DNR Officials Optimistic That Fish Virus Not Widespread
DNR Still Hopes For Permanent Rules
Updated: 7:44 am CDT June 25, 2007
MADISON, Wis. -- State Department of Natural Resources officials said that more tests are showing that a deadly fish virus isn't as widespread as some had feared it would be.But the DNR is requesting to make permanent rules aimed at containing the virus, which is deadly to fish but not to humans.The hemorrhagic septicemia virus, or VHS, was found in May in fish from the Lake Winnebago system in east-central Wisconsin. State officials later found the virus in fish in Lake Michigan.Tests on fish taken from other regions have been negative.The DNR's Mike Staggs said that they're not ruling out the possibility that it may be in other waters but for now, it's not widespread.On Wednesday, the Natural Resources Board said it would consider a request by the DNR to hold hearings on permanent emergency rules aimed at curbing the spread of the virus, such as requiring boaters to drain all water from their boats when they leave a lake.
Previous Stories:
- June 11, 2007: Officials: No Widespread Detection Of Deadly Fish Virus
- May 29, 2007: DNR Wardens Spread Word About Deadly Fish Virus
- May 25, 2007: Veterinarians Learn To Test For Deadly Fish Virus
- May 24, 2007: DNR: Deadly Fish Virus Turns Up In Lake Michigan
- May 22, 2007: Ag Officials Place 5 Fish Hatcheries Under Quarantine
- May 21, 2007: DNR: Anglers Take Steps To Keep Lakes Free From Fish Virus
- May 18, 2007: Board Adopts New Fish Virus Rule For Lake Winnebago Area
- May 16, 2007: Ag Department Considers Mandatory Testing For Fish Virus
- May 15, 2007: New Rules Might Protect Fish From Virus
- April 3, 2007: Great Lakes Virus Threatens Massive Fish Kill
Copyright 2007 by Channel 3000. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.








