About Us
Since 1871 the National Fish Hatchery System has worked to restore aquatic species that are important to the health of our aquatic systems. This country-wide network of national fish hatcheries works with states and tribes to conserve, restore and enhance the fish and aquatic resources of America for future generations.
Quilcene National Fish Hatchery lies in a narrow valley on the east side of Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Operational since 1911, the hatchery rears and releases Coho Salmon to fulfill Tribal Trust Responsibilities and to enhance the local sport and commercial fishery. This hatchery is co-managed by the Port Gamble S' Klallam, Jamestown S, Klallam, Skokomish, Lower Elwha Klallam, and Suquamish Tribes.
Our Mission
Since 1871, national fish hatcheries have been applying science-based approaches to conservation challenges. We work with our partners and engage the public to conserve, restore, and enhance fish and other aquatic resources for the continuing benefit of the American people. Conservation is at the heart of what we do, and we recognize that we do this work for the American people–both the present generation who benefit today and future generations who will inherit our legacy of conserving America’s aquatic resources.
Quilcene National Fish Hatchery raises and releases coho salmon into the Big Quilcene River primarily to support these critical cultural and economic resources with our tribal partners (Skokomish, Jamestown S'Klallam, Port Gamble S'Klallam , and Lower Elwha Klallam tribes) as part of U.S. treaty obligations (Secretarial Order #3206).
Our History
Originally constructed in 1911, Quilcene National Fish Hatchery has been expanded and improved many times. A century of continuous operation many species of fish have been raised at Quilcene NFH, including coho, chum, pink, Chinook, and sockeye salmon; and brook, cutthroat and rainbow trout. These fish were distributed into streams and rivers flowing into Hood Canal and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Other Facilities in this Complex
Quilcene National Fish Hatchery is part of the Puget Sound/Olympic Peninsula Fisheries Complex, which also includes the Western Washington Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office (WWFWCO) and the Makah and Quinault National Fish Hatcheries.
