February 15-18, 2009 Washington State Convention Center Seattle ...

PADDLEFISH SYMPOSIUM DEDICATION TO JAMES KAHRS
William Shelton and Steven Mims
Zoology Department
University of Oklahoma
Norman, OK USA
wshelton@ou.edu
James “Jim” W. Kahrs was a dedicated fish farmer, a congenial person, and a good friend. He established the Osage Catfisheries
in 1953, and he operated until his retirement in 1996. It became a family business and continues today under the guidance of
his sons. Jim was recognized by the American Fisheries Society, Fish Culture Section with his nomination induction into the
National Fish Culture Hall of Fame, Spearfish, SD in 1999. Jim was also active in many other professional organizations such
as the National Aquaculture Association, Catfish Farmers of America, and the World Aquaculture Society. Jim was active in
interacting with State, Federal and International fishery workers. The paddlefish has been a popular sportfish and much of the
early developments in artificial propagation were developed to facilitate stocking programs. Jim became interested in paddlefish
for its potential as a commercial species. This activity led him into international trade, promoting paddlefish as a foodfish.
We remember Jim who died in September 2006 by dedicating this paddlefish symposium convened at the Aquaculture America
2009 meeting in Seattle, WA.
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