Our Mission Statement
Our History
Founded in 1989 by Dave Evans, an avid outdoorsman, “Fish for your Future”— as the NES was originally called, worked hard with the help of the community and released 125,000 salmon that first year. Following a name change and incorporation under the BC Society Act the Nicomekl Enhancement Society was born in 1991.
After a few location changes, the NES settled on its current location with the help of Bruce Coulter who deeded us the land in 1994. Through much hard work, as well as much help from our friends, we continue to restore the Nicomekl River. There is still much to be done and you can be a part.
Nicomekl Enhancement Society raises the following salmon species:
Key Corporate and Organization Sponsors
We would like to thank the following companies, organizations and individuals who have supplied the hatchery with materials, equipment and labour to enhance and restore salmon habitat within the Nicomekl watershed.
What People Say
“As new members to the Nicomekl Enhancement Society our experiences have been extremely exciting and enjoyable in every way. From the warmest welcome from very knowledgeable, proud, friendly and humorous members; to the outside activities at the picturesque creeks, and the workings of the salmon hatchery itself.
There is no lack of care, attention and true passion from all the members while teaching and showing the many tasks, procedures and activities to be accomplished while at the society. Enhancing the Nicomekl watershed is a true pleasure.
The dedicated members make the Nicomekl Enhancement Society what it is; absolutely amazing!”
Mark and Teresa
“The Nicomekl Enhancement Society have been an exceptional partner in DFO’s Community Involvement Program for many years. Throughout the 30 year relationship, NES has developed an impressive salmon enhancement and education program in addition to organizing many annual events for the community to enjoy. The amazing group of dedicated volunteers devote a significant amount of time and resources to protect and enhance local salmon populations a long with the sensitive habitat they depend on. The passion and integrity exhibited by the volunteers is commendable and we look forward to many more years of support”
Paul Neufield
“I have been a co-ordinator for the elementary school-based Salmon-in-the-Classroom program for 25 years now. There have been many physical and some administrative changes at the Nicomekl Hatchery site in that time. However, the dedication, support and volunteer interest in touring and teaching scores of elementary students about The Miracle of the Salmon has never waned.
In spite of all the tweaks and adjustments necessary to deal with variables like volunteer losses, unforeseen threats to the hatching stock and even closures caused by Covid, the program’s purpose and its popularity in our schools has thrived.
As a now-retired SEA I am keen to keep my hand in to teach, promote and support what Nina Shah and her predecessors have worked so hard to create. Sustaining a healthy salmon population is vital to the future of the planet and needs to be the responsibility of all generations. Thanks to everyone for all you do in that regard.”
Darlene Sherwin
“My class has been going to Nicomekl Hatchery as part of the salmonid in the classroom program for 7 years now, and it’s the highlight of the year for the students! Nina and her team do an amazing job walking the students through the hatchery and teaching them about salmon habitat and biology in a fun and interesting way. Bonus…they also provide the tour in French! The best part for the students is when they get to release our own salmon, as well as big fry from the hatchery straight into the creek. As students move onto the older grades and come back and visit me, they always mention how much fun they had releasing salmon “back home”. Thank you, Nicomekl!”
Darlene Sherwin
“I’m delighted to share our positive experience with the Nicomekl Enhancement Society in Langley, BC. The members were exceptionally gracious, helpful, patient, and kind in teaching Doug and me about the vital preservation of wild salmon. We were part of the family from Day 1. Their dedication to enhancement work is truly admirable, and we gained a profound appreciation for their efforts. I wholeheartedly encourage others to join and support their amazing cause.”
Stephanie Quah
Our Gallery
Witness conservation in action. See how we at the hatchery are dedicated to protecting and replenishing salmon populations, ensuring a healthy ecosystem for future generations.
