Great Lakes reefs – composed of rock piles left by ancient glaciers – are just as critical to the health of our “inland seas” as coral reefs are to our oceans. Important fish species, like Lake Trout, Walleye, Lake Whitefish and Cisco, rely on freshwater reefs for feeding and spawning. The quality and quantity of these reefs contribute to fish reproductive success, which benefits commercial and recreational fishers. Healthy fish populations are important indicators of the overall health of Lake Michigan, and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and its partners are working together to understand the underlying factors that help them thrive.
TNC is a nonprofit that is developing innovative solutions to these challenges. According to TNC Sustainable Fisheries Ecologist Jamie Dobosenski, “Protecting and restoring Great Lakes spawning reef habitat, which is threatened by stressors such as sedimentation and aquatic invasive species, is key to helping rebuild important fish populations that are of significant ecological, economic and cultural importance.”
Through donor support and partnerships with state, federal and tribal agencies, TNC is helping assess the condition of reefs across the Great Lakes, including many in Lake Michigan, to better understand their important role in lake ecology. This work will provide resource managers with the information they need to plan and implement future restoration and protection efforts.
Why does it matter?
As a coastal city, Milwaukee has always had a deep connection with Lake Michigan and the broader Great Lakes system. From thriving fisheries to robust tourism and recreation, a healthy Lake Michigan contributes to a healthy economy and community.
Learn more about supporting TNC’s work in Wisconsin by visiting nature.org/givebackwi.
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What We Do
- The Nature Conservancy uses science to develop innovative solutions to the challenges people and nature face today, from climate change and habitat loss to sustainably growing healthy food and keeping water clean.
Where Your Money Goes
- Donations support the protection and care of Wisconsin’s lands, waters and wildlife, and help promote policies that enable people and nature to thrive together.
- Funds also support TNC’s Great Lakes Program, which is focused on protecting and restoring critical places and ecosystem processes across the region.
The Nature Conservancy
633 W. MAIN ST., MADISON | 608-251-8140
