Prehistoric environmental control
Prehistoric environmental control
The pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) is a bizarre,prehistoric-looking fish found in parts of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. Scientists believe that its roots in these rivers extend back 70 million years. Modern-day pallid sturgeons have been known to grow up to six feet and weigh as much as 80 pounds. They are an endangered species but the US Fish and Wildlife Service is working with many partners to bring them back by halting, and then reversing declines in pallid sturgeon populations by conserving and restoring the fish's vital habitat on the Missouri River. One initial part of that effort involves long-term monitoring of several sites on the Lower Missouri River to document impacts and benefits of Missouri River operations. Other groups helping in this work are the Nebraska Game and Fish Commission, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Missouri Department of Conservation. The data which are being collected will be an important component to state and federal decision making regarding modifications to Missouri River operations, mitigation site development, habitat restoration and land acquisition.
