Electrofishing is an integral component of the work activities at Carterville FRO, but leading a crew and operating the boat requires quite a bit of training.  The goal was for everyone on staff at Carterville FRO to be certified as an electrofishing crew leader. 

Technicians Matt Mangan and Matt Wegener, and STEP Student Mike Stahl completed the Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) offered at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, during the week of June 4.  The course included classroom and on-the-water training. 

Mangan, Wegener, Stahl, and biologist Nate Richards completed the Principles and Techniques of Electrofishing Correspondence Course at the Carterville Fishery Resources Office, during the week of June 18. 

Mangan, Wegener, and Richards also completed First Aid/CPR training held at the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, on July 11. 

Richards had previously completed the MOCC course before joining the Carterville FRO and Stahl had previously completed First Aid/CPR training. 

All staff members at Carterville FRO are now certified as electrofishing crew leaders.