Net installation at 45% completion

As the third section of netting is starting to be installed, some of the innovative design ideas and installation solutions bore fruit and show some of the high quality craftsmanship being provided. Jesse Tussing, USDA Wildlife Services Nashville assistant district supervisor, was part of the initial assessment and collaborative project proposal. Highlighted collaborative contributors this update:

  • Jesse Tussing, USDA APHIS Nashville Wildlife Biological Technician, provides leadership and innovation that are key to the final netting structure structure
    Something temporarily or permanently constructed, built, or placed; and constructed of natural or manufactured parts including, but not limited to, a building, shed, cabin, porch, bridge, walkway, stair steps, sign, landing, platform, dock, rack, fence, telecommunication device, antennae, fish cleaning table, satellite dish/mount, or well head.

    Learn more about structure     ’s design and he acts as part of the planning team, an installation supervisor/foreman, and direct contact for collaborative decisions. 
  • Jonathan Walls, USDA APHIS Nashville Wildlife Services District Supervisor, is the project manager for the operation. Jonathan personally researched parts/materials/budget and initiated the collaborative agreement. Jonathan also provides direct labor which allows him to train developing staff, engineer custom design solutions real-time, and develop/oversee quality installation criteria. 
  • Cody Herron, USDA APHIS Nashville Wildlife Specialist, instigated this collaborative effort. Cody was first contacted to help limit the bird predation problem while the USFWS worked to secure a contract for the net repair effort. His insight and initiative got the ball rolling for the collaborative project and he operates as a lead installer on the project. Cody is the first one we see called on to perform assignments that require a high level of competency and reliability.

The USFWS is saving an estimated $400k+ and the hatchery is getting a higher quality netting repair that considerably exceeds the commercial contract quote alternatives, thanks to the efforts, ideas, innovation, and initiative of these three along with the support, hard work, and valuable skills of a number of other dedicated USDA staff.