Fish And Boat Commission Reopens Public Fishing At Butler County Reservoirs

With a ceremonial “first cast” by local and state officials, the Fish and Boat Commission and Pennsylvania American Water this week marked the reopening of the Oneida and Thorn Run Reservoirs in Butler County for shoreline fishing.

 

“Our partnership with the Fish and Boat Commission paved the way to reopen these reservoirs for fishing, while ensuring the safety of our drinking water and creating an enjoyable experience for all who visit,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy Pape. “We are delighted to provide the community with excellent fishing and a place for family recreation among the reservoirs’ scenic beauty.”

 

Pennsylvania American Water closed the Butler County reservoirs (Oneida and Thorn Run) in response to the events of September 11, 2001. Because of the need for increased security, Pape said Pennsylvania American Water and its parent company American Water worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Homeland Security to help determine risk and develop security recommendations and solutions for the water industry.

 

"Fishing at Oneida Dam is a fond memory of my childhood. I am pleased that Pennsylvania American Water has taken the steps necessary to work with the state's Fish and Boat Commission and others to reopen the area for recreational fishing," said Public Utility Commission Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy.

 

He added, “We all understand the importance of protecting our water resources from possible tampering. We also must be mindful of the importance that locations such as Oneida Dam play in the local community. I commend everyone for working together to return this area to a place where the neighbors can come for inexpensive recreation. Now my generation can again bring their children to Oneida dam, creating new memories."

 

Pennsylvania American Water created a dedicated telephone number – 1.866.808.4219 – to report suspicious activity. Pennsylvania American Water representatives will the report the activity to proper law enforcement or Fish and Boat Commission authorities. All other inquiries will be directed to the company’s customer service center at 1.800.565.7292.

 

“We’re very pleased to have successfully worked with Pennsylvania American Water and other local officials to reopen these two popular sites for public fishing,” said Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Doug Austen. “Our local waterways conservation officer, Jon Kay, was instrumental in establishing this partnership, which will benefit not only local sportsmen but also the wider community in the form of local spending and tourism dollars.”

 

Local anglers can expect to find several different and popular sport fish. Based on a recent fisheries survey, the species include largemouth bass, yellow perch, rock bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish.