It started at 4:30 a.m. January 10th, when Columbia FRO Fishery Biologist Jeff Finley and Volunteer Chris Clemens left for Neosho National Fish Hatchery, to learn about Friends Groups from an expert.

They went to meet Kay Hively, the Friends Group liaison for the hatchery, who started the group many years ago and has been instrumental in the group’s development. She shared ideas that did and didn’t work over the years and provided staff with helpful references.

The hatchery’s Friends Group is a shining example of how these volunteer efforts can benefit Service programs.

The long awaited hatchery visitor center is on the drawing board largely due to the Friends Group’s efforts.

Clemens is excited about the potential opportunities a “Friends of Columbia Fishery Resources” could provide.

The group would allow people in Central Missouri to participate in projects and events with Columbia FRO and to learn about and support the Service.