U.S. Government Commits $240 Million to Support Salmon Hatcheries and Native Tribes

The U.S. government is investing $240 million to upgrade salmon and steelhead hatcheries in the Pacific Northwest to help restore fish populations and support Native American fishing rights. The initial $54 million will be allocated to 27 tribes for hatchery maintenance and modernization, addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance.

The U.S. government announced a $240 million investment in salmon and steelhead hatcheries in the Pacific Northwest to bolster declining fish populations and uphold treaty-protected fishing rights of Native American tribes. The initial funding of $54 million will benefit 27 tribes in areas including Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska.

Jennifer Quan, the regional administrator for NOAA Fisheries West Coast Region, highlighted the critical role these hatcheries play in providing food and preserving tribal culture. With some facilities near collapse, Quan noted the urgent need for modernizing these hatcheries to ensure the survival of vital salmon species.

This investment aims to address the extensive deferred maintenance, which has a cost estimated over $1 billion, and includes measures to manage the genetic risks posed by hatcheries to wild fish populations. Experts like Greg Ruggerone emphasize the challenge of harvesting hatchery fish without harming wild salmon, a balance crucial for both ecological and treaty obligations.

(With inputs from agencies.)