Great Lakes Manage Habitats

FISHERY MANAGEMENT
Climate-driven changes in fish populations and communities will combine with current stresses on species to produce numerous impacts on existing fisheries. Although the commercial fishing sector in the region is relatively small, the recreational fishing sector includes ten million anglers that actively fish in the region and contributes nearly ten billion dollars to local economies. Several changes in human activities that affect fish populations could help protect this resource from the worst impacts of climate change.


Solution strategies:	REALLOCATE HARVEST	MANAGE HABITATS	REDUCE DEAD ZONES
Aquatic species will be better able to cope with changing water temperatures if they are able to migrate to regions with preferable conditions. Suitable habitat must be available for these species to adapt in new regions. Unfortunately, however, invasive species such as the round goby have altered habitats and created competition for limited resources. Integrated strategies to control non-native species as well as protecting aquatic habitats, is crucial to ensure the survival of native species.