ALTMAR, NY — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced that the agency will host the 23rd Annual Salmon River Fish Hatchery Open House and Family Day on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event celebrates National Hunting and Fishing Day. The Salmon River Fish Hatchery is located at 2133 County Route 22, Altmar, Oswego County. All are encouraged to attend, rain or shine, and admission is free.
“DEC welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of all interests to the Salmon River Fish Hatchery’s Annual Open House to learn about conservation and experience the critical role fishing, hunting, and other outdoor recreation play in the Salmon River Corridor,” said Region 7 Director Matthew Marko. “This Open House provides the public unique access to the Salmon River Fish Hatchery, which is integral in producing the world-class salmon and trout fisheries in Lake Ontario and its tributaries, including the renowned Salmon River.”
National Hunting and Fishing Day was designated by Congress in 1972 as a day to encourage people from across the country to experience, understand, and appreciate traditional outdoor sports and recreation, our abundant natural resources, and recognize hunters and anglers for their leadership in fish and wildlife conservation.
DEC will lead tours of the facility throughout the day, providing the public with rare behind-the-scenes access to the hatchery’s inner-workings. The popular fish viewing deck will also be open, offering the opportunity to view salmon as they migrate. Attendees can observe New York fish in the hatchery’s aquaria and learn about rare and threatened fish species in New York State. In addition, children will have the opportunity to learn to cast a fishing rod and participate in a laser shooting range.
To complement scheduled program events, several conservation organizations, fishing and hunting clubs, and outdoor recreation groups will be on hand with displays and activities to provide information about their role in the Salmon River Corridor and the Lake Ontario ecosystem.
Guests can also visit the nearby Salmon River Falls, a DEC Unique Area located four miles from the hatchery. The area offers several hiking trails, including a short and accessible trail leading to an observation point for a 110-foot waterfall that offers views of spectacular scenery.
Visit DEC’s website for more information about the Salmon River Fish Hatchery, Salmon River Falls Unique Area, and to view the Salmon River management and restoration plans. For specific questions about the open house, please contact Betsy Ukeritis, DEC Environmental Educator, at 315-314-0768.