On Saturday from 9 to 2 the Norfork hatchery will host its annual Hatchery Outdoor Adventure offering a day of hands-on outdoor activities for children and families. The event is organized by the Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery and admission and parking will be free.Participants can fish for trout in the hatchery’s Dry Run Creek with guidance from the Dry Run Creek Academy, try fly tying and casting, or paddle kayaks in a hatchery raceway. Younger children can fish in a separate raceway, while older kids can test their aim at the BB gun range with support from the U.S. Army and Marine Corps. Hosted by the Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery, the event aims to connect families with the outdoors and introduce youth to conservation and recreation.
Board member Tommy Hagan tells KTLO News for him it’s all about the kids.
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Board member Mike Tipton says he enjoys watching the kids experience some of the smaller wildlife.
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Hagan and Tipton discuss how the board has improved in recent years.
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The Norfork National Fish Hatchery has been stocking trout in Arkansas world famous White River and Norfork River since 1955. The hatchery’s efforts generate an estimated $100 million dollars for the state each year in fishing revenue. The hatchery is located at 1414 Highway 177 South in Mountain Home. For a full list of events visit this story on KTLO.com.
The complete list of activities:
Biking: Tackle an obstacle course and test your riding skills.
Game Scene Investigation: Track down clues and identify animal tracks.
Home Depot Workshop: Build a take-home kit of your choice.
Squeeze Box Challenge: Crawl through a cave-like tunnel and experience spelunking.
Fossil Discovery: Explore real fossils with Ozark Earth Science Cluband take one home!
Lawn Fishing: Learn casting techniques from AGFC staff and practice your aim.
Fly Rod Casting: Watch a fly fisher demonstrate casting, then try it yourself.
Freshwater Macroinvertebrates: Discover aquatic critters with hatchery biologists.
Gyotaku (Fish Printing): Create your own Japanese fish art print to take home.
Dry Run Creek Fishing: Ages 9-15 catch trophy trout in the famous creek.
Kayaking: Learn water safety and paddling skills in a hatchery raceway.
Kiddy Fishing: Ages 8 and under enjoy fishing with help in a raceway hatchery raceway.
Archery: Ages 9+ take aim and try your hand at archery.
Infant Swim Resource: Learn lifesaving water survival techniques for infants.
Baxter County Sheriff “Drunk Goggles”: Drive a golf cart under supervision and see why sober driving matters.
Fly Tying : Learn hands-on fly tying.
Down & Dirty with Insects: Explore the bug world up close.
Macroinvertebrate Exploration: Discover stream life under the microscope.
Master Gardeners: Learn tips and tricks for growing success.
Bats & More Exhibit: Meet fascinating wildlife up close.
BB Gun Shooting: Try your aim safely with US Army.
Enviroscope Station: Explore environmental science in action.
Boat Safety Demo: Learn essential boating safety skills.
S’mores Station: Roast marshmallows and make classic campfire treats.
Arkansas Forestry Booth: Discover the state’s forests and resources.
Master Naturalists: Explore nature with expert guides.
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