|
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
Department of Wildlife & Fisheries Sciences
September 9, 1998
Mr. Larry E. Kelly, Chair Toledo Bend Bi-State Alliance
P.O. Box 873
Many, Louisiana 71449
Dear Mr. Kelly:
Thank you for your letter of 12 August indicating your organization's interest in the study we will be completing for the two state's fisheries agencies and the two Sabine River Authorities.
I want to thank you for your willingness to cooperate with our study. As you may know, we plan to build upon the creel survey efforts carried out by the two state's fisheries agencies as a means of gaining a random sample of anglers using Toledo Bend Reservoir for recreational fishing. In addition to the number of names and addresses the creel clerks will get for us, they will run their random selection computer program until we have a sufficient number for survey research purposes. On these days, it will be necessary for additional staff to be at the appointed places at the appointed times on the appointed days. By random selection, we do not mean hap hazard but rather statistically random. We have not typically used volunteers for this important part of our studies previously but instead have trained and paid workers to be where they need to be when. Perhaps some people from your organization might be interested in one or more of these positions. It is my understanding that this person/s will be hired by the SRA.
Thank you for indicating two representatives from your organization who will serve as your organization's contacts. I have already spoken to Loretta Sterle previously and told her that we would be meeting with her and any other representatives of tourism and business interests in the region. Following this meeting as well as meetings with the two fisheries agencies and SRA staffs, we will develop a mail survey instrument for your review and comment to make sure we are appropriately focused on the relevant issues and information needs.
I have included copies of our two most recent reservoir studies: Lake Fork and Lake Texoma. One is more economic impact and market oriented and the other (Texoma) is more fisheries-issue oriented. At Toledo Bend we will be trying to do both within the limits of a mail questionnaire of the same length. I hope this information provides you with an insight to the type of study we will be doing. As we try to set up a meeting time, I will be in touch with Loretta and Gerald. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Robert B. Ditton Professor
cc: Ken Kurzawski
Room 210, Nagle Hall
College Station, Texas 77843-2258
(409) 845-5777
FAX (409) 845-3786
|
