About Us
The La Crosse Fish Health Center:
Provides fish health services for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin.
Conducts fish health inspections at federal and tribal fish hatcheries.
Implements the National Fish Health Survey in the region.
Provides diagnostic services for disease outbreaks at hatcheries and in wild populations for fish, mussels, and amphibians
Provides annual fish health training for multiple partners.
Our Mission
“Working in partnership, we provide leadership in science, technology and education for conservation of aquatic ecosystems emphasizing fisheries, aquatic invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species , genetics and aquatic animal health for the benefit of the public”.
Our History
1924 - Bureau of Fisheries moved to La Crosse’s Riverside Park.
1962 - The La Crosse Fish Health Center started with a single biologist stationed at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery. Staff moved several times until the 1990s.
1995 - The La Crosse Fish Health Center and the La Crosse Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, along with the offices for the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge - La Crosse District, moved to its current location in Onalaska, Wisconsin.
2013 - The Midwest Fisheries Center was established, housing the Whitney Genetics Lab within the La Crosse Fish Health Center along with housing the La Crosse Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office and the Regional Watercraft Safety Coordinator.
2015 - The first Midwest Fisheries Center Director was hired in addition to core administrative and GIS staff.
2018 - The Midwest Fisheries Center lobby was renovated to add more workspace as well as visitor information and displays.
Other Facilities in this Complex
The Midwest Fisheries Center houses the La Crosse Fish Health Center, La Crosse Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, Whitney Genetics Lab and administrative, GIS and outreach staff, as well as the Regional Watercraft Safety Coordinator.
