Volunteer of the Month: Kit Brown by Peri Haye s
Kit Brown, one of the founding members of the Lake Erie Salmon and Trout Club in 1983, proudly details his work at this esteemed establishment. As Kit shares, there used to be a successful derby in Port Stanley which began in the 1970s. “Through the money raised, it seemed appropriate for there to be a fishery in Lake Erie and that could be us.” While revisiting their initial process, Kit describes, “We went to the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) because you have to be licensed. We incorporated ‘Salmon’ in our name, under the assumption that we would receive permission to raise salmon.” The MNR and commercial fisherman, however, opposed this idea. After two years of debate, it was agreed upon that the hatchery would work with rainbow trout. For three years, Kit and his team would travel to Fisher’s Creek in Turkey Point. In their third year of operation, the rainbow trout began spawning in the stream. Originally raised to fingerlings, the rainbow trout had matured and consequently became yearling fish. Following their raising in the hatchery, these fish are stocked in the creek every spring and ultimately land in Lake Erie. “Then we start over again,” Kit exclaims. “We’ve raised close to 2.5 million fish in the time that we’ve been in business, about 60,000 a year.” Lake Erie Salmon and Trout Club will open to visitors in the spring, during which fish food will be sold for guests to experience feeding their fish. Kit also references their enchanting walking trail, which many dog walkers frequent year-round. As Kit thoughtfully adds, “We are not just a fish hatchery; we are a nature reserve filled with trees and plants, which you don’t always find in one place. We have about 121 native trees and shrubs, and all kinds of other plantings.” Ontario is home to 19 species of rare trees, thirteen of which have been acquired over time for the hatchery property -- located at 4255 Thomas Road, Port Stanley. Presently, Kit is dedicated to volunteering at the hatchery every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tom, a volunteer of
several years, voices, “I’ve really enjoyed our association. Kit has put his heart and soul into this club. He has been integral to the hatchery, and has been a great teacher.” Asked what excites Kit about this service, he graciously responds, “The number of visitors that we get, and from all over the place. We’ve met people from quite a few American states and most of the Canadian provinces, as well as Australia, Germany, Scotland, New Zealand and more. While they’re here, they include us on the list!” Those exploring the grounds might also witness deer, salamanders, snapping turtles and beyond. With inquiries about Lake Erie Salmon and Trout Club, phone Kit directly at 519-633-2979.
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Page 6 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2025
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