K9 Wardens, Fisheries for the Future, Buck Fever

Overview

Texas Game Wardens don't normally work outside their home state, but the creation of a new canine law enforcement unit has taken five wardens to Utah for some specialized training. In the third of six stories examining the state of the gulf, this episode looks at the challenge of managing fisheries resources for sustainability. We will look at redfish as an example and show how the tools of research, regulation, enforcement and fish stockings have protected and elevated redfish to almost cult status with anglers. We'll look at efforts to monitor and protect sea grass beds from scarring by boat props. Finally we recognize how private groups like the Coastal Conservation Association have supported the management of redfish and changed the way anglers approach their sport. "Buck Fever" is a condition afflicting both deer hunters and wildlife biologists. And after 25 years of studies, we have learned so much more about how habitat and diet contribute to a healthy herd.