Science & Tech
In this article, Michael Allen surveys several fishing-line materials: monofilament, braided line, and more novel substitutes like dental floss or spider silk, highlighting their strengths (tensile strength, abrasion resistance, visibility) and downsides. The article explores these with respect to durability and user appropriateness. Importantly, though, it omits deeper discussion of
Science & Tech
The BoatUS Reel In & Recycle program, funded by NOAA Marine Debris Program and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has come up with an effort to reduce environmental harm from improperly disposed monofilament fishing line. Since 2007, the initiative has installed over 2,000 recycling bins and assisted in
Special Interest
Angler waste, particularly from discarded bait cans, poses a significant environmental challenge in aquatic ecosystems. Innovative approaches are being explored to mitigate this issue while enhancing fish habitats. Interviews with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) revealed that they are utilizing polylactic acid (PLA) to create artificial habitats in
Special Interest
Effective management of angler-generated waste is critical for preserving freshwater ecosystems. Drawing from cultural practices observed in Japan, where public trash bins are scarce, this review explores alternative approaches to waste management in fishing environments. For some, Japan’s clean, bin-free streets are a source of admiration. For others, it’
Arts & Lifestyle
Drawing on both Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) event coverage and my own experiences, this conjecture proposes a hybrid program that builds on ODNR’s existing offerings while adding a conservation element. I attended a UV Night Hike led by an ODNR naturalist, where participants explored the forest with
Business
During my initial meeting with ODNR staff, a theme that surfaced repeatedly was the principle of “Leave No Trace,” particularly in the context of trail management. Staff also emphasized that beach litter remains one of the largest challenges they face. Looking into the concept further, I explored the Leave No
Science & Tech
After an interview with an Indiana DNR officer, I learned that lake management teams have long experimented with creating artificial habitats for aquatic life. In the 1970s and 1980s, these structures were commonly made of tires or concrete blocks. Today, efforts more often involve PVC or molded concrete to provide
Arts & Lifestyle
The poem Stillwater won "Chief's Choice" in the 2025 ODNR (Ohio Department of Natural Resources) Poem Contest. It illustrates the writer's experience harmonizing with the nature around him. "A great blue heron folds the sky into its wings, then disappears. The water keeps
Special Interest
After a visit to a local bait store, I noticed that live bait was only sold in single-use plastic containers. While I was able to bring my own container for crickets, no such option was available for wax worms or red worms. There were also no signs encouraging anglers to
Numbers
This survey was sent to 59 Ohio Park Managers, recruited by Heather Bokman, ODNR Sustainability Coordinator. Of the 59 who received the survey, 26 responded. The survey was open for data collection from September 11 at 11:30 am to September 21 at 11:59 pm (10.5 days). Survey
Special Interest
The bulk of this research was conducted from September 17th to September 19th, 2025. The intent was to identify what types of angler waste were present in Noble and LaGrange County waterways in Indiana. I also looked into how IDNR was managing waste and specifically deciphering between what could be
Numbers
One of my goals was to narrow down a target group for the survey. I chose a group of mothers aged 28–35 from across the USA who frequently communicate, share experiences, and support one another. The next question I asked was, What are the most common signs that your