The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is recognizing one of its own after Fish Culture Research Biologist Alan Johnson received the Midwest Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies (MAFWA) Fisheries Biologist of the Year Award.
The honor recognizes Johnson’s 25 years of research and innovation that have helped improve fish culture practices and strengthen fish conservation efforts throughout Iowa and beyond.
Johnson leads the Iowa DNR Fish Culture Research Team at the Rathbun Fish Hatchery, where he has developed new techniques and introduced advanced technology to improve hatchery efficiency and fish production.
According to Iowa DNR Warm and Coolwater Fish Culture Supervisor Jay Rudacille, Johnson’s dedication to combining scientific research with practical hatchery operations has made him a respected leader in the fisheries field.
Throughout his career, Johnson has focused on improving the survival and growth of walleye by developing methods that help young fish successfully transition to pelleted diets. His research has allowed Iowa hatcheries to produce and stock large numbers of 8- to 10-inch advanced walleye fingerlings each year, benefiting anglers and fisheries across the state.
Over the past decade, Johnson has also helped modernize Iowa’s hatchery system by adapting these methods to more water-efficient fish culture systems, which are expected to play a key role in the future of warm and coolwater hatcheries.
The MAFWA Awards Program recognizes individuals, organizations, and partnerships that demonstrate outstanding leadership, research, innovation, education, and public service in support of fish and wildlife conservation throughout the Midwest.
Source: Iowa Department of Natural Resources
