHAPTER BY LAWS
D Barletta revised the by laws and after a review by board of directors we have a final updated document. M Matts will post on MHTU web for members to review. After a 30 day review/comment period the membership, at the April meeting, will vote to approve the revised chapter by laws.
ELECTION COMMITTEE
D Swart announced that B Soja will chair the 2025 Election Committee. Congratulations Bill! Mike Matts and Pat Crisci volunteered to join.
MEETING PROGRAMS
(M Jones & P Crisci)
Chris Gallagher - March
Joe Rist - April
May - Mtg on the Stream
June?
STEWARDSHIP DINNER: Pat Crisci
Dinner committee will meet om MARCH 17 @ 430 at Madison’s Cafe in Pleasant Valley. All are welcome to attend.
SAVE THE DATE – STEWARDSHIP DINNER NOV 7, 2025
MARK SEARLE agreed to be auctioneer for the event
Please begin now to reach out to community businesses for prizes, gift certificates, etc. for our raffles and auctions,
MEMBERSHIP: Dan S, Dave B
TREASURER: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
NO REPORT
NEW BUSINESS
● D Swart discussed raffle prizes for meetings. Dan motioned that the chapter purchase Fishing Journals as rafle prizes. M Jones 2nd and board approved. Also discussed purchasing merch at various fly shops – Angers Den, Trout Town, Dette – for meeting raffles. P Crisci motioned that we expense a total of $200 to buy raffle prizes from aforementioned fly shops.
● At the Ja, board mtg Bill Rooney proposed that the chapter purchase a Sandwich Board for use at chapter events and activities. The “pull down” board is not suitable for outdoor use. Motion was seconded by P Crisci and board approved. Bill Rooney taking the lead. Anticipated cost LT $300. TABLED
● Discussion of a new meeting location for membership meetings. Several board members are looking into venues for our monthly meetings. More to follow.
● Dover HS Earth Day Event is Tues 4/22 from 10a - 2p, MHTU volunteers are D Swart, P Crisci – we could use one or two more volunteers.
Meeting adjourned at 8pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING FEB 4, 2025
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Mark Jones, Bill Ro
oney, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts, Steve Dolce, Bill Soja, Kevin Miller
Meeting called to order at 6:00pm.
Mike M motioned to accept JAN 2024 BOD minutes. Mark J. seconded. Approved by board.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
YOUTH OUTREACH / ENGAGEMENT: K MILLER, A STARK
● Seeking youth campers for summer camps in 2025. BOJC, TU Trout Waters Camp, NYS DEC Camps. Contact is Kevin Miller - Millwoodbuilders@aol.com.
● K MILLER confirmed that MHTU has $700 balance in our account for NYS DEC Summer Camps from previous years in which we sent no campers and/or camps were cancelled.
CONSERVATION: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
2025 Goals/ Proposed Events: 3 Stream Cleanups, 5 Conservation Events
CURRENT OPEN/POTENTIAL PROJECTS
1)Criteria for first MHTU Annual Scholarship defined (see MHTU website).
Scholarship poster/application (see MHTU website).
2) (a) Trout Habitat Restoration of the Phillips Brook in Garrison, NY - Met with Garrison NY landowner Brad Teasdale whose streamside property on Philips Brook is suffering degradation of habitat due to sediment from upstream reaches. Landowner will discuss w/ town highway dept what can be done to control flooding. Advised landowner of potential issues with culverts and stream crossings. Invited landowner to attend 2/18 MHTU meeting at which Jim Katz from NYSDEC will discuss culvert assessment. According to the landowner, brook trout are present in this stream. Possible future electroshocking by NYSDEC to confirm.
(b) Hotel Proposal in Town of Washington - Developing/following - no response to Matts inquiries on this.
3)Pending funding, and per requests from Asher Pacht, Director of Environmental Programs at Clarkson Univ (CU), MHTU will provide training/advice/consultation for
CU program staff per year (over 2 years). Date/Content of training TBD.
