The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is implementing improvements to its hatcheries and other equipment to make raising and stocking millions of trout annually more efficient and manageable, writes Brian Whipkey for the Ellwood City Ledger.

“We’re always looking for ways to improve things at our hatcheries,” said Mike Parker, communications director with the PFBC.

Working with around 150 volunteer cooperative nurseries, the agency raises over four million trout annually for public fishing using methods that evolve continuously along with advances in technology and monitoring.

Key concerns include safeguarding the fish against diseases and viruses.

“Biosecurity is really the No. 1 issue for us,” said Parker. “Making sure that the trout that we’re raising remain healthy throughout their entire life cycle—from eggs to the point where they’re an adult fish being stocked.”

As part of its latest upgrades, the agency is installing roofing over the concrete raceways to shield fish from birds and their droppings. Lasers that activate at dusk have also been added to help deter birds.

Over the last two years, more efficient stocking trucks have also been introduced to help keep the fish healthy while being transported across Pennsylvania.

Read more about trout raising improvements from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in the Ellwood City Ledger.

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