Wisconsin Ag Connection - Aquaculture Association Planning State-Wide Fish Farm Day

Wisconsin Ag News Headlines

Aquaculture Association Planning State-Wide Fish Farm Day
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 08/11/2008

The Wisconsin Aquaculture Association, along with member fish farms, is sponsoring the First Annual State Wide Fish Farm Day on August 23. Throughout the state, ten fish farms will open their doors to the public promoting Wisconsin aquaculture and to explain the importance of locally grown, fresh, safe fish. Wisconsin aquaculture is a $7 million industry with over 150 commercial fish farms raising fish for food, recreation, bait and stocking.

Free events at individual fish farms include farm tours, demonstrations, talks on fish, ponds and weed control. Attendees can also learn about raising fish, culture techniques, and fish health programs or just have fun fishing. Also Alice in Dairyland Ashley Huibregtse will make an appearance at Silver Moon Springs in Elton from 11 am to 2 pm to talk about the importance of aquaculture to Wisconsin.

Organizers say Wisconsin's private aquaculture dates back to 1856 with a sound environmental history using sustainable best management practices. Fish farming in the state is very diverse, as many are raising trout, yellow perch, and bluegills for food; walleye, northern pike, muskie and bass for stocking, and minnows for bait.

For more information about the first annual fish day or to get a list of locations, call 715-373-2990.