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Council backs resolution urging exploration of fish stocking for Waltham ponds
Summary
The council adopted a resolution directing staff to work with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife and local partners to explore catch-and-release fish stocking and signage for selected Waltham ponds and lakes; councilors emphasized youth engagement and grant funding options.
The Waltham City Council on May 12 approved a resolution directing the city to explore a program for catch‑and‑release fish stocking in appropriate ponds and lakes, aiming to expand youth recreational fishing and environmental education.
Councilor Randall J. LeBlanc, the resolution’s lead sponsor, said communities such as Arlington and others have stocked ponds and that state support and grants are available. “We should work with the state and see if we can get a pond stocked in Waltham,” LeBlanc said.
Multiple councilors supported the measure, citing youth engagement and educational benefits. Councilor John McLaughlin and others emphasized the role of fishing derbies and scouting programs in getting children outdoors. Councilor Kathleen B. McMenamin and Councilor Robert Logan noted examples of successful stocking programs elsewhere.
The resolution asks the city to collaborate with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, local environmental organizations, and city departments to identify appropriate bodies of water, ensure ecological compatibility, establish signage for safe catch‑and‑release practices, and seek funding through grants and state programs. The matter was referred to the Public Works Committee for next steps and to arrange a city designee to meet with the committee.
