Inland Seas Angler
GREAT LAKES BASIN REPORT
A Publication of the Great Lakes Sport Fishing Council July 2015 http://www.great-lakes.org Vol. 26, No. 7
Gobies compete with each other when crowded, sparing native fishes
It seems counter-intuitive, but The enclosures contained the impact on other species is reduced at Wisconsin Sea Grant researchers have same amounts and types of natural high densities.” found that an invasive fish, the round food. The only difference was the Vander Zanden and his team goby, may have greater impacts on number of gobies: from “no goby” to were surprised by this result “because native fish populations when there are “low goby” (2.7 fish per square there’s an implicit assumption that fewer of them. The reason? The round meter) to “high goby” (10.7 fish per presence corresponds with impacts, goby (Neogobius melanostomus) is so square meter). The fish lived in and that if you increase an invasive’s pugnacious and aggressive toward its enclosures made from PVC pipe and abundance, its impact would own kind that when numbers are high, plastic mesh for 52 days and were increase.” Kornis explained they compete among themselves to a weighed at the beginning and end of “Although this type of finding isn’t greater extent than against native the experiment. entirely new, it has not been shown fishes. The lowest growth rates in the for an invasive species before in University of Wisconsin- native fishes were in the low-goby terms of its effect on native species.” Madison Professor Jake Vander enclosures, with Johnny darters and He said that in addition to competing Zanden and former Ph.D. student white suckers faring worst. Native for food, gobies, which can spawn up Matthew Kornis) and their team fish growth in the high-goby to six times per season, are also published their findings last year in enclosures was no different than in intense rivals for mates. the journal Oecologia. They stocked the enclosures without gobies. Although the finding is specific 18 enclosures in Little Suamico “Gobies are super-territorial and to round gobies, Vander Zanden said River, a tributary of Lake Michigan in they beat up on other gobies in these it addresses broader issues in invasion northeastern Wisconsin, with gobies experimental settings,” explained science. “Don’t always assume that and three species of native fishes Vander Zanden. “We believe that just because something is more (creek chubs, white suckers and because they’re spending their time Gobies compete when crowded Johnny darters). competing with other gobies, their Continued on page 11
Industry groups urge input against ethanol
In this issue… increase
Great Lakes Fish Finder app ...... 2 Boating and fishing industry groups amount of ethanol flatly increasing, Online tool to plan perfect angling trip ..... 2 are encouraging stakeholders to despite a large, unanticipated drop in NY Saltwater Fishing Map available ...... 3 weigh in on the EPA’s most recent fuel demand, and critics say this will MI – BOW Backpacking Workshop ...... 3 Lake Mich Islands Management Plan...... 3 proposal to increase ethanol levels in push blends to E15 and higher. ACRCC releases Strategy Plan ...... 4 the fuel supply. The Recreational The EPA proposed the total Chronic wasting disease in Mich deer ..... 4 Fishing Alliance and the National amount of renewable fuel blending DEC Campground Features in NY app ... 5 Marine Manufacturers Association would be 15.93 billion gallons in Creel clerks collect data ...... 5 Bluegill managed with bag limits ...... 5 are asking members and other 2014, 16.3 billion gallons in 2015 and Hunting Access Program for landowners 6 affected parties to oppose the 17.4 billion gallons in 2016 — more HSUS petition fails to fracture alliances .. 6 measures set forth by the EPA during than 4 billion gallons a year lower Bring only approved firewood ...... 7 the comment period, which ends July than the amount Congress called for IL DNR deer permit regs changes ...... 7 $450,000 to improve public safety ...... 7 27. in the 2007 legislation. The statutory Steelhead at Michigan’s Tippy Dam ...... 8 The agency proposed increasing requirement for 2016 is 22.25 billion Public meeting to discuss walleye regs ... 8 the amount of ethanol in the overall gallons. IL Conservation World ...... 8 fuel supply in May, although it In November 2013 the EPA first IL Hunter Safety Courses ...... 8 Power of Prediction: Avian fatalities ...... 9 lowered the amounts required by the proposed to scale back the 2014 Meetings re changes to fishing regs ...... 9 Clean Air Act, angering both critics mandate to blend corn ethanol and USFWS helps against Asian carp ...... 10 and supporters of ethanol. The more advanced biofuels into gasoline. MN youth hunts ...... 10 Department of Agriculture said it However, the EPA subsequently Freshwater Net Aquaculture ...... 10 Flathead catfish ...... 11 would inject $100 million in funding withdrew that 2014 proposal after IL boat registration ...... 11 to put more ethanol at gas pumps. The Ethanol increase IL BOW workshop ...... 11 Renewable Fuel Standard has the Continued on page 11
2 Great Lakes Basin Report Great Lakes Fish Online tool makes it Finder app easier for anglers to The Great Lakes Fish Finder app is an plan perfect trip interactive field guide. Look up and Many anglers are constantly looking identify fishes, submit sightings, and for tools and resources that equip Established 1972 join a community of enthusiasts to them with better knowledge when help you classify your finds. The app planning a fishing trip. Now trout President is available as a free download in the anglers don't have to go further than Apple and Google Play stores. Daniel N. Thomas, Illinois the DNR's website to find such a tool! Vice President The app includes the Great Lakes Michigan's Trout Trails was Open Guide to Fishes, which was created launched online this summer in an Secretary Michael D. Sanger, Wisconsin by experts from Shedd Aquarium. effort to connect anglers with lesser The guide is intended to help people Treasurer known trout waters. Michigan is Thomas G. Couston, Illinois identify fishes from the Great Lakes, nationally known as a trout fishing focusing on species that people are destination with nearly 20,000 cold, DIRECTORS most likely to come across, as well as Illinois – Robert Gaik quality streams and hundreds of lakes. Indiana – Mike Schoonveld a sample of fish diversity. Two This new tool highlights several of hundred species of fishes call the Michigan – Tom Hamilton these waters―specifically those Minnesota - Dave Koneczny Great Lakes home. Some are so located in the western U.P., north New York – Thomas Marks common that just about everyone has central Lower Peninsula, and Ohio – Rick Unger Ontario – Darryl Choronzey heard of them. Some are so rare that southwestern Lower Peninsula. only a handful of biologists have seen Pennsylvania - Ed Kissell Trout Trails will be rolled out in Wisconsin – Robert Wincek them in the wild. And some are several phases, with the first featuring popular to catch and eat, supporting a 129 locations that include detailed Position Statement Representing a major interest in the aquatic multibillion-dollar industry. descriptions and photos for each site The app is intended to help: resources of the Great Lakes states and the and information for area lodging, province of Ontario, the Great Lakes Sport Identify - Snap a picture with the app restaurants, and guide services. Fishing Council is a confederation of and submit it for help from citizen Additional info includes trout species organizations and individuals with a concern for scientists and experts to determine the present and future of sport fishing, our available, fishing regs, presence of natural resources and the ecosystem in which we which species you've found. stocked or naturally reproducing fish, Keep track - Log the fish you've live. We encourage the wise use of our resources driving directions (with a link to and a search for the truth about the issues found to keep a record