The CREEL. Aquaculture conference highlights public-private partnership Secretaries Brancel, Stepp address attendees

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1 The CREEL Published by The WISCONSIN AQUACULTURE ASSOCIATION Volume 48 Number 1 www. w i s c o n s i n a q u a c u l t u r e. c o m March 2015 Aquaculture conference highlights public-private partnership Secretaries Brancel, Stepp address attendees Dan Hansen, Correspondent, Wisconsin State Farmer MARSHFIELD Aquaculture, also known as fish farming, has grown to become a significant part of Wisconsin s diverse agriculture industry, and a substantial contributor to the state s economy. It s increasingly important role was evident during the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association s (WAA) 20th annual conference March 5-7, as 145 people from Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Illinois, Idaho, Indiana, West Virginia and Colorado attended. Wisconsin ranks first among Midwest states in aquaculture, which currently has a $21 million impact on the state s economy. Wisconsin is home to more than 2,400 fish farms that range from producing food fish, to pond and lake stocking, and bait for recreational fishing. Wisconsin also is a leader in aquaponics. This annual regional conference is a great way to get information out to our farmers. said retiring WAA President Mike Kelm. It also gives our members the opportunity to meet and talk with others in our industry. The conference began Thursday with the WAA board meeting and annual membership meeting, in order to accommodate a full slate seminars and panel discussion on Friday and Saturday. Secretary Ben Brancel photo credit Dan Hansen Walleye Initiative Grants panel. L-R: D. Giehtbrock, T. Hogan, D. Gollon, J. Lehman, D. Gruendemann, T. Gollon DATCP changes Friday s schedule began with remarks from Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Ben Brancel, and Department of Natural Resource Secretary Cathy Stepp. Both Stepp and Brancel stressed the importance of the partnership that has grown stronger over the past few years between their agencies and the aquaculture industry. Brancel provided an overview of some of the proposals of the next biennial state budget that is currently being reviewed by the State Legislature. He noted that some of the programs currently operating under the auspices of the University of Wisconsin System, may be transfered to DATCP. Many of the proposed changes were brought forward by the administration after reviewing the, Big picture of how you fund the university, where funding streams come from and where they go, Brancel explained. The decisions revolved around the funding and spending of the UW system block grants. If the budget were to pass in the form that is currently being considered by the Legislature s Joint Finance Committee, Brancel said, We d about double the size of our agency with the number of different personnel and programs that would be transferred to us. But as a manager, I can t spend my time concerned about getting these, Brancel stressed. I have to spend my time thinking about how do I manage them once they get here. He advised those in the state s aquaculture industry to, Think about the programs you have, how you approach them and how they impact you and your business, and I look forward to communicating and interacting with you as we move forward. DNR challenges Stepp began by acknowledging that the proposed Continued on pg 4

2 The CREEL March 2015 Volume 48* * * Number 1 WISCONSIN AQUACULTURE ASSOCIATION EDITOR Cindy Johnson, 1165 Riggles Gap Road, Altoona, PA Cindy@wisconsinaquaculture.com OFFICERS, terms expire in 2017 President: Peter Fritsch, Rushing Waters Fisheries, Palmyra, WI PeteF@rushingwaters.net Vice President: Terry Hogan, Hayward Bait & Tackle, Inc. Hayward, WI TLH001@netzero.com Chairman of the Board: Dan Gruendemann, Northside Enterprises, Black Creek, WI DanGFish@yahoo.com STAFF Secretary: Cindy Johnson, Altoona, PA Cindy@wisconsinaquaculture.com Treasurer: Kathy Foster, Wilderness Springs, New London, WI wilderness.springs@gmail.com DIRECTORS Term expires 2016: Jeff Taylor, Star Prairie Trout Farm, Star Prairie, WI jtaylor@dungarvin.com Tim Gollon, Gollon Bait & Fish Farm, Dodgeville, WI gollon@hughes.net Term expires 2017: Jim Augustyn, Augustyn Springs, Antigo, WI JamesAAugustyn@gmail.com Brandon Pigott, AquaTerra Farms, Bristol, WI bpigott@aquaterrafish.com Term expires 2018: Tim Winkel, Silver Moon Springs, Elton, WI timwink2@gmail.com Ben Gollon, Gollon Bros Wholesale Live Bait, Stevens Point, WI , bengollon@gmail.com AQUACULTURE OUTREACH SPECIALISTS UW EXTENSION - Extension is available to help farmers with any questions you may have. Their knowledge ranges from all fish cultures and all types of operation, from startup to established. There is no fee for their services. Ron Johnson 1165 Riggles Gap Road, Altoona, PA Ron.Johnson@ces.uwex.edu Jim Held 302 S. Main St., Lake Mills, WI JaHeld@wisc.edu Wisconsin aquaculture assn. Committees If you are interested in joining any committee, please contact any committee member. The effectiveness of our committees and our organization are based on membership participation. Committee Business Development Creation, review and development of business development tools for aquaculture Research & Education Coordination and review of research, training, educational programming Regulatory Policy Coordination, review and impact assessment of regulatory actions Budget LIAISONS & REPRESENTATIVES Members Peter Fritsch Dan Gruendemann Jim Held Dave Gollon Terry Hogan Ron Johnson Terry Hogan Dan Gruendemann Cindy Johnson National Association of State Aquaculture Coordinators (NASAC) Ron Johnson, 1165 Riggles Gap Road, Altoona, PA Ron.Johnson@uwsp.edu North Central Regional Aquaculture Center (NCRAC) NCRAC Wisconsin Aquaculture Liaison Bill West, Blue Iris Fish Farm LLC., Black Creek, WI blueirisenv@gmail.com NCRAC Technical Committee/Extension Subcommittee Jim Held, 302 S. Main St., Lake Mills, WI 53551, JaHeld@wisc.edu NCRAC Technical Committee/Research Subcommittee Dr. Chris Hartleb, 167 CNR Bldg, 800 Reserve St., Stevens Point, WI 54481, , chartleb@uwsp.edu NCRAC Board Members Jim Held, 302 S. Main St., Lake Mills, WI 53551, JaHeld@wisc.edu Bill West, Blue Iris Fish Farm LLC., Black Creek, WI blueirisenv@gmail.com US Trout Farmers Association Board Member Peter Fritsch, Rushing Waters Fisheries, Inc., Palmyra, WI PeteF@rushingwaters.net Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force - Aquaculture Member Ron Johnson, 1165 Riggles Gap Road, Altoona, PA Ron.Johnson@ces.uwex.edu NAA Bob Robinson, Kasco Marine, Inc., bob.r@kascomarine.com 2

