Additional public access . . . . Elk, Crooked, Conneaut Creeks

Looks like action taken in April 2018 will impact Steelhead fishing access this fall. Here is the PF&BC published notes. I assume the purchase went forward as planned. The map below shows the Gilmore Farm Property. I will add the other properties when I get a clear understanding of their exact location.

. . . . “In official action today, the Board voted to acquire three properties and an easement on a fourth one in Erie County, further expanding angler access to popular steelhead streams.

“Northwestern Pennsylvania is known as the ‘Fishing Capital’ of the state, and the steelhead fishery is a key component, generating tremendous economic benefits to the region,” said Arway. “When we survey anglers, they often say they want more access to streams. Today’s action helps meet that goal by providing additional access to Elk, Crooked and Conneaut creeks.”

As part of the first acquisition, the Lake Erie Region Conservancy has applied for grant funding to acquire 181.2 acres along Elk Creek in Girard Township, Erie County, for $911,000 and then transfer ownership to the PFBC. The property, known as the Gilmore Farm, provides access to approximately 6,325 linear feet (1.2 miles) of frontage along Elk Creek. The property is located immediately south of Interstate 90 off Beckman Road.

The conservancy has applied to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for half of the cost, plus acquisition fees. To complete the transaction, the Board of Commissioners approved a grant to the conservancy for an amount not to exceed $460,943.

The second acquisition involves the purchase of 8.27 acres in Springfield Township, Erie County, for $176,000. The property provides access to approximately 1,300 linear feet (0.25 miles) on Crooked Creek and is located at the intersection of Happy Valley Road and Lucas Road near East Springfield.

The third property contains 8 acres and approximately 1,165 linear feet (0.22 miles) of frontage on Conneaut Creek in West Springfield Township, Erie County. The PFBC will purchase it for $24,500. The property is located off Griffey Road near West Springfield.

As part of the fourth acquisition, the PFBC will pay $11,500 for an easement on 760 linear feet (0.15 miles) of Elk Creek on a property in Fairview Township, Erie County. The easement area is located off Luther Road downstream of the Route 98 bridge over Elk Creek.

To date, the PFBC has acquired more than 22.5 miles of public fishing access in the Erie watershed through easements and land purchases under the Erie Access Improvement Program. The program uses proceeds from the special Lake Erie permits to improve access and habitat. . . .  PAFBC New

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Good luck.