Michigan DNR to track fish stocking using 23andMe-style gene testing

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has started using genetic testing to evaluate the success of some fish-stocking efforts. Instead of relying only on tagging, the DNR is using a parentage-based approach to determine whether fish in a given waterway descended from the brood of stocked fish. The method analyzes DNA from parents collected when offspring are fragile, then later compares it with DNA from fish caught after stocking. DNR officials said the pilot research has been cost-effective, saved staff time, and provided clearer insight into whether stocked or naturally reproducing fish are driving results. Initial focus includes walleye stocking in Dickinson and Iron counties, using DNA processing through Michigan State University’s lab.