MHTU Board of Directors Meeting Minutes -
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