4)Dutchess Land Conservancy Fly Fishing Event - Ketcham Park, Dover, Sat, Mar. 29.
MHTU will partner with DLC, HVA, and Town of Dover. MHTU will provide fly tying & casting instruction & promote TU values. MHTU volunteers for this event: Dan Sart, Mike Matts, Mark Jones, Pat Crisci. Contact Mike Matts if you wish to help at this event.
5)Ten Mile River Watershed Collaborative (HVA is lead agency). HVA wants to work with MHTU on Wells Brook Stream improvements. Awaiting results of NYSDEC 2024 electroshocking survey on Wells Brook. Following.
6)Wassaic Park Salt Shed Removal Status - Salt shed is on the stream bank of Wassaic Creek in Amenia town park. Town awaiting funding. Anticipated project completion: July 2026. Next checkpoint is in March 2025.
7)Wassaic Park Stream/ Access improvements (Priority Waters)
Next CP: March 2025.
OTHER POSSIBLE CONSERVATION PROJECTS:
1)Upper Wells Brook – Possible access after land given to Town of Dover
First discussion – 3/5/24. Work with Town of Dover, if/ when feasible. Contact: Brian Straniti of DLC
2)Van Wyck Park Restoration (TOWN OF BEEKMAN; Dutchess Co. Fed of Sportsmen’s Club interested – possible Fishkill Creek trout stocking site. NEWS: The site as is, needs substantial maintenance and repair. Overgrown brush on trails needs cutting, footbridge is in disrepair, and debris – picnic table & benches have been washed into the stream. At this time the town has no plan to make any improvements to the site. The stream here is low flow & gradient with little to no instream rock or wood to shelter trout. At first blush, It appears to be marginal trout water IMO (PCrisci).
3)Dam Removal assistance, if needed. Contacted G. Jackman, Riverkeeper on 2/4. After goals meeting with Tracy B., Jesse Vadala, they met with Riverkeeper, incl. George.
Waiting on status of Borden and McKinney Dam Removal(s)
CHAPTER OUTINGS: Clark Angevine/Mark Jones
2025 Trip Schedule - DRAFT
March/April
• Beaverkill/Willowemoc – 4/26 or 4/27
• Esopus River – TBD based on water flow
• Salmon River – Skamania steelhead on 4/5 – 4/7
May/June/July/August
• Beaverkill/Willowemoc – 6/7 or 6/8
• Farmington River – TBD for June
• Penns Creek – 5/16 – 5/18
• MHTU Night on the Stream – 5/19
• Deleware River – Dreamcatcher Lodge – 6/12 – 6/14
• Connecticut saltwater – TBD depending on feedback from Mianus Chapter
• Rhode Island saltwater -- TBD depending on feedback from RI Chapter
September/October/November
• Connetquot River – 9/6
• Neversink River – 9/13
• Housatonic River – 9/27
• Westchester County saltwater – TBD
• Beaverkill/Willowemoc – 10/4 or 10/5
• Salmon River/Oak Orchard Creek – 10/31 – 11/1
STEWARDSHIP DINNER: Pat Crisci
● DATE OF STEWARDSHIP DINNER IS NOV 7, 2025
● MARK SEARLE agreed to be auctioneer for the event
● Dinner committee will meet in MARCH 2025 Date TBA. Pat C will advise.
MEMBERSHIP: Dan S, Dave B●
TREASURER: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
● NO REPORT
● Bob Meyen prepared 2025 chapter budget. Copy sent to board members. Questions regarding the budget will be addressed by Bob at the March Board mtg.
“DONATE” to MHTU
● Donate Button is live and working on the MHTU Web site. Any activity?
MEETING PROGRAMS
● FEBRUARY 17 2025 Meeting - Jim Katz, Environmental Analyst at the Hudson River Estuary Program NYS Department of Environmental Conservation State University of New York College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry.
Jim works with local, state and federal natural resource and transportation agencies to inform and encourage the implementation of roadway projects that mitigate impacts to aquatic resources and localized flood risks. He uses data from road stream crossing (RSX) assessments and management plans to proactively assist with the implementation and construction of RSX replacements. He identifies local priorities, advances dam removals, and tracks project metrics.
