01-16-2011, 12:17 PM
Wayne Laroche, the recently retired and the second-longest serving commissioner of the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife, will be contributing his scientific expertise to the fisheries restoration and water quality improvement efforts of the Vermont-based conservation organization, Lake Champlain International (LCI).
"We are absolutely delighted that Wayne has decided to share his vast experience with us in our efforts to ensure a swimmable, drinkable, fishable Lake Champlain. We are honored, and we are equally excited by the prospects for what can be accomplished when combining Wayne's enormous talent with the commitment and passion of our current staff, our nearly 100 volunteers, and the nearly 23,000 people supporting our events," said James Ehlers, LCI's executive director.
Laroche, an accomplished biologist with degrees in both wildlife and fisheries management, has conducted research on behalf of major universities and research laboratories. The Franklin County, Vermont native has worked as a consulting biologist on projects as diverse as studying the impacts from the pollution generated by the Exxon Valdez oil spill to Lake Champlain walleye reproduction research.
"I am looking forward to being able to contribute to LCI's mission. Their holistic approach to addressing both the challenges and opportunities before the entire Lake Champlain ecosystem is one I share. LCI has always understood and appreciated the rigors of science, and I am very happy to be a part of such a well-respected team that has already made significant contributions to the future of the lake I love," said Laroche.
Laroche will attend government committee and policy meetings where the fisheries and water quality interests of LCI stand to be impacted negatively or, conversely, can be advanced. Additionally, Laroche will undertake or oversee research and projects to improve the health of Lake Champlain. Examples of these projects and research include the restoration of Missisquoi River fish passage, identifying the impacts of pesticides specifically in the Basin, and aiding in the recovery of the lake's native game fish and endangered species, like salmon and sturgeon, respectively.
The accomplished 60-year-old scientist grew up fishing, hunting, paddling, and boating Champlain. An experienced private businessman and former public official, he earned his B.S in wildlife management from the University of Maine and his M.S. in fisheries management from California State University at Humboldt.
Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI) is a federally recognized 501©(3) non-profit corporation actively involved in shaping the future of Lake Champlain's water quality and fisheries. Its mission is the conservation, restoration, and revitalization of Lake Champlain and its watershed. LCI educates, advocates, and motivates to ensure that Lake Champlain is swimmable, drinkable, and fishable. Recently, Lake Champlain's most notable champion, Senator Patrick Leahy wrote of the Colchester-based organization, "... your work has been instrumental in securing the future of Lake Champlain. All of us who enjoy its waters every year are very grateful for your dedication."
Media Contact
Megan Winward, Outreach Coordinator megan@mychamplain.net or 802-879-3466
"We are absolutely delighted that Wayne has decided to share his vast experience with us in our efforts to ensure a swimmable, drinkable, fishable Lake Champlain. We are honored, and we are equally excited by the prospects for what can be accomplished when combining Wayne's enormous talent with the commitment and passion of our current staff, our nearly 100 volunteers, and the nearly 23,000 people supporting our events," said James Ehlers, LCI's executive director.
Laroche, an accomplished biologist with degrees in both wildlife and fisheries management, has conducted research on behalf of major universities and research laboratories. The Franklin County, Vermont native has worked as a consulting biologist on projects as diverse as studying the impacts from the pollution generated by the Exxon Valdez oil spill to Lake Champlain walleye reproduction research.
"I am looking forward to being able to contribute to LCI's mission. Their holistic approach to addressing both the challenges and opportunities before the entire Lake Champlain ecosystem is one I share. LCI has always understood and appreciated the rigors of science, and I am very happy to be a part of such a well-respected team that has already made significant contributions to the future of the lake I love," said Laroche.
Laroche will attend government committee and policy meetings where the fisheries and water quality interests of LCI stand to be impacted negatively or, conversely, can be advanced. Additionally, Laroche will undertake or oversee research and projects to improve the health of Lake Champlain. Examples of these projects and research include the restoration of Missisquoi River fish passage, identifying the impacts of pesticides specifically in the Basin, and aiding in the recovery of the lake's native game fish and endangered species, like salmon and sturgeon, respectively.
The accomplished 60-year-old scientist grew up fishing, hunting, paddling, and boating Champlain. An experienced private businessman and former public official, he earned his B.S in wildlife management from the University of Maine and his M.S. in fisheries management from California State University at Humboldt.
Lake Champlain International, Inc. (LCI) is a federally recognized 501©(3) non-profit corporation actively involved in shaping the future of Lake Champlain's water quality and fisheries. Its mission is the conservation, restoration, and revitalization of Lake Champlain and its watershed. LCI educates, advocates, and motivates to ensure that Lake Champlain is swimmable, drinkable, and fishable. Recently, Lake Champlain's most notable champion, Senator Patrick Leahy wrote of the Colchester-based organization, "... your work has been instrumental in securing the future of Lake Champlain. All of us who enjoy its waters every year are very grateful for your dedication."
Media Contact
Megan Winward, Outreach Coordinator megan@mychamplain.net or 802-879-3466