McMillen was instrumental in expanding the Walla Walla Hatchery into a self-sufficient and fully operational facility. Leading the EPC process, we showcased our ability to deliver exceptional results.
Our involvement extended beyond the EPC phase, as we provided testing, commissioning, and technical support to the operations team for one year. In 2010 and 2011, under a separate contract, McMillen supported the Step 1 Master Plan update and provided Northwest Power and Conservation Council Step 2 Engineering Design. McMillen was also responsible for supporting the Environmental Impact Statement process, assisting in preparing the biological assessment, obtaining necessary permits, and providing geotechnical support.
McMillen seamlessly integrated fisheries, biological, and engineering design elements to successfully achieve CTUIR's fish production and operational goals. We applied our expertise in hatchery development to create a facility that supports the sustainable production of fish and contributes to the preservation of the natural ecosystem.
By blending bioprogramming and engineering capabilities, we delivered a facility that increases the population of spring Chinook salmon. This, in turn, has the potential to support fisheries in the mainstem Columbia River and Walla Walla River Basin. The hatchery is well-equipped to release up to half a million smolts into the river system annually. The facility utilizes Walla Walla River water to incubate and rear young salmon before releasing them, helping the fish imprint on their natal stream, potentially increasing their survivability and ability to come back to their natal waters. The Tribe envisions a yearly goal of 5,000 adult Chinook salmon originating from the hatchery to return to the river.
Additional hatchery elements include:
• Hatchery building including administration space
Walla Walla Hatchery 2
• Incubation system
• Early rearing tanks and grow-out tanks
• Head tank for treated and untreated water
• Water supply, aquaculture disinfection station, and drain piping
• Monitoring and research space and personnel housing
• Three 5' x 3.5' single drain circular fiberglass tanks and one 10' shallow trough with sink and a connection
to treat river water
• Alarm, fire protection, monitoring, and PLC-based control & SCADA
• Chemical storage space with proper ventilation and feed storage space
• Landscaping, fencing, and security video system
