Sockeye Mitigation

Effects of the Hatchery

What about the effects of the hatcheries? Hatcheries are used to significantly improve the survival of eggs and juveniles by controlling conditions (and losses) associated with incubation and rearing. These increases can lead to much larger returns of adults.

Hatcheries can operate in many different ways that influence the kinds of effects and the level of associated risk. The Cedar River Hatchery Program is being developed to reduce the potential for adverse effects generally attributed to hatchery programs. While some differences are expected between hatchery and wild production, the measures described below and those incorporated in the operating protocols are intended to reduce the risk of significant adverse effects.

This hatchery is an incubation facility so fry will be released soon after emergence. The fry will rear naturally in Lake Washington. Some studies have suggested that extended rearing in a hatchery may alter behavior of hatchery fish, making them less fit to survive. Longer holding periods increase the risk of disease problems as well.

A locally-adapted sockeye stock is being used. By using a locally-adapted stock, there is a better chance that the fish produced by the hatchery will have the timing and other genetically determined traits that are needed to be successful in Cedar River/ Lake Washington system.

The hatchery will rely on a random mix of hatchery and naturally- produced sockeye for eggs each year. This allows certain natural selection pressures to help maintain a healthy and productive stock.

Long term monitoring to evaluate the hatchery's performance and effects. Approximately $4 million is committed to gather data on the key uncertainties about the program's performance and effects as identified in the adaptive management plan.

Commitment to analyze results using independent scientific review and to make changes when needed.

Landsburg Mitigation Contacts

Rand Little, Senior Fisheries Biologist
Seattle Public Utilities
Phone: (206) 684-5925
Email: rand.little@seattle.gov

Paul Faulds, Senior Environmental Analyst
Seattle Public Utilities
Phone: (206) 615-0021
Email: paul.faulds@seattle.gov