The National Fish Hatcheries develop and maintain brood stocks of important fish species, both sport fishes and critically imperiled non-game fishes.

The hatcheries are the source of fish and eggs distributed to partners with similar aquatic conservation missions, such as native fish restoration or fulfilling federal mitigation responsibilities.

Hatcheries are often called upon to provide a place of refuge for imperiled aquatic organisms, such as aquatic plants and amphibians.