3 President s Message PETER FRITSCH - RUSHING WATERS FISHERIES After almost 18 years in the business I am officially not one of the new guys and felt it was also time to take a try at being the president of the WAA. I also feel I have been around long enough to offer some advice and insight into our industry, so here it is: Don t sit back and wait and see what other companies are doing. If you are not moving forward you are being passed up, trust me. This does not mean throw money around at bad ideas, I have seen plenty of that over time, along with people who thought they could spawn unicorns, turns out you can t. But what you can do is fight for what you believe in, grow your business from the bottom up and become a leader. Wisconsin can become a leader, maybe not in pounds of production, but in quality, and, in my eyes, a better form of leadership. It is already happening and it s being led by the bait industry, they are leading in quality bait and truly doing a great job. Our farm is leading not only in pounds of production but also quality of product, and we cannot grow fast enough. This brings me to my next and most important point, get active. Here is a great example of what one farm did for the greater good to all of us. On behalf of Rushing Waters Fisheries I want to thank Herby Radmann, soul proprietor of BullFrog Fish Farm. Years ago Herby opened the first beer garden/restaurant in Wisconsin where you could catch a fish and have it prepared on site, while enjoying a cold beer. However you could not bring the beer pond side, you had to enjoy it in a fenced off area defined as a beer garden away from the fishing hole. Herby got active, fought a battle unknown to many of you and got the law changed so that guests could have a beer while fishing with their next of kin, a Wisconsin tradition if there was ever one. We opened a restaurant over a year ago on our farm and because Herby paved the way, I had one less hurdle to jump over, thank you. So, you say I don t plan on opening a restaurant, why are you even writing this down? I ask you, do you want to raise fish in Wisconsin? If you answered yes, get active. Rushing Waters is currently fighting a fight that could be a tipping point for our business and all fish farms in the state. We are standing up to the regulations that continually change with the added TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) requirements the state has adopted. Still not worried because you are in a different watershed? - it is coming, get active. I attended the hearings years ago for the Great Lakes Compact, but why? - my farm is not in the Great Lakes basin. I attended and we got the water use fees reduced from $9500 to $1000 a year per fish farm. I hope I have your attention - ready to get active? Today budget cuts are going to eliminate aquaculture extension positions and the NADF. I have used both of these resources more than you can imagine - we need them both. I am asking for everybody in the Association to contact your legislators and drive home the importance of these programs for our industry. Wisconsin could, and I believe should, become a leader in aquaculture, but we do need a few more Herbies Be Good, Peter TABLE OF CONTENTS Aquaculture Conference Highlights Public-Private Partnerships - Dan Hansen 1 WAA Board Members, Committees and Industry Contacts 2 President s Message - Peter Fritsch 3 From the Editor - Cindy Johnson 4 WAA Passes 2 Resolutions Supporting the Aquaculture Extension Positions and UW-SP/NADF 4 Calendar of Events 5 Wisconsin Aquaculture: Looking Back to See Forward - Ron Johnson 6 Conference Thank You s 7 WAA Recognizes Outstanding Achievements 8 Bits and Pieces 11 Fish Farmers Produce More Cool-water Species - Dan Hansen 13 Conference Photos 16 Minutes - WAA Winter Board Meeting, Dec 5 18 Minutes - WAA Spring Board Meeting, March 5 19 Minutes - WAA Annual Member Meeting, March 5 19 Minutes - WAA Annual Board Meeting, March 5 20 Minutes - WAIAC Winter Meeting, Dec 5 21 Minutes - WAIAC Spring Meeting, March 5 23 Cook s Corner - Angel-hair Pasta W/ Trout & Lemon Dill Vodka Sauce 23 WAA Store 24 Contributors Dan Hansen, Correspondent Wisconsin State Farmer Ron Johnson, UW-Extension, Aquaculture Outreach Specialist The CREEL is published quarterly, March, June, September and December; WAA welcomes input and involvement from all interested parties. Unless otherwise indicated, all articles are authored by The CREEL editor and/or WAA editorial committee. Editorial comments pertinent to other submissions are italicized and noted in parenthesis (ed.) All opinions expressed in The CREEL are those of the contributor/author and not necessarily those of the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association, its officers or directors. The CREEL reaches many potential customers four times per year. If your business involves the growing or selling of any aquaculture product or any necessary equipment, feed or services, advertising will be a great benefit to you. The CREEL goes to press the 1st of February, May, August, and November. Please submit jpg or pdf ad copy and payment to the Secretary/Editor 1 week prior to this for inclusion in the upcoming issue. Rates per issue are as follows: 1/8 page (business card): $30; 1/4 page: $40; 1/2 page: $60; Full page: $100 3

4 From the Editor Conference highlights, cont from pg 1 Our industry has met many turning points over the decades - both advances and steps back. The early farmers and founders of WAA would be proud of what we have accomplished. Our farmers have always kept the prize in sight and worked long hard hours, many holding down a full time job, raising families, putting every penny into succeeding in their chosen passion of owning their own successful fish farm. It is what we proudly call The American Dream. Having a successful farm is entirely attainable, we have farmers who already are there and many more can join those ranks. But the reality is in the realm of where biased policy making has been allowed to continue - with the result of impeding growth. This must change - the economic future of Wisconsin demands it and there should not be support of biased interpretations which can result in sending our residents and tourists to other states for recreation, food purchases, restaurant meals. On a lighter note: I am happy to have Kathy Foster on board as the new Treasurer, many of you already know her and she and I will work closely in continuing to make this organization successful. Aquaculture Day is Saturday July 18. Please take advantage of this great marketing opportunity to promote your farm and to help educate people about our industry. I will be sending our more information later. We are working on next year s conference, a confirmed date and location has not been tied down yet. This will be a joint event with the North Central Region Aquaculture Center. If you have any topics you would like to see presented, please let me know! Cindy WAA Passes 2 Resolutions Supporting the Aquaculture Extension Positions and UW-SP/NADF Both the UW Aquaculture Extension positions and UW-SP/NADF facility are scheduled to be eliminated this summer due to funding cuts. As a result, WAA and WAIAC passed resolutions for continued funding for these programs. In December WAA and WAIAC passed a joint resolution in support of the Aquaculture Specialists position. Therefore be Resolved that WAA and WAIAC recommend the two Aquaculture Outreach Specialists and the Aquaculture Program be funded by the State of Wisconsin, administered by UW-Extension, to ensure job growth, strengthen linkages, maintain competitiveness and, therefore, the continued expansion of the Wisconsin Aquaculture Industry. In March WAA and WAIAC each passed resolutions in support of UW-SP/NADF. Therefore be it resolved that the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association recommends that the Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility be funded by the State of Wisconsin, administered by UW-Stevens Point, to ensure job growth, and therefore, the continued expansion of the Wisconsin Aquaculture Industry. We urge you to contact your legislators today and tell them of the value of Aquaculture Extension and NADF to the state s aquaculture industry and that these programs must be continued to be funded state budget also will affect DNR. We have some position cuts but we look to manage those effectively, she said. We ve spent much of the last four years working on technology improvements and doing more things online like the private sector, so that we can make sure we re offering the best possible service to all of you. She also sought to dispel rumors that the DNR will begin selling naming rights to state park. I m glad to have the chance to set the record straight. That s not something we re even close to being able to talk through at this point, Stepp emphasized. Secretary Cathy Stepp photo credit Dan Hansen She also recognized the challenges facing the state s aquaculture industry. The number of permits you need, the variability of your work is very substantial, and I would imagine is also very stressful, she said. I m pleased that we have a good working relationship with you. Stepp emphasized that the goal of every regulator should be compliance. But people can t comply if they don t know what the rules are, or if they feel like the rules are being changed as they move through the process, she said. Our job is to take all the legalese in statutes and regulation books and be able to communicate that effectively to our customers, which are all of you, she explained. When you are able to comply and operate within the regulatory guidelines, you won t have to worry about enforcement issues because you understand the expectations and you re doing the right thing, she said, and you get to be profitable on top of that. We re seeing that in industries all over Wisconsin, and this is one of those. Stepp also noted that much work remains to be done. We have challenges in our water-permitting division that we re working to address, she stated. The highest turnover area in our portion of state government is in the water permit writers. It s very stressful because they often have to say, I can t get you there this way but here s how I can get you there. Awards Two special awards also were presented during the noon lunch on Friday. Dr. Chris Hartleb was the recipient of the WAA Educator of the Year Award. He is a professor of fisheries biology and director of the UW-Stevens Point Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility (NADF). He also teaches courses in aquaculture, fish ecology, fish health and aquaponics. Hartleb also directs the applied research, continued on page 5 4

5 Conference highlights, continued from page 4 demonstration, education and outreach projects at UWSP-NADF, which promotes public education and advances the discovery, dissemination and application of knowledge for sustainable aquaculture in a northern climate. The WAA Hall of Fame Award was presented to Jim Held, UW- Extension aquaculture outreach specialist. Held works out of the Lake Mills State Fish Hatchery and has been active in aquaculture research for more than 20 years. He has also conducted extensive research on aquaculture production of cool-water species along with pond trophic dynamics. Held works with a wide variety of clients to enhance productivity and efficiency in aquaculture operations. He is the Wisconsin representative on the Technical Committee/Extension Subcommittee of the North Central Regional Aquaculture Center (NCRAC). WAA officers, directors, staff During the conference WAA officers and directors also were selected. Peter Fritsch, Rushing Waters Fisheries, Palmyra, was elected president, and Terry Hogan, Hayward Bait and Bottle Shoppe, returns as WAA vice president. Dan Gruendemann, Northside Enterprises, Black Creek, was chosen as chairman of the board directors. Other directors include: Jim Augustyn, Augustyn Springs, Antigo; Tim Gollon, Gollon Bait and Fish Farm, Dodgeville; Jeff Taylor, Star Prairie Trout Farm; Brandon Pigott, Aqua Terra Farm, Bristol. Rejoining the board is Ben Gollon, Gollon Brothers Wholesale Live Bait, Stevens Point; and Tim Winkel, Silver Moon Springs, Elton, is a new addition to the WAA Board. Kathy Foster, Wilderness Springs, New London, was elected treasurer, and Cindy Johnson continues to serve as WAA secretary and editor of the association s newsletter CALENDAR OF EVENTS July 18 Gary Fornshell, University of Idaho, spoke on Seafood at It s Best and Fry Management This year s conference was sponsored by Wisconsin Aquaculture Association, Inc., University of Wisconsin Extension, University of Wisconsin Stevens Point/Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility, and Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. In 2016, WAA will hold a joint conference with NCRAC (North Central Regional Aquaculture Center). The specific date and location have yet to be determined. Aquaculture Day - Statewide 5

6 Wisconsin Aquaculture: Looking Back to See Forward Ron Johnson, Aquaculture Outreach Specialist How many times have you heard the term Blue Revolution or fastest growing segment of world wide agriculture to describe aquaculture? Headlines like, Capture Fisheries Declining, or Aquaculture Production Surpasses Wild Caught Fish or Seafood Exceeds Beef in Production have caught our attention and given us hope that our industry is heading in a positive direction. But these headlines refer to world production; what is happening in the United States and Wisconsin is very different. When asked to describe Wisconsin Aquaculture, I always say, It s a diverse industry growing 32 species for food, stocking, bait and now plants in aquaponics. Wisconsin Aquaculture contributes $21 million in economic growth (based on a UW economic study), it supports a $2.7 billion sport-fishing state industry, farm gate sales of over $5 million, and provides employment for over 450 full time jobs. There are over 2800 DATCP registered fish farms, of which 88 are considered commercial, selling at least $1000 per year. Over 100 K-12 schools in Wisconsin teach aquaculture and over 50 have systems with fish. Wisconsin Aquaculture has the attributes of an emerging industry on the cusp of breaking out. The Wisconsin Aquaculture Association (WAA) has grown in the past decade from stagnating at under 100 members to now over 200. The accomplishments are many including passage of the first state Aquaculture Day, which is the third Saturday in July, to passage of The Wisconsin Aquaculture Bill referred to as Act 207 in 2012 which helped in regulatory reform and provisions in Wisconsin Act 20 in 2013, which set up the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative, granting $2 million to increase capacity for walleye culture and providing funds to purchase from the private industry $500,000 worth of walleyes for stocking into state waters. That s huge. WAA worked with DATCP to make 18 changes in fish health regulations and is working with DNR to continue reform with environmental regulations. WAA has formed partnerships with the National Aquaculture Association (NAA) especially on seafood education; with Wisconsin Agriculture Tourism Association to promote members engaged in tourism activities; with DATCP s Something Special from Wisconsin, to promote farm raised products; with Wisconsin Sea Grant on their campaign Eat Wisconsin Fish and with the University of Wisconsin - both the Extension Aquaculture Program and with UW-Stevens Point Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility (NADF) to conduct workshops promoting the industry. NADF and UW-Stevens Point in the past decade has brought in more than $3.3 million in federal and private grants to support and advance Wisconsin Aquaculture including working with farms like Northside Enterprises in Black Creek, Coolwater Farms in Cambridge, Hayward Bait in Hayward, Aqua Terra in Bristol and Pepco Fish Farm in Cecil doing a farm based research. NADF has made over 8,000 direct contacts and over 350,000 indirect contacts with fish farmers and the public concerning aquaculture, and have provided more than 150 presentations to K-12, college and community organizations. UW-Stevens Point also secured funding to keep the UW-Extension Aquaculture program operational in the budget and received a $677,500 UW-Systems grant to advance aquaculture and aquaponics in the state. The UW-Stevens Point/Nelson Pade online Aquaponic classes continued on page 7 6

