May 17, 2021

Fish Carcasses Sustain Hatcheries and Habitat

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) produces 57 million hatchery fish each year. Currently, surplus fish are prioritized for enriching nutrient concentrations on the spawning grounds, sustaining tribal ceremonial purposes, and supporting egg and carcass businesses. However, the Oregon legislature is currently considering a bill (HB 3191A) that would re-prioritize what ODFW does with returning hatchery fish. This bill would require at least 50% of all returning hatchery fish to be returned to spawning grounds.