Tour Gives Inside Look At How Michigan Raises Sturgeons

MICHIGAN — Want an up-close look at how lake sturgeon are reared? Come to the Black River hatchery for free tours Saturday, Aug. 24.

The tours, hosted by the DNR, Michigan State University, Tower-Kleber Limited Partnership and Sturgeon For Tomorrow, will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Researchers from the DNR and MSU will be on hand to talk about lake sturgeon biology, reproductive ecology and this year's research. Sturgeon For Tomorrow representatives will discuss restoration work to improve sturgeon spawning habitat, sturgeon conservation and outreach programming.

"Visitors will see 3-month-old lake sturgeon currently in the hatchery, and learn about their early life history and how we can all play a role in keeping healthy populations of this fish in our waters," said Dave Borgeson, the DNR's Northern Lake Huron Unit supervisor.

The sturgeon fingerlings reared at the hatchery are scheduled to be released into the Black River and Mullett Lake after the tours conclude, organizers said.

The streamside hatchery is a critical component of lake sturgeon rehabilitation efforts in the Cheboygan River watershed, DNR officials explained. Research done by the facility – supported by DNR, federal, Great Lakes Fishery Trust and Sturgeon For Tomorrow funds – helps increase Michigan's understanding of this important species. Results provide much-needed guidance for lake sturgeon recovery endeavors, while improving the effectiveness of culture and stocking efforts.