About the Hatchery
The kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery stands as a testament to the perseverance of the Syilx Okanagan People and their vision to restore the n’titxw (Chief Salmon)—one of the Four Food Chiefs—to its original habitat and rightful place within their territory.
This hatchery plays a vital role in a long-term restoration initiative to return Sockeye salmon to their historical range throughout the upper Okanagan watershed, including Okanagan Lake, Skaha Lake, and parts of the Columbia River Basin.
Facility Overview
Opened in 2014, the hatchery is a 25,000 square foot facility designed to support salmon restoration efforts at a large scale.
- Capacity to rear up to 8 million eggs
- Currently equipped to manage 5 million eggs from brood stock to fry release
- Designed for flexibility to support future growth and evolving fish culture practices
The facility is a cornerstone of the restoration program, offering:
- Increased egg-to-fry survival rates
- Reduced risk to fish populations
- Opportunities to monitor interactions between Sockeye and Kokanee
Tour Experience
kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery Tours are available year-round by appointment.
What to expect:
- Approximately 1 hour in length
- Hands-on learning experience
- Opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with knowledgeable guides
Book a Tour
To Book a Tour please contact: Dan Stefanovic (Hatchery Operations Biologist) at dstefanovic@syilx.org or Tyson Marsel (Hatchery Biologist) tmarsel@syilx.org