Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I thought the Federal Government paid for everything that goes on at the fish hatchery. Why should there be a non-profit group trying to raise money?
A: Friends groups, like F.I.S.H., give concerned
citizens a chance to take an active role in preserving our delicate
earth ecosystem through education, and public conservation and
important issues. Although Federal Funds provide the operation of
the Hatchery, funding for public education programs are limited.
There is a real need for environmental education in our area.
Teachers from kindergarten through college have expressed concern
that there is not enough exposure to programs that teach are youth
about the environment and their role in protecting and preserving
our valuable wildlife. Children need to learn about the habitat that
must be preserved in order for the to enjoy and benefit from fish
and wildlife in the future. The US Fish and Wildlife Service
welcomes friends groups, like F.I.S.H., that give
concerned citizens a chance to take an active role in educating the
public about how our National Fish Hatcheries and National Wildlife
Refuges are working to protect and preserve our natural heritage.
The friends groups also serve to keep up with the political issues
that may affect the laws governing stewardship of our natural
heritage.
Q: I don't know much about the Warm Springs National Fish Hatchery. What is it?
A: The Warm Springs National Fish Hatchery is a warm water hatchery
authorized by Congress in 1898 and established in1899. The species
of fish propagated here do best in summer water temperatures that
reach 75 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Species such as Striped
Bass, Sturgeon, and Paddlefish which are vital to the fishery
resources of the Southeastern United States and the Atlantic Coast
are raised here and stocked in cooperation with the various State
game and fish agencies.