Minnesota DNR focuses on lesser-known native fish at the State Fair fish pond : Aug 24, 2023 | News release
focuses on lesser-known native fish at the State Fair fish pond : Aug ... MN DNR
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Minnesota DNR Highlights Lesser-Known Fish Species at State Fair
Meandering through the Minnesota State Fair for many visitors means stopping by the fish pond at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) building and grounds, where visitors can see about 40 fish species up close.
This year, the Minnesota DNR and others are placing special attention on lesser-known fish species, which are sometimes misunderstood and receive less recognition from anglers. These fish play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems and the health of rivers and lakes.
“Here’s a challenge for any visitor at the fish pond or watching the live stream online: How many fish species can you name?” said Shannon Fisher, fisheries monitoring and regulations manager. “Learning more about all these fish is a great first step toward understanding their value and participating in how they are managed in the future.”
Renewed Appreciation for Rough Fish Species
The lesser-known fish species, commonly referred to as rough fish, include buffalo, bowfin (also known as dogfish), carpsuckers, freshwater drum (also known as sheepshead), gar, goldeye, mooneye, quillback, and several species of redhorses and suckers.
These species are now gaining renewed appreciation for their important role in aquatic ecosystems and the overall health of rivers and lakes.
Public Opinion on Rough Fish Management
The Minnesota DNR is seeking public input on the management of these fish species through an online questionnaire. Participants can share their thoughts on the importance of these species, how they should be managed, and the levels of protection that should be implemented.
The online questionnaire is available on the Engage with DNR page until Friday, September 15.
Research and Conservation Efforts
The Minnesota DNR is currently conducting research to track the populations of these lesser-known fish species. Initial results are expected to be available in the latter part of 2024.
In addition, the Minnesota DNR has formed a new work group consisting of members from conservation organizations, the bowfishing community, and other interested stakeholders. The aim of this group is to identify conservation strategies for other lesser-known native fish species.
Experience the Fish Pond Online
For those unable to attend the fair, the Minnesota DNR provides a live stream of the fish pond online.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems | Indicator 14.2.1: Proportion of national exclusive economic zones managed using ecosystem-based approaches |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems | Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats | Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 14: Life Below Water
The article discusses the importance of understanding and managing fish species in aquatic ecosystems, highlighting their value and role in the health of rivers and lakes.
SDG 15: Life on Land
The article emphasizes the conservation and management of lesser-known fish species, which contribute to the overall health of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems
The article emphasizes the importance of managing fish species in aquatic ecosystems, indicating a focus on sustainable management and protection.
Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems
The article highlights the role of lesser-known fish species in the health of rivers and lakes, indicating a need for their conservation, restoration, and sustainable use.
Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats
The article mentions the formation of a work group to identify conservation strategies for lesser-known native fish, indicating a commitment to reducing the degradation of their natural habitats.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Indicator 14.2.1: Proportion of national exclusive economic zones managed using ecosystem-based approaches
The article does not explicitly mention this indicator, but it implies a focus on managing fish species in aquatic ecosystems using ecosystem-based approaches.
Indicator 15.1.1: Forest area as a proportion of total land area
This indicator is not directly relevant to the article’s content as it focuses on forest area, which is not the main topic discussed.
Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index
The article does not mention this indicator, but it implies a need to assess and monitor the conservation status of lesser-known fish species, which could be measured using the Red List Index.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: dnr.state.mn.us
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