[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14892]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF WEST CHESTER FISH, GAME AND 
                          WILDLIFE ASSOCIATION

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                            HON. JIM GERLACH

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 21, 2012

  Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the West 
Chester Fish, Game and Wildlife Association of Chester County, 
Pennsylvania on its 75th anniversary.
  Founded on September 21, 1937 by 107 local sportsmen, the West 
Chester Fish, Game and Wildlife Association has enjoyed a rich and 
storied history. Even prior to its date of founding, its members 
actively worked to address the problem of pollution in the Brandywine 
River caused by paper mills. These efforts led to, in some cases, the 
prosecution of the owners and operators of these mills.
  Throughout its history, the Association has also operated a fish 
stocking program beginning in 1937 when 2,200 fingerling bass were 
released in the Brandywine. In 1941, these efforts expanded to 
purchasing and stocking trout in West Valley Creek. Later, in 1964, the 
Association began raising its own trout at a location that is today one 
of the oldest, continuously operating Cooperative Trout Nurseries of 
the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, raising and stocking over 
3,000 trout annually.
  Today, the West Chester Fish, Game and Wildlife Association is 
engaged in numerous enterprises, including conducting an annual Hunter 
and Trapper Safety Course, extensive stream restoration projects, 
fishing rodeos, establishing and maintaining a local nature center, and 
awarding the annual R. David Heller Scholarship to a local student. 
Through these efforts, the Association and its nearly 400 members, 
continues to be responsible stewards of the environment.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating 
the West Chester Fish, Game and Wildlife Association and its remarkable 
history on the occasion of its 75th anniversary and to extend best 
wishes on its continued prosperity and longevity.

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