Submitted Electronically via eRulemaking Portal

I believe that the introduction of Topeka Shiner in Missouri could be a beneficial endeavor. Based on reading the report, it seems that there would be no harm that would outweigh the benefits of introducing populations of these minnows and helping them become established. Topeka shiners are a well-qualified candidate for this experiment, as they are a diversely-adapted species. Native to the Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa region, they are very drought-resistant; they do well in both high and low temperature changes, and they can live in both shallow streams, and larger waterways. This adaptability could help them from becoming extinct in the region once again. However, it is not the temperature of the streams that will determine their long-term success; it is us. One of the main reasons that Topeka shiners are believed to have disappeared from the region in the first place is the lack of habitat; human activity encroached on and destroyed the Shiners' natural habitat. My concern, is that the land with the waterways that they are planned to be introduced to, even though they are currently all public lands, will not always be so. If these areas are developed and polluted, I am afraid that these fish will be eliminated once again.