The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility (NADF) is sponsoring a pond fertilization workshop on Friday, March 9 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Best Western Midway in Wausau.

This workshop is designed to help fish farmers increase their knowledge of the basics for fish pond fertilization in a northern climate. According to Chris Hartleb, NADF co-director, productivity of fish ponds is increased by using fertilizers to boost the microscopic plants known as algae. The use of fertilizers stimulates the natural food chain found in ponds and leads to an increase in the plankton eaten by many young cool water fish. "There is a science behind how fertilization works and what types of fertilizers are best," said Hartleb. "But there is also an art to knowing your pond, its water chemistry and reading how your pond reacts to the applications. The blend of science and art will all be covered during the workshop."

Speakers will include Joe Morris, associate professor, Department of Natural Resource (DNR) Ecology and Management at Iowa State University; Bob Fahey, operations manager for the Nevins DNR Fish Hatchery in Fitchburg; and Jim Held, aquaculture outreach specialist, NADF & UW-Extension.

Morris will present the history, theory and science of pond fertilization. Fahey will talk on the Culver method of pond fertilization for walleye and northern pike fingerling�s; a method which has greatly increased productivity at DNR fish hatcheries. Held will talk about fertilization methods for yellow perch fingerling production using a �green water� technique. The workshop will also break into small groups to work through sample calculations, use microscopes to identify plankton and have hands on demonstration of the various types of fertilizers.

In addition to the NADF support for this workshop, others co-sponsoring the workshop include the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association (WAA), Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, UW-Extension, UW-Madison aquaculture program and the Wisconsin DNR. This is an opportunity for current and prospective fish farmers and those interested in fish culture to learn about managing the bloom on farm ponds. The workshop is being held the same day as the WAA and Wisconsin Aquaculture Industry Advisory Council meetings.

The registration fee for the workshop is $25 which includes a plankton identification CD, workshop materials and an afternoon break. Preregistration is required. Those needing to stay overnight may reserve a room at the Best Western Midway in Wausau (800-482-3770).

To register, send a check made out to Wisconsin Aquaculture Association, in care of WAA, P.O. Box 1408, Bayfield, WI 54814. For additional information contact Cindy Johnson, Sec/Treasurer WAA at (715) 779-3081.

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