Recently, our Fisheries Division gave me the responsibility for setting up a statewide survey program on headwater streams. We are trying to find out something about species assemblages in small streams where we either lack fisheries information or the data we have is out-dated. All of this effort will compliment our Environmental Review and Coordination program by providing our biologists with updated information on our streams. In addition to our sampling efforts, we have an active management program. Our biologists look for opportunities to improve access to streams and rivers and participate in efforts to educate groups on the importance of our streams and rivers.
Biologists also support efforts of citizen water quality monitoring groups around the state.
Our Division has an active program to provide passage for anadromous fish around coastal dams. We also participate in watershed management efforts in conjunction with other agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service. We also recently became more involved in riparian restoration efforts within the state. Finally, the Department is involved in stocking muskie and walleye in suitable warmwater streams. We recently completed a study to help us adjust muskie stocking rates to the available habitat.