Michigan ramps up walleye hatching

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Michigan wildlife officials say the state is resuming large-scale hatching of new walleye as it forges ahead with an effective treatment against a fish virus.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment said it plans to take about 50 million eggs this spring for pond-rearing and direct stocking. That's an eight-fold increase over the last two years.

Michigan has been cutting back most of its walleye hatching since 2006 as a defense against the spread of viral hemorrhagic septicemia , or VHS, into inland waters.

After several years of testing, department officials say they have found a technique to disinfect walleye eggs and prevent the spread of the virus.

The state expects it will take two years to return to full walleye production.