Hatchery History

1934 The First Seymour Dam
Hatchery History

The Seymour River was the main water supply for North Vancouver starting in 1907 when the first intake was built. The first dam was constructed in 1927 and the present day Seymour Falls dam was completed in 1961. The reservoir formed by this dam is one of 3 that supply drinking water to all of Metro Vancouver.

Seymour Falls Dam

The construction of the dam has resulted in migrating fish being unable to access a significant portion of the upper part of the original Seymour River. This upper part of the river represents a significant part of the original spawning habitat for returning salmon and steelhead. This loss of habitat is the main reason why we are here. Our fish enhancement programs aims to replace fish that would have reared in the upper part of the river.
Initially run by British Columbia Institute of Technology, the hatchery started on small scale in 1977 in response to a dramatic decline seen in fish stocks since the construction of the Seymour Falls dam. It was used by BCIT as a place where students could gain practical field experience in fish culture activities. In 1987 the Seymour Salmonid Society was formed and took over the running of the hatchery. This dedicated group of unpaid individuals has overseen the Seymour River Hatchery for 30 years.

What are your Seymour memories?

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2017

Construction
The old cement raceway is replaced with new circular tubs.
1996

Education

Seymour Hatchery's Education Program began and has been running ever since.

1992 Winter

Old Buildings

The old Seymour hatchery building. The trailer unit (red door) collapsed under weight of snow that winter.

1989

Fish Habitat

Rearing channels are constructed.

1988

Fish Structures

Cement raceways are constructed for adult holding.

1987

Fish Structures

Construction of the aeration tower and rearing shed.[/caption]

1978

Education

British Columbia Institute of Technology opens the first Seymour River Hatchery. Used as a teaching tool for students while doing small scale enhancement.

1977

Fish Habitat

The adult fish holding / settling pond.

1962

Watershed

Seymour Falls Dam construction is completed.

1934

Watershed

The first Seymour Falls Dam.

1910

Watershed

Seymour Falls. The location of the current Seymour Falls Dam.

1886

Watershed

Boaters on 'Seymour Creek'. This area is now known as Mid Valley.