Norfork National Fish Hatchery

lies near the base of Norfork Dam.  This "is the nation's largest federal trout production facility.  Two million rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout are raised for restocking areas impacted by the construction of dams, primarily in the tail waters of Norfork and Bull Shoals dams, and also other areas in cooperation with agencies in Arkansas and nearby states."  U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

We were in Mountain Home for business so we stopped by to have a look see.

There have been rumors it was closing but I verified they were repairing and soon would be back to full operational capacity.

The hatchery has been a constant in our lives.  We enjoyed visiting with our children and their children.  A free place to see how fish are "made" and just enjoy the views and the fresh fish air.

Each runway has it's own age and type of trout.

The young fry in different stages are kept indoors.

I had my pocket Canon Power Shot but I kept clicking.

They transport and release their fish where they are needed.

Outside the runways and the fish are progressively bigger.

Nets cover the area to prevent water birds 

and other fish eaters from having a picnic.

Before I reached the end of the "runways" I knew why there were fans in the nursery. It was HOT.  I thought y'all could take my word that waaaaayyy down there are the big trout.  I headed for the truck, AC and a cold drink.  Hubby had enjoyed watching people catch fish.

We'll be back on a cooler day.