Salmon Conservation Hatchery Announced in Lheidli T'enneh Territory

Today, leaders from Lheidli T'enneh First Nation, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and project partners gathered in Prince George to celebrate a major milestone for salmon recovery in the Upper Fraser watershed: the announcement of construction of the new Upper Fraser River Conservation Hatchery. Located in Lheidli T'enneh territory at the confluence of the Nechako and Fraser Rivers, the hatchery will support the conservation and rebuilding of Chinook salmon populations while advancing a shared commitment to stewardship, collaboration, and sustainability. In her remarks, Chief Dolleen Logan highlighted the importance of Indigenous leadership in fisheries management, the Nation's long-standing work in salmon revitalization, habitat restoration, floodplain reconnection, and watershed stewardship. She also emphasized that successful salmon recovery requires more than hatcheries alone. Healthy rivers, functioning floodplains, stable spawning habitat, and ongoing restoration efforts are all essential to restoring salmon populations for future generations. Lheidli T'enneh continues to advance habitat restoration and habitat banking opportunities throughout its territory, creating pathways for development and conservation to move forward together in a good way. Chief Logan also spoke to the importance of protecting all salmon species, including exploring future opportunities to support Sockeye salmon recovery alongside Chinook conservation efforts. Thank you to Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Public Services and Procurement Canada, Canfor, neighbouring First Nations, project partners, Elders, youth, and community members for their commitment to salmon recovery and healthy watersheds. Salmon are more than a resource. They are part of our culture, our identity, and our responsibility.