30 Conservation Department 



studied. The hydrogen ion concentration (pH), ranging from 

 7.8 to 8.1, is well within the limits suitable for trout. 



The only reason that occurs to the writer as to why brook trout 

 do not survive, is the possible sudden change in conditions, pri- 

 marily temperature, brought about by the stoppage of pumps at 

 the gypsum mines. It might be that even brown trout would not 

 survive the change. However rather than to withhold all stock- 

 ing from Ledge creek, we w^ould favor giving it a trial with brown 

 trout and since bass and pickerel occur within the area, we would 

 suggest that yearling fish be used. It is also suggested that if the 

 pumps referred to above were stopped during the colder weather 

 of spring and fall, only, the effect on trout would not be so 

 severe. 



Since tributary 2 (Quarry Spring Run) is subject to changing 

 conditions by reason of the mine pumps, stocking is not advised 

 at the present time. 



Crow brook, tributary 46 of Tonawanda,^ in its extreme head- 

 waters is suitable for a mile or more for brook trout. However, if 

 brown trout were introduced, the fishing would be extended much 

 farther downstream. It is largly a question as to which species 

 the local fishermen prefer. Either brook trout or browns may be 

 planted. More than one species however is not advised. 



Brown trout have also been recommended for various other 

 headwater tributaries the most important of which is the East 

 Fork, 77.- This stream is generally too warm for trout. IIoAvever 

 the upper 2 miles is cooler and with a few spring holes scattered 

 well downstream some good trout fishing might be afforded. 



Buffalo Creek System: Except for the uppermost 5 miles 

 above Dutchtown, the main stream is generally too warm for 

 trout. However it is possible that if brown trout are planted 

 here some of them will work downstream locating pools that are 

 cooled to some extent by springs and seei)age. Rainbows would 

 not ordinarily be suggested for a stream like Buffalo creek with- 

 out a lake or suitable reservoir in which they might grow to 

 maturity. But in accordance Avith the change in policy already 

 discussed, we have suggested about one-eighth of a normal plant- 

 ing. Fishermen may therefore expect to find brown trout restricted 

 chiefly to the upper 5 miles and rainbows well scattered doAvn- 

 stream a few miles farther. 



Cazenovia creek is either polluted or too warm for trout through- 

 out its length. A number of tributaries, though, furnish trout 

 fishing. One of the most im])ortant is P]ast l^ranch, 14," known 

 as Protection creek above Holland. Both browns and rainbows 

 have been taken above Holland and this section is interesting from 

 the fact that adult rainbows have been caught during the past 

 season. In addition to lirown trout wo have nccoi'diim-lv reeom- 



Soc Map 2B. 

 See Map :{B. 

 Map 2 A, ."JB. 



