WHAT DOES FUTURE HOLD FOR POPULAR FISH IN WISCONSIN?

Temperatures in Wisconsin lakes have been rising steadily over the past several years. This presents serious consequences for the fish population.

Frank Pratt, retired DNR fisheries biologist, and the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, hosted by the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service, will hold a series of presentations throughout central Wisconsin to discuss the phenomenon. Events will be held on the following dates and locations:

  • February 26, 7 p.m., UW Center for Civic Engagement, Wausau
  • February 27, 6:30 pm, Mead Wildlife Center, Milladore
  • February 28, 6 p.m., TB Scott Library, Merrill

After a 37-year career with the DNR, Pratt studied fluctuations in fish populations and resulting environmental changes.  With the water and air temperatures increasing, “our growing season is getting longer,” Pratt said.

The result is that sunfish, largemouth bass and crappie grow larger and have a better chance of surviving and reproducing. Conversely, popular game fish species like trout, walleye, musky and northern pike are “at a competitive disadvantage.”

Following Pratt’s talk, members of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby will share strategies for addressing climate change. Notably, they will explain the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, a bipartisan bill that places a fee on carbon emissions, then allocates that fee back to American taxpayers every month.

The events are co-sponsored by WIPPS, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, the Aldo Leopold Audubon Society and the T.B. Scott Library.