Projects and Research
Our hatchery raises a variety of species to stock the many waterbodies of New England. These species include Atlantic and landlocked salmon, brook trout, American shad, and round whitefish. You can learn more about the work we're doing with each species here!
Atlantic salmon are endangered. Although, they once were abundant throughout New England rivers, they are presently only found in rivers in Maine. They are anadromous, meaning they spend most of their life in the ocean, but migrate back to freshwater rivers where they were hatched to spawn (reproduce). After a long migration from the Atlantic ocean, salmon return to the rivers to...
Landlocked Atlantic salmon are salmon that have been separated or landlocked from the Atlantic Ocean for decades, such as those found in Lake Champlain and inland lakes in New Hampshire. They are a popular species among recreational anglers.
Poor spawning habitat in New Hampshire rivers has resulted in low recruitment over the years. New Hampshire Fish and Game established a...
American shad is the largest herring found in North America, growing up to two feet long and up to six pounds in weight. American shad can be found along the Atlantic coast, from Florida all the way up to Canada. Like the Atlantic salmon, American shad are also anadromous. In May, adults are collected at the Essex Dam in Lawrence, MA, and are brought back to the facility to spawn. American...
The round whitefish is a salmonid species, which is state-listed as “threatened” in New Hampshire. There are currently two round whitefish populations found in New Hampshire waterbodies: Newfound Lake, and Upper Connecticut River. Surveys conducted over the last several years have indicated that the Newfound Lake population is quickly approaching extinction.
Although Nashua hatchery...
Brook trout are a colorful salmonid, native to New Hampshire streams. Every year, several hundred brook trout are raised at our hatchery for donation to local fishing derbies, outreach, and educational events. Stocked brook trout average 1-2 pounds in weight.