The Northside-based Upper Chattahoochee Chapter of Trout Unlimited is joining other fishing enthusiasts Saturday to help restore spawning habitat for the besieged brook trout, the only native trout in the eastern United States.

As part of a national program to boost the brook trout population, volunteers with the local chapter of Trout Unlimited are having a work day near Helen.

Brook trout have been declining because of destruction of habitat, pollution, and competition with other non-native species. State fisheries do not stock brook trout.

Upper Chattahoochee chapter members are teaming up with the Department of Natural Resources, and with chapters from the Athens area and from the Dahlonega area to restore spawning areas near Helen.

Typically, volunteers cut down trees to form shallow, natural dams, said Dutch Earle of Roswell, president of the Upper Chattahoochee River chapter. The dams create pools that support brook trout. The trees are secured with re-bar, rock and wire mesh.

Volunteers should bring waders or an old pair of sneakers or boots, and work gloves. Volunteers are asked to meet at the Chattahoochee Campground near Helen by 9 a.m. and will finish about 2 p.m.

For more information, visit www.ucctu.org. Anyone planning to volunteer should e-mail Josh Barnett at 706-202-7713 or e-mail him at joshbarnett@orctu.org.