Public meeting set for Dec. 1 in Ashland on Lake Superior fisheries management
ASHLAND, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is inviting anglers, commercial fishers, conservation stakeholders and interested citizens to attend a public meeting on Dec. 1 at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland to discuss Lake Superior fisheries management plans including the lake trout harvest outlook for 2015.
For the coming year, lake trout population assessments show lower numbers of fish will meet the minimum size range of 15 inches, although models indicate that relatively strong lake trout reproduction in 2008 and 2009 should result in higher fish numbers and harvest quotas beginning in 2016. Public input is being sought to identify local fisheries issues, opportunities and challenges. The meeting aims to ensure all aspects of the fishery are considered and increase awareness of the resource.
DNR is interested in exploring management options with the public and welcomes diverse viewpoints from stakeholders. The department will use the public comments it gathers as well as the latest scientific findings in working to sustain and enhance the fishery.
For the 2015 season, DNR anticipates reduced limits that will affect commercial, recreational and tribal anglers. A temporary rule will be proposed to cover the season for commercial and recreational anglers while long-term sustainability is discussed among stakeholders.
The Dec. 1 public meeting in Ashland will run from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, 29270 County Highway G, Ashland, WI 54806. (Agenda [PDF]) In addition to collecting comments at the meeting, citizens may provide feedback by mailing Terry L. Margenau, Lake Superior fisheries supervisor, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 589, 141 S. Third St., Bayfield, WI 54814; or emailing Terry.margenau@wisconsin.gov.
More information about the Lake Superior Fisheries Management meeting and about fishing Lake Superior is available on the DNR website dnr.wi.gov.
CONTACTS: Bill Cosh, DNR spokesman, 608-267-2773, William.Cosh@Wisconsin.gov; Jennifer Sereno, communications, 608-770-8084; Jennifer.Sereno@wisconsin.gov.