Joe Starinchak - Outreach Coordinator

US Fish & Wildlife Service

Joe Starinchak currently works in a dual capacity as the Outreach Coordinator for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Branch of Invasive Species and for the national Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force. He resides in Northern Virginia with his wife and two children. Having worked for two state fish and wildlife agencies, the scientific and professional society for wildlife biologists, a national environmental organization, a major land-grant research university and the trade association for the recreational fishing industry has enabled Joe to develop a very unique perspective regarding conservation. Seven years ago, Joe assumed his current position with the USFWS bringing a results-oriented approach. By developing Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!, he has redefined the way the Fish & Wildlife Service does outreach and enlisted unprecedented numbers of partner organizations to help in raising awareness about invasive species. Joe has also created a similar partnership campaign with the pet and aquarium industry known as Habitattitude to prevent the release of aquarium plants and fish.  Joe is currently working the with pharmaceutical industry on a new campaign to promote the environmentally responsible disposal of excess medications. Joe enjoys relaxing on the water and spending time with his family.

We caught up with Joe shortly after the 2007 Fly Fishing Retailer trade show to talk to him in more depth about the comments he made on the Aquatic Nuisance/Invasive Species - The Next "Catch and Release" Movement panel discussion.  Joe is a passionate guy when it comes to protecting the environment.  He is quick to spell out the true size and scope of the impact of invasive species on our sport, in our environment and on our economy.  Even if you've never heard of "rock snot" nor seen a zebra mussel, you owe it to yourself and your community to listen to this informative interview!

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The Fly Fish Ohio team would like to thank Brian Flechsig and Mad River Media for use of the song "Ease Things In My Mind" from the album River Songs, available on-line at www.madriveroutfitters.com.