The Oshkosh Advisory Park Board meeting on November 13, 2023, featured a presentation by Angelo Cozzola, a fisheries biologist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Cozzola discussed the ongoing "fish sticks" projects aimed at enhancing aquatic habitats in the Winnebago System, particularly focusing on installations in Millard Bay near Menominee Park.

Cozzola explained that these projects involve the introduction of coarse woody habitat into shallow lake areas. This habitat is crucial for promoting biodiversity, providing essential structures for fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. The recent installations, completed about three weeks prior to the meeting, were designed to counteract the loss of natural woody shorelines due to shoreline development and water level management.

The methodology for the fish stick installations includes dropping trees from the shore and anchoring them securely to withstand wind, wave, and ice action. Cozzola highlighted the importance of these structures not only for ecological benefits but also for enhancing fishing opportunities along the shoreline, particularly for anglers without boat access.

In addition to the installations, the DNR is collaborating with Fox Wolf to create educational signs that will be placed near the fish stick sites. These signs aim to inform the public about the benefits of the projects and promote awareness of the ecological restoration efforts.

Cozzola also outlined future plans for additional fish stick installations, supported by a grant from the Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA). Proposed locations for future projects include Sunset Bay, the Lower Wolf River, and Tallulah Park, among others. The team is considering utilizing trees from local removals for these installations, with plans for a winter installation to facilitate the process.

The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to restoring and enhancing the natural habitats within the Oshkosh area, with a focus on sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and the local fishing community.