DNR Renovates Popular Fish Exhibit At State Fair

FALCON HEIGHTS (AP) - One of the top attractions at the Minnesota State Fair has undergone a major facelift.

The indoor fish exhibit at the Department of Natural Resources building has been completely redone. Five big new tanks illustrate the habitat and fish found in different Minnesota waters: a southeastern trout stream, the St. Croix River, and lakes typical of central, southern and northern Minnesota.

The new tanks replace several smaller aquariums that were nearly 30 years old and in poor condition. The new tanks are lower to the ground, making them more accessible.

DNR East Metro Fisheries Manager TJ DeBates says the new approach shows visitors that good angling depends on healthy ecosystems.

The renovation cost $460,000 renovation in bonding money.

An estimated 800,000 people visit the DNR's State Fair exhibit every year.