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2007 FISH & GAME SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED

The 2007 Fish & Game research scholarship has been awarded to Rasmus Gabrielsson to support his research into the wildlife monitoring of brown trout migration & recruitment patterns in central Otago using natural trace element and isotope markers.

Mr Gabrielsson is completing his Masters in wildlife management at Otago University. He has previously completed both a BSc in Ecology and a Post Graduate Diploma in wildlife management at Otago University.

Mr Gabrielsson explains the objective of his thesis is, “to investigate linkages of brown trout migration and recruitment in three lakes and associated tributaries in central Otago. Using a micro chemical analysis of the trace elements in trout otolith (ear stones) I can track trout migration and recruitment patterns making it possible to predict likely impacts to the fishery of further hydro development and water takes (irrigation) in the catchments. The goal is to construct a comprehensive recruitment and movement map for the brown trout in upper Clutha River catchments providing a guideline to direct future conservation and protection work on spawning habitat and migration routes”, said

“Growing up on a Swedish farm I have always had a close bond to nature and its animals. My passion for outdoor recreation, like hunting and fishing led to further interests in natural sciences. These interests also lead to my discovery of New Zealand 1999. Once here the lifestyle, nature and wildlife together with a certain “kiwi girl” led me to leave my Army Officers career in Sweden for an education in wildlife research and management here in New Zealand.”

Fish & Game New Zealand offers an annual academic scholarship to research the scientific, management, social, cultural and political issues related to our freshwater sports-fish and game birds. The $10,000 scholarship is awarded in one of two categories; research into natural and physical sciences of fish and game, or research into social, cultural or political issues in context of fish and game. Applications for the Fish & Game New Zealand Research Scholarship may be made on the form provided by the New Zealand Vice-Chancellors Committee.

“Many thanks to Fish & Game for supporting my research and awarding me with this scholarship. As we are expecting our first child this scholarship is greatly appreciated and could not have come at a better time.”

ENDS

For further information contact

Ric Cullinane, Communications and Marketing Manger, (04) 494 4767, 021 994 768