Biologist Nick Starzl gives a presentation to event participants. - FWS photo

The Genoa hatchery staff assisted neighbors on the River by staffing an outreach display, during Kids Fishing Day, August 5th. 

The Corps of Engineers Blackhawk Park was the site for the event which draws participants from the 3-state area (Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin). 

Hatchery staff were on hand to set up an aquarium and display featuring Upper Mississippi River fish and mussels for more than 100 kids to see and touch. The displays featured live sturgeon, mussels, and flathead catfish. 

The youths were divided into five groups who enjoyed a 15-minute presentation on fish identification, fish habitat requirements, and fish behavior.  They were then turned loose to try their luck fishing in the river. 

This cooperative effort is a unique opportunity to partner with a federal agency to promote a conservation message to the next generation of natural resource stewards.