Changes to existing laws governing sport fishing are seen as a good first step by a conservation group whose aim is to protect trout from extinction in South Shore rivers and steams.
The Nova Scotia government is bringing in amendments to the Coastal Fisheries Resources Act aimed at preventing anglers from introducing threatening species to waterways, like small-mouth bass and chain pickerel.
Those fish have been slowly destroying the trout population.
The group, "Trout Nova Scotia", says the changes to the act will help protect existing trout and rebuild stocks but they believe the government should be making it even more difficult for some anglers to introduce predatory species to waterways.
Among the proposed changes to the act: penalties that include a 1-thousand dollar fine, suspension of fishing privaleges for 5 years and the seizure of vehicles, boats and trailers.
