Protecting Fish Populations Through Engineering Innovation
Migration is one of the most challenging and vital stages in a fish’s life cycle. Recognizing the difficulties fish face during this critical period, Pacific Netting Products (PNP) was proud to partner with Puget Sound Energy to design a reliable and effective solution at the Lower Baker Lake Hydroelectric Project, improving downstream fish passage and supporting healthy fish populations.
Designing for a Dynamic Environment
PNP designed, manufactured, and installed a full exclusion guidance net extending 2,000 feet long and 300 feet deep, covering roughly 500,000 square feet of surface area. The system’s precision-engineered design guides downstream-migrating smolts to a Floating Surface Collector (FSC). This collector is an advanced structure that captures fish safely for downstream transport.
The guidance net is suspended vertically from a pneumatic floatation system, which allows operators to lower the net during high-flow events. This critical feature protects the system from large woody debris and other potential hazards during heavy runoff or spill conditions.
Innovative Debris Management
In addition to the guidance net, PNP installed two pneumatically operated debris gates positioned between the FSC and the guide net. These gates allow woody debris to pass easily, minimizing blockages and reducing maintenance needs. This innovative design ensures continuous operation and optimal fish guidance downstream.
Engineered Strength and Flexibility
Constructed from high molecular weight polyethylene (HMPE) fiber, the netting material is made with Dyneema® mesh in 1/8” x 1/8” and 1/4” x 1/4” configurations. Dyneema® netting delivers superior strength, flexibility, and durability. The structure was designed to accommodate extreme pool fluctuations of 50 to 70 feet while still maintaining shape and function.
To further assist fish movement, two lead nets were installed within the pool to encourage smolts toward the collection zone. This enhances passage rates and minimizes the stress on migrating species.
Sockeye Salmon
Record-Setting Fish Passage Results
Since becoming operational, the Lower Baker Lake guidance net, lead nets, and FSC have supported one of the most successful downstream migration seasons on record. With a growing sockeye population exceeding 850,000—and nearly one million total fish, including sockeye, coho, Chinook, trout, and char—the system demonstrates how thoughtful engineering and environmental stewardship can work hand in hand.
Advancing Fish Passage Technology
The Lower Baker Lake project exemplifies PNP’s commitment to designing innovative, field-proven aquatic solutions. By integrating smart materials, adaptive engineering, and collaborative planning, Pacific Netting Products continues to set new standards for fish guidance and barrier systems across North America.
Key features
- Full exclusion guide nets
- 2,000 ft long x 300 ft deep, about 500,000 sq ft
- Built with 1/8” x 1/8” and 1/4” x 1/4” Dyneema® netting
- Designed for extreme pool fluctuations (50 to 70 ft)
- Helped PSE improve downstream fish passage
- Designed for single direction water flow velocities 0.1–0.5 fps
- Secured by shore-side embedment anchors
- Deployed year-round
