Dexter National Fish Hatchery

Dexter National Fish Hatchery Dexter, New Mexico When initially installed, the 25 new ponds were left unlined at the Dexter National Fish Hatchery and Technology Center (Dexter NFH&TC). In the past, the facility had tried several membranes, such as HDPE, Hypalan and polypropylene in other ponds but these membranes left wrinkles that resulted in the loss of fry or fingerling fish who got caught up in them. After leaving the new ponds unlined for two years, the facility was losing up to 3,000 gal of water per day, so they sought a new solution. After doing some research and visiting other fish hatcheries were using, the Dexter NFH&TC selected Elevate’s 45-mil, scrim reinforced EPDM Geomembrane. The membrane was selected for its lay flat characteristics, performance in exposed applications and seaming method that utilizes tape versus heat welded seams. Watching the EPDM being laid into place, I knew we had selected the right product for our fish, said Manuel Ulibarri, center director. Once all the seams were taped and the edges were secured into the trenches around the perimeter of the ponds, there was not a wrinkle to be found. This is so important to our operation. We are extremely pleased with the Elevate EPDM Geomembrane.” Read More Article – September/October, 2006 issue of Land and Water Dexter National Fish Hatchery and Technology Center / Dexter, NM