NEHALEM – The North Fork Nehalem River at the Nehalem Hatchery has long been a favored location for salmon and steelhead anglers. With the completion last fall of an expanded fishing platform, angling opportunities are even better.

The fishing platform expansion was funded by an $85,700 grant from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Fish Restoration and Enhancement Program. The Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation contributed $8,500. A variety of local businesses and individuals also donated funds and volunteer labor.

Hatchery Manager Joe Watkins said the platform – doubled in size to 120 square feet – accommodates more anglers and improves the overall fishing experience. In addition to the fishing platform expansion, the project included a new restroom, fish cleaning station and a variety of habitat restoration and fish passage improvement work.

The Fish Restoration and Enhancement Program was created by the Oregon Legislature in 1989 and is funded by a surcharge on sport and commercial fishing licenses and commercial poundage fees. The program is overseen by a seven-member citizen board that reviews proposals and makes funding recommendations to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission for fish restoration and enhancement projects throughout the state.

For additional information about Nehalem hatchery or the fishing platform contact Joe Watkins, 503-368-6828.

For more information on the Fish Restoration and Enhancement Program, or to view information regarding current R&E Program applications, call Program Coordinator Gary Galovich at (503) 947-6232 or visit (www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/InfoCntrFish/RnEProgram/R&EHistory.html)