Outreach Programs at the Midwest Fisheries Center

A career presentations about getting a job working for the federal government and becoming a biologist. This can be adapted for all ages.

We bring our current research to you. Have experts present on their current research projects. This presentation can be held at the Center or at your location.

Discover the impactful projects of the Midwest Fisheries Center through a presentation tailored for your organization. There is an optional field or lab portion that can be added to get your group hands on with fish.

We offer tours of the Midwest Fisheries Center, featuring a 40-minute overview of our mission and work, a walkthrough of the Whitney Genetics Labs and our Fish Health Center, and a glimpse of the boats and equipment used by field biologists. Our laboratories and other work areas are not generally open for tours so we encourage visitors to email or call to pre-arrange a tour.

Do you love weird and unusual animals? Join us for a fascinating program on the unique and vital role of freshwater mussels in local rivers! In this engaging 40-minute presentation, you'll discover the biology of these remarkable creatures, learn about the reasons many are endangered, and participate in a hands-on activity to help identify these important animals.

Students will transform into in-classroom fish biologists using live fish! They will develop their observational skills to study fish behavior, formulate questions based on their observations, connect their findings to existing knowledge, and learn how to identify different fish species. A hands-on experience that brings aquatic biology to life!

Meet us outside for a day in the life of a fish biologist. Students will explore the career paths of professional fish biologists and then venture outside in waders to catch fish using nets. They’ll gain hands-on experience collecting data and identifying fish species in their natural habitat. All equipment will be provided by us.

Join us for a 20-minute presentation on pursuing a career as a fish biologist with the USFWS. This session covers degree requirements, the pros and cons of the profession, salary and benefits, and features videos of fish biologists in action. For those interested in a hands-on experience, an activity with live fish can be included at the end.

Students will learn about the incredible biology and life history of Lake Sturgeon. At the end, students will meet live Lake Sturgeon.

Learn how to use your skills of observation, and nature journaling by studying aquatic macroinvertebrates. Program can be done inside or outside.

Join us for this outside program where er go on a nature walk and investigate how birds communicate using many different sounds and behaviors. 

Join us for this outdoor program where we answer this question: What is Lichen? Use your skills of observation to learn more about this common but mysterious organisms.

We are available to set up a table/booth highlighting our collective fish and aquatic conservation efforts at your organization’s career fair, open house, or outdoor festival.

We can offer assistance with fishing days.

We co-host Youth Outdoor Fest every year in July at Pettibone Park. This event is designed to get kids outside, trying new activities, discovering nature, and having fun. Organizations from around the area come together to offer hands‑on outdoor experiences led by knowledgeable experts, with all equipment provided at no cost.

Kids will love the chance to:

• Try archery and BB gun shooting
• Learn fishing, fly‑fishing, and bowfishing skills
• Meet live fish and wildlife
• Explore space through a telescope
• Paddle a canoe or kayak
• Create nature‑inspired art
• Play games — and enjoy so much more!