Public Invited to 19th Annual Salmon River Hatchery Open House

Tours, Displays, Information and Kids Games Highlight Activities

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will hold its 19th annual Salmon River Hatchery Open House and Family Day on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is being held in conjunction with the celebration of "National Hunting and Fishing Day". The Salmon River Hatchery is located at 2133 County Route 22, Altmar, Oswego County, and admission is free.

National Hunting & 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, and our abundant natural resources.

"The annual DEC Salmon River Hatchery Open House is a great opportunity for kids, families and outdoor enthusiasts to learn about and participate in the many wonderful recreational opportunities the Salmon River Corridor offers," noted DEC Regional Director Ken Lynch. "The Salmon River Hatchery plays an integral role in producing the world class salmon and trout fishery in Lake Ontario and its tributaries including the world famous Salmon River."

Tours of the facility will be given throughout the day, providing attendees behind-the-scenes access to the inner-workings of the hatchery, and the popular fish ladder will be on display, offering the opportunity to view salmon as they migrate. Additionally, children will have the opportunity to learn to cast a fishing rod, tie flies, participate in a laser shooting range, observe the aquatic life of Beaverdam Brook, and learn about rare and threatened fish species found in New York State. Along with the scheduled program events, several conservation organizations, fishing and hunting clubs and outdoor recreation groups will be on hand with displays and activities providing 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 an accessible short trail which leads to an observatory point for the 110-foot waterfall which offers viewing areas with spectacular scenery.

For more information on the Salmon River Hatchery see its webpage on DEC's website. Additional information on Salmon River Falls Unique Area can also be found at DEC's website. Specific questions about the day's events can be addressed by contacting Fran Verdoliva, NYSDEC Salmon River Coordinator, at 315-298-7605.