Allegheny National Fish Hatchery, in Warren Pennsylvania, held its first Friends Group meeting October 29, 2007, at the hatchery. Primarily an informational meeting, nine non-Service people attended, representing either themselves or natural resource organizations. Natural resource groups represented included the local chapter of Trout Unlimited, Warren County Conservation District, Warren County Council of Sportsmen's Clubs, Inc., and the Northwest PA Sportmen's Coalition.

Dave Blick, assistant hatchery manager, chaired the meeting. Hatchery manager Tracy Copeland discussed the current status and future outlook of the hatchery, and then lead a lengthy discussion about how a Friends group could help generate local support and 'ownership' of the hatchery and what further steps the group should take. 

Strong support for the facility was evident throughout the meeting. Days following the meeting, hatchery personnel have received requests from others to attend future meetings. A second meeting is scheduled for the first part of February 2008.