Time Remaining for Berkley Conservation Institute Projects

Collegiate anglers across the country still have time to submit projects to the Berkley Conservation Institute.  Conservation-oriented projects can not only win great prizes through the program, but also School of the Year points to close out the season for their team.  Current hot topics within the BCI include climate change, water quality and quantity, fisheries management, the future of fishing, conservation implementation projects, and recycling.

The Berkley Conservation Institute was developed to support conservation and angler recruitment efforts.  BCI cooperates with fishing groups, conservation organizations, customers and other industry partners to protect our fishable waters. Berkley also collaborates to enhance populations of important sport fish and introduce the next generation to the delight of angling while teaching them to lead the fight for conservation.

Anglers who prepare and submit a presentation to CarecoTV no later than June 20th on the topic of fishing conservation ideas, potential solutions to existing problems, outreach programs for new or existing concerns, or a similar relevant topic, will earn 5 ACA School or the Year points, with a maximum of 2 presentations and 10 points awarded per school. The top three projects will all receive additional bonus points.

The issues themselves are probably the most important part of the program, but a few points for the effort, and some awesome prizes are just icing on the cake.  The ultimate winning project and its contributor will be featured as a guest on Americana Outdoors and Cabela’s Fisherman’s Handbook.  The winner will be treated to an expenses paid trip to San Antonio, where they’ll enjoy a fishing trip on Lake Falcon, as well as lodging, meals, and license.  The runner up will receive $500, and the third place finisher will receive $500 in Berkley tackle (MSRP).

“This is a very prestigious contest presented by Berkley and it’s great of them to provide this opportunity,” said Wade Middleton, Tournament Director. “In addition I’m personally excited to host the winner on the water to hear their thoughts about conservation and allow them to share them with anglers nationwide on the several television programs supporting this prize package”

Scott Jones, a student at the University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff won the 2011 contest with a presentation highlighting the importance of slot limits and bass harvest.  Scott summed up his trip by saying, “Calling this was a fun trip would be an understatement.  I was able to put new gear from Berkley and Abu Garcia to the test on big strong Falcon Lake bass, participate in a television show, and discuss my ideas.  I would encourage anyone fishing with the BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Series to do his or her BCI presentation this coming year for their chance to go on a trip like this.”

Anglers are encouraged to be creative with their presentations (Videos, Power Point, etc.). In addition to the quality of the presentation, the relevancy of the issue addressed, and the students’ involvement in the project(s) will all be considered.  Entries should be submitted no later than June 20th, to CarecoTV.

Anyone with questions can contact Careco TV and ACA representative, Danny Blandford, at Danny@carecotv.com.

For more details on BCI, click here.