of all of the Google maps), and note-worthy confronting us. amazing species you've seen! information (such as presence of fast Share them with the iNaturalist Inland Seas Angler water, canoe/kayak/tube accessibility, GREAT LAKES BASIN REPORT community online - The Great Lakes best times to fish, and much more). Fish Finder App connects with the The goal of this site is to help Publisher iNaturalist online community of users Dan Thomas, 630/941-1351 anglers find new places to go and plan Editor that includes scientists and experts, the best fishing trip possible. Each citizen scientists, Great Lakes Jeanette Thomas location has been verified by fisheries Webmaster enthusiasts, teachers and many park biologists to ensure the information is Joe Nutt, [email protected] employees. Shedd experts actively accurate and up-to-date. Copyright 2014 by Great Lakes Basin curate taxa, help with species The information on Michigan's identification and review guide data. Publications, the INLAND SEAS ANGLERS-GREAT Trout Trails is presented in a map LAKES BASIN REPORT is the newsletter of the Great Make a difference - The Great Lakes format that makes it easy to glean all Lakes Sport Fishing Council, a federally Fish Finder is an initiative of Shedd the necessary information from each recognized not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and recognized for tax-deductible giving by the Aquarium's Daniel P. Haerther Center destination point. The site is mobile- for Conservation and Research. Data federal government. friendly and accessible via any type Opinions expressed are those of the authors submitted by citizen scientists around of device. Additionally, information and not necessarily those of GLSFC, its officers or the region help inform scientific for each of the 129 sites is available staff. Reproduction of any material by paid-up studies and may help identify and members is encouraged, but appropriate credit in a printable format. must be given. Reproduction by others without combat the spread of invasive species Each year we're looking to add that threaten our lakes! The open- written permission is prohibited. additional sites to eventually provide access database format will allow statewide trout trails. We hope it will Address Change: scientists to use this data to assess entice anglers to explore new fishing Send six weeks in advance with old mailing label to GREAT LAKES BASIN REPORT, P.O. Box 297, trends in fish populations, critically locations, opportunities and important due to environmental Elmhurst, IL 60126, (630) 941-1351 or adventures they haven't had before. [email protected]. threats to the Great Lakes To access: michigan.gov/trouttrails. Great Lakes Basin Report 3 NY Saltwater Fishing Michigan - Becoming Lake Michigan Islands Map available online an Outdoors Woman Management Plan now A detailed online map of public Backpacking available for review saltwater fishing sites in New York Workshop Aug. 7-9 The Michigan DNR invites those City is now available. Provided The Michigan Becoming an interested in the management of the through Google Earth, the map Lake Michigan islands to review, ask compliments existing freshwater Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Program is offering a Beyond BOW Backpacking questions and provide input on the fishing information available on draft Northern Lake Michigan Islands DEC’s website. The map provides workshop in Ontonagon County. Scheduled for the weekend of August Management Plan. information on a fishing site’s This plan addresses state- location, the available amenities and 7-9, the program is for women who have previous backpacking managed land administered by the mass transit information. Each site DNR on Beaver, Garden, High, Hog, description includes links to basic experience and would like to expand their abilities. North Fox, South Fox and Whiskey angling and outdoor recreation islands. In May and November 2014, information in New York State. All The workshop starts at 1 p.m. Friday, August 7, with a gear check the DNR hosted public meetings to fishing maps are available on DEC’s gather input from island residents, website at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/ and trip orientation at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in partners, tribal governments, local pubs/42978.html. governments and conservation “The new map will be a valuable Silver City, Michigan. From there, participants will drive to the trailhead organizations. Information from these tool for anglers looking for shoreline meetings then was used to draft the access opportunities in the marine and head out, hiking approximately 3.5 miles with full backpacks to plan. district of New York State,” said It’s been a great process of Commissioner Martens. “Eventually backcountry rustic cabins. Participants are asked to bring their pulling together many different the map will be expanded beyond interests on the use of the state- New York City to the entire marine own camping gear. See registration materials for more detail. All managed land on Lake Michigan district.” islands,” said DNR field operations All saltwater anglers 16 years of participants must have previous backpacking and hiking experience. manager Keith Kintigh. “We’ve used age or older are required to join the the information gathered to draft a free Recreational Marine Fishing “This workshop will hopefully expand on skills you may have been management plan, and it’s now ready Registry. To learn more about New to be reviewed.” York's fishing regulations and taught at previous BOW workshops including backcountry cooking, map Those who would like to information on how to join the comment on the draft plan are asked registry, visit DEC’s website at and compass, wilderness first aid, and hiking,” Pitz said. “The backpacking to email [email protected] http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/54950 before August 31 or attend an open .html. trip will include both days at Mirror Lake with optional day hiking trips house Monday, July 20, from 1 to 4 The saltwater fishing map is also p.m. at the Beaver Island Community available on the official New York and fishing available.” Additional details to consider: School, 37895 King’s Highway on Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife free Beaver Island. Cabins offer a remote setting mobile application (App). For more The Michigan Department of Natural with no electricity or running information on the App, including the Resources is committed to the water. YouTube video link on how to use the conservation, protection, Participants will stay in two-bed advanced GPS mapping and friend management, use and enjoyment of and eight-bed cabins. finder options, visit DEC’s website at the state’s natural and cultural http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/96470 To fish, participants need to resources for current and future .html. purchase a fishing license ahead generations. For more information, go The 2015-16 Enacted Budget of the workshop. The cost is $26 to www.michigan.gov/dnr. included an additional $8 million for for an annual license or $10 for a state land access projects and an 24-hour license. additional $4 million for the state's Participants must be 18 or older. hatcheries in NY Works funding. The Enrollment is limited to 10; the www.michigan.gov/bow. The regis- Budget also creates a new capital registration deadline is July 29. tration fee can be paid online at account which along with federal This is a rain-or-shine event. www.michigan.gov/estore. A fishing Pittman-Robertson funds will be used The cost for this event is $150 and license can be purchased online at: to manage, protect and restore fish includes two nights lodging. www.mdnr-elicense.com. and wildlife habitat, and to improve Class information and For more information, contact and develop public access for fish and registration materials are available Sharon Pitz at 906-228-6561 or email wildlife-related recreation. online at the DNR website at: [email protected].
