August 13, 2025 3:40 a.m. 

Southern Oregon lawmakers have announced that Rock Creek Hatchery will receive $1.4 million in funding as part of House Bill 5006, a major appropriations bill signed last week by Governor Tina Kotek.

A joint release from state representatives Virgle Osborne and Court Boice and State Senator David Brock Smith said the funding will support critical operations, bolster research efforts, and expand partnerships with the Cow Creek Umpqua Tribe, the Douglas Timber Operators and the Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby volunteers to strengthen hatchery production, salmonid populations and help address salmonid predation from bass.

Representative Osborne said, “Rock Creek Hatchery plays a critical role in balancing conservation with access to fishing”. Osborne said, “This funding supports the hatchery’s mission to protect native fish populations while also ensuring Oregonians can continue to enjoy the outdoors”.

Representative Boice said, “This is a smart investment in our region”. Boice said, “Whether it’s for recreation or for our local economies, this funding helps maintains healthy fish runs and opportunities to harvest for generations to come”.

Senator Brock Smith said, “We’re proud to support this historic facility that understands the importance of both preserving our natural resources and sustaining access to them”. Brock Smith said, “We originally introduced this need in HB 512. This hatchery’s work supports strong partnerships and a future where conservation and harvest go hand in hand.

The release said the lawmakers continue to work with federal agencies, tribal members, DTO and stakeholders to see the needed investments to Rock Creek Hatchery move forward.