Conserving Michigan Fisheries
Nick Vander Stelt, Class of 2023
What if we could bring back a species that went extinct years ago? For Nick Vander Stelt, Class of 2023, this idea isn’t from Jurassic Park, but rather a reality that he is working towards by researching with the Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI). Nick is pursuing a Master of Science in biology with an aquatic sciences emphasis.
Nick’s research is part of the larger Michigan Arctic Grayling Initiative that is working to bring back a species that went extinct in the state because of human activities such as logging. Nick has been tasked with surveying the Boardman River in Traverse City.
“We’re looking at what kind of environment is present within the streams to see if it’s suitable for Arctic grayling, and then we’re also looking at the other fish species to see if they would either benefit or harm Arctic grayling reintroduction efforts,” Nick said.
Reintroducing Arctic grayling is not an easy task. The initiative requires a lot of time and research. Nick has been fortunate to have the support of the Grand Traverse Tribe and has collaborated closely with them during his research assistantship. He has also worked with other graduate students and faculty, all of whom heavily depend on specialized equipment to complete their individual parts.
“Some of the equipment we use to assess these streams includes backpack electrofishing, and it kind of looks like ghostbusters,” Nick explained. “You have a little backpack and then you have electricity running through the water and that temporarily stuns the fish and then you can measure them, weigh them, and then release them.”
These research opportunities and the equipment they require is only possible because of donor support. Because of donors who care about Michigan’s water resources, AWRI is able to continue its conservation efforts and provide students like Nick with research opportunities.
“I think it’s important for donors to support research at AWRI because it really opens up the door for the students,” Nick reflects. “To the donors that support us, I’d just say thank you so much. Without your support, I wouldn’t be the scientist I am today. I wouldn’t have the same opportunities or experiences. Your support allows us to do really good work.”
Not only are donors who support AWRI helping the environment, they are also helping students like Nick work towards their future goals.
“My plan for after graduation is to continue on my career in fisheries management,” Nick said. “I’d love to work for a tribe, state, or federal agency. With my education from Grand Valley, I hope to protect and conserve our freshwater resources and our fisheries for many generations to come.”