● Mark Jones volunteered to arrange for meeting speakers for the remainder of 2025.
● MARCH: Tom Zarecki of Anglers Den
● APRIL: Joe Rist, Trout Town Flies
● MAY: Meeting on the Stream
● JUNE: TBD
● JUL & AUG: “Summer Hiatus” - no membership mtgs
● SEPT, OCT, NOV, DEC: TBD
CHAPTER BY-LAWS
Dave Barletta completed revisions. After discussion it was agreed that we will make suggested changes. The new by-laws will require a vote to approve them.
Need FOLLOW UP 1)regarding procedure to vote on/approve changes. 2)posting by-laws so they are accessible to members
NEW BUSINESS
● D Swart is investigating changing the mailing address for MHTU.
● At Jan mtg D Swart reported that Mike Butts is researching a potential Handicap Access fishing ramp on Wappingers Creek. FOLLOW UP
● At the Jan, mtg Bill Rooney proposed that the chapter purchase a Sandwich Board for use at chapter events and activities. The “pull down” board is not suitable for outdoor use. Motion was seconded by P Crisci and board approved. Bill Rooney taking the lead. Anticipated cost LT $300. FOLLOW UP
Meeting adjourned at 8pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING JAN 7, 2025 _ REV1.1/8
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Mark Jones, Bill Rooney, April Stark, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts, Steve Dolce
Meeting called to order at 6:00pm.
April S motioned to accept DEC 2024 BOD minutes. C Anegvine seconded. Approved by board. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
YOUTH OUTREACH / ENGAGEMENT: K MILLER, A STARK
● Seeking youth campers for summer camps in 2025. BOJC, TU Trout Waters Camp, NYS DEC Camps. Contact is Kevin Miller - Millwoodbuilders@aol.com.
● NOTE TO K MILLER: Any news on NYS DEC Summer Camps? We have funds in our account for NYS DEC Camp from previous years in which we sent no campers and/or camps were cancelled. What is the fund balance?
CONSERVATION: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
Team Goals for 2024: 3 Stream Cleanups, 4 Conservation Events
Actual 2024: 3 Stream Cleanups, 5 Conservation Events
2025 Goals/ Proposed Activities/ Events:
1) Criteria for first MHTU Annual Scholarship defined (see website).
MHTU BOD approved one $500 scholarship for 2025.
Finalized poster/application (app is on MHTU webpage).
2) Conservation Issues
a) Trout Habitat Restoration of the Phillips Brook in Garrison, NY - Meeting date TBD
b) Hotel Proposal in Town of Washington - Developing/following
3) Request from Asher Pacht, Director of Environmental Programs at
Clarkson Univ (CU), for MHTU to support their grant application for
“Lower Fishkill Creek Dams Assessment 2025-26”. Provided letter of support 12/9/24.
4) Additional request from Asher Pacht, for MHTU to
collaborate on a free public fishing program at
Beacon Hudson River/ Fishkill Creek parks.
If grant is received, $5000 budget for this program.
MHTU to provide, 1-2 training sessions. advice/ consultation for
CU program staff per year (over 2 years) Date/Content of training TBD
5) DLC Fly Fishing Event - Ketcham Park, Dover, Sat, Mar. 29.
MHTU, DLC, HVA, and Town of Dover. Goal: Develop fly fishing as an important part of water conservation, encourage anglers to prioritize health of aquatic ecosystems,
developing a connection with nature, and maintaining the quality of
water systems. MHTU will provide fly tying & casting instruction
along with promotion of TU. Next organizational meeting: 1/15/25.
6) Ten Mile River Collaborative Meeting – Meeting held 10/10/24.
Topics discussed: Land acquisition grants, DEC electroshock data on
Wells Brook, Ten Mile River Connections Program – connects youth
with watershed planning, summer internships, Watershed Action Plan
– project owners to provide update by February 2025.
