Columbia FRO provided sturgeon identification assistance for an enforcement sweep of the Middle Mississippi River.  Law enforcement officers from four states and special agents from Service offices, joined biologists from Missouri Department of Conservation and Columbia FRO in the operation.  

The sweep was intended to check commercial sturgeon fishermen and equipment to ensure compliance with regulations.  The detail began with introductions, assignment of teams and a presentation by Andy Starostka from the Columbia FRO on identification of Midwest sturgeon species.   

Cold temperatures and high winds hampered the detail, causing damage to several boats, and one injury when officer fell on an ice covered deck and damaged his knee.  Due to the inclement weather, few fishermen were contacted on the water, though some nets were found.  

Though few contacts were made, the operation was still considered a success and will lay the foundation for future law enforcement sweeps of commercial sturgeon harvest on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.