Science for Everyone – Floating Islands: Surrogate Fish Habitat in the Milwaukee River Estuary

An estimated 80% of native Great Lakes fish rely on wetlands for part of their lifecycle. Due to industrialization, large areas of the Milwaukee River Estuary no longer have the wetlands upon which the fish rely. An innovative technology called Floating Islands is a promising solution. As a blend of synthetic and natural floating media that bio-mimics wetlands, the Floating Islands provide protected shelter and food sources for fish. Mike Marek of Marek Landscaping, LLC will discuss the firm’s experience fabricating, installing, and maintaining Floating Islands at four sites within the Milwaukee River estuary, and the exciting results and potential of these applications.

Fee: Free for all participants ($5 donation appreciated). No registration required.