1. A Comparison in Health of Two Largemouth Bass Populations at Bridgestone/Firestone WMA By: Joseph Zimmerman Tennessee Technological University Cookeville, TN 38505

2. Introduction Bridgestone/Firestone Wildlife Management Area Two ponds (2.5 hectares) Pond 2 population appears stunted (Simpson 2004)

3. Objective/Hypothesis Statement The objective of the research is to determine if the largemouth bass population in pond 2 is less healthy than the population in Pond 1. Hypothesis-The largemouth bass populations in Pond 1 will have higher relative weights than the population in Pond 2.

4. Methods and Materials 2 minutes 10 minute sample with Electro-fishing boat Accu-weigh scale and Wildcoe measuring board Use lengths and weights to determine relative weight for each fish (condition of fish/certain water body/regional standards) Plot the relative weights on a graph to determine the overall condition of the fish populations -Over 100-problem with surplus prey -Under 100-problem with forage shortage -Near 100-good condition

8. Results Pond 2- low relative weights Pond 1- good relative weights

10. Discussion Pond 1-fertilized fields=increased biomass Pond 2-no fertilized fields=decreased biomass (clear water) Possible solutions: 1. Fertilize and Lime (phytoplankton growth) 2. Rotate Free Fishing Day between ponds

11. Questions?