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, JiJ2734 January 14, 1997 - Draft for Internal review and comment Statewide Fisherv Manaqement Policy The Long-range Plan included a set of guiding "Principles" that the wildlife Commission approved in 1991. These "Principles" are still in place and necessarily have an influence on Policy that the Commission will be setting. selected Management Principles from DOW Long-range Plan 1. We will work to develop stable, self-sustaining populations of currently threatened or endangered species/subspecies and prevent other vulnerable species/subspecies from declining in abundance. 2. Generally, introduction or immigration of new species or subspecies of non-native wildlife will be discouraged. However, we may introduce suitable non-native species/subspecies to optimize production of wildlife where native species/subspecies can not fully use the productive capability of the habitat. This approach is particularly appropriate in totally artificial habitats such as man-made reservoirs. In degraded habitats we will consider this approach only where the restoration of natural habitats are not feasible. We will do this cautiously with full involvement of affected publics, and only under controlled situations so that the diversity and genetic purity of native species/subspecies and habitat integrity are protected. 3. Stocking of wildlife for immediate harvest is not consistent with other wildlife management activities because it does not make use of habitat productivity for human benefit. Stocking more wildlife into a habitat than it can support may cause people to infer that we do not believe ecological limits are important. Normally, we will not use this technique. Stocking of catchable fish is a tradi tional exception to this policy because many of Colorado's accessible waters cannot sustain natural sport fisheries which are acceptable to the public. However, we will not use this approach in waters that can be managed to provide public sportfishing satisfaction wi thout stocking or by stocking subcatchable fish. 4. Where we stock fish we will inform anglers that the recreation is being artificially maintained at a level substantially higher than what nature could support. 5. Recreational hunting, fishing, trapping, and viewing wildlife are important parts of Colorado's outdoor heritage and economic future. We recognize the unique values of these traditional wildlife experiences and will plan and conduct programs that protect those qualities and diversity of opportunities. However, the primary consideration in any wildlife management decision will be to maintain healthy wildlife resources.