CIFFI Berryessa Net Pens Cleanup

CIFFI has kicked off their annual Fall Net Pen cleanup at Lake Berryessa.

Led by Board member, Alan Grossman, the team is raising the pens out of the water and power washing them in preparation for the annual trout plant in January.  Cleaning of the pens is necessary to promote a healthy habitat for the trout which will call the pens home for 4-5 months.

Working in partnership the California DFW, CIFFI receives ~1000 Eagle Lake strain rainbow trout planted across the four pens.  Raised in the pens from January and released in May, the trout grow fast with twice daily feedings and quickly be come acclimated to the natural forage at Lake Berryessa.  When released, the trout tip the scales at 2-3 pounds and will be ready to provide exciting rod-bending action for all anglers to enjoy.

Special thanks to Justin Aaberg, Tom Nigro, Billy Starks and Stan Wong for assisting in the cleaning of the first two pens.  Two more pens await cleaning, and Alan is looking for volunteers to assist.  The cleaning day will be a mid-week activity.  If you are interested in helping power wash the last two pens; reach out to Alan at 916-212-5006.

CIFFI appreciates all help in the Berryessa Pen endeavor and hope you will find helping us is worthy of your support.  The annual run rate for the pens is ~$4,000 for the food and maintenance.  If you would like to assist in defraying the cost, please link to ciffi.org and hit the ‘Donate to Ciffi’ button; this will be a credit card transaction.  If you prefer to donate via personal check; please make it out to CIFFI and mail to 7750 El Rito Way, Sacramento, CA 95831.