LIBBY 



The Libby station is now- 

 being fitted into the new pro- 

 gram of lake planting. The area 

 served by the Libby station 

 contains many lakes where na- 

 tural reproduction is negligible, 

 and the production of this unit 

 will fulfill the stocking require- 

 ments of these lakes. 



Necessary maintenance was 

 carried out during the biennium. 



FISH PLANTED FROM LIBBY HATCHERY 



May 1, 1952 to April 30, 1953 



May 1, 1953 to April 30, 1954 



One of the greatest needs of the hatchery program in Montana 

 is an adequate station for the hatching and rearing of walleye and 

 northern pike. These species of fish are greatly needed for manage- 

 ment of eastern Montana waters. 



The McNeil hatchery located at Malta was constructed for this 

 purpose some years ago, but it was not designed adequately to 

 function as a pike rearing station. Ponds available cannot be drained 

 or otherwise controlled as closely as needetl for maximum production. 



During this biennium consideration was given to steps which 

 can be taken to develop the needed pike hatching and rearing 

 facilities. Personnel adjustments were made and a study has been 

 made of progress realized in pike hatching and rearing in Minnesota, 

 Wisconsin and North Dakota. From these adjustments and studies 

 steps will be taken soon to develop the facilities so greatly needed. 



■90 — 



