Makah National Fish Hatchery

This project modernizes the fish passage system at the Makah National Fish Hatchery on the Tsoo Yess River in Neah Bay, Washington. The existing barrier weir and fish ladder are aging and underperforming, so the work involves replacing deteriorated structures with durable concrete, extending the fish ladder entrance about 100 feet closer to the main river channel, and restoring the surrounding riverbank and habitat.

The key benefit is that fish will be much more effectively attracted into the ladder and guided to the hatchery, improving both fish collection for hatchery operations and overall passage for native species. The new concrete structures will last far longer than the old timber components, reducing future maintenance needs. Combined with riprap armoring, revegetation, and channel restoration, the project protects the river environment while supporting the conservation goals of both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Makah Tribe’s fisheries program.