The Alpena Fishery Resources Office  got the word out about aquatic invasive species, during Michigan's Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week, May 22-28.  Biologist Bowen met with and provided invasive species materials to over 45 bait and license vendors along the St. Marys River and Lake Huron shoreline from Sault Ste. Marie to Bay City, Michigan. 

The goal of the effort was to make vendors and anglers aware of invasive species that may spread into nearby areas.  WATCH identification cards were provided with information about two invasive fish species, the Eurasian ruffe and the round goby. 

Both species have been found within the Lake Huron basin and other areas of the Great Lakes.  They are thought to compete with native species for food and habitat resources.  Both are able to become abundant quickly and have become a nuisance in areas where they are found. 

The Alpena FRO surveys Lake Huron and St. Marys River locations for new and existing populations of these species.  Neither species has been found in the St. Marys River.

The WATCH cards aid in the identification of these invasives, and explains to anglers how they can help prevent the spread of invasive species and how to report an invasive sighting.  We are hopeful anglers will take steps to prevent the spread of invasives and will report any unusual fish they catch to the Alpena FRO or their local DNR office.