We’re excited to share an important development in salmon conservation efforts. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in collaboration with The Bridge Group, has launched a 10-year study focused on parental-based tagging (PBT) of salmon fry from the Coleman National Fish Hatchery.

This innovative project will explore the potential of using flooded rice fields as temporary rearing habitat for juvenile salmon. As part of the study, 1 million salmon fry are proposed to be released into select rice fields—including the Knaggs and Conaway sites—where they will feed on zooplankton and other natural organisms within the food web.

President Michael Rescino and Vice President James Smith visited the proposed sites on April 9th, 2025. They were encouraged by the dedication and preparation demonstrated by The Bridge Group team, and are hopeful for the potential benefits this work could have on salmon populations.

The current plan is to release the salmon fry into the rice fields on January 15th, allowing them to grow and thrive in this rich environment. Then, on March 1st, the gates will open, and the young salmon will be released into the Tule Canal, beginning their journey to the ocean.

Michael and James are both extremely hopeful and optimistic about the success of this effort and are looking forward to seeing the positive impacts this work may yield over the next decade.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as this project progresses. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared mission.