Environmental Assessment for Six Salmon Hatchery Programs in the Skagit River Basin

The action involves six hatchery and genetic management plans (HGMPs) for Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and sockeye salmon hatchery programs in the Skagit River Basin that drains into Puget Sound, Washington. The HGMPs have been jointly submitted to NMFS by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, and Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe for review and approval under Limit 6 of the ESA 4(d) Rule. NMFS' approval of the HGMPs is the Federal action requiring NEPA compliance. Potentially significant impacts may occur to Puget Sound Chinook Salmon ESU and Puget Sound Steelhead DPS that are listed as threatened under the ESA, and Southern Resident Killer Whales that are listed as endangered.