The Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery will host its annual dinner and fundraiser on Friday evening, providing attendees with updates on hatchery operations and conservation efforts. The event is set to take place at Gaston’s White River Resort Restaurant in Lakeview and will feature a keynote address by Clint Gaston.
Doors will open at 5 p.m. for registration and social time, followed by dinner and presentations at 6 p.m. According to incoming Friends of the Hatchery President Steve Blumreich, topics will include improvements to the hatchery, the Dry Run Creek Academy program, and future plans. Blumreich also highlighted recent challenges the hatchery has faced, including two significant fish stock losses.
In 2024, the hatchery lost between 500,000 and 750,000 fish due to poor water quality in Norfork Lake. A separate water quality issue in October 2025 resulted in the loss of roughly 2 million fish and all hatchery eggs. Blumreich emphasized that improving water quality remains a top priority.
The dinner will also celebrate the progress of the Dry Run Creek Academy, an educational program focused on engaging young anglers. Now in its third year, the academy teaches children about fly fishing, trout biology, and environmental stewardship. This year, the program welcomed over 160 young participants and has already produced 15 graduates.
Dinner tickets are $50 and include dishes crafted by Gaston’s head chef, along with adult beverages. Tickets are limited and can be purchased at friendsofthehatchery.org, with online sales closing Friday. For more information about the Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery or the Dry Run Creek Academy, individuals can visit the organization’s website.