Douglas Island Pink and Chum has begun a two-phase expansion.
The hatchery has just broken ground on constructing its new storage warehouse, a project that could be completed by late winter to early spring.
Director of Operations Rick Focht said this will be a two-story building of about 6,900 square feet.
He said the work is being handled by local company North Pacific Erectors.
The second phase is still in development but could have the potential for production growth.
Focht said DIPAC is planning to start construction on a new raceway building next spring. It will house four new raceways to help expand chinook and coho production.
He said the general thought is it could allow increased production, up to a million additional smolts a year. He said DIPAC currently produces around 1.25 million smolts of chinook and coho annually.
The new raceway project will go out to bid later.
Comments (5)
Add commentyeah right
Probably need more room for them genetically modified mutants. I don't care what anybody says, them things there farming there don't taste right, Friends don't let friends eat that sh@$%&t.
are you for real?
generally I don't ever respond to these comments, but it is clear that you have know idea what you are talking about! Have you ever been to DIPAC? They are not modified mutants. Get a clue! Educate yourself.
Too Many Chums!!
I think their smolts have wiped out the feed for the wild coho stocks north of town.Too many profit induced chums!!
Where did they get the money?
Have they finished paying off the state for their previous loans?
They must be making a killing on all the canned salmon they sell in their tourist shop.
DIPAC, a local marvel!
I, for one, believe that everyone has a right to their opinion, negative or positive. Some of these comments posted however, are in poor taste. The concept, the actual hatchery operation, management and the endless benefit to this fishing community and local economy is one of Juneau's present day marvels. How can any one stand above the raceway viewing these huge numbers of returning salmon not feel a sense of pride and wonder at this gift? Brought about by the dream and hard work that Ladd Macaulay developed and initiated. Others joined in and the present reality is now standing in place for all to enjoy and benefit for all time. Fishermen are now having better years, summer visitors leave here with a greater appreciation for their Alaskan vacation and our community enjoys an increased tax base benefit. Despite all of this "good" and valued rewards some can stand on the sideline and criticize. Makes me wonder why anyone would want to make such a contribution to their fellowman.