A reduction in the congressional appropriation for Mitchell Act activities
has prompted quick action from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife,
which on Tuesday announced the immediate closure of one hatchery and reduced
fish production at other facilities.
Recently concluded budget negotiations resulted in a Mitchell Act appropriation
of $15.43 million or $2.645 million less than was available in fiscal year
1999, according to R.Z. Smith of the National Marine Fisheries …