Corporate Training By Zack Academy - Control and Management of Non-Native Invasive Fish

Why Should You Take This Control and Management of Non-Native Invasive Fish Course?

Invasive fish species threaten the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems worldwide and are considered the second greatest threat to biodiversity loss in North America. Exotic species introductions (illegal and intentional) were a factor in 68% of fish extinctions in North America, and the rates of introductions have increased dramatically in the last 50 years, impacting nearly every major watershed in the United States. Fisheries management programs have transplanted popular sportfish to provide recreational opportunities and many other aquatic organisms have been planted to enhance fish growth. Habitat loss and degradation, climate change and urbanization have also contributed to the establishment and spread of non-native fish.

Regardless of the cause of species introductions, the establishment and proliferation of invasive species often results in the decline and potential extinction of native species, with invasive predators having the most dramatic effects. Controlling and managing non-native invasive fish is critical to the survival of freshwater fish in North America, and attendees of this course will gain an increased understanding of what can be done to minimize the negative impacts of invasive species. Students will explore efforts to control and manage invasive fish through early detection and assessment, with emphasis on control and management methods.

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is intended for biologists, ecologists and managers seeking an improved understanding of non-native invasive fish species and the methods for prevention, controlling and managing them.

Topics to be Covered Include:

• What is a non-native species and when do they become a problem?
• What are the biological, social and economic impacts of invasive species?
• What are the steps in combatting invasive species including prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment options, and rehabilitation?
• Where do non-native invasive species come from?
• Non-native fish species in the U.S. 
• Conflicts between native fish and non-native sportfish.
• How can non-native fish species be eradicated, suppressed, controlled, or managed?
• Types of Physical, Mechanical and Chemical control for non-native fish
• Electrofishing
• Barriers (both electrical and manmade structures)
• Piscicide (rotenone and antimycin)
• Nets (e.g. gill nets, fyke nets)
• Dewatering
• Explosives
• Laws and regulations regarding non-native species
• Federal and state laws and regulations
• Fisheries Management plans
• Non-native fish suppression/eradication projects in the U.S.
• Silver carp
• Bighead carp
• Snakehead
• Non-native fish suppression/eradication projects in the Western United States, Alaska and Columbia Basin
• Northern pike
• Brook trout
• Lake trout
• Rainbow trout

Meet the Instructor:

Important: 

• Please bring a pen or pencil and notepad
• Drinks and snacks will be provided throughout the day
• Please wait to receive a course confirmation email (roughly one month prior to the class) before making any travel arrangements