Rainbows from Ennis National Fish Hatchery fill angler's nets in state and tribal waters across the country. Lake trout put smiles on faces. A recent peer-reviewed economic study bears that out. That bounty is reaped at the cash register and the county treasurer's office. When a wild stock of fish gets in trouble, it's the technical know-how from brood stock hatcheries that's put to use.
Hatcheries play a huge role in imperiled species conservation.
Successes with greenbacks are mounting and it could be the first fish ever taken off the endangered species list. A significant achievement indeed, and in the end, the American people will benefit by having an intact ecosystem, and yes, more opportunity to go fish. As Malone turns out the lights and locks the door to head home, the ramifications of the workday are barely perceptible. Fact is, however, work at this small spot in southern Wyoming will send ripples across the surface of far away waters and positively affect the lives of many people Malone will never meet. Craig Springer is a Fishery Biologist in the Southwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.