Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Michigan AFS 2013 Annual Meeting

The Michigan State University Fisheries and Wildlife Club took part in the 2013 Meeting of the Michigan Chapter of the American Fisheries Society. The meeting was on February 19-21 in Gaylord Michigan. The FW Club was able to send 4 members to this meeting.

It is very important to note that the MSU FW Club has just become a Student Subunit of AFS fairly recently, and this was the first AFS meeting that we have had the opportunity to attend as a subunit. It was a great experience to learn about different case studies in fisheries management, hear about a lot of the research being done by current grad students from all across the state, and meet many professionals within the field. After several hours of listening to presentations, there was a great opportunity to network during the social events. 

The MIAFS 2013 Raffle, held in conjunction with the annual meeting in Gaylord, was hosted by both the Michigan State University and the Lake Superior State University Student Subunits of the MIAFS. This was the first year that our Subunit was involved with the raffle, and it was very successful for both schools. Some the items procured by both Subunits include a custom-made flyrod and reel combo, a canoe trip for four on the Pine River, tackle boxes, an Ice Auger, hand tied flies, and so many more items.

We hope to continue keeping our Subunit active with engagement and involvement with fisheries. With recent participation with the Park Lake Ice Fishing Derby, as well as future plans for a Hatchery Field Trip, and a possible long term research project on the Lake Dynamics of Park Lake; we are sure to give LSSU a challenge for the AFS North-Central Division's Most Active Student Subunit Award. 

Left to Right: Becca B., Theresa G., Carrie K., and Claire B.

Written by Becca Blundell (blundel2@msu.edu)

“We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.” -Aldo Leopold