There is an increasing problem of littering in the Chemung River near Elmira.

A six-foot piece of discarded fishing line might have proved fatal to a young goose at the bank of the Chemung River in Elmira recently, if it weren't for the efforts of an amateur photographer who rescued the trapped bird.

Chuck Metcalfe of Elmira, the photographer, told his story to the Star-Gazette to remind fishermen and others who use the river that a seemingly innocent act such as tossing away a piece of barely visible line can have consequences.

"My hope ... is that those who enjoy the sport of fishing will consider the impact that items they leave behind will have on the wildlife in and near the water," Metcalfe wrote in an e-mail to the Star-Gazette.