Next meeting: January 2025
7) HVA wants to work with MHTU on Wells Brook Stream improvements. Following.
8) Wassaic Park Salt Shed Removal Status –
- Meeting on 8/26/24 (Claire, Mike, Bill) to discuss project status.
Eng Study and Proposal/ Timeline rec’d for new Amenia
Town Garage, which would relocate salt shed away from Wassaic
Creek. Provided by newly elected town supervisor, Leo Blackman.
Cost Total: $ 6.4 M, Start: July 2024, Completion: July 2026.
Full funding has not been acquired. Next CP: 3/25
9) Wassaic Park Stream/ Access improvements (Priority Waters)
Contacted Nicole Ahearn, 8/5 for status of Wassaic Park.
Bill attended 9/10 Rec Comm mtg, met Peter McCaffrey.
Wassaic Park improvement work ~ 2 years away, per Peter.
Focus on DEC and Amenia land definition. Next CP: 3/25.
COMPLETED CONSERVATION PROJECTS:
1) MHTU Veterans Day Stream Cleanup – Wappingers Creek (4 MHTU)
a) Hot Dog Stand area, b) Creekside Park, c) Greenvale Park, d) Veterans Memorial on 11/9/24. 6 Bags (approx. 130 lbs) collected
5 MHTU volunteers – Clark, Bill, Dan, Pat, Mike
2) MHTU Cleanup of Wells Brook & Ten Mile River completed on 4/13/24.
14 volunteers participated (11 MHTU members, 3 HVA).
Estimated trash collected: Ten Mile + Wells = 890 lbs of garbage
3) Riversweep led by MHTU members (4 locations) completed (6 MHTU) on 5/4/24 Totals: 18 Volunteers Garbage collected: 530 lbs
4) Earth Day Event(s) – Host and/ or Participate
a) Amenia/ Millerton Earth Day – completed on 4/20/24 (2 MHTU)
b) Dover HS/ Middle School Event – completed on 4/22/24 (4 MHTU)
c) Muddy Hands – completed on 5/4/24 (4 MHTU)
5) Redd Survey: subject to DEC priorities (4 MHTU)
- Esopus Creek (w/ CMTU) – 4 members from MHTU – Clark, Dan, Bill R.,
Mike M., looked for Redds on 3/16/24. No spawning beds found by group.
6) Tymor Park/ McKinney Dam tree maintenance with Riverkeeper (3 MHTU)
- 3 members from MHTU (Dan, Bill, Mike M.) and 3 members from
Riverkeeper (Maddie, Matt, George) completed the annual maintenance
work on trees planted in 2020 at the McKinney Dam location on 8/27/24.
- Thirteen dead trees were removed, tubes from 10 trees were cut away,
and many tree tubes were realigned, straightened. After 4 years, approx.
100 of the 400 trees planted remain intact. The area has much plant growth.
7) DEC completed electroshocking of Wells/ Ten Mile in August.
OTHER POSSIBLE CONSERVATION PROJECTS:
1) Upper Wells Brook – Possible access after land given to Town of Dover
First discussion – 3/5/24. Work with Town of Dover, if/ when feasible.
2) Van Wyck Park Restoration (TOWN OF BEEKMAN; Dutchess Co. Fed of Sportsmen’s Club interested – possible Fishkill Creek trout stocking site.
3) Dam Removal assistance, if needed. Contacted G. Jackman, Riverkeeper on 2/4. After goals meeting with Tracy B., Jesse Vadala, they met with Riverkeeper, incl. George.
Waiting on status of Borden and McKinney Dam Removal(s)
CHAPTER OUTINGS: Clark Angevine/Mark Jones
● Planning for 2025 - Clark reports that CONNETQUOT STATE PARK is now accepting reservations for chapter fishing dates. Board felt that one CONNETQUOT trip for the year is adequate. Mark J and Clark A will present a slate of proposed trips for 2025 at an upcoming board meeting.
