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| Mike Barnes, Hatchery Manager |
McNenny State Fish Hatchery, owned and
operated by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks, provides trout
and salmon for stocking in the Black Hills, Missouri River Reservoirs, and
Eastern South Dakota lakes and streams. High fishing pressure, low natural
reproduction, and limited food supplies create the need for stocking. Fish
raised at McNenny provide fishing opportunities to anglers of all ages.
Approximately 3.5 million gallons of water flow
through the hatchery each day. After flowing through the rearing units, the
water passes through two settling ponds before eventually flowing into Crow
Creek. The hatchery uses this water to produce around 60,000 pounds of trout
and salmon each year (give or take a pound or two).The goal of McNenny State
Fish Hatchery is to maximize angler satisfaction. To accomplish this goal
McNenny emphasizes fish quality and post-stocking survival.
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| 1949 McNenny Artesian Well |
The hatchery's water comes from three artesian wells that were put in place in 1949. These wells provide consistent ideal temperature water for fish to hatch and grow.
But much more happens at McNenny than just rearing fish.
McNenny strives to be a leader in hatchery-based scientific research and
controlled experimentation. The four permanent staff, interns, and volunteers continually
innovate by creating or improving the hatchery infrastructure, equipment, and
operating procedures. Research and innovation at McNenny not only improves how
fish are raised on site, but also advances aquaculture and fisheries management
worldwide.
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| The McNenny Fish Hatchery Display Pond is a 121 foot deep natural sinkhole. |
