For immediate release: 6/27/07

First Annual Rush for Brush a Success
The Grand River Dam Authority’s first annual Rush for Brush was successful according to Brent Davis, GRDA’s fisheries coordinator.

“We would like to thank those who participated and let them know how much we appreciated the turn out,” said Davis.

A combined total of 815 artificial habitats were deployed in Grand Lake and Lake Hudson surpassing the planned 750.

“We had a lot of volunteers come out and help us, we had more than we expected. I would like to have even more next year,” said Davis.

GRDA supplied the materials and helped area anglers build the structures at four workshops held in May and June. Fishermen joined Team Eco on Lake Hudson at Snowdale, Lake Hudson Inn, and on Grand Lake at Martin’s Landing and the Spillways.

“We taught the fishermen how to make the structures so they can now make them on their own. I think it’s good that they understand the importance of the habitats,” said Davis.

The artificial habitats provide ideal cover for smaller fish to grow and enhance the fishery. They do not have to be replaced according to Davis and the fish will use it year round if it’s put in deep enough water.

“We plan on making this an annual event,” said Davis. “Look for upcoming advertisements and watch our website, www.grda.com.”

5188web: Volunteers cut the plastic pipe used to make the "spider block" artificial habitats during GRDA's first annual Rush for Brush event. Team Eco held four workshops on both Grand Lake and Lake Hudson.

5190web: A combined total of 815 artificial habitats were deployed in Grand Lake and Lake Hudson. The artificial structures provide ideal cover for smaller fish to grow and enhance the fishery.

5191web: Sam Ziara, a member of the GRDA Ecosystems Management Department works with local fishermen at the Rush for Brush event held at Lake Hudson Inn.