Hatchery and Genetic Management Plans (HGMP)

[Sandlance]

One of the complicating factors of the recent abrupt elimination of steelhead hatchery releases in Puget Sound and possible other negative effects on the future of hatcheries in Puget Sound has been the HGMP process. Following is an example of a paragraph from the recently (11/15/2015) released draft (Revised) HGMP for Soos Creek - Summer Steelhead Early Summer Hatchery Program. The first paragraph of the Executive Summary is repeated as follows (the key items are the dates involving the process for this HGMP, particularly March 31, 2004):

Executive Summary

ESA Permit Status:

On March 31, 2004, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) submitted a Hatchery Genetic Management Plan (HGMP) for Soos Creek Hatchery early summer steelhead program as part of a joint state/tribal hatchery resource plan for consideration under Limit 6 of the 4(d) rule. In a letter from NOAA Fisheries dated August 4, 2004, the co-managers were informed that NOAA Fisheries anticipated completing a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) by the summer of 2005. NOAA noted that “A final EIS may then be completed by winter 2005-2006, after which time NOAA Fisheries will release ESA 4(d) Rule determinations for the hatchery plans.” The letter concluded by stating that “Your work on these hatchery plans is important, and will substantially contribute to on-going salmon recovery efforts within the region.” The WDFW provided updated HGMPs to NOAA Fisheries in August 2005.