4 days ago
DEC announces $100M fish hatchery modernization effort
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton recently announced the launch of a nation-leading $100 million freshwater fish hatchery modernization plan.
The funding supports the first of three phases of modernization projects for 12 hatcheries operated by DEC across the state. The hatcheries are integral to effective fisheries management and conservation, and contribute up to $5 billion in economic benefits provided by New York's recreational freshwater fishing industry.
'DEC's fish hatchery system serves as the backbone for the management and restoration of our freshwater fisheries,' Lefton said. 'Today's launch of the hatchery modernization plan will further strengthen New York State's commitment to the angling community and the continued stewardship of our fisheries resources far into the future.'
First established in 1864, New York's fish hatchery system is the oldest in North America.
The DEC operates 12 hatcheries that annually produce up to 850,000 pounds of fish that are stocked into more than 1,200 waterbodies for recreational and restoration purposes. The average age of DEC's hatcheries is 93 years and the integrity of many buildings, water supply assets, and fish-rearing structures are at risk. In recent years some of the most crucial needs have been addressed with a steady flow of DEC capital funding, but more extensive work is needed to sustain and improve operations to truly modernize the hatchery system for the future.
The historic $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 dedicated up to $75 million for hatchery improvements as part of the $650 million specified for improving access to and protecting nature. This funding, combined with funding from New York Works and other capital funds, provides a solid foundation for creating a modern hatchery system that is technologically advanced, more efficient, adaptable, and environmentally responsible.
The DEC will use Bond Act monies and capital funds to leverage other state and federal funding to modernize the hatchery system in multiple phases over the next 10 years. Improvements center on employing contemporary culture technologies to maximize fish production and ensuring greater sustainability by using the best technology available to reduce energy use and minimize the facilities' carbon footprint.
DEC will implement its modernization plan in three phases, with Phase 1 beginning immediately. Highlights of Phase 1 include:
• Covering the rearing ponds to exclude predators, reduce sunlight, and provide a surface for a photovoltaic system at the Caledonia Hatchery
• Refurbishing ponds at the South Otselic Hatchery for increased walleye production
• Overhauling the water supply system at the Salmon River Hatchery
• Building a new hatch house at Chateaugay Hatchery
• Replacing the existing hatchery at Randolph with a brand-new facility
'This plan not only ensures the continued health and sustainability of our state's freshwater fisheries but also preserves critical recreational and economic opportunities for future generations. New York's fish hatchery system is a vital part of our state's natural heritage and supports recreational fishing that benefits local communities, small businesses, and tourism across the state,' New York State Conservation Council President Dr. Keith Tidball said. 'The hatcheries are not just facilities — they are centers of fisheries conservation, education, and economic vitality.'
Visit the DEC website for more information about the fish hatchery system. Stocking information, along with fishing regulations, maps, and access information is also available in 'The Tackle Box' feature of the DEC 'HuntFishNY' smartphone app. Other features include driving directions to state boat launch sites and an offline feature that allows a user to access information when cell coverage isn't available.
