See chinook return to Spring Creek hatchery

Stop by to view adults leaping up the fish ladder and take a closer look at them in the adult holding ponds.

Spring Creek is open daily 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Spawning begins Sept. 17 and will continue through Sept. 28. A best time to view the spawning is in the morning, as the process often wraps up by 2 p.m. daily.

Visitors can also check out the hatchery's new interpretive trail. The short walk provides great views of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River and interprets the native habitat, river recreation and history of the gorge.

Join the hatchery at its Annual Open House on Saturday, Sept. 22. The hatchery will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can watch the fish coming up the fish ladder, learn more about why and how fish are raised in hatcheries, watch a new generation of salmon being spawned and take a look at the Fish Marking Trailer.

Hatchery staff will also offer fish printing again this year, as well as other educational activities. Light refreshments will be available.

For more information call the hatchery at 493-1730.