4 Great Lakes Basin Report
Asian Carp Committee releases 2015 Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework The Asian Carp Regional monitoring and beginning the 2015 Monitoring and Response Plan, Coordinating Committee on June 30 Brandon Road phase of the Great please visit: www.asiancarp.us. announced the release of the 2015 Lakes and Mississippi River Asian Carp Control Strategy Interbasin Study are key components Mich confirms state's Framework. The Framework outlines in the Corps' efforts to keep Asian the steps federal, state, and provincial carp from establishing in the Great first case of chronic partners will take in the fight against Lakes. The Army Corps of Engineers wasting disease in Asian carp. will be working diligently with our The ACRCC’s 2015 Asian Carp partners in the ACRCC to move these white-tailed deer Control Strategy Framework outlines projects forward in the coming year," The Michigan DNR has confirmed new risks to the Great Lakes from said Col. Christopher Drew, that a free-ranging deer in Meridian black carp and grass carp. It also Commander of the U.S. Army Corps Township (Ingham County) has tested highlights nearly $60 million in of Engineers Chicago District. positive for chronic wasting disease, a projects, $16 million of which will be "U.S. Geological Survey fatal neurological disease that affects funded through the Great Lakes scientists are in the lab and field white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and Restoration Initiative, to safeguard the testing and refining Asian carp moose. This is the first time the Great Lakes from invasive Asian control tools and technologies disease has been found in Michigan’s carp. Since the group’s inception in developed over the last few years," free-ranging deer population. In 2008 2009, more than $318 million has said Leon Carl, USGS Midwest a white-tailed deer from a privately been spent in research, control and Regional Director. "We are owned cervid (POC) facility in Kent monitoring efforts. committed to providing these County tested positive for CWD. “We’re moving the fight against resources to our partners to inform The animal was observed last Asian carp from our back yard down Asian carp management decisions." month wandering around a Meridian the alley,” said Cameron Davis, co- Concurrent to the 2015 Framework, Township residence and showing chair of the ACRCC and Senior the ACRCC is releasing the annual signs of illness. The homeowner Advisor to the Administrator at the Monitoring and Response Plan for contacted the Meridian Township U.S. Environmental Protection Asian carp in the Upper Illinois River Police Department, who then sent an Agency. “To protect the lakes, this and Chicago Area Waterway System. officer to euthanize the animal. The Framework shores up our defenses Actions for the 2015 field season are deer was collected by a DNR wildlife near the Great Lakes and focuses our similar to prior years. The focus biologist and delivered for initial efforts further downstream toward the continues to be on monitoring and testing to the DNR Wildlife Disease Mississippi River.” removal of bighead and silver carp Laboratory at the Michigan State “The Framework underscores downstream of the Electric Barrier University Diagnostic Center for that by working together we can and System in the Chicago Area Population and Animal Health in will move the needle on Asian control Waterway System and the upper Lansing, Michigan. After initial tests and management,” said USFWS Illinois Waterway, as well as ongoing were positive, samples were Midwest Deputy Regional Director evaluations of the effectiveness of forwarded to the U.S. Department of Charlie Wooley. “At the request of barriers and gears used to keep Asian Agriculture’s National Veterinary our state partners we will continue to carp from establishing in the CAWS Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, provide our technical assistance in and Lake Michigan. Additionally, for final confirmation. The Michigan Great Lakes monitoring efforts.” agency crews will conduct heightened DNR received that positive Key initiatives in the 2015 evaluations surrounding Brandon confirmation last week. Framework include advancing a U.S. Road Lock and Dam as a potential The DNR asks help from the Army Corps of Engineers study on future control point, consistent with public and hunters in reporting deer new controls at Brandon Road Lock U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Great that are unusually thin and/or and Dam, refining detection and Lakes and Mississippi River exhibiting unusual behavior (for control technologies, and continuing Interbasin Study findings. Summary example, acting tame around humans efforts to suppress fish populations of 2014 findings are posted alongside and allowing someone to approach). through netting. A full list of 2015 the 2015 Monitoring and Response To report a suspicious-looking action items, project descriptions and Plan. deer, call the DNR Wildlife Disease intended outcomes is provided in For more information on the Lab at 517-336-5030 or fill out and Appendix 2 of the Framework. ACRCC and to read the 2015 Asian submit the online observation report "Operating the electric barrier Carp Control Strategy Framework or found on the DNR website. system, undertaking Asian carp Great Lakes Basin Report 5 DEC Campground Creel clerks collect Bluegill can be Features added to NY’s data to aid in fisheries managed more Free Fishing, Hunting management effectively with bag & Wildlife App Michigan DNR managers depend on limits Just in time for the summer season, data when deciding where to stock Many inland fisheries historically new and enhanced features, including fish and when setting fishing have allowed unlimited harvest of information on Adirondack and regulations. Over the years, they’ve panfish, or have extremely liberal bag Catskill campgrounds, are now found that one of the best sources of limits. The management model is that available on the official New York fisheries data is the anglers fishing mortality is usually low and Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife free themselves. Since 1985, the DNR has high harvests benefit angling by mobile application (App), New York conducted a regular creel census at improving growth and preventing State Department of Environmental many of the state’s most popular stunting. However, a new study by Conservation (DEC) Commissioner fishing locations, finding out what Andrew Rypel of the Wisconsin Joe Martens announced. All DEC anglers are doing. DNR, shows this may not be a campgrounds are now included on the Michigan has about 35 fisheries universal truth and that bag limits can free App, complete with full assistants (“creel clerks”) working be used to improve fishing quality. information on locations, amenities, around the state at Great Lakes ports Rypel evaluated a series of lakes activities and GPS directions. and on inland lakes and streams. They with control (25-fish bag limit) and DEC campgrounds in the regularly conduct surveys at some experimental treatments that reduced Adirondack and Catskill Forest waters and intermittently at others; the bag limit to 10 fish. Total length Preserves offer unmatched some are year-round, others are in the increased by about 20 mm in opportunities to enjoy nature with rotation only during the open-water treatment lakes, although the effect attractions ranging from swimming, season. Clerks interview anglers varied with depth; lower water clarity paddling, bicycling, fishing, hiking about their trips and ask about tackle conferred a greater increase, and boating to wildlife exploration and techniques. They also ask presumably because lakes with lower and much more. The App is designed resource-related questions at some water clarity were more productive to provide everything a visitor would places that are determined by local and Bluegills also grew faster. The need to become familiar with a biologists, like, ‘Do you like the effects were also striking in that the property, including contact stocking program? or Is there a good experiment ran for three years, and information, directions, amenities, mix of species? Wisconsin bluegills routinely maps and events. Information is Besides recording catch data, achieved age-10. Thus, the regulation updated regularly in partnership with clerks also weigh and measure fish covered only 20-30% of the lifespan DEC. and take samples ― spines from of individuals in the population. Users can search by location and walleyes, spines or scales from perch, scales from salmon, and jaws