This project includes a redesigned fish return flume which provides a more efficient, lower maintenance method for getting fish, debris, and bypass flows back to the stream.
The diversion feeds in to Black Lake which is used as a spawning and rearing pond for the privately-owned Crystal lakes Fish Hatchery. Crystal Lakes partnered with the Montana FWP to create a genetic reserve for arctic grayling and a certified disease-free source of brook trout.
The diversion was previously unscreened, risking that endeavor. The new Farmers Screen systems provides passage, fish protection, and clean screened water to Black Lake and ensures that resident westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, brook trout, and rainbow trout stay in Deep Creek.
The project included a new headgate, inlet pipe and a 3.25cfs modular Farmers Screen. The screen has 20 feet of straight inlet flume leading up to the two-section 20-foot screen. The new fish return flume provides a more efficient, lower maintenance method for getting fish, debris, and by-pass flows back to the stream.
Crystal Lakes Hatchery Manager Bob LeBlanc sent us this terrific video of the screen operating in very icy conditions just after install.
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