HATCHERY SYSTEM 



During the biennitim state fish hatcheries have continued to 

 work toward the improvement of brood stock held at the various 

 stations so that quality fishing will result from fish planted 

 in state waters. 



The rainbow trout brood at the Arlee hatchery represent 

 approximately 18 years of selective breeding for such qualities 

 as good growth rate, survival, good coloration and body form and 

 resistance to disease. Over the years, spawning periods have 

 been adjusted so that eggs will be available to provide the proper 

 size fish for stocking at the proper time. 



More recent stocks of wests lope cutthroat are developing 

 well after several years of investigations into finding a pure 

 strain of this important species. 



Because many states have had serious problems with fish 

 disease in their hatcheries, Montana has taken all precautions to 

 keep our stations disease free. Actually, relatively few fish 

 eggs are imported into state fish hatcheries and those that are 

 must be inspected and certified free of infection at the point 

 of shipment. 



The Department has purchased an artesian well site near 

 Creston, Montana and development there will progress as funds are 

 available. 



Negotiations are continuing with the Corps of Engineers 

 relative to the location of a hatchery to be provided by the Corps 

 in mitigation for fishery losses due to the construction of the 

 Libby Dam. 



7. 



