Document Type
Thesis - Open Access
Award Date
2023
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Natural Resource Management
First Advisor
Alison Coulter
Abstract
Fisheries management is a complex process that often requires consideration of many factors to be implemented effectively. Stocking is one of the most often used fisheries management techniques for addressing a myriad of issues in the fisheries field. Stocking is also one of the largest expenses for many fisheries management agencies. Due to license sale declines, management actions including stocking, are being evaluated by many agencies to determine if there are ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness to reduce costs and enhance angler participation. For my second chapter, I evaluated the current fish stocking decision-making process within South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. Through semi-structured interviews with 41 members of the fisheries staff, I examined differences in the frequencies of responses for stocking-related decisionmaking including goals, objectives, alternatives, and information needs. Although information needed for stocking was adequate or nearly adequate, frequently objectives were not set before stocking and few alternatives to stocking were considered. My third chapter focused on evaluating relationships among stocking-related variables and angler license sales in South Dakota. Using data from 2005-2021, I related stocking characteristics such as fish size, species, biomass stocked, and surface area of stocked waterbodies to sales of different types of angling licenses. I also evaluated these relationships at multiple scales (i.e. 40 km, 100 km, and statewide). Unique license types responded to different variables across spatial scales. However, per capita license sales were not well predicted by stocking characteristics. For my fourth chapter, I created a structured decision-making framework using findings from the previous two chapters. This framework provides a step-by-step guide for managers to use as they make decisions on fish stocking. Stocking decision-making is an area where fisheries management can benefit by incorporating more information and perspectives. Management budgets are likely to continue to become more restrictive, so careful evaluation of management decisions, especially stocking, may be an effective way to ensure that management actions are able to deliver desired results while conserving resources needed for both the fisheries and the agency.
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Mounsdon, Riley L., "Understanding Angler Responses to Fish Stocking Programs Across South Dakota" (2023). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1145.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/1145
Rights Statement