● NOTE: THERE ARE SPOTS AVAILABLE FOR A FISHING TRIP TO SPRUCE CREEK, PA. PRIVATE WATER ON SPRUCE CREEK AT EVERGREEN FARMS, APRIL 8 & 9. PRICE IS $375 PER ANGLER PER DAY + FOOD. CALL BOB MEYEN 845-625-4684 WITH QUESTIONS OR TO RESERVE A BUNK.
STEWARDSHIP DINNER: Pat Crisci
● DATE OF STEWARDSHIP DINNER IS NOV 7, 2025
● MARK SEARLE agreed to be auctioneer for the event
● Dinner committee will meet in early MARCH 2025 Date TBA. Pat C will advise.
MEMBERSHIP: Dan S, Dave B
● Dan reports we have 3 new members in Dec. Dan has contacted them to welcome to the chapter. as of 12/31 we have 246 chapter members. Dan’s report shows that we also have 9 Renewed; 200 Lapsed (?) ; 22 Expired; 17 Soon to expire.
TREASURER: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
● NO REPORT
● Bob Meyen will prepare 2025 budget in January.
“DONATE” to MHTU
● STATUS: Mike M and Bill Rooney are working to enable MHTU to accept online credit card donations via a “DONATE” button on theMHTU web page using a 3rd party service.
● Bill has set up a MHTU PayPal account for online donations to MHTU. PP fees: 2.9% of donation + .30 per transaction.
● No need to establish a new bank account for donations. Money will be deposited into the chapter checking account. PP reports will us to enable track donors, how much they donate, and to which fund they donate.
MEETING PROGRAMS
● JANUARY 20 2025 MEMBERSHIP MEETING - Region 3 Inland Trout Fisheries Update - Bob Adams NYS DEC fisheries biologist.
● FEBRUARY 17 2025 Meeting - Jim Katz, Environmental Analyst at the Hudson River Estuary Program NYS Department of Environmental Conservation State University of New York College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry.
Jim works with local, state and federal natural resource and transportation agencies to inform and encourage the implementation of roadway projects that mitigate impacts to aquatic resources and localized flood risks. He uses data from road stream crossing (RSX) assessments and management plans to proactively assist with the implementation and construction of RSX replacements. He identifies local priorities, advances dam removals, and tracks project metrics.
● Mark Jones volunteered to arrange for meeting speakers for the months of MARCH, APRIL, and JUNE (May is the chapter meeting on the stream).
NEW BUSINESS
● D Swart suggested forming a committee to revise chapter bylaws. Dave Barletta will chair this committee. D Swart and Steve Dolce volunteered to be part of the By Laws Committee
● D Swart gave six copies of the MHTU Fishing Guide to Mark Jones as requested to be sold at Anglers Den in Patterson.
● D Swart clarified that Mike Butts will continue as chapter delegate for the Dutchess Federation of FIsh & Game Clubs.
● D Swart reported that Mike Butts is research a potential Handicap Access fishing ramp on Wappingers Creek - Developing/Following.
● P Crisci reported that April 22 is the date for this year’s EARTH DAY at Dover HS. To add to web calendar
● Mike M and Bill R have established a new Google domain for chapter GMAIL. If you would like an account contact Bill Rooney
● Mike M completed a refresh and redesign of the chapter web page – the DONATE button (referenced above) is not yet functional – ending PAYPAL account activation (expected completion within the month).
● Bill Rooney proposed that the chapter purchase a Sandwich Board for use at chapter events and activities. The “pull down” board is not suitable for outdoor use. Motion was seconded by P Crisci and board approved. Bill Rooney taking the lead. Anticipated cost LT $300.
Meeting adjourned at 8pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOD MTG 12/3/24
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Mark Jones, Bill Rooney, April Stark, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts
Meeting called to order at 6:04pm.
Mike M motioned to accept NOV BOD minutes. Clark Anevine seconded. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Youth Outreach: K MILLER, A STARK
● NO REPORT FOR NOV.
