Fish and Aquatic Conservation

Fish and Aquatic Conservation

Information iconWe work to conserve America's aquatic resources for present and future generations. (Photo: Larry Jernigan/USFWS)



Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice

Although most hatchery lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local hatchery conditions before visiting
  • Follow  current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick

Learn more about the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Coronavirus Response.

We work with our partners and engage the public, using a science-based approach,
to conserve, restore and enhance fish and other aquatic resources for the
continuing benefit of the American people.

conserving america's fisheries signature


Recent News

An illustration of two fish seeming to look into each other’s eyes. Text over the fish says “Hope your holidays aren’t crappie.”

Last Minute Fishing Gifts for the Fish Aficionado in Your Life!

December 2020 | Holly Richards and Gwen Bausmith - Headquarters Fish and Aquatic Conservation

It happens to all of us. You get busy mulling the cider and frying latkes, and before you know it you’re out of time with a boat load of gifts to give. Never fear! We’ve got some gift giving fin-spiration for any fish aficionados in your life!  

Send your best fishes with a lovely electronic (or printable) holiday card!

Sometimes the best present of all is sharing our thoughts and a laugh with the people who matter most. Send one of our free holiday e-cards to the fish aficionado in your life and tag us @USFWSFisheries with your cards on social.

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thumbnail image of the cover of the FAC Strategic Plan

map of 12 Interior regions

photo of people fishing off of a pier


photo of channel spanning culverts
Channel-spanning culverts let fish and floods pass freely. Photo credit: Katrina Liebich/USFWS

USFWS Habitat Restoration Staff Part of Team to Receive National Chief's and Under Secretary's Honors Award for Customer Experience

December 2020

Congratulations to all twenty members of the Copper River Watershed Enhancement Partnership on this well-deserved award! Staff from the U.S. Forest Service, Alaska Department of Transportation, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Copper River Watershed Project, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) jointly received the National Chief's and Under Secretary's Honors Award for Customer Experience.

USFWS staff recognized from the Anchorage Fish and Wildlife Office's Habitat Branch included Franklin Dekker, Heather Hanson, and Trent Liebich who are part of a larger restoration team: Libby Benolkin, Jess Straub and Jake Gottschalk also contributed to the project's success. 

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photo of Kylee Butler holding a steelhead at Makah National Fish Hatchery
AmeriCorps member Kylee Butler shows off a big smile and an even bigger steelhead at Makah National Fish Hatchery, Credit: USFWS

We are #Grateful For Awesome AmeriCorps Members!

November 25, 2020 | by USFWS Columbia Pacific Northwest Region

People power the conservation work we do. We are #GratefulFor their service to America’s fish, wildlife, and habitat. Today we shine a spotlight on Kylee Butler, an awesome AmeriCorps intern serving through American Conservation Experience.

baɫu·ɫšiƛ (Welcome)! My home is the Makah Indian Reservation of which I am a proud tribal member. I am serving as an Americorps intern stationed at the Makah National Fish Hatchery (MNFH) in Neah Bay, Washington. I’m excited about this opportunity to both serve and gain experience, whether that is assisting in the spawning and rearing of fish or supporting education and outreach at the hatchery and in the community.

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Learn More about Makah National Fish Hatchery