The Friends of the Norfork Nat’l Fish Hatchery (FNNFH) operates a Gift Shop inside the Hatchery Visitor Center. The Gift Shop offers a variety of items that reflect the mission of the hatchery and handcrafted goods by local artisans. Such products not only promote environmental awareness, but also provide visitors with souvenirs that embody the hatchery’s dedication to preserving aquatic ecosystems. The Visitor Center offers displays and hands-on information that reflects the mission of conservation, eco-friendly topics, and a vast array of displays describing the production of trout from eggs to stocking.
Revenue from the Gift Shop supports a variety of educational initiatives, including annual events like the Kid’s Fishing Derby and the Hatchery Outdoor Adventure. In addition, there are fly-tying activities, day camps, elementary and home school visits and Dry Run Creek Academy events. In every respect, these programs foster environmental stewardship among participants.
Also, a very important segment of Gift Shop proceeds is maintenance of our beautiful Dry Run Creek, a premier fishing stream designed for children under 16, and individuals who are mobility impaired.
An important focus of the FNNFH is to advocate for the hatchery. We offer economic support to the hatchery for needs that Federal funds may not cover, or are not available. It is crucial to support the hatchery in every way possible because the hatchery significantly impacts the economy of our community, our county, and our state. In 2024, the hatchery generated an estimated $100 million in economic benefit and created over 1,000 jobs.
By attracting tourists and anglers, the hatchery, the Visitor Center and Gift Shop stimulates local businesses, including lodging, dining and retail establishments. They enhance this economic contribution by promoting local artisans and products, thereby supporting the community’s economic vitality. We all work together to play a crucial role in funding essential conservation and educational initiatives, unfunded needs and bolstering the local economy, all while promoting the hatchery’s mission of environmental stewardship.