● K Miller seeking youth campers for various summer camps in 2025. BOJC, TU Camp, NYS DEC Camps. Contact Kevin Miller - Millwoodbuilders@aol.com - for more information.
Conservation: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
● OPEN PROJECTS:
1) MHTU Annual Scholarship amount of $500 was approved at Dec 2024 BOD mtg.
Poster & application to be distributed to Dutchess County HS guidance depts in Jan. 2025.
2) HVA wants to work with MHTU on Wells Brook Stream improvement in Dover area (downstream from McDonalds) More details to come
3) Wassaic Park Salt Shed Removal Status – town of Amenia reports:
Cost Total: $ 6.4 M, Start: July 2024, Completion: July 2026.
Full funding has not been acquired. Next CP: 3/25
4) Wassaic Park Stream/ Access improvements (Home Waters)
Contacted Nicole Ahearn, 8/5 for status of Wassaic Park.
Bill attended 9/10 Rec Comm mtg, met Peter McCaffrey.
Wassaic Park improvement work ~ 2 years away, per Peter.
Focus on DEC and Amenia land definition. Next CP: 3/25.
5) Redd Survey – Upper Wappingers Creek, discuss further data collection
Continue to collect data annually. Last survey: 11/26/22.
(Planned 2024 data collection postponed due to Vet Day Strm Clean)
6) Ten Mile River Collaborative Meeting – Meeting held 10/10/24.
Topics discussed: Land acquisition grants, DEC electroshock data on
Wells Brook, Ten Mile River Connections Program – connects youth
with watershed planning, summer internships, Watershed Action Plan
– project owners to provide update by February 2025. Next meeting:
January 2025
b) OTHER POSSIBLE PROJECTS:
1) Upper Wells Brook – Possible access after land given to Town of Dover
First discussion – 3/5/24. Work with Town of Dover, if/ when feasible.
2) Van Wyck Park Restoration (TOWN OF BEEKMAN; Dutchess Co. Fed of Sportsmen’s Club interested – possible Fishkill Creek trout stocking site.
3) Dam Removal assistance, if needed. Contacted G. Jackman, Riverkeeper on 2/4. After goals meeting with Tracy B., Jesse Vadala, they met with Riverkeeper, incl. George.
Waiting on status of Borden and McKinney Dam Removal(s)
c) COMPLETED PROJECTS:
1) MHTU Veterans Day Stream Cleanup – Wappingers Creek
a) Hot Dog Stand area, b) Creekside Park, c) Greenvale Park, d) Veterans Memorial on 11/9/24. 6 Bags (approx. 130 lbs) collected; 5 MHTU volunteers: Clark, Bill, Dan, Pat, Mike. 2) MHTU Cleanup on Wells Brook & Ten Mile River completed on 4/13/24.
14 volunteers participated (11 MHTU members, 3 HVA).
Estimated trash collected: Ten Mile + Wells = 890 lbs of garbage
3) Riversweep led by MHTU members (4 locations) completed (6 MHTU)
on 5/4/24 Totals: 18 Volunteers Garbage collected: 530 lbs
4) Earth Day Event(s) – Host and/ or Participate
a) Amenia/ Millerton Earth Day – completed on 4/20/24 (2 MHTU)
b) Dover HS/ Middle School Event – completed on 4/22/24 (4 MHTU)
c) Muddy Hands – completed on 5/4/24 (4 MHTU)
5) Redd Survey: subject to DEC priorities (4 MHTU)
- Esopus Creek (w/ CMTU) – 4 members from MHTU – Clark, Dan, Bill R.,
Mike M., looked for Redds on 3/16/24. No spawning beds found by group.
6) Tymor Park/ McKinney Dam tree maintenance 8/27/24
- MHTU (Dan, Bill, Mike M.) & Riverkeeper (Maddie, Matt, George) completed maintenance on trees planted in 2020 at McKinney Dam location. 13 dead trees were removed, tubes from 10 trees were cut away, many tree tubes were realigned, straightened. After 4 years, approx. 100 of 400 trees planted are intact. The area has much plant growth 7) DEC completed electroshocking of Wells/ Ten Mile in August.
