State Proposes Closure of North Umpqua River Rock Creek Fish Hatchery

The Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby is extremely disappointed that ODFW is proposing to close Rock Creek Hatchery as a cost-cutting measure in its proposed budget. The agency has consistently assured the public of an objective and transparent review of reconstruction options since Rock Creek Hatchery was heavily damaged in the 2020 Archie Creek Fire. The proposed closure appears to be a major deviation from that stated intent and the public deserves reassurances of ODFW’s objectivity in determining the future of Rock Creek Hatchery and should re-engage the local community on a pathway to reconstruction. UFED has contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars toward Rock Creek Hatchery’s mission in the past. Our organization remains committed to helping ODFW rebuild a modern hatchery to produce healthy, Umpqua Basin-grown fish.”