from desired activity to find locations near Rypel noted that, although effects lake trout ― from amenable anglers. them to go fishing, hunting, basic were positive, benefits via size On vast bodies of water ― hiking information for campground structure change might take several Saginaw Bay or Lake Erie, for trails and now camping. Users can years to accrue because of the instance ― the DNR uses aerial locate New York’s fishing, hunting regulation-lifespan difference. And surveys to determine how many and wilderness sites and gain although few creel data were anglers are out on the water. That’s immediate access to on-the-spot available to examine angling impacts, happening this year as part of an species profiles, rules and regulations, experimental lakes developed local international creel survey on the and important permits and licensing reputations for quality Bluegill Detroit River, developed in details. Advanced GPS technology fishing. enhances any trek through the woods conjunction with OMNR and USGS, But the most insightful part of the which allows the user to record trails which is funding aerial counts. study was the suggestion that and use waypoints and photo They’re looking for information waypoints to mark traps and keep about everything; writing down as managers need to carefully plan for track of wildlife sightings. much information on freshwater drum success in situations where regulation changes may require years to achieve For more information on the NY and white bass as they are walleye. success. Rypel’s thoughtful analysis Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App, Clerks say there are other of this problem discusses a broad including the YouTube video link on benefits to the job. They get to see range of long-term considerations that how to use the advanced GPS what lures are working, what colors; mapping and friend finder options, and a lot of information about what’s apply to managers considering any visit DEC’s website at going on. Learn about Michigan’s type of long-term management strategy. http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/964 creel survey work on the DNR
70.html. website www.michigan.gov/fishing. 6 Great Lakes Basin Report
Hunting Access Program offers incentives for landowners Landowners looking to make the most USDA grant, the DNR – in Landowners may choose more of their land can support local hunting collaboration with Michigan than one option, such as deer and traditions and economy, improve their Department of Agriculture and Rural turkey hunting only. In order to land, and get paid to do it through the Development and local conservation manage the number of hunters using DNR’s Hunting Access Program. The districts – plans to continue HAP lands at any one time, hunters DNR encourages landowners to expanding the program over the next are required to register to hunt each consider enrolling their lands in the three years. time they visit the property. The program, which provides private-land According to DNR wildlife landowner can select either a hunting opportunities in southern biologist Mike Parker, “Providing mandatory registration at their home Michigan and the eastern Upper access to hunting lands that are close or a hunter self-registration box, Peninsula. Landowners with at least to home is critical for supporting which the DNR will provide and 40 acres are eligible to enroll. Michigan’s strong hunting heritage. install. The maximum number of Michigan's Hunting Access Our commitment to providing access hunters allowed on the property is Program (HAP) was created in 1977 has more than tripled the number of determined by the total acreage, as to increase public hunting farms enrolled in HAP the past three well as the habitat type. Leases are for opportunities in southern Michigan, years. We now have over 140 farms a two-year period, with annual where 97% of the land base is and nearly 16,000 acres available for payments made each spring. privately owned. Landowners public hunting. To ensure landowner and hunter enrolled in the program receive an Landowners have the ability to satisfaction, HAP offers landowner annual payment, up to $25 an acre, choose which types of hunting are liability protection. Public Act 451 of for allowing hunters to access their allowed on their lands. Hunting 1994 addresses the concerns some lands. HAP, one of the oldest options include: landowners have over sharing access dedicated private-lands public-access All hunting to their land. In addition, HAP lands programs in the nation, provides Youth & apprentice hunting only are patrolled by conservation officers, access to quality hunting lands close Small game hunting only with an increased focus on patrolling to urban properties. Deer hunting only during the busy fall hunting season. Using funds from the new Sharptail grouse hunting only www.michigan.gov/hap hunting license package and a new
HSUS petition fails to fracture alliances On June 30, the U.S. Fish and room for misguided emotion when it hunting if population levels Wildlife Service rejected a petition by comes to managing wildlife, and drop―just as with every other species the Humane Society of the United USFWS clearly agrees.” of wildlife throughout the nation that States concerning the listing of gray By proposing to list wolves as enjoys scientific management. wolves under the Endangered Species threatened, HSUS hoped to split the In February, the Sportsmen’s Act. The petition requested that the powerful alliance of sportsmen, Alliance and our partners appealed a status of gray wolves across the agriculture and wildlife professionals. misguided and shortsighted federal contiguous United States be changed Under a “threatened” listing, more ruling made on December 20 that put from “endangered” to “threatened,” leeway exists to manage wolves wolves back under federal protection. excepting Mexican wolves in the preying on livestock. However, this “The court’s decision to reinstate Southwest, which would remain as “compromise” is not based on facts or federal protections until wolves endangered status. HSUS couched science, and would, as a practical recover across the entire country is this request under the guise of matter, would prevent proper wolf not only misguided, it ignores years attempting to appear moderate and in management that includes hunting. of policy to the contrary,” said search of compromise. Neither is true With wolf populations rapidly Pinizzotto. “It’s clear to everyone and the Sportsmen’s Alliance expanding, and no other scientific involved that wolves have not only applauds USFWS for seeing it as an reason to keep gray wolves listed recovered, but are growing. But the unwarranted smokescreen. under the protections of the real story here is that HSUS and their “This petition was nothing less Endangered Species Act, USFWS allies can’t stand the thought of a wolf than the radical HSUS trying to push correctly rejected the petition. hunting season. Instead, they are its agenda on yet another wildlife Not only has USFWS rejected bound and determined to waste management issue that they are in no the petition, in their evaluation of the hundreds of thousands of taxpayer way qualified to deal with,” said Nick evidence, they found that hunting is dollars in legal costs to prevent proper Pinizzotto, Sportsmen’s Alliance not a threat to wolves because state management of wolves.” president and CEO. “There is no management plans put limits on Great Lakes Basin Report 7 Bring only approved Illinois DNR deer $450,000 to improve firewood onto state permit regulations public safety and lands changes upgrade DEC Trails Unfilled youth permits can be The Minnesota DNR wants to remind Projects to enhance public safety and used during first regular firearm visitors that only approved firewood provide additional access to the season is allowed on lands administered by popular Kaaterskill Falls area of the the DNR, such as state parks, state SPRINGFIELD, IL – Participants in Catskill Forest Preserve in Greene forests and wildlife management Illinois’ Youth Firearm Deer Season County are underway. Because of areas. Firewood restrictions are in October will be able to use unfilled safety risks associated with the needed to help prevent the permits from the youth season during construction, public access to the falls introduction or spread of damaging the first weekend of the regular area will be restricted through the forest pests, including emerald ash Firearm Deer Season in November. 