for Friday, May 13, 2022

…audio…

1 – The recovery of the Saginaw Bay walleye population is one of the great fishery management success stories of our time. 

So says a biologist with the state Department of Natural Resources. 

But there are still questions about where natural reproduction takes place. 

A study that began in April on Saginaw Bay will use about 150 acoustic transmitters implanted in walleye to help researchers with the DNR, Michigan State University and other agencies obtain data about where the fish spawn.

Officials say having a better understanding of natural reproduction will help fishery managers prioritize rivers and reefs to project and figure out where to invest in actions to enhance and improve fish habitat. 

There are at least 15 rivers and five offshore reefs that are likely sources of walleye spawning. 

Another 200 transmitters are to be added to walleye in 2023. 

…

2 – A public comment period ends next week on a draft interactive mapping tool to help identify Michigan communities that are disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is taking the comments. 

The Michigan Environmental Justice Mapping and Screening Tool (aka MiEJScreen) allows users to explore environmental, health and socio-economic indicators in areas throughout the state.

Officials say the information can help identify where populations are more vulnerable, what challenges communities face and provide data to move toward environmental equity.

The tool was created by the state environmental agency’s Office of the Environmental Justice Public Advocate, and the Michigan Interagency Environmental Justice Response Team. 

Search online for “MiEJScreen” to find and explore the map.

…

– Mr. Great Lakes is heard Friday mornings in Bay City, Michigan, on Delta College Public Radio 90.1 FM (listen live). Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes

-30-