Major Renovation Project Approved for Historic Bayfield Fish Hatchery and the R.D. Pike Building
- Friends of RD Pike Building
- May 20
- 2 min read
Written by: Todd P. Berg
Pardon our bubbles as the fish undergo major home improvement! On May 7th, 2025, the Wisconsin State Building Commission approved a significant capital investment project for the Bayfield State Fish Hatchery.
These much-needed upgrades include enhancements to the hatchery entrance, visitor center vestibule, a new domestic well for the hatchery and on-site residences and replacement of exterior siding and doors among other work.
In addition, major restoration work was approved for the historic R.D. Pike Building, now 128 years old.
Plans include:
Masonry and window repair, restoration and preservation
Siding, soffit and fascia restoration
Roofing replacement
Structural repairs
Foundation waterproofing
These improvements also help ensure the continued production of the Seneca, Trout Lake, and Black Oak strains of Lake Trout raised in the building, supporting Wisconsin’s angling community for generations to come.
Timeline:
Bids will be issued over the Summer and Fall of 2025
Contracts awarded Fall of 2025
Construction begins in February of 2026
Construction to be completed in the late Fall of 2026.
The Friends of the R.D. Pike Building, Inc., are planning to raise funds for the rebuilding of the majestic front veranda on the east side of the building and for interior remediation and restoration following exterior completion.
We are deeply grateful to Governor Tony Evers, the Wisconsin DNR, and all our supporters and donors who have helped make this possible. This critical work ensures that the Friends group vision will thrive:
“To restore and preserve the R.D. Pike Building and grounds while educating the public about its history and cultural significance”
Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to support this transformative effort!
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