Fish Habitat Database

The Fish Habitat Database is a synthesis of extensive information on habitat
requirements and characteristics of selected Great Lakes fish species.
Sponsored by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission through its Habitat Advisory
Board, the Fish Habitat Database was developed in response to a need for
habitat information on Great Lakes fish species. This need was identified in
part in the Joint Strategic Plan for Management of the Great Lakes Fisheries.
In addition, natural resource managers from environmental agencies indicated a
need for fish habitat data in order to develop and implement Fish Management
Plans, Lakewide Management Plans, and Remedial Action Plans that recognize fish
as an integral component of the Great Lakes ecosystem. The database potentially
contains habitat information for 18 selected fish species at five stages of
their life and in six bodies of water. This information was obtained primarily
from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Habitat Suitability Index Models and
other data where available. This version of the database is not the final
product. In fact, information gaps are present in this version. The database is
intended to be an ongoing effort which will need maintenance as new needs are
identified and new information is discovered. The Great Lakes Fishery
Commission is seeking an individual or agency that will be able to take over
this role on behalf of other users in the Great Lakes basin.