BANGOR DAILY NEWS • November x, 2025
The completion of a substantial expansion to a Mi’kmaq-run fish hatchery in Aroostook County has been delayed until at least June of 2026 because of the U.S. government shutdown. The 9,000-square-foot hatchery, which is primarily funded through a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant, was slated to be completed this month. But the shutdown delayed the release of federal funding, and as the Caribou-based farm waits for that money, construction has stalled. The tribe’s plan to construct the new hatchery was announced in late 2022, with the intent for construction to be completed in 2023. The project was delayed after increased costs drove the price tag from $3.9 million to $5.5 million and the Mi’kmaqs needed to raise additional funds. It will also allow them to explore selling their trout in national and — potentially — international food markets.