Fishery Evaluations: A Valuable Management Tool
EnviroScience conducts lake fishery surveys throughout the Midwest ranging from small private ponds to Lake Erie. Three factors are needed to sustain a viable fishery in any system:
- Habitat- water quality, cover, plants, depth, substrate
- Food- invertebrates, bait fish, plankton
- Reproduction- adult survival, spawning habitat
An analysis of these factors in combination with abundance and diversity data is an excellent method of assessing the fishery and lake health. Fisheries are sampled using a variety of techniques including electrofishing, hoop netting, seining and gill netting. Often times, several methods are used simultaneously to ensure adequate sampling in all habitats. For example, hoop nets target bottom dwelling species sometimes missed by electrofishing.
EnviroScience personnel analyze the data to assess fish population dynamics and health, which are used to develop best management plans for stabilizing or improving the fishery. Recommendations may include stocking and habitat improvement. Our pro-active approach encourages close work and communication with the client, lake association, and other principal stakeholders. Each project is tailored to the specific needs and goals of the lake.
Images
Top: channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)
Bottom: Hoop netting
