Patrick Shirey

Project Title: "Fish Habitat History of the Namekagon River, Wisconsin."

External Partnership: National Park Service and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The Namekagon River is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway in Wisconsin, which was established by Congress to protect its natural, scenic, and recreational values. Major logging in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s changed the habitat of the Namekagon River, resulting in long-lasting effects on the fish assemblage. As a result of habitat changes, populations of native, cold-water fishes declined. A primary focus for management and restoration is the native brook trout, an important sport fish for recreation that has declined in abundance. The critical research question for this study is whether restoration of the historical fish habitat is necessary to perpetuate trout populations in the Namekagon River. For his research, Patrick produced a report describing the historical fish habitat conditions of the Namekagon River. His results of this study were used as a baseline to guide habitat restoration efforts. In his research, Patrick collaborated with members of the National Park Service and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Distinctive Outcomes: Patrick has planned a public presentation of his research in Wisconsin. He is developing a management plan for a restoration project.