DNR adopts emergency rules to counter paddlefish poaching

The Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS --

Ohio River paddlefish, whose eggs are sought by poachers as a lucrative source of caviar, are being protected by new regulations from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

The DNR approved emergency rules that include limiting the catching of the paddlefish from Nov. 15 to April 15 and a minimum size of 34 inches from eye to tail fork.

"Our recent investigation clearly revealed that existing regulations are insufficient to protect this unique resource," DNR director Robert Carter Jr. said Monday. "Unfortunately, the high market prices for paddlefish caviar do not encourage resource conservation.

"The escalating harvest pressure threatens to take paddlefish faster than they can be replaced, which could lead to a shortage we intend to prevent," he said.

A two-year investigation has led to arrests of more than 20 people on charges including illegal taking of paddlefish, money laundering, and racketeering and corrupt business influence, Carter said.

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