Fishing fans, here’s your chance to cast a line for a good cause—and maybe reel in some prize money while you’re at it. The Eel River Pikeminnow Fishing Derby is now underway, running from July 1 through August 31, and organizers are inviting anglers of all ages to join in. The idea? Catch as many non-native Sacramento pikeminnow as you can from the Eel River system and submit your catch for a chance to win part of $2,500 in cash prizes. … So why target Sacramento pikeminnow? Although they’re native to parts of California, pikeminnow were introduced into the Eel River in the 1970s, where they now pose a serious threat to native fish. As voracious predators, pikeminnow eat native salmonids and lamprey—both already under pressure from habitat loss, drought, and climate change. Reducing pikeminnow numbers can help protect these struggling native populations.

Other salmonid restoration news:

• SFGate: Trump shuts down fish restoration pact that took decades to build
• Monterey Herald (Calif.): County crews reinforce Carmel River Lagoon sandbar​