2015 summer hiking season. borer, gypsy moth and oak wilt. The three-day Youth Firearm Access to the falls will only be Firewood that can be used on Deer Season, conducted during the allowed from the Kaaterskill Falls state administered lands must be Columbus Day holiday weekend on trailhead located on NY Route 23A. offered for sale by the DNR at that October 10-12 this fall, is open to DEC will prohibit public access past location or: youth hunters who have not reached the wooden fences at the base of the 1. Be acquired from a DNR- their 16th birthday prior to the hunt. falls. The Laurel House Road parking approved firewood vendor who sells Youth who purchase the $10.50 area near the top of the falls will be firewood harvested within 50 miles permit for the youth season and are closed and visitors will not have from where it will be burned, or from unsuccessful in taking a deer during access to Kaaterskill Falls from the a DNR-approved firewood vendor. A the youth hunt will be able to hunt parking area for the remainder of the vendor ticket, bundle label or sales with that permit during the first hiking season. receipt must accompany the firewood. segment of the regular Firearm Deer DEC contractors will construct a 2. Be kiln-dried, clean (unpainted Season, which this fall is November new trail from the end of the marked and unstained) dimensional lumber 20-22. The youth permit plan is part Kaaterskill Falls trail at the base of that is free of any metal or foreign of amended Illinois deer hunting the falls to the Escarpment trail at the substance. Pallet boards are not regulations being proposed by the top. This 0.2-mile trail will include considered approved firewood. IDNR for implementation this fall. construction of a new 260-foot stone There is one exception: Those The IDNR is also proposing staircase, with 200 stone steps. camping on state forest land outside elimination of the non-resident single In addition, a 300-foot spur trail of a designated campground may antlerless-only over-the-counter will lead from the staircase to a point gather dead wood on the ground for archery deer permit. IDNR will above the middle pool of the falls. At campfire use on site. submit an amended regulation to limit the end of this trail, DEC contractors The DNR encourages visitors to the sale of those permits only to will install another shorter set of stone burn all firewood purchased from a hunters who have already obtained a stairs to provide access to the middle park before leaving or to return non-resident combination (either-sex pool area. The staircase will be unopened bundles for a refund. If and antlerless) archery deer permit, designed to blend in with the natural visitors are not able to burn all beginning in 2016. Non-resident stone of the area at a location that will firewood purchased outside the park, single antlerless-only archery permits limit its visibility from below. DEC they should leave any leftover will be unavailable this fall, although will also build a fully accessible trail firewood with the camp host or at the an antlerless-only permit will still be leading to a viewing area and over- campsite for use by the next camper. available as part of the combination look platform at the top of the falls. It’s important that visitors not take archery permit. The new trails and stone staircase firewood home because it could move IDNR is also considering will accommodate the public’s desire forest pests to a new location. amending regulations to have a bag for access to a better view of The DNR also recommends that limit for archery deer hunters. A Kaaterskill Falls and the middle pool people avoid transporting wood from recent online survey regarding an area, while also protecting public their home area to their lake cabin or archery deer bag limit showed broad safety. In recent years, DEC has taken other recreation sites around the state. support among those participating in additional steps to prevent people The best firewood is local or MDA or the survey. More detailed questions from continuing past the end of the USDA-APHIS certified firewood. For on the bag limit idea will be included marked Kaaterskill Falls trail, more information, including a list of in the statewide IDNR Deer Hunter including signs warning of potential approved firewood vendors, visit Harvest Survey in early 2016. risks, but some people ignored the www.mndnr.gov/firewood/index.ht Review proposed regulations at warnings and put themselves in ml http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/adrules/ danger by continuing past the fence. Pages/Proposed.aspx. 8 Great Lakes Basin Report
Steelhead at Michigan's Tippy Dam Many anglers while away their days days they've come out of Lake the next mile or so downstream from dreaming about catching Michigan and they show up at the the dam. There are a number of ways steelhead―but they're often limited to dam. That's when they're willing to to fish for Tippy Dam steelhead, key parts of the year associated with bite." including with lures (wobbling plugs their spawning runs. But there is a Tonello explained the steelhead like hot 'n tots and fin/fins), spinners spot, along the Manistee River in are tied to Lake Michigan conditions and spoons, fly fishing, or bait (wax Manistee County, which can offer and experienced anglers will know to worms, night crawlers or spawn anglers an unfathomable number of watch the lake for a rollover to occur. bags). opportunities to target this This usually happens in July and As the seasons change and trout―Tippy Dam. August as the beaches warm up and a summer turns into fall, Tonello For at least the last 20 years the hard east or northeast wind blows in explains there will be lots of fishing DNR has annually been stocking and pushes the warm water out and pressure at the dam as folks target around 34,000 Skamania-strain cold water takes its place on the beach salmon. To their pleasant surprise steelhead and 50,000 Little Manistee- and goes into the harbor. That, and/or they'll often catch steelhead during strain steelhead at Tippy Dam. These rain, will cause the steelhead to run. those trips―and they might event stocked fish―in addition to the Anglers that can be present for land a brown trout. natural reproduction occurring the steelhead's first few days on site "We stock 60,000 brown trout at there―have produced a consistently will want to head out early in the Tippy Dam every year," said Tonello. busy fishery anglers clamor for. morning― around the first hour after "A lot of people come thinking they According to Mark Tonello, the daybreak―as cooler water want to catch steelhead, but they DNR fisheries biologist who manages temperatures will encourage more know the fall back fish is definitely the Manistee River watershed, the bites. On days that are overcast and brown trout." steelhead arrive at Tippy Dam in cooler you can also see their activity At one time the Manistee River waves year-round, much to the pick up. below Tippy Dam was the most delight of anglers. "If Tippy Dam gets water heavily fished river in the state as "The typical spring run fish will temperatures up into the 70s steelhead creel census data from 1999 to 2004 linger into early June, and then the fishing will be difficult," cautions showed on average 550,000 angler summer run begins," he explained. Tonello. "At that point they're just hours there each year. Who can blame "Those summer run fish will be trying to survive and it can be very them for stopping by? On top of around in October and November and tough to get them to bite." As far as steelhead and brown trout populations then you'll also start to see the fall run where to fish specifically at Tippy anglers can also try their hand at fish―and they stay all winter long!" Dam, Tonello advocates for the little catching walleye, smallmouth bass The key to taking advantage of coffer dam right below the main dam, and northern pike. With all these this unique fishery is understanding approximately 200 yards below. opportunities and more available conditions that drive the fish to Tippy "That coffer is a neat spot to fish throughout Manistee County, a future Dam and the techniques to try when because it's almost like a little lake," trip just might be worth it! targeting them. Luckily Tonello is an Tonello said. "Those fish tend to run Want even more in-depth expert and shared countless insights! up and jump the coffer dam and information on Tippy Dam Pond and "You've got to target the they'll end up right below the below Tippy Dam? Check out their steelhead when they're turbines." Tonello also suggests Status of the Fishery Resource fresh―meaning within the first few targeting the deeper runs and holes in Reports (linked above).