MHTU Conservation Team Goals 2024: 3 Stream Cleanups, 4 Conservation Events
Chapter Outings: Clark Angevine/Mark Jones
● Planning for 2025 - Mark Isuggested 3 day trips and 1 overnight per quarter for 2025. Mark will present a final draft chapter outings at an upcoming board meeting
Stewardship Dinner: Pat Crisci
● Dinner committee will reconvene in early 2025.
Membership: Dan, Dave
● Dan reports we have 283 members - down from 288 in Nov. Source: TU national.
Treasurer Report: Bob Meyen (P Crisci covering)
● $5000 transfer from checking to CD - Bob Meyen authorized.
● after trxfr the chkng acct balance is $5877.17 in Bank of Millbrook;
CDs = $39,953.37 HVCU
● Bob Meyen will prepare 2025 budget in January.
“DONATE” to MHTU
● Mike M and Bill Rooney are working to enable MHTU to accept online credit card donations via a “DONATE” button on theMHTU web page using a 3rd party service. Bill advocated for using PayPal for online donations to MHTU. PP fees: 2.9% of donation + .30 per transaction. PP reports are available to help us understand who our donors are, how much they donate, and to which fund they donate. Bill identified 3 funds from which donor can select: GENERAL FUND, CONSERVATION FUND, SCHOLARSHIP FUND. CMTU is already doing similar online donation on their web page. Pat will consult with Bob Meyen re the need for establishing separate bank accounts for each of the three fund choices.
MHTU ELECTIONS
● D Swart reports there is one board vacancy in 2025.
MEETING PROGRAMS
● PCrisci - because of historically low attendance (15-20) and after polling board members (4 say they will attend) – it was decided that we will offer coffee and baked goods for attendees. UGLY COACHMAN contest to be held as planned.
○ Dec 16 7pm Holiday Gathering and "Ugly Coachman Contest" Monday December 16. ENTER the "Ugly Coachman" fly contest. No entry fee! Everyone who enters the contest will receive a free raffle ticket Prize for the “ugliest” Coachman. ONE ENTRY PER PERSON. All entries must be a variation of the traditional ROYAL COACHMAN fly with a red and green color scheme. Streamer, nymph/wet, or dry fly – all are eligible.
○ JANUARY 20 2025 MEMBERSHIP MEETING PROGRAM - Region 3 Inland Trout Fisheries Update - Bob Adams NYS DEC fisheries biologist.
NOTE: The Upper Wappinger Creek (Jamison Hill area) which was in 2021 identified as WILD QUALITY, is being assessed based on recent trout sampling surveys conducted by NYS DEC. This will be a topic of interest. Other topics of interest include Upper Wells Brook and Eastern Brook Trout population, and the state of Esopus Creek.
NEW BUSINESS
● DSwart suggested forming an election committee for 2025
● DSwart suggested forming a committee to revise chapter bylaws
Meeting adjourned at 8pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci
MHTU BOD MTG 11/5/24 REV2
Attendees: Dan Swart, Clark Angevine, Pat Crisci, Steve Dolce, Mark Jones, Bill Rooney, April Stark, Bill Soja, Kevin Miller, Dave Barletta, Mike Matts
Meeting called to order at 6 pm.
P Crisci motioned to accept OCT BOD minutes. Clark Anevine seconded. Minutes accepted.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Youth Outreach: K MILLER, A STARK
● K Miller seeking youth campers for various summer camps in 2025 e.g. BOJC, TU Camp, NYS DEC Camps. Contact Kevin Miller for more information about specific camps. Kevin’s email is Milllwoodbuilders@aol.com
Conservation: M MATTS, BILL ROONEY, ANDREW PELLETIER
● Stream Cleanup on Wappinger Creek on 11/9 – meet at 9am at Greenvale Park New Hackensack Rd.Poughkeepsie. Volunteers will clean the stream in the park and clean up in Pleasant Valley Rt 44 near the hot dog stand. Mike Matts team leader. Email michael.j.matts@gmail,com
● Ten Mile River Watershed Mgmt Plan Update - At the October 10 meeting NYS DEC shared data re Ten Mile River and Wells Brook. Mike Matts notes that water temps in Wells and Stone Church Brook (tribs of Ten Mile RIver) were low to mid 60 degrees V. 70+ degrees in main stem Ten Mile River. DEC data also confirmed presence of Brook Trout in Wells Brook. Data was collected in July and August 2024. HVA is interested in partnering with MHTU on a future stream improvement project in the TMR watershed.
