Since 1936, the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians has been raising fish.
T
h
e pro
cess begins with setting nets in reservation waters to collect eggs and sperm, and continues with raising the fish from a small fry to fingerlings and to extended growth.
Larry Wawronowicz, Lac du Flambeau Tribal Resources Department Director, describes this intense undertaking as not only being a scientific process, but also an art form.
The Fish Hatchery in Lac du Flambeau is a state-of-the-art facility, made possible by large investments by the Tribe, to assist in the conservation of our beautiful lakes, not only here in Waaswaaganing, but in some off reservation lakes in the Northwood's as well. Walleye, muskellunge, sucker, brown trout, and occasionally sturgeon, have all been raised here. Electro fishing in the fall helps to determine which lakes need re-stocking.
"Setting nets to collect broodstock provides the opportunity to stock reservation
waters in order to ensure
harvesting for Tribal Members," Larry said.
Whether by spearing, or hook and line, it's extremely important to understand why we set nets, and how this conservation effort is important for future generations.
T
he Tribal Natural Resources Department staff works hard to take a traditional and holistic approach
to protect the land, water and air here.
With spring walleye spearing around the corner, it's important to avoid nets
if you to see them while out on the lakes.
"We only have one Waaswaaganing, and we need to do everything we can to preserve our natural resources for future generations," says Larry.
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In an effort to bring awareness to the community and to end sexual assault, please observe Teal Tuesday and Denim Day.
