The Minnesota Chapter of the American Fisheries Society is one of 54 chapters in North America, and one of the larger chapters with over 200 members.The chapter was formed in 1967 to provide a forum for fisheries workers in Minnesota to communicate professionally and socially, to advance scientific management of the state's aquatic resources, and to support the goals of AFS at a local level.





Minnesota Chapter Activities



The Minnesota Chapter of AFS is proactive in addressing many issues that affect the state's aquatic resources. The group uses the most current scientific knowledge to publish and disseminate resolutions, recommendations, and policy statements to lawmakers and to the general public. Issues recently addressed include genetic conservation, riparian development, watershed management and inter-basin diversion of water. The ability to influence state policy regarding aquatic resources was improved in 1998 by joining the Fish and Wildlife Legislative Alliance (FWLA). The chapter holds three seats on the FWLA, whose mission is to initiate and influence legislation and regulations concerning fish and wildlife resources for the purpose of maintaining and enhancing traditional use of these resources for present and future generations. The FWLA is viewed as the voice on fish and wildlife issues to the Minnesota legislature.



The Chapter advocates professionalism in fisheries management by sponsoring continuing education courses for fisheries professionals from throughout North America, as well as providing technical presentations at its annual meeting. Many chapter members also serve on national, regional and sectional AFS committees, ensuring that state issues are addressed at a broader level. To ensure future leadership for Minnesota's fisheries, the chapter currently sponsors scholarships to support undergraduate students attending colleges and universities in Minnesota to earn a degree in the fields of fisheries, water resources, aquatic biology or aquatic environmental science. In addition, the chapter provides grants for students to travel to annual meetings, and includes a Student Affairs Committee representative on the Executive Committee governing body.