Physical Address
357 Agency Rd,
Lapwai, ID 83540
Lewiston, ID – The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) and the Nez Perce Tribe are joining forces for an exciting collaborative project called the Kelt Project, scheduled to take place Tuesday, November 7th.
The Kelt Project focuses on the release of fish, a crucial aspect of sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting fish populations in the Snake River. This initiative begins at the Dworshak National Fish Hatchery (DNFH) with a dedicated crew and a specially equipped fish transport truck.
The Kelt Project exemplifies the commitment of both CRITFC and the Nez Perce Tribe to the preservation and revitalization of local fish populations. By working together on this initiative, they aim to bolster the health and sustainability of the Snake River ecosystem.
There will be photo and news story opportunities throughout the day.
Project outline and schedule:
At the hatchery, the crew carefully handles each fish, ensuring that it is properly identified and equipped with a Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag. Fish destined for release are then safely placed in the transport truck, while those slated for further observation and care are held in a separate tank for future study until the following autumn.
With three tanks at DNFH housing fish and an additional tank at the Nez Perce Tribal Hatchery (NPTH), the operation is expected to process approximately 45 fish per tank.
Following this meticulous preparation, the fish embark on a journey towards the Snake River, located approximately 2 miles downstream from Lower Granite Dam. The trip, undertaken by the transport truck, spans approximately 2.5 hours.
This careful and deliberate process ensures that the fish are returned to their natural habitat in the safest and most effective manner possible.
For further information about the Kelt Project or to arrange interviews with project representatives, please contact Jill-Marie Gavin, Public Information Specialist at CRITFC, via email at Jgavin@critfc.org.