Public meeting July 22 IL Conservation World IL Hunter Safety to discuss Lake Attend the 2015 Illinois State Fair in Courses Gogebic walleye Springfield and visit Conservation World on the fairgrounds, Aug. 14- Begin planning for the upcoming regulations 23. Conservation World features 30 2015-16 hunting seasons in Illinois by checking the schedule of IDNR The Michigan DNR will host a public acres of family activities including fishing, archery, and family Hunter Safety Education courses. meeting Wednesday, July 22, to Classes fill up quickly, so check the review the minimum size limit for entertainment, plus expert info on habitat enhancement, state parks, IDNR website for scheduled classes, possessing walleye on Lake Gogebic more of which are added each week. in Michigan’s UP. The meeting will wildlife, fish, and forestry. Conservation World is open every The web link is run 7 - 9 p.m. (EST) at the Marenisco www.dnr.illinois.gov/safety. Township Hall, 314 Hall St. day 10–7 PM. www.illinois.gov/statefair. Great Lakes Basin Report 9
Power of Prediction: Avian fatalities at wind facilities
The U.S. Geological Survey, in others,” said Leslie New, assistant combined with delayed reproduction collaboration with the U.S. Fish and professor of statistics at Washington and small brood size means that there Wildlife Service, has released a study State University, who led the research are potential population-level effects that will enable ecologists, managers, project as a USGS postdoctoral of this additional source of mortality. policy makers, and industry to predict fellow. “It also allows wind facility Golden eagles are protected the bird fatalities at a wind facility developers to consider ways to reduce under the Bald and Golden Eagle prior to it being constructed. bird fatalities without having to Protection Act and the Migratory Bird The study examined golden collect a complicated set of data.” Treaty Act. The combination of law, eagles as a case study because they High rates of bird fatalities do not conservation concerns, and are susceptible to collisions with wind occur at every wind facility. The renewable-energy development led turbines in part because of their geographic location, local the USFWS to develop a permitting soaring and hunting behavior. topographic features, the bird species process for wind facilities. The Bird fatalities due to collisions and its life history, as well as other USFWS permitting process requires with rotating turbine blades are a factors all play a role in the number of that fatality predictions be made in leading concern for wildlife and wind fatalities. Taking advantage of advance of a wind facility’s facility managers. This new model publically available information, construction. This allows the facility’s builds upon previous approaches by research scientists incorporated a impact to be assessed and any directly acknowledging uncertainty wealth of biological knowledge into mitigation measures related to turbine inherent in predicting these fatalities. their model to improve fatality placement on the landscape to be Furthermore, the computer code predictions. taken. The new model was developed provided makes it possible for other “Uncertainty in this model can be specifically for the purpose of researchers and managers to readily reduced once data on the actual assessing take as part of the apply the model to their own data. number of fatalities are available at an preconstruction permitting process. The model looks at only three operational wind facility,” said New. The study supports a parameters: hazardous footprint, bird To establish the utility of their conservative approach and the exposure to turbines and collision approach, the scientists applied their researchers’ model is used to inform probability. “This simplicity is part of model to golden eagles at a Wyoming this permitting process and balance what makes the model accessible to wind facility. Their long-life span management of eagle fatalities.
