Presenter/Contact
Presenter
Mark Enders, Watershed Program Manager
Contact Info
(830) 221-4639 - menders@nbtexas.org
Subject Header
SUBJECT:
Title
Approval of the second and final reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 142 pertaining to methods of fishing and release of non-native aquatic species into waterbodies within the city limits.
Body
BACKGROUND / RATIONALE:
The current Code of Ordinances, Chapter 142- Waterways, prohibits the usage of live bait as a method of fishing within the city limits. This language conflicts with Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept (TPWD) fishing regulations which allow the use of live bait on waterways. Staff is proposing a revision Chapter 142 in order to allow the usage of live bait and to defer regulation of fishing to TPWD, except as it pertains to prohibiting the introduction of non-native organisms into bodies of water. Staff proposes to incorporate language prohibiting the release of non-native bait and aquarium species into any body of water within the city limits. This language is in conformance with the City’s obligations under the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan (EAHCP) program. The types of live bait that will be allowed consist of terrestrial organisms (i.e. earthworms, grasshoppers) and native aquatic organisms (i.e. crawfish, native minnows). The revised ordinance prohibits the use of cast nets within the Comal River system including Landa Lake, Comal Spring Runs, and Comal River. The revised ordinance also prohibits spearfishing and bow-fishing from City-owned property.
This ordinance amendment provides for a fine of not more than $500.00.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
Recommendation
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board considered this item at their May 21, 2019 meeting. There was a unanimous vote (4-0) from the board members present to recommend approval to City Council with an amendment to include bow-fishing as a prohibited method of fishing from City-owned property. City Council unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance at the May 28, 2019 regular Council meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed amendments to Chapter 142 pertain to methods of fishing and release of non-native aquatic species.