The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife is launching and advancing many projects across the state.
The department is reimplementing its K-9 program. Officials said its goal is to provide game wardens with dogs capable of tracking illegally hunted game and illicit substances. Currently, the department’s K-9 unit is comprised of three labrador retrievers.
Commissioner Rich Storm of Kentucky Fish and Wildlife said canine officers will improve the capabilities of game wardens.
“So, this gives us a different tool for our toolbox, but ultimately it gives our officers a relationship with an animal that builds and enhances the mission of the agency,” said Storm.
The department is growing the number of loaner fishing pole locations. The poles are now offered at 22 state parks and 22 libraries. Children using the loaner pole program do not need a fishing license. Officials said the project’s goal is to enhance the experience of the state’s 1.1 million annual lakegoers.
Storm added the department will also focus on improving the habitat of fisheries.
“If we stocked 4.5 million fish, that's great. But why don't we make millions of fish reproduce in Kentucky waters on their own? That's the goal. Let's make these lakes fertile, so that they grow the fish that they need in them, and that's why we do the habitat work,” said Storm.
The department is additionally focused on improving handicap accessibility at many recreational sites. As part of this initiative, Wilgreen Lake received a wheelchair-accessible kayak ramp earlier this year.
New boat ramps are yet another major initiative of the organization. Greenup County received a new ramp earlier this year. Officials said Rockcastle, Harrison, and Edmonson counties can expect new boat ramps by the end of 2025. More information on the department’s programs can be found on the website of the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife.