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In 2010, a team of fisheries researchers, managers, and other collaborative partners, including Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, built a series of 29 rock piles to serve as artificial reefs in Lake Huron’s Thunder Bay. After the loss of some natural habitat due to cement kiln dust, the constructed reefs were intended to give lake trout a place to spawn, although several other fish species such as bass, walleye, and whitefish are also attracted to the reefs.
Dr. Ellen Marsden was part of this large effort. In this lecture she will explain the background behind the reef project. She will also share how scientists have been using scuba diving, fish tracking, and underwater videos to study fish behavior and how the reefs benefit fish populations.
Sanctuary divers and vessels supported this effort, contributing to the overarching goal of preserving the Great Lakes for this and future generations. There is an exhibit in the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center that highlights this impactful project.