Chapter Outings: Clark Angevine/Mark Jones
● Planning for 2025 is underway. At a future BOD meeting Clark and Mark will present a draft chapter outings for the year. Some ideas were suggested – Neversink R., Penns Creek, Salmon River, saltwater – striper fishing.
Stewardship Dinner: Pat Crisci
● Dinner netted $5856.61 (this is $100 more than reported at the 11/5 board meeting due to a credit from Coppola’s for the deposit made when we booked the event).
● Dinner committee will reconvene in early 2025.
Membership: Dan, Dave
● Dan reports we now have 288 members based on TU national reports.
Treasurer Report: Bob (P Crisci covering)
● pCrisci reports chkng acct balance is 10,834.42; CDs = $34,655.15
● request to transfer 5k from checking to CD was tabled. Per board request pCrisci will follow up with bob Meyen re
○ number of CDs and their terms
○ funding for MHTU scholarship
○ 2025 budget
MHTU SCHOLARSHIP
○ MMatts presented a plan for an annual scholarship for Dutchess County public HS senior pursuing studies in environmental science/ecology. Scholarship proposal was approved. Amount of scholarship to be determined – between $100 - $1000.
Note from Mike: “it’s only one scholarship per year at this point, and possible fields are not limited to environmental science only.”
“DONATE” to MHTU
● Mike M and Bill Rooney are working to enable MHTU to accept online credit card donations via a “DONATE” button on theMHTU web page using a 3rd party service such as Venmo, Paypal, etc.
MHTU ELECTIONS
● Dswart reported that there is one board vacancy in 2025. There are no vacancies for elected positions. All incumbents are returning.
MEETING PROGRAMS
● pCrisci discussed
○ Nov 18 7pm MHTU Town Hall – open forum for dialog among members and prospective members. Promote understanding of recent accomplishments, our mission and goals. Member expectations, etc. An opportunity to meet and mingle.
○ Dec 16 7pm Eat, Drink, & Be Ugly! Mid Hudson Trout Unlimited Holiday Gathering and "Ugly Coachman Contest" Monday December 16. ENTER the "Ugly Coachman" fly contest. No entry fee! Everyone who enters the contest will receive a free raffle ticket Prize for the “ugliest” Coachman. ONE ENTRY PER PERSON. All entries must be a variation of the traditional ROYAL COACHMAN fly with a red and green color scheme. Streamer, nymph/wet, or dry fly – all are eligible. Board approved expense of $250 for refreshments at this event.
○ JAN 20 2025 - Region 3 Inland Trout FIsheries Update - Bob Adams NYS to be confirmed.
NEW BUSINESS
● DSwart discussed The Wappinger Creek Derby. MHTU has been invited to participate on April 26 in a canoe race on Wappinger Creek. Dan will follow up with the event organizers to see what they are asking MHTU to do/how/if we might participate.
● pCrisci discussed Ketcham Park Fly Fishing Event 3/29/25 - Dutchess Land Conservancy and the Town of Dover invited MHTU to participate. Pcrisci will attend Nov. 19 meeting w/ partner organizations DLC, Dutchess Soil & Water, HVA to discuss the event. Event is to promote awareness of recreational opportunities and fishing access on Ten Mile River in Dover.
● FLY TYING AT PLAN BEE FARM BREWERY – March 1 or 8. Date TBD - PCrisci.
Meeting adjourned at 8pm
Minutes submitted by Pat Crisci