DNR to host meetings in July regarding changes to fishing regulations The Michigan DNR has announced a Meeting dates, times and locations: meeting (covering three schedule of public meetings in July to Southern Lake Michigan management units). These include discuss several fishing regulation Wednesday, July 29, 7 - 8 p.m. proposals to 1) modify the one- changes proposed for 2016. (EST) at D&R Sports Center, over-23" walleye slot limit The major issues to be discussed 8178 W. Main St. in Kalamazoo. boundary line for Little Bay de are in relation to a proposed list of Central Lake Michigan Noc, and 2) change the fishing catch-and-delayed-release lakes for Monday, July 27, 6 - 7:30 p.m. regulations for lake sturgeon on the bass-fishing tournaments, chumming (EST) at John Graves Lodge, Menominee River between the regulations, and a steelhead bag limit 4684 Evergreen Drive (M-37) in Park Mill dam and the Grand reduction for four rivers. Newaygo. Rapids dam. Sixteen water bodies are being Tuesday, July 28, 6 - 7:30 p.m. Lake Erie proposed for catch-and-delayed- (EST) at Onekama Consolidated Tuesday, July 21, 7 - 8:30 p.m. release bass tournaments. Catch-and- Schools’ media center, 5016 Main (EST) at the Waterford Fisheries delayed-release means temporarily St. in Onekama. Office, holding bass in a live-well for Northern Lake Michigan/Eastern 7806 Gale Road in Waterford. tournament weigh-in purposes. The & Western Lake Superior Northern Lake Huron change to chumming regulations Thursday, July 30, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 6:30 - 8 p.m. refers to allowing no more than 1 (EST) at the DNR Pocket Park in (EST) at the Tuscarora Township quart of chum in an angler’s the U.P. Hall, possession. The proposal to reduce State Fairgrounds, 2401 12th Ave. 3546 S. Straits Highway in Indian the steelhead bag limit pertains to the North in Escanaba. River. Muskegon, Pere Marquette, Little o Please note, two additional Meeting details also available on Manistee and Big Manistee rivers. proposed regulation changes will michigan.gov/fishing. be discussed at this particular 10 Great Lakes Basin Report USFWS helps state Apply by Aug. 14 for Freshwater Net partners take a stand MN youth deer hunts Aquaculture in the against Asian carp Minnesota youth have until Friday, Great Lakes: a Dialog, The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service August 14, to apply for one of 18 Aug 24, St Ignace, MI special deer hunts in October and Midwest Region is pleased to On August 24 there will be a full day announce $800,000 in funding to November. Youth can hunt in select state parks and other refuge areas meeting to exchange dialogue over assist state partners in the Upper open water fish production in the Mississippi River and Ohio River with a parent, guardian or mentor during these annual opportunities. Of Great Lakes. All stakeholder groups basins in their Asian carp prevention from the state of Michigan are and control efforts. The funding the 18 special hunts, 16 are firearms hunts for youth 12-15, and two are encouraged to participate. If you are comes from a $2.3 million increase in interested in knowing how freshwater the Service’s 2015 base budget to archery hunts for youth 12-17. Participating in a youth deer hunt net-pen aquaculture is utilized in support integrated Asian carp Canada, or wish to share your management efforts outside of the does not prevent the youth from participating in the regular firearms concerns, this is an ideal opportunity. Great Lakes basin. The stated goal is to Educate & deer season, but any deer harvested do count against the youth’s season Inform – Initiate a public dialog as we Asian carp species, including explore how our water resources can bighead, silver, black and grass, are bag limit. An adult parent, guardian or mentor must accompany the youth best be deployed for society's benefit unwelcome invaders to the Midwest’s and delivering fresh, healthy, and waterways. As directed by Congress at all times while hunting, but only the youth may hunt. Both youth and affordable seafood. All interested in the Water Resources Reform and stakeholders are invited. Moderated Development Act (2014), the U.S. mentor must attend a mandatory pre- hunt orientation clinic. panels, including both US and Fish and Wildlife Service is helping Canadian stakeholders, will address to coordinate response actions in the Youth must apply for their hunt of choice, which can be done at any specific topics/issues ― including Upper Mississippi River and Ohio nutrients, fish health, genetics, River basins to protect local DNR license agent, the DNR License Center at 500 Lafayette Road in St. ecosystem stewardship, and best economies that depend on outdoor practices ― followed by Q&A and recreation tied to healthy lakes, rivers Paul, or online at www.mndnr.gov/ buyalicense. For archery hunts, apply group discussion and streams. Funding was distributed Location is the Kewadin Casino evenly between the two basins, with with code 630; for firearms hunts, apply with code 631. Conference Center, St. Ignace, MI, priority projects focused on August 24, 9 – 5 pm. RSVP to understanding the distribution and For more info visit www.mndnr.gov/discover and click [email protected] movement of Asian carp, the impact of the invasive fish on native fish, and on youth deer hunts. removal of Asian carp from the water. DNR hearing on rule Following is a breakdown of funding Apply by Aug 10 for related to commercial in each basin by state: MN mentored youth harvest of chubs Ohio River Basin: waterfowl hunts The Wisconsin DNR will hold a Kentucky Total: $240,149 Youth ages 12 to 15 can apply for the public hearing on permanent rule FH- West Virginia Total: $95,000 chance to hunt waterfowl under the 10-12 to revise ch. NR 25 related to Indiana Total: $62,351 guidance of experienced mentors on commercial harvest of chubs from Pennsylvania Total: $2,500 Minnesota Youth Waterfowl Day, Lake Michigan, July 29, 2015, 6:30 to Saturday, September 12. 8:30 p.m. (Download and read the Upper Mississippi River Basin: Application forms must be Rule Order) at Lakeshore Technical Minnesota Total: $140,000 received at the DNR central office by College, Wells Fargo Room, 1290 Illinois Total: $175,000 Monday, August 10. Applicants will North Ave, Cleveland, WI 53015. Missouri Total: $85,000 be drawn in a lottery, with preference Written comments may also be given to novice hunters. Applicants submitted at the public hearings, by will be notified within two weeks of regular mail, fax or email to David the hunt, and those chosen must Boyarski, DNR, 110 S. Neenah Ave., attend an orientation on Friday, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or September 11. David.Boyarski@ wisconsin.gov no Info and an application can be later than July 31, 2015. found at www.mndnr.gov/discover Hearing Info: (Download and by clicking on “Mentored Youth read the public Notice of Hearing) Waterfowl Hunt.” Great Lakes Basin Report 11 Gobies compete when crowded Flathead catfish IL BOW workshop Continued from page 1 Illinois anglers are reminded of new The IDNR invites women to register abundant that it’s going to have more regulations regarding flathead catfish now for the next ‘Becoming an impact. Understanding how species on the Fox River, and on the Wabash Outdoors Woman’ workshop, have different impacts on different River and Ohio River. New September 25-27 at Pere Marquette ecosystems is helpful in determining regulations on the Fox River from the State Park, Grafton. This workshop is where to put our increasingly limited Wisconsin border, through the Chain designed to provide introductory resources so we get the most bang for O’Lakes, to the mouth at the Illinois instruction in outdoor-related the buck,” Vander Zanden said. River, including tributaries, allow activities. The $175 BOW fee This experiment was part of a anglers to harvest one flathead catfish includes meals, housing, giveaways, project that looked at the presence per day 28" or larger and two flathead use of class supplies, and and impacts of round gobies in Great catfish between 13" and less than 28". transportation