Dear Residents:

Fishing as a Ridgewater amenity offers several positive benefits for the community:

• Recreation and Relaxation: Fishing provides residents with a peaceful outdoor activity that promotes relaxation and stress relief. It allows individuals and families to unwind and enjoy nature.

• Community Engagement: Fishing can foster a sense of community as residents come together to share experiences, participate in fishing events, or engage in friendly competitions. This interaction strengthens neighborly bonds.

• Family Bonding: Fishing is an excellent activity for families, allowing parents and children to spend quality time together while learning valuable skills and appreciating the environment.

• Health Benefits: Engaging in fishing promotes physical activity, whether it’s walking to the fishing spots or casting lines. It also encourages mental well-being through time spent in nature.

• Environmental Awareness: Fishing can enhance residents’ appreciation for local ecosystems, promoting conservation efforts and responsible fishing practices that protect aquatic life.

• Enhanced Property Value: Having fishing amenities can increase the attractiveness of the community, potentially boosting property values and making Ridgewater a more desirable place to live.
Overall, fishing as an amenity enriches the Ridgewater community by providing recreational opportunities, fostering connections, and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

1. Purpose

The Ridgewater HOA Fishing Policy is established to promote sustainable fishing practices within the community’s two designated ponds. This policy focuses on a catch and release system to preserve aquatic life and ensure a healthy ecosystem for all residents to enjoy.

2. Eligibility

Resident Participation: Fishing is open to all current residents of Ridgewater HOA and their guests. Residents must accompany their guests while fishing.
Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult resident while fishing.

3. Conduct and Safety

Respectful Behavior: All anglers must conduct themselves respectfully, ensuring a positive experience for all residents and protecting the natural environment.
Safety Precautions: Residents should prioritize safety by wearing life jackets when necessary and ensuring that fishing equipment is used responsibly.

4. Effective Date

The catch and release fishing policy will take effect once an Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Agreement with the City has been finalized and the ponds have been officially turned over to the Ridgewater HOA Board. The start date will be announced to all residents via official HOA communications.

5. Catch and Release Guidelines

Fishing Method: All fish caught in the designated ponds must be released back into the water immediately after being caught.
Handling Fish: Residents should handle fish with care to minimize stress and injury. Use wet hands or a wet cloth when handling fish, and avoid touching their gills or eyes.
Fishing Gear: Use barbless hooks or crimped barbs to facilitate easier release and reduce harm to fish.

6. Fishing Areas

Designated Ponds: Fishing is permitted only in the two specified ponds within the Ridgewater community. These areas will be clearly marked for residents.
Prohibited Areas: Fishing is not allowed in areas designated for swimming, boating, or other recreational activities.

7. Fishing Hours

Establishment of Hours: Specific fishing hours will be established for the community ponds to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all residents. These hours will be communicated through the discussion board and other official HOA channels.
Adherence Required: All residents participating in fishing activities must adhere to the established fishing hours. Violations may result in restrictions on fishing privileges.

8. Waste Management

Cleanliness: Residents are responsible for cleaning up after themselves. All trash, fishing lines, and other waste must be disposed of properly.
No Littering: Littering in and around fishing areas is strictly prohibited. Residents should take all waste with them or dispose of it in designated receptacles.

9. Enforcement

Policy Compliance: The HOA Board reserves the right to enforce this policy and take appropriate action against residents who violate the fishing regulations.
Reporting Violations: Residents are encouraged to report any violations of this policy to the HOA Board for review.

10. Amendments

This policy may be amended as necessary to reflect the evolving needs of the Ridgewater community and to ensure the sustainability of local aquatic resources. Residents will be notified of any changes through official HOA communications.

11. Acknowledgment

By participating in fishing activities within Ridgewater community ponds, residents acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this policy.
This policy aims to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience for all residents while protecting the community’s natural resources. If you have any questions or suggestions regarding this policy, please contact the Ridgewater HOA Board.