DNR’s Jody Derks to speak on the Future of Our Lakes in Longville

Jody Derks, area fisheries assistant supervisor with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will speak on managing lake fish populations Aug. 1 at 6:30 p.m. in Salem Lutheran Church’s fellowship hall in Longville. A meet and greet social with refreshments begins at 6 p.m.

Derks graduated from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he earned bachelor of science degrees in Fisheries and Biology. After two years with the Wisconsin DNR, Derks moved to Minnesota and spent three years at the Fergus Falls Area Fisheries office. He has spent the last six years in in the Walker Area Fisheries office, and has gained an understanding of the lakes in our area.

Derks will discuss how and why the Minnesota DNR manages fisheries and stocks lakes — the tools they use, the data they collect, the difficulties they face, and the actions they take as a result. He will also explain observed changes to lakes and their fish communities resulting from a warming climate and invasive species introductions.

Derks relies on the latest published and ongoing research on climate warming and invasive species and will discuss some of the management implications the changes are likely to bring. Lake residents, businesses, workers and visitors will all be affected in the very near future. To better learn how we can cope with challenges the changes will bring, lakes area community members are invited to come to this important presentation and discussion.

Derks’ presentation is sponsored by the men’s fellowship ministry of Salem Lutheran Church and is free and open to men and women of the community. Salem is located at 1340 County Road 5 in Longville.