Larry Butler and one of the 1200 catfish.
State Representative Larry B. Butler (D-Waterbury) announced the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has stocked Lakewood Lake in Waterbury with fish for a fourth consecutive year. The DEP delivered about 1,200 Arkansas Channel Catfish to Lakewood on Tuesday as part of the agency’s Community Fishing Program. In all, eleven lakes and ponds around the state were stocked. The DEP also annually stocks streams and rivers with trout for fishing season.
“This is a huge quality of life issue for residents, who can enjoy fishing this summer without having to travel,” said Rep. Butler, who originally sought fish stocking for Lakewood at the request of a neighbor, John Luccia. “John was the inspiration for this project and hundreds of people have shared with me how much they have enjoyed fishing at Lakewood. Among the many fish that were released was a very rare albino catfish and I challenge someone to catch it and send me a picture.”
“Since my first term, I’ve been committed to Lakewood and I’m thrilled more and more people enjoy the park,” said Rep. Butler. “As long as I serve the 72nd District, I will do everything I can to keep this tradition going.”
“The stocking of Lakewood Lake in our community is a terrific program and I am pleased to join Representative Butler and everyone who continues to ensure that this program continues,” Rep. David Aldarondo (D-Waterbury) said. “It is important that we support the state Department of Environmental Protection and provide the funding to make this program possible, not only so that our residents in Waterbury will be able to enjoy recreational fishing, but that lakes, ponds and streams are stocked for fishing season statewide.”
Rep. Butler serves as House Chair of the Legislature’s Housing Committee and is also a member of the Finance and Human Services Committees.