7 Our conference would not be possible without the support and participation of many people. A heartfelt Thank You! to these people and businesses: Major and Supporting Sponsors/Silent Auction Donations: Pentair; Troutlodge, Inc.; University of Wisconsin-Extension; University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point/Northern Aquaculture Demonstration Facility; Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection; YSI, Inc.; Fresh-Flo Corp. and Northwind Renewable Energy Sponsors/Silent Auction Donations: Blue Iris Fish Farm; Midland Plastics, Inc.; Nelson & Pade, Inc.; Purina/AquaMax; Rushing Waters Fisheries; Skretting USA; University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Institute; Wilderness Springs; and Wisconsin Farmers Union; Dani Klontz and Greg Hanson; Ron and Cindy Johnson Speakers: John Birr, Justin Evans, Greg Fischer, Gary Fornshell, Peter Fritsch, David Giehtbrock, Fritz Gollon, Tim Gollon, Dan Gruendemann, Dr. Chris Hartleb, Jim Held, Terry Hogan, Heather Hutchinson, Ron Johnson, Mike Kelm, Kathleen Kline, Dani Klontz, Christine Koeller, Jim Lehman, Norman McCowan, Rebecca Nelson, Sean Nepper, Randy Roeseler, Don Taylor, Bill West, Emma Wiermaa Dignitaries: DATCP Secretary Ben Brancel, DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp and Senator Jerry Petrowski. Vendors: Aquaculture North America; Aqua Logic, Inc.; Farm Service Agency; Fish Farming News; Fresh-Flo Corp.; Kasco Marine, Inc.; Memphis Net and Twine; Midland Plastics, Inc.; Nelson & Pade, Inc.; Northwind Renewable Energy; Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers; Pentair; Purina Animal Nutrition; LLC, Skretting USA; Troutlodge, Inc.; University of Wisconsin-Extension; University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Institute; University of Wisconsin-SP/NADF; USFWS LaCrosse Fish Health Center; Western Chemical; Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection; Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources; Wisconsin Farmers Union; Wisconsin State Farmer and YSI, Inc. Poster Displays: Bill West, Blue Iris Environmental; Herb Struss; John Birr, Oconto Falls High School FFA/SAE; Sam Hempel, Richard Mahoney, Kevin Schmidt, Jim Miazga, Alex Birkle, Josh Keller and Mason Johnson, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Moderators, Monitors, and Helpers: Alex Birkle, Greg Fischer, Peter Fritsch, Kathy Foster, Dan Gruendemann, Ben Gollon, Dave Gollon, Jim Held, Sam Hempel, Ron Johnson, Barb Kelm, Mike Kelm, Richard Mahoney, Jim Miazga, Rebecca Nelson, Kevin Schmidt and Bill West Taste of Wisconsin Aquaculture Cooking Demonstration Chef: Dani Klontz and her Sous Chefs: Angela Chrusciel, Greg Hanson, Ron Johnson, Barb Kelm, and Kathy Foster Fish Donations: Bell Aquaculture; Bullfrog Eat My Fish Farm; Gollon Brothers Wholesale Live Bait; Nelson and Pade, Inc.; Rushing Waters Fisheries; Silver Moon Springs; Troutlodge,Inc.; and University of Wisconsin-SP/NADF Looking Back, continued from page 6 have brought more than 250 people yearly to Wisconsin for job training. The UW-Extension Aquaculture Program has responded to critical needs of the industry by conducting workshops nine beginning aquaculture with over 200 participants, eight specific needs like yellow perch culture, pond fertilization, trout production, egg disinfection, record keeping, fish health and farm ponds. They conducted six regional and four in-state biosecurity/vhs workshops along with workshops with tribes, agriculture educators and conducted Multi-Cultural training. The program provided leadership and linkages with the industry concerning regulatory issues: conducting compliance workshops, listening sessions on behalf of DNR and 7 DATCP, assisted with the review of the Great Lakes Compact which led to $8500 reduction in fees per year for farmers, provided findings from the industry for Regulatory Review & Recommendations Study and took the lead on the Industry Capacity Study. Working with WAA and state agencies, the program has produced a Wisconsin Aquaculture Consumers Guide, Fish and Food Processing Guide; Economic Impact of Wisconsin Aquaculture Brochure; a Needs Assessment; and a Lake Sturgeon White Paper. They also assisted DATCP with the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 which was able to give back to the famers $61,885 in refunds for high feed costs. The specialists have visited over 400 fish farms and made 28,000 direct contacts concerning Wisconsin Aquaculture. The Wisconsin Aquaculture Industry Advisory Council (WAIAC) is a unique committee derived in statute, continued on page 8

8 Looking Back, continued from page 7 administrated by DATCP, and driven by fish farmers. The WAIAC mission is to actively build partnerships to enhance the responsible development of aquaculture for the benefit of private and public fisheries. Members include fish farmers, university researchers, extension specialists, and agency staff. This neutral committee has served the industry well as a mechanism to discuss issues, promote initiatives and make recommendations in the form of resolutions which are sent to legislators and heads of agencies. WAIAC has adopted over 20 resolutions. However all is not rosy if we compare Wisconsin Aquaculture to the world and United States aquaculture; the state is falling behind. Most of the world aquaculture is farmed in Asia, with China producing over 60% of the production. Although the US Aquaculture industry grew in the last Census of Aquaculture, the increase was due to marine shellfish growth because catfish, the largest US segment was down over 40%. Consumption of seafood is down slightly and still we eat only about half of what the rest of the world consumes; we import over 90% of all seafood eaten. Wisconsin lost ground, sales decreased by $1.7 million compared to 2005 (the biggest lost in the bait sector), the number of farms increased by four but total number of farms raising perch decreased by 34%. The food sector was a bright spot increasing by $462,000. But that shows only a 2.3% growth compared to the US at 3.8% and the world at about 8%. The industry has a lot to be thankful for and has made great strides in promoting Wisconsin Aquaculture, however many of these programs could end June 30 th if funding is not reinstated for NADF and funding for the Extension Program is not found. This would be a real WAA Recognizes Outstanding Achievements At the recent Wisconsin Aquaculture Conference the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association recognized two University of Wisconsin employees for outstanding work. Jim Held, UW-Extension Aquaculture Outreach Specialist, was awarded the Aquaculture hall of Fame Winton Award for a lifetime of sustained and distinguished service to Wisconsin Aquaculture. Jim has worked a total of 27 years helping the Wisconsin aquaculture industry - 19 years as a researcher with UW-Madison CALS and eight years with UW-Extension. Jim s down to earth manner starting every talk with a fish joke, and his Mr. Fix-It ability has been proven invaluable to figure out real world answers to problems on farms he visits. His specialty has been assisting farmers with pond management, yellow perch and walleye research, and developing economic models. Dave Gollon, WAA Past President, said, Without Jim, Wisconsin aquaculture would still be in the dark ages, he has provided the industry with valuable insights and low tech solutions when solving our problems. shame because there is so much more to accomplish. Let me indulge - one more time - taking the 30 thousand foot view while having boots on the ground for the past 20 years working as a fish farmer, WAA officer and Board member, DATCP Program Analyst and Extension Specialist. First, there has been great leadership over the years from agency and university staff who have dedicated their careers to helping the industry grow. Leaders like Bud Schultz, Will Hughes, Mike Bandli and Myron Kebus all from DATCP; with Ray Cross, Jeff Malison, Chris Hartleb, Jim Held and Sarah Kaatz working at the University of Wisconsin. The aquaculture industry has benefited from the strong leadership of Department Secretaries like Darrel Bazzell and Cathy Stepp at DNR and Rod Nilsestuen and Ben Brancel at DATCP. Over the years WAA has had strong leaders with Hugo and Rudy Kettula, and Bob Winkle who are to be remembered and missed; the Gollon clan starting with Dave Sr. then Dave Jr. and Tim with cousins Ben and Joe. Their driving force in state politics has enabled the industry to grow and pass key legislation. Past Presidents like Bill West, Jeff Taylor, and Mike Kelm have led the industry through trying times and currently Dan Gruendemann and Peter Fritsch are moving WAA forward. We should not forget Herby Radmann, and Mac Graham for their strong opinions and guidance. Lastly, Cindy Johnson, (my wife) for her dedication and organizational skills in producing the CREEL, the annual conference and keeping the web site updated. And many, many more whom have volunteered when asked and assisted when needed. Even from the 30 thousand foot view it is sometimes hard to get the full perspective because we miss the details and at times only highlight the tallest accomplishments with setbacks and failures falling into the shadows, not to be noticed. But, then continued on page 9 ian fish health course. He has also instituted an aquaculture minor and aquaponic classes, bringing into the university $3.3 million in aquaculture grants which has provided funding for the UW- Extension Aquaculture Program and was the winner of the 2015 UW-System Regent Scholar award (1 of 5 awardees in the state) for helping business and industry. Dan Gruendemann, WAA Chairman of the Board, said, Dr. Hartleb is an extremely valuable asset for Wisconsin fish farmers and due to him, my farm was able to secure a SBIR grant for raising walleyes and saugeye. WAA is proud to have these university employees working with the industry and helping it grow. WAA also awarded Dr. Chris Hartleb, UW-Stevens Point Fisheries Biologist and NADF Director, with the Aquaculture Education Award in appreciation for excellent service and assistance to the Wisconsin Aquaculture Industry. Dr. Hartleb was recognized for his educational work at UW-Stevens Point including authorship of over 50 scientific papers on aquaculture, co-authoring the book on Aquaculture Best Management Practices and the Online Veterinar- 8 L-R: Dave Gollon, Jim Held, Dr Chris Hartleb

9 Looking Back, continued from page 8 we lose the advantage of hindsight and the ability to look forward. Wisconsin Aquaculture over the past years has made great strides, overcome hurdles and has tremendous momentum going, but it could also be labeled as the Trail of Tears for individual heartbreak and disappointments. Here is a list of items that still need attention: Although the DNR Management and Policy has changed to assist the industry as a whole (as evident with the Walleye Initiative and Sturgeon Report), when brought down to the field level and individual staff there are still old views in place, creating setbacks and difficulties for farmers to overcome. They see aquaculture as resource polluters not stewards and advocates. Even with all the reduced regulations and statutory changes, the regulatory climate is still too complex and needs overhauled. (examples WPDES permits over 50 pages in length, 6-10 years waiting on permits to increase capacity or come into compliance) Aquaculture, to move forward, needs to be listed as agriculture in all state statues, not just some. Aquaculture needs to be water dependent as an industry to safeguard and promote long term investments. Permanent funding source found for the UW-Extension Aquaculture Program NADF funding to be reinstated and continued Wisconsin needs a state policy to acknowledge aquaculture as beneficial and help promote the industry to the public Looking Back, continued The Lake Sturgeon White Paper recommendations need to be passed by the legislature so private fish farms can start a commercial industry and work in partnership with DNR to help fill their needs Hands on, farmer initiated, research must be continued Current partnerships and new endeavors must be leveraged in positive directions so Wisconsin doesn t continue to drop in aquaculture productivity, sales and numbers. The industry is aging, the average fish farmer is over 55. The industry must develop generational strategies to pass on their knowledge and skills so we don t lose more farms. What the industry does not need is another Report, Assessment, or Evaluation of what the industry needs! Over the years there have been numerous documents (Poff Report & Blue Ribbon Taskforce), all of which have the same theme - less regulations, more partnerships, comprehensive marketing and long term commitment by the state. The industry is grass root well organized, is politically connected, and has a good infrastructure. What s needed is wide ranging action and implementation by agencies working with fish farmers for environmentally sound and economically sustainable growth. The tools are in place if budgets and politics don t stop the momentum. The industry needs to become Team Aquaculture don t set on the sidelines be active and be a spokesperson, become a unified voice. Tell your farm story to your legislator about how UW -Extension and NADF has helped you, why these programs are needed, and why aquaculture is important. Dressed and Smoked Rainbow Trout Gift Boxes Retail and Wholesale Fee Fishing Bring this ad & receive 10% off fee fishing 400 Hill Ave, Star Prairie, WI toll free INFO@STARPRAIRIETROUT.COM 9

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11 BITS and PIECES From the Ag NewsWire EPA's McCarthy pledges to make Wotus rule 'reasonable' At the National Farmers Union annual convention in Wichita, Kansas, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers are working to tighten the definitions of ditches, tributaries and farm-field erosional features to narrow what areas fall under the law's jurisdiction as waters of the United States (WOTUS). The National Farmers Union, unlike the larger American Farm Bureau Federation, was initially supportive of the proposed rule when it was released a year ago but later began to raise concerns as well. Her remarks won't satisfy the Farm Bureau. Don Parrish, the group's senior director of regulatory affairs, noted that the administration hasn't committed to any changes in the definitions yet. What constitutes destroy and pollute' in EPA's eyes are different from what farmers might think, he said Microloan Cap Grows to $50,000 Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds farmers that the FSA borrowing limit for microloans has increased to $50,000. Microloans offer borrowers simplified lending with less paperwork. Youth Loans The Farm Service Agency makes loans to youth to establish and operate agricultural income-producing projects in connection with 4-H clubs, FFA and other ag groups. Hugo W. and Ruby J. Kettula Living Trust SEVEN PINES FISHERY, INC. WHOLESALE SERVING THE MIDWEST For Information RICHARD & DAVID KETTULA 1029 Clam Falls Drive, Frederic, WI Phone Fax Rainbow and Brown Trout Fry Now Available Fingerling to Catchable 2014 Farm Bill Amends USDA Disaster Assistance Program The 2014 Farm Bill, has amended certain provisions within the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) and Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm- Raised Fish (ELAP) which are part of the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). Contact your local FSA office for more information on the above loans & program. From NAA CAHPS Concept Rolled Out USDA APHIS and Veterinary Services (VS), in collaboration with the National Aquaculture Association (NAA), rolled out its joint concept for Commercial Aquaculture Health Program Standards (CAHPS) at Aquaculture America 2015 Conference. The Program Team has been developing draft program standards to establish a voluntary, non-regulatory framework for the improvement and verification of the health of farmed aquatic animals produced in U.S. commercial aquaculture industry sectors. It s goal is to support various business objectives, including improved health management, protection and expansion of aquaculture business opportunities, and promotion and facilitation of trade, as well as improved resource protection and environmental sustainability. For more information visit: Comments on the concept and framework may be ed to - VS.SPRS.Feedback@aphis.usda.gov. Continued on page 12 FOR SALE Fish Farm/Aquaculture A Current Profitable Business Opportunity In Central Wisconsin Includes: 138 acres 21 fish ponds of various sizes & depths 4 drilled wells 2 large commercial buildings Retail bait shop building All trucks & equipment All customers & delivery routes $599, Call Ward Wolff First Weber Realtors Stevens Point, WI MLS #

12 BITS AND PIECES, continued from page 11 Funding Opportunity: 2015 NOAA Sea Grant Aquaculture Extension and Technology Transfer NOAA Sea Grant expects to have funding available for each of FY 2015 and FY 2016 for a national competition to fund marine aquaculture extension and technology transfer efforts, as part of the overall plan to support the development of environmentally and economically sustainable ocean, coastal and Great Lakes aquaculture. Aquaculture that occurs in the Great Lakes or its coastal zone is considered marine aquaculture for this competition. Proposals are required to include a partnership (e.g., with local community governments, state and Federal agencies, regional management efforts, industry, nongovernmental organizations). Awards are anticipated to start no later than September 1, Applications are due to Grants.gov by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time April 27, The Federal Funding Opportunity announcement is available at: oppid= Questions about this funding opportunity may be sent to oar.hq.sg.aquaculture@noaa.gov. Menomonie event to connect wholesale buyers and food suppliers Join staff from DATCP s Wisconsin Agriculture and Food Center for a buyer-supplier networking meeting April 21 in Menomonie. All product categories are welcome. DATCP staff will help match buyers and suppliers. Participants must pay a $15 fee to attend. Active Something Special from Wisconsin members get a $5 discount. If you have interest in attending, contact DATCP s Theresa Feiner at Theresa.feiner@wi.gov or Registration is limited to 10 buyers and 30 suppliers. SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans available in Wisconsin ATLANTA - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and private nonprofit organizations located in Florence, Forest, Marinette and Vilas counties in Wisconsin as a result of excessive rain with cooler than normal temperatures beginning April 1, Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA s secure website at Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling the SBA s Customer Service Center at Grant Opportunities The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has announced two grant opportunities. The Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Program provides a combined total of $26.6 million divided equally between its two grant programs. Grant applications must be submitted electronically through by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 14, Workshops will be offered to help potential grant applicants understand, develop, and submit their applications. Some workshop sessions will be recorded and made available for online viewing for those who are unable to attend in person. More information

13 Fish farmers produce more cool-water species Focus on walleye, perch and bluegill Dan Hansen, Correspondent, Wisconsin State Farmer MARSHFIELD Members of the Wisconsin Aquaculture Association and others engaged in the state s fish production have a long and successful history in raising trout and other cold-water species. Now, thanks to a new initiative designed to bring more walleyes to Wisconsin s waters, there s a renewed emphasis on several coolwater species. The Wisconsin Walleye Initiative was developed by the Department of Natural Resources and the Governor s office to increase the number of walleyes in state waters by expanding production of large fingerling walleyes (6-8 inches) at state, private and tribal fish hatcheries for stocking in waters accessible to the public. Now in its second year, this historic investment in Wisconsin s walleye fishery is benefitting all users and Wisconsin s angling related economy, according to Dave Gollon, president of Gollon Bait and Fish Farm near Dodgeville. The success of the walleye stocking program is a direct result of the positive relationship David Giehtbrock Photo credit Dan Hansen between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Industry, Gollon said. Credit for the program must be given to Governor Walker, It was his vision that started the initiative. Initiative update During the recent Wisconsin Aquaculture Conference, DNR staff and others involved in the initiative reported on the progress of the program. David Giehtbrock, DNR Fish Culture Section Chief, who supervises 11 DNR fish hatcheries throughout the state and 55 people who work full time at these facilities, provided a progress report on the initiative. He noted that agreements with nine grant recipients, including six private fish farms and three tribal fish farms, have been established, and a total of $2 million has been committed for proposed infrastructure improvements among the partners, and that $500,000 was provided annually, starting in fiscal year , to purchase large fingerling walleye from the private fish farms. DNR has committed to purchasing 369,000 fish from the nine grant recipients in 2015, 362,000 in 2016 and 100,000 in Grant recipients Private fish farms approved for grants, and amounts requested, include: Gollon Bait and Fish Farm, Dodgeville, $423,535; Northside Enterprises, Black Creek, $ Cont on page 14 13

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15 More Cool Water Species, continued from page 13 Coolwater Farms LLC $76,600 Sokaogon Chippewa Community $ ; Hayward Bait & Bottle Shoppe, $125,000; Central Wisconsin Fish Farm LLC, Stevens Point, $29,841; St. Croix Chippewa, $283,253; Taal Lake Hatchery, New London, $194,370, and; Lac du Flambeau Chippewa, $ Giehtbrock reported that many of the infrastructure construction projects began last year. Eggs were distributed to the grantees at the beginning of May, and the program has already proven successful, reaching 97% of its first-year stocking goal. Even though some of the grant recipients won t start supplying fish until this year, during 2014, 719,670 extended-growth walleyes were stocked in 151 bodies of water, he said. Last year, the DNR and its cooperators produced 508,891 fish; Gollon Bait and Fish Farm, 179,966, Sokaogon Chippewa Hatchery, 19,873, Taal Lake Hatchery, 9,660, and Hayward Bait and Tackle, 3,280. The program also has spurred additional private investment by recipients. For example, Gollon Bait and Fish Farm, which received a grant of approximately $400,000, invested another nearlyl$300,000 in their facilities, building new ponds to increase walleye production. Tim Gollon summed up the goal of the walleye initiative, The result we re looking for is more walleyes stocked, more license sales, more people fishing, more walleyes being caught, more tourism and more dollars for the Wisconsin economy. Tim Gollon photo credit Dan Hansen Perch and bluegills With consumer demand for wild perch outpacing current supplies, there s renewed interest among private fish farmers in producing additional quantities of perch and bluegills for the table. To provide WAA members with the latest information on raising these species, the Wisconsin Aquaculture Conference presented a workshop session offering affordable, practical methods for raising these cool-water fish. The session was led by Bill West of Black Creek, who is the senior scientist at Blue Iris Environmental and co-owner of Blue Iris Fish Farm. He has 35 years of experience encompassing the disciplines of biological and chemical assessment of aquatic environments. West specializes in outdoor culture and conducts research on intensive outdoor aquaculture, specifically pond-side tank culture. In the last five years, we spent a lot of time developing new tech- 15 niques and new technologies to enhance our ability to get perch and bluegills to market faster and more economically, he related. We have to achieve this or we won t be in business very long. One of the biggest problem with bluegills, according to West is that they spawn so frequently, at about three times a year, while perch spawn only once a year. This leaves way too many bluegills in a pond, and they out produce their capacity to find food, he explained. To get bluegills to grow as fast as you want, you either have to stop the breeding or start feeding. The fastest growing perch is the female but the fastest growing bluegills are males, West noted. If you re growing them for food, you have to concentrate on the fastest-growing, most profitable, fish, he advised. To be successful to need to have evenaged groups of fish. Feed training Jim Held, UW-Extension outreach specialist, stressed that perch and bluegills need to thrive at every stage of life. Given the right circumstances you can feed-train fish that are as small as a halfinch, he said. However, the fish are so fragile at that size, and you tend to lose a lot of them through physical handling stress while transferring them from ponds to tanks. Generally, the smallest size perch Held cares to work with are 3/4-inch fish. This size gives me the most fish coming out of the pond, and also the best success at feed training, he stated. Held s research revealed that 1-1/4-inch fish take about 30 days to feed train, while it takes only 20 days to freed train the 3/4-inch fish. That s a really important thing if you have limited room to feed train your fish, he affirmed. Bill West Photo credit Dan Hansen Jim Held Photo credit Dan Hansen If I can get these fish through in 20 days rather than in 30 days, I m going to have more fish because I harvested them at a smaller size, and I m going to get my feed training done quicker so that I can either bring in another batch or I can get rid of those onerous tank-cleaning duties, Held stressed. Grow-out After spawning and feed-training, the final step in successfully bringing these fish to market is grow-out. Once we get the fish to this final stage, we can cont on page 16

16 More Cool Water Species, continued from page 15 use standard diets because they re a lot hardier, West noted. When I bring fish to the market, I can t take the chance that they will be full of parasites because they won t sell, he emphasized. In my research, I discovered that by creating movement in the water, I can get rid of the parasites in the fish even if the water is infected, he reported. Using a pond and series of tanks with a small pump and gravity flow, I ve created an outdoor recirculating system, that beside the cost of the food, only costs $1 a day to operate. West grows about 1,500 fish to market size in an 1,100-gallon tank. I don t have any aeration but I move water in and out at the rate of about one tank per hour. There s no difference in the water temperature, and I ve never seen them go off feed in July and August, which is sometimes pretty typical, he said. The major benefits of West s system are the elimination of parasites and weeds. This year I hit 51 percent yield on my fillets, and when I m ready to harvest them, I don t have to chase them with a net, I just pull the plug, he said. Walleye Initiative Grant Program - Dan Gruendemann and Terry Hogan Baitfish Session - Tim Gollon John Birr - this year s SAE Aquaculture Grant recipient Eat Wisconsin Fish Program - Kathy Kline Amazing Food! 16

17 Peter Fritsch and a sampling of Wisconsin Aquaculture Products at the Retail Products Showcase Dani and her Sous Chefs cooking up some fabulous dishes! Check out these news stories, interviews and videos about the conference Aquaculture-Conference-March-6-7-in-Marshfield html 17

18 M I N U T E S Editor s note - Please note that there has been some condensing of these minutes due to space restrictions. For full minutes please contact Cindy Johnson (cindy@wisconsinaquacuture.com) or Mike Bandli (Mike.Bandli@Wisconsin.gov) WAA WINTER BOARD MEETING DECEMBER 5, 2014 Hotel Marshfield 2700 S. Central Ave., Marshfield, WI Meeting called to order at 8:40a by Mike Kelm Members present: President, Mike Kelm; Vice President, Terry Hogan; Board Directors, Rebecca Nelson, Jim Augustyn, Ben Gollon; Secretary/Treasurer, Cindy Johnson Not present; Board Chairman, Dan Gruendemann; Board Directors Jeff Taylor, Brandon Pigott, Tim Gollon Others present: Roy Landskron, Bluegill Heaven; Bill West, Blue Iris Fish Farm; Fred Gollon, Central Wisconsin Fish Farm; Peter Fritsch, Rushing Waters; Dave Gollon, Gollon Bait and Fish Minutes from October 3, 2014 Motion to accept made by Rebecca, 2 nd by Jim Financial report Motion to accept made by Jim, 2 nd by Rebecca 2015 Conference Coolwater session - should be focused on farming ideas that can help small farmers and doesn t cost much money. It should cover different types and modification of spawning, culture, production. We should try to get audience interaction and have reference materials to take away. Change the session to panels of 4-6 people on each topic. Mike K said he could talk about his business spreadsheet that he put together for his farm. Have this session on Friday morning and afternoon. Walleye Initiative have the grantees together as 1 group to present. We should have a lead-in speaker who recognizes each of the recipients and gives an overview. Arrange the talks so there aren t concurrent sessions. Peter will see if his hatchery manager can give a talk on practical hatchery innovations. Need to come up with a theme. Cindy will redo the schedule and out to the board to look over. Regulatory Policy Committee Ron said NASAC wrote a letter to the EPA on the proposed Water of the U.S. rule. NASAC feels EPA overstepped its boundaries and there should be a better definition of what federal water is and its impact on aquaculture. The motion to back the letter was made by Jim, 2 nd by Ben. Cindy will send the letter out to the WI federal legislators letting them know WAA supports NASAC. Education Committee Ron & Jim are working on the online modules for UW-SP. Ron is doing the regulatory portion and the modules will be sent to Chris Hartleb for review then they will work on a finalizing Cont on pg 17 WISCONSIN FLOWGATE & CULVERT COMPANY, INC Bainbridge Trail Wisconsin Rapids, WI Telephone: Fax: Toll-Free: 866-FLOGATE sales@wisconsinflowgate.com Website: YOUR SOURCE FOR ALL YOUR WATER CONTROL NEEDS FLOWGATES, CULVERTS, SCREENS, STOPLOGS & MORE 18

19 WAA Minutes, continued from page 16 them. They should be available in early New Business WAA received a request from fiber farmers to see out bylaws and incorporation papers as they are looking to form a support organization for their industry. It was decided that we can share our bylaws with them, but their legal advisor should be able to guide them with the incorporation. WAA received a letter from Dan Smith, Administer, DATCP-DAD offering to sit down with WAA to talk about what the Division can offer. We will consider what is the best opportunity to meet with him - maybe the conference? WAA received a request from WI Dept of Tourism to help with the Midwestern Association of State Departments of Agriculture (MASDA) annual meeting. It was decided that we should consider purchasing some product from a member and donate it for their evening hospitality. A resolution to back finding permanent funding for the UW- Extension Aquaculture Outreach Specialist positions was presented. There was some discussion on this. Ben made to motion to support this resolution, 2 nd by Jim, passed. The WAA officer positions are up for appointment. Mike said he would like to step down as his new job takes requires more of his time, but he would like to stay on the board. There was no old business brought up. Motion to adjourn made by Ben, 2 nd by Rebecca. Meeting adjourned at.10:30a. Respectfully submitted by Cindy Johnson, Secretary WAA SPRING BOARD MEETING MARCH 5, 2014 Hotel Marshfield 2700 S. Central Ave., Marshfield, WI The Spring Board Meeting was called to order at 12:37pm by Dan Gruendemann. Peter Fritsch, Rushing Waters Fisheries, Justin Evans, Rushing Waters Fisheries. Minutes from Terry made the motion to approve, 2 nd by Rebecca. Treasurer Report Ben made the motion to approve, 2 nd by Brandon. The money in savings was re-designated (annual requirement) as 1/3 for education ($ ), 1/3 for administrative ($ ) and 1/3 for conferences ($ ). Rebecca made the motion to approve, 2 nd by Dan Conference There was an update given by Cindy: Tentative site Madison; tentative changes in format Conference held Sat/Sun, Silent Auction on Saturday, No lunch on Sunday, Will need to work out addressing entire attendees (Welcome), Will be concurrent sessions Committee Reports Regulatory: Ron said this update will be covered in depth at the WAIAC meeting Business Development: No report Research & Education: Jim stated that the governor s budget will seriously impact aquaculture research and education with UW-SP, NADF and Extension. NADF is slated to close and there is no additional money available for the UW-Extension Aquaculture Specialists positions. A resolution to support NADF will be discussed at the reconvening of the board meeting following the Annual Members Meeting. Other Old Business None New Business Caird Rexroad discussed the redirection of the ARS program in Milwaukee: to associate it with the trout program in West Virginia and realign with industry needs. This will take effect tomorrow (March 6). He asked for input and support from the industry. The board will discuss writing a letter of support later. Rebecca made the motion to adjourn, 2 nd by Mike, meeting adjourned approximately 1:10pm Respectfully submitted by Cindy Johnson, Secretary Present: Board and Officers: Mike Kelm, President; Terry Hogan, Vice President; Dan Gruendemann, Board Chairman; Board Officers: Rebecca Nelson, Brandon Pigott, Ben Gollon, Tim Gollon. Secretary: Cindy Johnson. Not present: Jim Augustyn, Jeff Taylor. Others: Jim Held, UW-Extension; Jen Swanson, Hayward Bait; Ron Johnson, UW-Extension; Caird Rexroad, USDA-ARS; Brian Shepherd, USDA-ARS; Dan Hilger, RJ Hilger & Sons, Inc.; Tim Winkel, Silver Moon Springs; Dave Gruendemann, Northside Enterprises; John Pade, Nelson & Pade, Inc.; Fritz Gollon, Central Wisconsin Fish Farm; David Gollon, Gollon Bait & Fish Farm; WAA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING MARCH 5, 2015 HOTEL MARSHFIELD 2700 S. Central Ave., Marshfield, WI Meeting was opened by Mike Kelm, President at 4:43pm Active (Business) members present: Cindy Johnson, Mike Kelm, Rebecca Nelson, Brandon Pigott, Ben Gollon, Peter Fritsch, Tim Gollon, Terry Hogan, Dan Gruendemann, Tim Winkel, Dan Hilger Others present: Jim Held, David Reto, Ron Johnson Cont on page 18 19

20 WAA Minutes, continued from page 17 End of Year Financial Report The 2014 Financial Report was handed out. The comment was made to make an adjustment to the financial report to show the profit and loss on a yearly basis. Overview of the year Mike Kelm gave a brief overview of the year NCRAC Aquaculture Conference: We are planning for a regional aquaculture conference for next year in conjunction with NCRAC. Currently looking at Madison for the location. Will be held Saturday/Sunday. We are anticipating this to be a large conference. We will have access to the members of NCRAC as speakers. If there are any talks/topics you would like to see presented, please let Cindy know. The Governor s Walleye Initiative Grants: Grants were awarded in 2014 to 6 private and 3 tribal facilities. The 3 year program helped the DNR fulfill 97% of their stocking needs with farmers providing almost 213,000 fish in Other grants: Several farms have received grants - Northside Enterprises SBIR for Phase Two of the hybrid and pure walleye project, and a SARE is being used by Bill West to develop fish based fertilizer and a protein fish feed pellet. Aquaculture Day events at local farms: This past year WAA provided road signs for farms to help raise awareness of our event. It is through public relation events such as this that will help our industry grow and prosper. Please consider participating in Aquaponics Innovation Center UW-SP has constructed an Aquaponics Innovation Center scheduled to open next month. UW-SP received two aquaculture grants: The first supports workforce training and education and will develop training modules for aquaculture technology transfer. The second develops an Aquaculture Business Incubator that will provide resources for new and existing aquaculture businesses and help support continued growth. Both of these projects are helping to support the UW- Extension aquaculture positions. Funding for UW-Extension aquaculture positions: We have been pursuing finding permanent funding for the 2 aquaculture positions. If no funding is found before June 30, these positions will be eliminated. We will let you know our progress and if/when we need your help in supporting these positions. Funding for UW-SP/NADF: You may or may not know, the Governor s budget eliminated allocating the tribal gaming funds to fund NADF effective July 1. NADF will have to close if this funding in not reinstated for NADF. We will let you know if/when we need your support for this. Nominations & Voting for 2 Open Directors Positions Nominations were open for the 2 open board director positions. Ben Gollon and Tim Winkel said they will run. Steve Oh, Pentair, was interested in running but he was unable to attend the annual meeting. Dave Gollon made the motion to nominate Ben and Tim, 2 nd by Mike Kelm, approved. Old Business There was no old business New Business Peter Fritsch of Rushing Waters Fisheries said they may approach WAA for monetary support in their legal issues in regards to their WPDES (Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permitting. This is an issue that will affect other farmers in the state and the industry needs to address it now. WAA needs to check into any prohibition of the association assisting an individual when their situation affects the industry as a whole. Cindy Johnson is staying on as Secretary, Editor and website manager. Kathy Foster is being considered as Treasurer. The suggestion was made that all farmers need to keep record ( if possible) of all their correspondence with regulatory departments and personnel in regards to any issues with policy and regulations. By doing so, it will help each farmer and the industry to better address and resolve these issues. You need to ask for where the administrative code or statute backs up what is being interpreted to you and that it be put in an or in writing. A motion was made to adjourn by Dan Gruendemann, 2 nd by Terry Hogan. Meeting adjourned at 5:10pm Respectfully submitted by Cindy Johnson, Secretary WAA ANNUAL BOARD MEETING MARCH 5, 2015 HOTEL MARSHFIELD 2700 S. Central Ave., Marshfield, WI Dan opened the meeting at 5:11pm Present: Board and Officers: Mike Kelm, President; Terry Hogan, Vice President; Dan Gruendemann, Board Chairman; Board Officers: Tim Winkel, Brandon Pigott, Ben Gollon, Tim Gollon. Secretary: Cindy Johnson. Not present: Jim Augustyn, Jeff Taylor. New Business Ben and Tim Winkel were voted in by the membership for board directors. Mike Kelm resigned as President due to work commitments A letter of support for NADF was discussed. Questions were asked about the effectiveness of a resolution, where to find funding, and by whom and why was this decision made to cut NADF s funding, and is there a need to reword the drafted resolution. These questions will be discussed post meeting. WAA should find a way to get their concerns about the funding cuts affecting aquaculture to Governor Walker. The comment was made that the board needs to discuss on getting the definition of aquaculture throughout the State Statutes. Brandon made the motion to adjourn, 2 nd by Tim Gollon. Adjourned at 5:40pm Respectfully submitted by Cindy Johnson, Secretary 20

21 Wisconsin Aquaculture Industry Advisory Council December 5, 2014 DRAFT Meeting Minutes Location: Hotel Marshfield, 2700 S. Cent. Ave, Marshfield, WI 10:30 12:30 pm WAIAC Voting Members Present: Peter Fritsch, David C. Gollon, Mike Kelm, Rebecca Nelson and Bill West. (Dan Gruendemann and Jeff Taylor excused.) Others in attendance: Mike Bandli (DATCP), Sara Bredesen (Country Today), Ron Bruch (DNR), Amy Garbe (DNR), Ben Gollon (Gollon Bros.), Fred Gollon (Central Wis. Fish Farm), Terry Hogan (Hayward Bait), Cindy Johnson (WAA), Ron Johnson (UW- Ext), Kathy Kline (UW-Sea Grant), Roy Landskron (Bluegill Heaven), Christine Lilek (DNR), Jhonatan Sepulveda (UW- Milwaukee), and Jacob Zimmerman (DNR). Others in attendance (via Conference Call): Cate Rahmlow (WEDC) Call to order: The meeting was called to order at 10:45 a.m. Minutes from March 6, 2014: Dave Gollon made a motion with a second from Peter Fritsch to approve the March 6, 2014 WAIAC meeting minutes. The minutes were approved unanimously by the council. Minutes from October 3, 2014: Dave Gollon made a motion with a second from Bill West to approve the October 3, 2014 WAIAC meeting minutes. The minutes were approved unanimously by the council. Walleye Initiative: Ron Bruch reported that the DNR was able to meet the target of 710,000 fish stocked under the walleye initiative. There was 719,000 fish stocked with 500,000 coming from public hatcheries. Six grant recipients were able to provide fish this year and several of the grantees are still in development. There are some reports of fish already being caught from the program by fisherman. Ron suggested the DNR would like to have a meeting with producers/ grantees to debrief on the program and identify what worked well and what challenges they need to work through. The overall success of the program may pave the way for collaboration between the DNR and private aquaculture for other species. The current budget has a proposed increase of $600,000 for purchase of additional walleyes for the next year. This could give opportunities for a wider purchase of fish. status of issues and prioritize any further activities. Sturgeon Initiative Next Steps: Ron Bruch reported that a white paper was developed about 1 year ago. Although the law still prohibits the production of sturgeon by private enterprises, there needs to be a discussion about how to address any remaining concerns and work toward possible solutions. Ron suggested the DNR set up a meeting with interested fish farmers to talk through how to address those concerns. The meeting would also help assess the level of interest from private aquaculture, talk through various options and help craft the rules in the event the rules are revised by the legislature. Ron also suggested there has been several MOUs in the past to allow for the sturgeon to be placed on display. Ron said he may be able to share the MOU with the group. Ron suggested setting January 20 th in Stevens Point. The meeting could be coupled with the discussion on the remaining walleye initiative issues. Once the details of the meeting are in place, Ron will share through the WAA. Work Team Reports: Business Development Update on Eat Wisconsin Fish Campaign Kathy Kline Kathy reported the campaign is still active and they are looking to set up several more events. The events have proven to be a good way to build a partnership between fish farms and restaurants and to have positive conversations with consumers. These conversations and events provide a good opportunity for the industry to provide positive messages about Wisconsin aquaculture. Ron Johnson reminded the group of the materials available from the National Aquaculture Association (NAA) that can be used as a tool to communicate with consumers. They are available (to NAA members) through the NAA at: publications Sea Grant is also looking for strong research proposals that could address the nutritional value of farm-raised fish BLBW Mike provided copies of the newly printed version of the Wisconsin Local Food Marketing Guide. The continued on page 20 Regulations and Rules Study Next steps: Ron Johnson and Jim Held helped develop the study along with the DNR. Christine Lilek has been facilitating a number of discussions to respond and address each issue. If fish farmers feel there are issues within the report that haven t been addressed, please let Ron Bruch and Christine Lilek know and they will work to address those issues. There was a suggestion for Christine to set up a meeting separate from WAIAC with farmers to discuss current 21