Conservation Fisheries Inc

Conservation Fisheries Inc, a dedicated non-profit organization, is committed to the conservation and recovery of native fish populations. Their mission is threefold: conservation, education, and outreach, all geared towards preserving the remarkable aquatic biodiversity in their region.

Throughout the year, Conservation Fisheries Inc has been actively involved in propagating and reintroducing various species of fish, such as Smoky and Yellowfin Madtoms, Citico Darters, and Spotfin Chubs, into various water bodies like the Tellico River, Little Tennessee River, and others. They also monitor source populations in places like Citico Creek and the Little Tennessee River. Notably, they have had successful restoration efforts with Spotfin Chubs from the Buffalo River in west Tennessee, into Shoal Creek.

The organization's work extends beyond just fish propagation. They are also involved in the propagation of other species for future restoration work, such as Boulder Darters, Barrens Topminnows, Spring Pygmy Sunfish, Pygmy Sculpin, and Blotchside Logperch. They have achieved significant milestones in restoring populations of Carolina Madtoms from North Carolina and are currently working on propagating Bluemask Darters for Calfkiller River restoration in Middle Tennessee.

In addition to their restoration efforts, Conservation Fisheries Inc is deeply invested in education and outreach. They conduct 'Kid in the Creek' events, leading aquatic excursions into local streams and rivers, and offer site visits to students from universities like the University of Arkansas, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Maryville College. Their personnel have also given presentations to professional organizations and participated in events related to aquatic conservation.

The organization has recently undertaken capital improvements to their Knoxville hatchery facility to address safety, operations, and space issues. These improvements have allowed for more in-person visits following the lifting of COVID protocols. Furthermore, they are actively involved in rare mussel propagation, using non-game fish like Banded Sculpin and Blotched Chub as host fish.

In summary, Conservation Fisheries Inc is a dedicated organization that works tirelessly to conserve and recover native fish populations, while also educating and advocating for the preservation of aquatic biodiversity. Their efforts include propagating and reintroducing various species of fish, conducting educational events, and improving their facilities to better serve their mission.