In response to local questions about the funding mechanism of the state fish hatchery system under SB 1148 with AB 7 essentially dismantled, former Mono County Senator Dave Cogdill responded:
“The HIFF (Hatchery and Inland Fishery Fund) continues under SB1148 to receive 1/3 rd. of sport fishing license fees (about $20 million annually at current rates) but the priority has now been shifted from hatcheries to Heritage and Wild Trout programs, guaranteeing “at least” $2,000,000, and “at least” seven positions to this program, annually. When you factor in that the newly named Fish and Wildlife Service takes 29% of the HIFF for “administration” the amount left for actual hatchery operations, annually, would be a maximum of $12,200,000 ($20,000,000 less 29%, less $2,000,000 to HWTP).
Adjusting for inflation, this would equate to about $9,000,000 in 2002 dollars, which I believe is pretty close to what the old DFG was spending annually to run hatcheries prior to AB7. These numbers get substantially worse if more than $2,000,000 a year gets sent to the HWTP.
The goal to raise and plant 2.75lbs./license sold, remains, but I am skeptical that this will ever be achieved, unless license sales drop dramatically. Under SB1148, the DFW Commission now has the authority to set license fees, based on “reasonable” costs. If they were to actually make the capital improvements need at the hatcheries to meet the planting goals, fund the HWTP, and continue to charge a 29% administration fee, sport fishing license fees will have to increase substantially, which would further depress the number of license sales, but would allow them to meet the planting goals at a much lower operational cost.
Bottomline, the experience for the general angler will deteriorate at the same time become more costly, meaning fewer license sales. More and more resources will be dedicated to the HWTP over time, which in the end, may or may not enhance the experience for fly fishermen, but, in my opinion, can’t help but further hurt the economies of Inyo and Mono Counties.”
Dave Cogdill
To… all those alias’s (obviously the same one person) who bashing Tim Alpers. Get over it, or site specific instances or proof as Benett has suggested. Look, Tim was a fish farmer and business man. He left that and then ran for Supervisor… and then… wait for it… WAS ELECTED… Read more »
Silent partners who find themselves in power positions (ie., elected officials) whether it be the latest real estate deal, or lobbying for monies for their fish industry – are always to be viewed with suspicion. Especially in lousy economic times. When the going gets tough – the really crooked and… Read more »
That’s an assumption. In reporting on Tim Alpers we have always found him focused on public issues and needs. Like I said, if you’re going to accuse, please be specific.
Benett
Tim no longer does the fish.They are Alpers Trout by name only. He cares about out door recreation, always has…..be it fishing, hiking,skiing, ect. So your statement is wrong.Do a little research.Tim was hardly a “Silent’ partner when he ran the his ranch/hatchery.
Let’s also point out that our elected officials have been pulling self-serving tricks that are clearly corruption-based, forever. Until their feet are held to fire somehow, forms of corruption will go on and on and … The forms of corruption vary, but include bribery, extortion, cronyism, nepotism, patronage, graft, and… Read more »
Politicians (with conflict of interest) + taxpayers’ bailouts for their business (former or otherwise = Corruption
What happens to fish hatcheries?
Why do you think Tim Alpers is getting politically active again?
Personal gain is what it’s all about.
How specifically will Alpers gain?
Benett
When a person involved in a business* leaves that business* to go into the business of local government declaring he no longer has any interest in that business* – more double-talk and behind-the-scene shenanigans are sure to follow. ** Alper’s Trout Hatchery It’s the same as Mayor of Mammoth Lakes… Read more »
Let’s just point out that hatcheries and fishing are an important part of the entire Inyo-Mono economy whatever the value to one person.
Benett
Even though that “one person” (and his pals) has the most to gain?
Like I said, what are your details?
BK
Codgill wasn’t singing this tune when he accepted the Cal- Trout award in 2006.