Hatchery Tour Page 6

STATION 8: WATER SYSTEM (OFF LIMITS) The ponds and hatchery building are spring fed from a collection ditch in the back of the hatchery grounds. Because the water flows by gravity, there is no need for pumps. These springs can provide up to 600 gallons per minute through the hatchery water system. The collection ditch must be tended to daily by cleaning debris from the intake screens. Since there is always a constant flow of water, the ditch and pond has a complete exchange of water several times a day, which assures the best possible water quality is maintained.

This area is off limits to visitors, except during staff guided tours.
STATION 9: BROOD STOCK (OFF LIMITS) Due to the sensitivity and value of these fish, this area is closed to the public, except during staff guided tours. However, trout may be seen through the doorway. To operate the hatchery, we must maintain a reliable source of eggs. Adult fish are thus kept to assure our supply. These fish are native brook trout, know as the Little Tupper strain. Eggs taken from these fish are raised here and stocked in an effort to maintain native trout populations.
In autumn, falling water temperatures and shorter daylight hours trigger spawning. These trout will not spawn naturally in captivity, so eggs must be stripped from the fish manually. These wild trout are check frequently to determine when they are ready to give eggs. Most are usually ready by early November.
PLEASE DO NOT ENTER THE BUILDING OR SPOOK THE FISH, AS THEY ARE EXTREMELY SENSITIVE TO PEOPLE!!

For more information about the Hatchery or other Parks & Recreation programs,
please visit the Office Building across from the Visitors Center.
or
Contact the
Warren County Parks and Recreation Dept.
4028 Main St.
Warrensburg, NY 12885
(518)623-2877
(518)623-5576
FAX (518)623-3639