during the workshop. Lakes streams. Several years ago, the On the Wabash and Ohio rivers, in Registration is limited. Workshop and students found gobies in streams that cooperation with Indiana and registration materials can be found at: drain into Lake Michigan. “We were Kentucky, the new flathead catfish www.dnr.illinois.gov/recreation/BO just shocked that this species that regulation is one fish per day 35" or W, Registration Form, Scholarship lives in huge lakes was moving into larger and unlimited harvest between Application. Mitch Ingold, BOW these tiny little streams because 13" and less than 35". On the Fox, Coordinator, 217-782-7026, they’re such a different habitat,” Wabash and Ohio, no flathead catfish [email protected]. Vander Zanden said. “Even in their may be harvested less than 13" in native range in the Black and Caspian length. The regulations are intended Ammo background seas in Europe, they only live in large to prevent overharvest of flathead rivers and lakes.” catfish. For more info: checks suspended in He set Kornis on the case, who www.dnr.illinois.gov or New York confirmed that the gobies were living www.ifishillinois.org. They were billed as a centerpiece of and expanding their range upstream every year by a third to a half of a NY Governor Cuomo's 2013 SAFE mile. “For a fish that normally has a IL boat registration Act, but in a default victory for New small home range—like the size of a The IDNR reminds boat owners in York gun owners, the National person’s living room—this is a very Illinois to check their three-year boat Shooting Sports Foundation reports rapid range expansion,” Kornis said. registration/decal and renew their that background checks for New York He suspects the pressure of living in registration if it expired on June 30, ammunition purchases have been the higher stream temperatures and 2015. Renewing watercraft scrapped. An agreement between finding food, which is relatively less registration can be done online. Just Republican Senate Majority Leader abundant in streams, may be the click to the Boating Registration page John Flanagan and Director of causes of their spread. “Unlike many on the IDNR website at Operations Jim Lamatras suspends native species, round gobies are built www.dnr.illinois.gov/boating or call this section of the SAFE Act. The to feed on zebra mussels and quagga 1-866-867-3542. To renew agreement goes on to stipulate that no mussels, which are plentiful in the registration, have available the state money will be used to Great Lakes but usually absent in watercraft’s Illinois registration implement the database, meaning the streams. Gobies in streams must number, the first six characters of the ban on internet sales of ammunition is compete with every other fish for the watercraft’s hull ID number, the first also discontinued. The State Police same food. He used this information three letters of the registered owner’s also acknowledged there is a "lack of to develop a simulation model that last name, and a credit card. technology" for supporting the predicts the gobies’ range expansion database. in streams. Famous last words MI fall turkey hunting Ethanol increase “The opinion which gives to the Continued from page 1 judges the right to decide what laws applications available being met with opposition by the are constitutional and what not, not The Michigan DNR reminds hunters biofuels industry. only for themselves, in their own fall turkey hunting applications now “As the blend wall creeps up, sphere of action, but for the are available through Aug. 1. The we’re concerned about the continued Legislature and Executive also in application fee is $5. Applications availability of E10, which we are their spheres, would make the and licenses may be purchased at any required to use, and E0,” which has Judiciary a despotic branch. … The authorized license agent or online at seen increasing use in the marine Constitution…is a mere thing of wax www.mdnr-elicense.com. The 2015 industry, NMMA legal and regulatory in the hands of the judiciary which season runs Sept. 15 to Nov. 14. Info: affairs director Nicole Vasilaros said they may twist and shape into any www.michigan.gov/turkey. after the initial announcement. form they please.” –Thomas Jefferson 12 Great Lakes Basin Report Share ideas on state MI DNR offers August June's job gains are forest planning bear hunting clinics good, but the devil's in The Michigan DNR will host an open The Michigan DNR will offer bear the details house July 23, 3-6 PM in Vanderbilt hunting clinics in Cadillac and The U.S. economy is like a car that to talk about proposed timber sales Escanaba August 1, and at the won't shift from second gear into and other forest management Johnson Hunt and Fish Center in third: It's moving forward and that's activities for 2017 in the Pigeon River Cadillac August 8, 9 and 15. The great, but we're not on the road that Country State Forest. At over 105,000 class will run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. brings 3% GDP growth. The Bureau acres, the PRC is the largest The fee is $25, which includes of Labor Statistics released its June contiguous block of public land in the door prizes, a DNR bear patch and jobs report and the economy added Lower Peninsula and home to lunch. Registration is required. For 233,000 jobs and the unemployment Michigan’s only wild elk herd. It is more info and to register, please visit rate declined to 5.3%. The U-6 located in southeastern Cheboygan www.michigan.gov/huntfishcenter or measure of labor underutilization County and northeastern Otsego contact Edward Shaw at 231-779- dropped to 10.5%. But here comes the County. The open house is set for 1321 or [email protected]. frustrating part. The percentage of Pigeon River Country headquarters, Americans who are working declined 9966 Twin Lakes Road, Vanderbilt. by 0.3% to 62.6%, the lowest since www.michigan.gov/forestplan 1977. In fact, 432,000 Americans left the workforce — about twice the number that joined last month. Additionally, wages didn't rise from last month's $24.95 average hourly wage.
Other Breaking News Items: (Click on title or URL to read full article)
Climate change threatens Lake Erie's yellow perch Research has suggested yellow perch grow more rapidly during the short winters resulting from climate change, but a new study shows warmer water temperatures can lead to the production of less hardy eggs and larvae that have trouble surviving these early stages of life in Lake Erie.
New bridge to be built over St. Marys River Another bridge will soon span part of the St. Marys River and it's going to be good for the environment and local fishing, say U.S. officials.
Early surveys reveal good numbers of newly-hatched Lake Erie walleye Ohio fisheries experts used trawl nets throughout June to keep an eye on the spring spawning success of Lake Erie walleye and yellow perch. The real indicator will be the August samplings, but the early results should make anglers very happy
Alewife decline threatens Lake Michigan's salmon fishery Squeezed between invasive quagga and zebra mussels competing for food at the bottom of the food web and ravenous salmon at the top, alewives are quickly disappearing from Lake Michigan.
Great Lakes water levels at highest point in years Water levels in Lake Michigan are almost a foot higher than they were last year and are still rising. The Great Lakes hit record lows just a few years ago, creating wide beaches and shallow marinas
EDITORIAL: As the Asian carp swim closer, Obama fails to act The bighead and silver carp keep swimming. And President Barack Obama keeps treading water. Luckily, Congress and the Great Lake states recognize the danger if predatory Asian carp get into the Great Lakes system and disrupt its multimillion-dollar sport-fishing and tourism industry.
Fly fishing clinics to be held on Lake Erie Anglers interested in learning the art of fly fishing and practicing their skills on a half-mile section of Cold Creek at the Castalia State Fish Hatchery in Erie County are encouraged to enter a lottery for beginning fly fishing clinics
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