As Wisconsin observes Invasive Species Action Month in June, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is urging members of the public not to release goldfish into local waterways or dispose of them in the trash following reports that unwanted carnival goldfish may have been released into a canal and discarded during recent festival activities.
Goldfish are not native to Wisconsin and are classified as a Restricted Invasive Species under Wisconsin's NR-40 Invasive Species Rule. Releasing goldfish into Wisconsin waters is illegal and can result in significant harm to native ecosystems.
While goldfish are often viewed as small, inexpensive pets, they are capable of growing much larger than many people realize and can survive for years in outdoor environments. When released into lakes, ponds, rivers, or canals, goldfish can compete with native fish, stir up sediment, damage aquatic vegetation, reduce water quality, and contribute to the spread of disease and parasites.
"Many people win a goldfish without planning to care for one," said Macy Wolke-Yohr, Assistant Manager at J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. "We understand that not everyone is prepared for that responsibility, but releasing them into the environment or throwing them away creates problems for both the animals and our ecosystems. We want people to know there are better options."
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue accepts surrendered fish and works to provide alternatives to release. The organization encourages anyone who receives a goldfish and cannot care for it to reach out for assistance.
The rescue is also encouraging festivals, fairs, and carnival operators to reconsider the practice of offering live animals as prizes.
"Animals should never be treated as disposable prizes," said John Moyles, Director of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. "Even a small goldfish is a living creature that deserves proper care. When people receive animals on impulse, it often leads to situations where the animal is neglected, released, or discarded. We would love to work with community events to develop humane alternatives that protect both animals and Wisconsin's natural resources."
June is recognized throughout Wisconsin as Invasive Species Action Month, a statewide effort to educate the public about invasive species and encourage actions that protect native wildlife, waterways, and habitats. One of the pathways invasive species enter the environment is through the release of unwanted pets.
Goldfish releases have become a growing concern throughout North America. Once established, released goldfish can reproduce, grow to impressive sizes, and create long-term ecological problems that are difficult and expensive to address.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue reminds the public:
• Releasing goldfish into Wisconsin waters is illegal.
• Do not release goldfish or other pets into the wild.
• Do not dispose of live animals in the trash.
• Contact a rescue organization if you can no longer care for a pet.
• Research the long-term care needs of any animal before accepting it.
• Encourage community events to use non-living prizes instead of animals.
Anyone needing assistance with an unwanted fish is encouraged to contact J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. More information on surrendering a pet can be found here: www.jraar.org
About J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue
Founded in 2020, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue is Wisconsin's largest exotic pet rescue. The organization provides alternatives to releasing unwanted pets into the environment through surrender services, placement programs, educational outreach, and conservation initiatives. Since opening, the rescue has helped thousands of animals while working to prevent invasive species introductions throughout Wisconsin.
P.S. Members of the media are invited to contact J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue for interviews regarding invasive species prevention, responsible pet ownership, NR-40 invasive species regulations, and alternatives to releasing unwanted pets. Interviews are available at the rescue's Neenah facility, on location, or via teleconference.