Today, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission modified the rules and regulations for approved Domestic Aquatic Organisms to include Sterlet sturgeon.

An application for consideration was submitted to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to add Sterlet sturgeon to the list of approved species for aquaculture purposes including processing for meat and caviar. This action today also established a Sterlet sturgeon permit and the permit regulations.

The department heavily monitors this process to limit the impacts from non-native aquatic organisms into aquaculture. Species are considered for approval by evaluating their potential negative risks to native species, their habitats, and human health.

Permit restrictions and the full notice of intent are available here.

Questions about the Sterlet Sturgeon permit or people interested in applying for the permit should contact Robert Bourgeois, LDWF Fisheries Permit Manager, P.O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA 70898 or via email to [email protected].