RAH, my experience with our DNR (and the state fisheries biology dept) involved tilapia stocking in Iowa (it's currently not allowed). I found them to be utterly resistant to any scientific persuasion, even when supplying well written supportive evidence. My suspicion is that those positions, as politically appointed ones, are unduly influence by political pressures, and too little influenced by science. In the case of tilapia, they spouted some nonsense about fears of introducing an invasive species (despite the iron clad evidence tilapia cannot survive the winters in the midwest , with water temps well below the ~50°F that kills them). SMB carry no such risks (as they are a widespread native species) and the risks of any such experimental stocking combinations would simply be monetary to the pond owner. As you have clearly shown, there can be great success with SMB in ponds.
I hope and pray you have some success. *fingers crossed*
