Hatchery
Tŝilhqot’in Interim Conservation Hatchery
A Tŝilhqot’in-led conservation hatchery in Tŝilhqot’in Territory was identified as a Nation-wide priority to further advance our goal of rebuilding our wild salmon stocks and fisheries, and to mitigate the risk of extirpation of vulnerable stocks. The hatchery allows us to prepare for an uncertain future by supporting resilient, biodiverse Tŝilhqot’in salmon populations.
Beginning in 2019, we conducted over 3 years of technical feasibility work including baseline data collection, genetic research, feasibility assessments, engineering design and costing. The interim conservation hatchery was delivered in summer 2022. Preparation of the hatchery site at Hanceville was conducted in fall 2022, hatchery installation in Feb 2023, and systems testing/training in spring and summer 2023.
Image Gallery
We have a salmon conservation hatchery!
The interim Tŝilhqot’in led salmon conservation hatchery is a key milestone in our staged approach to developing long-term hatchery capacity in Tŝilhqot’in Territory. We raised our first cohort of Chilko Jaŝ (Chinook) from eggs to the fry stage from fall 2023 to spring 2024.
TNG hosted a hatchery opening event on May 3, 2024, which was attended by Tŝilhqot’in Leadership, community members, TNG staff, and partners from First Nations organizations and government.
Hatchery opening – May 3, 2024.
Image Gallery
Pathway to a permanent Tŝilhqot’in Hatchery
We are currently working with DFO to collaboratively develop a permanent hatchery at the Hanceville site. TNG is proactively advancing feasibility work to identify best technical options for hatchery capacity and function to best meet our Nation-wide long-term recovery objectives.
TNG hatchery tour for DFO technical staff – May 2023
“Our Aboriginal title flows through the rivers that support our salmon.”
– Chief Francis Laceese (Tl’esqox)
