Dedication at Fish Hatchery is story of shared community involvement

Friends VP Karl Jacobsen, President Randy Iverson, Peggy Beatty, Hatchery Manager Brian Malaise cut "fishy" ribbon

The dedication of the restroom facility and educational center at the Decorah Fish Hatchery Friday morning was a testimony to a diverse range of community involvement.  Hatchery Manager Brian Malaise said the project began with the task of finding a "friends group" to help when the hatchery was about to eliminate the fish pellet vending operation due to accounting nightmares.  It turned out to grow far beyond fish feeders.  Friends of Decorah Fish Hatchery was responsible for the fundraising that resulted in the new facility. They, however, were focused on noting the wide range of participation and contributions. Only about $50,000 remains on their project loan.  

The symbiotic relationship between the Eagle cam activities and the Hatchery was noted in making the Hatchery a national and international destination. Peggy Beatty of the Friends of the Hatchery said that t-shirts had been sold to residents of all the 50 states, 14 international countries, as well as multiple Canadian provinces.

A large contingency of Iowa DNR staff was there including the new director, and Decorah native, Chuck Gipp.  Gipp said the facility is a great example of how "good things happen because of local efforts." He noted the facility is the only such project on state property that has been 100 percent funded by a "friends group." Gipp also noted that the Friends group and instrumental leader Peggy Beatty were being recognized later that day at the Governor's Volunteer Awards ceremony.

Events beyond the ribbon cutting ceremony (which was actually cutting a fish line) included fishing, a talk by Raptor Resource Center Director Bob Anderson, sales at the Friends kiosk, and treats from Culver's where proceeds went to the Friends. SOAR (Save Our Avian Resources) also displayed a disabled eagle that was a victim of lead poisoning.

Future plans for the center include expanding educational offerings and learning stations in, and adjacent to, the structure.

An active kiosk sales day

A lead poisoning victim

Fishing!