1998 Annual Report for FNC98-235
Trout and Walleye Production in Freshwater Springs in Illinois
Summary
Freshwater springs can enhance income and provide recreation when properly managed.
Objective: To convert a freshwater spring into a productive and profitable aquaculture enterprise.
The producer excavated and constructed dams to create two ponds to trap water from a cold water spring. Pond construction delayed stocking until November 1999. He stocked the upper pond, that had the coldest water, with rainbow trout and the lower pond with small mouth bass. Walleye were not receptive to commericial fish food.
Results: The project will be extended one year to gather data on fish survival and growth. If survival and growth rates are satisfactory, the producer will produce fish for commerical markets and to accomodate fee hunting clients.
Information Product:
Springview Acres. Video, contact Michael Rahe, 217-242-9508