A healthy pond is beneficial to any farming or ranching operation, but understanding and utilizing these assets can sometimes be tricky.

To assist resource managers maximize their operation, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation's Agricultural Division will host a Largemouth Bass and Bluegill Management in Ponds workshop from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, June 17, at Speake Ranch, near Milo in Carter County.

The workshop will feature sessions on largemouth bass and bluegill hook-and-line surveys; seine surveys; fish, aquatic animal and aquatic plant identification; and pond management for largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. There will also be a session to address the various issues surrounding livestock, and muddy and leaking ponds. Noble Foundation wildlife and fisheries consultants will be on hand to address participant questions.

"This hands-on workshop will provide participants an excellent opportunity to learn more about the ponds they see and use every day," said Steven Smith, wildlife and fisheries consultant for the Noble Foundation. "Participants will be surprised at the extensive ecosystem teeming in their pond and how it impacts their operation."

Each attendee should bring a rod, reel and terminal tackle to help during the hook-and-line surveys. Smith recommends participants bring terminal tackle, including snap swivels, small split shot weights, No. 8 hooks, small floats and bass lures. An Oklahoma fishing license is necessary to participate in the hook-and-line surveys.

Smith asks that attendees dress appropriately for fishing in potentially wet, muddy and hot conditions, and consider treating clothes with insect repellent. The Noble Foundation will provide drinks during the workshop.

For directions or to preregister for the workshop, please contact Tracy Cumbie by calling 580.224.6411 or e-mailing tlcumbie@noble.org. Noble Foundation Agricultural Division events can be viewed online at www.noble.org/agevents.

08-018

###

News Release Issued: May 28, 2008

For media inquiries concerning the Noble Foundation, please contact J. Adam Calaway, Director of Public Relations, at 580.224.6209 or by email at jacalaway@noble.org.

The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. (www.noble.org), headquartered in Ardmore, Okla., is a nonprofit organization conducting agricultural, forage improvement and plant biology research; assisting farmers and ranchers through educational and consultative agricultural programs; and providing grants to nonprofit charitable, educational and health organizations.