The people who rely on the Winnebago chain of lakes for a living know how serious the VHS fish virus could be if not kept in check.
People like Bob Haase who works at a Fond du Lac sports shop who says it will take a coordinated effort of all boaters, fishermen and non-fishermen alike, to stop the spread of VHS to other lakes.
The virus that can attack at least two dozen species was found last weekend in the Winnebago lake system.
Besides restricting the movement of live fish on the lake chain boaters must clean their boats to keep the virus from spreading. If they don't, Mike Arrowood of Walleyes for Tomorrow says a multi-million dollar industry is in jeopardy.
Arrowood says fishing and its related businesses on the Lake Winnebago system alone is worth two hundred twenty four–million dollars alone to the surrounding area.
The Natural Resources Board expanded Emergency Rules for the Lake Winnebago System to prevent the spread of the VHS fish virus. Go to: www,dnr.wi.gov for details. Look for the rules under News Releases.