Contributed Story
SHERRILL — The New York State Outdoorsmen Hall of Fame proudly announces that its class of inductees for 2011 will include Ed Van Put of Livingston Manor. Van Put will be one of eight honored at the annual banquet on Saturday, April 30 in Canastota.
The New York State Outdoorsmen Hall of Fame (NYSOHOF) is an organization dedicated to honoring sportsmen who have made significant achievements in outdoors-related fields. More importantly, they are recognized for their long-time service in preserving our outdoor heritage and helping others experience it. The NYSOHOF is also involved in programs such as kids’ fishing derbies, clinics, seminars, and similar activities.
Ed Van Put has served the Catskill trout fishery in many ways. As a DEC Fisheries Technician, his relationship with landowners was a major force in securing 52 miles of public fishing rights on the fabled Catskill trout streams. But to many others, it was his writing and expertise that helped publicize the Catskill fishery and gain widespread attention to the resource and the issues.
His extensive diaries and records of fishing on the Delaware River, along with his reputation, were major factors in securing cold water releases from New York City reservoirs to protect that fishery. Ed has been a volunteer and ambassador for the Catskill Fly Fishing Center Museum (CFFCM) for many years and has been selected for the CFFCM Hall of Fame. He personally raised the funds, wrote the text, worked with the foundry and installed the historical markers along the Beaverkill.
Ed Van Put continues to volunteer his time to Theodore Gordon Flyfishers, Open Space Institute and Trout Unlimited to improve stream conditions, access, and habitat.
“No one starts out in life ever thinking that at some point they would be inducted into a ‘Hall of Fame’ of any type,” Ed Van Put said yesterday. “And so, when the news comes that you have been chosen for such an award, it’s a wonderful surprise because you realize that people appreciate what you’ve done over the years – and to be recognized by being inducted into the New York State Outdoorsmen HOF is a great honor.”
The annual banquet and induction will involve sportsmen and organizations from all across New York State. It will be held Saturday, April 30 at the Rusty Rail in Canastota with registration and social hour beginning at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Guests and interested parties are welcome.
For more information or reservations, please call (315) 363-3896.