Tim Smigielski, Fish Biologist with Jordan River NFH connected many children with Service programs at the MDNR Fish Fest

For the second time in the past three years fishery biologist Tim Smigielski attended the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Annual Fish Fest at Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery.  This year, the whole family signed up to work the event.  Tim's wife Janet and his daughter Jill (9) played to their strengths and helped out making fish prints for kids.  Tim's son Luke (12) an expert angler for his age, braved the heavy rains assisting youngsters at the catch and release fishing pond. He provided valuable casting instruction.  Tim staffed a booth promoting the Service's "Let's Go Outside" initiative.  He spoke with nearly nine hundred visitors in two days.  There were many questions about connecting with nature, sea lamprey, fish stocking and aquatic invasive species. Even though the rains were relentless, nearly 1500 visitors attended the two day festival.   Tim has developed several partnerships with the MDNR since he came to the Service in 2003.