Learning Resource:

The Great Lake Sturgeon

The Great Lakes Sturgeon is a book  edited by Nancy Auer and Dave Dempsey, published by Michigan State University Press (2013). This book explores ecology, issues, and management of the Lake Sturgeon in the Great Lakes; and is described by Michigan State University Press as follows: 

The first book of its kind to explore this magnificent creature, this collected volume captures many aspects of the remarkable Great Lakes sturgeon, from the mythical to the critically real. Lake sturgeon are sacred to some, impressive to many, and endangered in the Great Lakes. A fish whose ancestry reaches back millions of years and that can live over a century and grow to six feet or more, the Great Lakes lake sturgeon was once considered useless, then overfished nearly to extinction. Though the fish is slowly making a comeback thanks to the awareness-raising efforts of Native Americans, biologists, and sturgeon supporters, it remains to be seen if conservation and stewardship will continue to the degree this remarkable animal deserves. Blending history, biology, folklore, environmental science, and policy, this accessible book seeks to reach a broad audience and tell the story of the Great Lakes lake sturgeon in a manner as diverse as its subject.

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The Great Lake Sturgeon book cover

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The GLFHT is Getting an Upgrade—More to Explore This Summer!

With financial support from America250MI, we are excited to enhance the GLFHT website! We’re delivering a more accessible, user-friendly experience and expanded stories that celebrate fisheries heritage in Michigan and throughout the Great Lakes region.

Some highlights include new trail stories featuring local voices, curated educational resources for youth and educators, additional places to explore in our directory, and more ways to connect with coastal communities through history, culture, and stewardship.

The first phase of the upgraded site launched in June, with more content coming in August 2026. Thank you for visiting!

Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail
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