Hatcheries

A Tool for Fish Conservation and Mitigation

Hatcheries have been used across this region since the early 1900s. Hatcheries are intentionally managed to enhance the number and success of returning adults, both hatchery and wild. Because of this, the percentage of hatchery-origin spawners has, on average, decreased or remained the same in most populations during the past decade and the risks to natural populations remains manageable.

Meanwhile, harvest opportunities have been enhanced by hatchery programs. There still is considerable uncertainty related to the influence of hatchery programs on the genetics and productivity of upper Columbia populations. Hatchery managers and researchers continue to ask and answer questions that will help identify and address risks to listed species.

For more about hatcheries in this region, see the Hatchery Background Summary

View data on Hatcheries statewide. Visit the Salmon Data Hub for the data behind the indicator charts and graphs used throughout this site.