June 7, 2010

REP. BUTLER HAS STATE STOCK LAKEWOOD WITH CATFISH

For a third consecutive year, State Representative Larry Butler, who represents Waterbury in the Connecticut General Assembly, has worked with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to get Waterbury's Lakewood Lake stocked with fish.

Butler said DEP delivered about 1,200 Arkansas Catfish to Lakewood last week as part of the agency's Urban Fishing program established only a few years ago. DEP also annually stocks streams and rivers with trout for fishing season.

"This is a great quality of life issue for residents, who can enjoy fishing this summer without having to travel," said Butler, who originally sought fish stocking for Lakewood at the request of a neighbor, John Luccia. "John was the inspiration for this project and in the long run I think it can lead to for more enhancements of Lakewood Park."

After discussing Lakewood with Luccia, Butler worked with the Waterbury Parks and Recreation Department to facilitate an official request by the City to the DEP.

"When I was elected, I said Lakewood would be on our agenda and I'm thrilled for everyone who enjoys the park," Butler said.

Butler also noted that the legislature passed a bill requiring DEP to reserve a credit for anyone who purchased higher priced fishing licenses between October 1, 2009 and April 14, 2010. The credit is the difference between the amount paid for the license and the subsequent price reduction by 65% approved by the legislature in April. The credit will be applied against licenses purchased for the 2011 fishing season.

Rep. Butler serves as Vice-chair of the Legislature's Housing Committee and is also a member of the Finance and Human Services Committees.

DEP workers stock Lakewood Lake with 1,200 Arkansas catfish for the enjoyment of local anglers.
State Rep. Larry Butler (on crutches) looks on in the background.