By Andi Anderson
Michigan is investing $30 million to revamp its fish hatcheries, addressing aging infrastructure dating back to the late 1970s. These upgrades are crucial to safeguarding the state's fisheries and ensuring their long-term sustainability.
The Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery encountered significant challenges in 2021, with multiple power failures highlighting the urgent need for improvements. The failures underscored the importance of proactive investment in infrastructure to prevent disruptions to hatchery operations.
Despite setbacks caused by the pandemic, which forced the postponement of certain operations, including egg collections for steelhead, the delay proved fortuitous. It prevented potential losses that would have occurred alongside infrastructure failures.
The scale of the projects across Michigan's six hatcheries represents the most significant investment in decades. Internal teams have been mobilized to develop comprehensive plans to address infrastructure needs and prioritize critical areas.
This investment not only modernizes facilities but also ensures that managers can operate with confidence, free from the fear of critical system failures. By upgrading infrastructure, Michigan is taking proactive steps to protect and enhance its valuable fisheries for generations to come.
Photo Credit: pexels-liron-malyanker
Categories: Michigan, General