We all know how valuable of a resource that the White and Norfork rivers are. To a very large extent they are the base that draws anglers from around the world to fish these acclaimed trophy trout waters. Along with the very many fly fishing organizations, that promote fly fishing activity, and various events that we host here in Mtn Home, one soon begins to realize the value of this resource and the millions of dollars that are generated in all directions because of that.
The Norfork hatchery plays an essential part of that program along with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
Has the hatchery ever had the recognition it deserves, not just within our own community, but nationally? I don't think so. If the truth were known, l believe many of us simply took it for granted.
We need to make changes and raise awareness not just within our own community but for all who visit and enjoy the resources that the rivers provide.
In May, Teresa Van Winkle, a close friend of mine, and the president of the Friends of the Neosho National Fish hatchery, and I made a visit to the Norfork Fish Hatchery. While there, we met with Manager Ken Boyles, and soon learned that the hatchery was in dire need of a support and advocacy group. That need caused me to consider organizing such a project.
Soon after, Leon Alexander and I met to formulate the process, now in the final stages of acceptance by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
So, what is the purpose for such an organization?
Ken is not allowed to solicit funds for the hatchery for whatever purpose, from the public at large, or by any other means. If any monetary amount was directly given to Ken, it would never be used for the benefit of the hatchery. An accepted Friends group can serve as the advocate, set up memberships and donations and work in conjunction with Ken to provide benefits for the hatchery and the public at large.
We have a wish list, drawn up by Ken containing ideas for what we as a group can provide for the hatchery, with the funds that we generate. See the Wish List
There are many of us here in the area that can work together to achieve those goals. We need the community at large to be aware of what we wish to achieve
and get the word out. This is our hatchery. Let's support it. Such a group has more political means to generate national interest and funding.
l would urge you to consider this idea, take an interest, and become a member of the friends group. Then help us seek ways to solicit funding and donations. If there is anything within our community that deserves such attention, it is the Friends of the National Norfork Fish Hatchery.
There is no other resource that we have here like the hatchery to attract attention from visitors. Remember each time you fish the rivers to recognize the source of those fish! It is an invaluable resource.
The White river is one of the reasons why l chose to live here, and l would suspect that is the same case for many of you who also fish these waters.
These goals are not unreasonable and can be achieved, but not without your intervention.
Sincerely,
Davy Wotton
President
Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery
