Kent County Administrator's Digest - October 14, 2024

John Ball Zoo, along with partners the Grand Rapids Public Museum and Grand Valley State University, are monitoring sturgeons in the Grand River to contribute to the conservation of this living fossil. The partners survey sturgeons at nighttime in the river, capturing them and taking genetic samples, tagging the fish and releasing them. They also monitor sturgeons using sonar technology. The data gathered helps the partners learn where sturgeons are reproducing so spawning habitats can be conserved.

Since early September, the partners have had a successful season, spotting multiple juvenile sturgeons, which is a clear indicator of successful reproduction.

"Historically, the Grand River has been an important habitat for sturgeons, but we know very little about the modern population," said Bill Flanagan, conservation manager at John Ball Zoo. "We are proud to work with these community partners and conduct this research which will serve as the foundation for conservation action to protect this amazing species."