Well, Hurricane Gordon missed us last night.  we had a bit of a wind but nothing out of the ordinary other than a rather tropical temperature.  It's all calm this morning, overcast but bright with the promise of a fine day.  Water levels on the river are dropping now but reports of fishing yesterday were good with a healthy catch of native brownies and salmon parr.  This is heartening since one member brought a guest for his second visit and he was so impressed with his day he will apply to join the MAA.

I was reflecting last night on how quickly the past 4 years have gone since I took on this job and how much has changed in that time in terms of our management of these waters.  What has really struck me is the unfailing kindness and generosity of all those I have had contact with.  Everything from books and equipment freely lent, advice and encouragement given, enthusiasms shared to real practical support.  What really brought this to mind was an email I had from Stephen Hatton of the RCCT who I had contacted seeking advice on who I might approach to give our Craven College students some guidance on fencing.  Stephen came back within minutes with an offer to make available his fencing contractor and to come up himself to make sure that the guy arrived safely in the right place.  I couldn't have asked for more.

Later in the day Sam Wood dropped by with a stack of Trout & Salmon magazines which contain a wealth of articles on the conservation of habitat and preservation of fish stocks.  There are many examples like this over the past few years that make this job a delight and one of unfailing interest.

Ian