Statement from DNR Sec. Stepp on Wisconsin Walleye Initiative
May 22, 2013
Contact(s): Mike Staggs, DNR fisheries management director, 608-267-0796; Bill Cosh, DNR spokesperson, 608-267-2773
MADISON - In response to Gov. Scott Walker’s announcement today unveiling the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative, making available significant funding for use by state, tribal, and private fish hatcheries to produce additional walleye for Wisconsin’s lakes, Department of Natural Resources Sec. Cathy Stepp has issued the following statement:
I am very pleased that the Department of Natural Resources was able to work with Governor Walker and the legislature to develop and now announce the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative, a funding mechanism that will allow for substantial investment in the state’s walleye fishery, economy, and our ability to enhance our partnerships with tribes in the improvement of a shared resource.
Through the initiative we were able to follow through on discussions held recently with the Chippewa tribes, where ideas for improving the walleye fishery were shared. I value the opportunity to work with the tribes to utilize allocated funds to improve infrastructure at tribal aquaculture facilities to enhance stocking capabilities.
I am also very excited that $250,000 will be available annually to expand the summer Tribal Youth Program, a successful ongoing state and tribal partnership project engaging tribal and nontribal youth in recreational outdoor activities together. In doing so, the initiative goes beyond walleye and supports the future of conservation and collaboration.
One can’t talk about walleye in Wisconsin without also talking about the economy. The initiative aims to have a positive impact on both. For one, it supports private businesses by expanding our capability to work with the private aquaculture industry to purchase walleye for stocking.
Additionally, it recognizes that angling is a major industry for Wisconsin, with walleye being the most sought after game fish. Nearly 1.4 million licensed anglers fish in Wisconsin each year. These anglers contribute greatly to local economies and the tourism industry in the state.
Those who enjoy, harvest and depend on the walleye fishery seem to agree that we need more fish, especially in the north. We look forward to partnering on the initiative to meet that need for the benefit of all.