In 2013, the OFAH, in partnership with the MNR, launched the Community Hatchery Program (CHP) to grant funding to eligible hatcheries and to support Ontario’s fish culture and stocking efforts.
In 2024, 1,272 volunteers at 37 CHP-supported community hatcheries contributed 46,563 hours to raise and stock 9,192,747 fish into Ontario public waters. The CHP supported these dedicated volunteer groups with direct funding for operational expenses totalling $145,689, and $52,810 for 25 capital improvements. This included core program funding and external grants.
"Nearly 240 past and present CHP volunteers completed our volunteer recruitment and retention (VRR) survey," CHP Coordinator Matt Burley said. "The results provided VRR guidance to salmon and trout community hatcheries at a March 2025 workshop near Lake Huron.”
Building on VRR study, the CHP purchased branded hats, toques, decals, and promotional banners. Thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, these promotional products were distributed to community hatcheries across the province.
Learn more about the Community Hatchery Program here: www.ofah.org/fishing/fishing-programs/ hatchery-program
Originally published in the August 2025 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS
