The boat launch at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery is closed for the season, as it is every year when water levels drop in Icicle Creek. Although private parties may still walk in to use the launch, hatchery staff are concerned about damage to fish habitat.
Steelhead, coho, and spring Chinook salmon spawn in Icicle Creek, as well as other native fish. It is vital habitat for spawning fish because temperatures are colder than in the Wenatchee River. The hotter the summer, the more fish depend on Icicle Creek for a safe place to rest. Tubing and other recreational activities can cause significant damage and death to developing eggs when people walk and drag equipment through river gravel.
Any commercial activity that takes place on hatchery grounds must have a special use permit. Commercial operators include those who advertise their services (even if they don’t accept money), take money for service, or drop off paying clients. If a person is paid to drop others off near or at the hatchery, that is a commercial activity and cannot happen without a permit. Applications for permits can be made through Julia Pinnix, Information and Education Manager, 509-548-2915, Julia_pinnix@fws.gov.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
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