Scientific Collection Permit

Members of MA NFC seining an urban stream for fish…

Background

Many states require you to get a scientific collection permit to capture fish outside of legal angling methods. This can include incidental take permits where listed species are present.

Goals 

Fish surveys are a big part of NFC’s Holistic Stream Assessment/Restoration methodology. This includes trapping and netting. While e-fishing is used, and NFC assists, it usually performed by state employees under their own permits.

NFC ED Bob Mallard with a captured wild native white sucker…

Policy

All states should obtain a scientific collection permit. Below is what the permit should cover:

  • Methods

    • Minnow traps

    • Seining nets

    • Cast nets

  • Species

    • All

  • Location

    • All waters (nice to have)

    • Listed waters (if needed)

  • Disposition

    • Capture, show, and release (mandatory)

    • Capture and collect for lab work (nice to have)

sample permit

Internal NFC 2Bob MallardComment