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In 1900 the Dominion Government of Canada established its second fish hatchery in the Province of BC at Tappen. The Granite Creek Fish Hatchery was constructed at the mouth of Granite Creek as it emptied into the northwest corner of Tappen Bay on Shuswap Lake. David (Scottie) Mitchell was the appointed manager of the project and remained until its closure in 1916.
A large two-storey frame hatchery building was erected and Granite Creek ran through the hatchery. Salmon Eggs were gathered by a government steam boat from weirs around Shuswap Lake, on the Seymour River at Anstey Arm, at Scotch Creek, and wherever a creek or river of any size emptied into Shuswap Lake. These eggs were delivered to the hatchery and allowed to develop in wire mesh baskets especially made for the purpose. When the salmon grew to fingerling size they were released into the lake.
Trout eggs were also collected at the same time as the salmon roe. After they were fertilized and developed, the young trout would be put into milk cans, loaded onto the train at Tappen Station and distributed by rail or forestry trucks to little lakes all over the mountains.
The rock slide at Hell’s Gate, a result of the construction of the Canadian National Railroad in 1913 and a subsequent slide in 1914, effectively blocked returning salmon from making their way up to spawn in the Shuswap. When fish ladders were built in the 1920s, salmon migration up the Fraser River was encouraged once more.
During most of its active years, the hatchery employed a dozen men year-round. Spring and summer were the busiest times. After the enterprise was abandoned, the buildings were demolished and the lumber re-used.
The old timers recall the hatchery and related social activities which took place. Superintendent Scottie Mitchell planted a beautiful garden around the hatchery. An open field beside the facility hosted many picnics and sporting events. Social events continued to be held on-site long after the hatchery was closed.
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Granite Creek, B.C.
Tappen B.C.
Shuswap Lake, B.C.
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- English